Haverhill Tech Rebuilding Plan: A Tale of Regional Disapproval

In a resounding rejection, voters from ten of the eleven Massachusetts communities served by Whittier Tech Regional School voiced their opposition to a proposal for a new school building in Haverhill. The outcome of the vote on Tuesday, November 2024, sent a clear message that the $444 million plan had failed to garner sufficient support across the district.

Community Sentiment: A Resounding “No”

Across Amesbury, Georgetown, Groveland, Ipswich, Merrimac, Newbury, Newburyport, Rowley, Salisbury, and West Newbury, residents overwhelmingly cast their ballots against the proposed new Whittier Tech. The only dissenting voice came from Haverhill, where a majority of voters supported the plan.

Haverhill’s Perspective: A Desire for a Modern Trade School

Haverhill residents like Diane Roe expressed their belief in the value of trade education and the need for a modern facility. “College is not for everybody,” she stated, “and I think a trade school would be good.” The proposed new school aimed to replace the existing 1973 building and equip students with the skills necessary for a 21st-century workforce.

Reimagine Whittier’s Perspective: Concerns Over Cost and Collaboration

Lisa Medina Smith, a Newburyport resident and advocate for a “no” vote through the Reimagine Whittier initiative, highlighted concerns regarding the project’s cost, funding structure, and lack of input from all communities. She emphasized the need for collaboration and exploring alternative options, such as renovations or a different rebuilding plan.

Whittier Tech’s Response: Reevaluation and Commitment

In light of the overwhelming rejection, Superintendent Maureen Lynch issued a statement acknowledging the communities’ disapproval. She reaffirmed Whittier Tech’s commitment to serving its students and positioning them for success, regardless of their chosen profession. The school would take time to reassess its approach to meeting the needs of the district.

Trade Education: A Growing Demand

Amid declining college enrollment, interest in trade professions has witnessed a surge in recent years. Whittier Tech currently caters to over 1,200 students from 11 communities, offering 22 different programs. Graduates like Brooke Bailey expressed concern about the potential loss of state and federal funds for the project, fearing a lengthy delay before the issue could be revisited.

Conclusion

The proposed Whittier Tech regional school in Haverhill faced a resounding rejection from ten of the eleven communities it serves. The vote reflected concerns over the project’s cost, funding structure, and lack of input from all stakeholders. Whittier Tech and the communities involved must now embark on a journey of re-evaluation and collaboration to chart a new course for the school’s future.