Shawsheen Building Project: Planning for the Future
Overview
Shawsheen Valley Technical High School has entered the Eligibility Phase of the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process — the first formal step toward addressing the school’s long-term facility needs. This early phase focuses on gathering information, confirming local support, and preparing for a feasibility study that will guide future decisions about renovation or new construction.
Why This Matters
Built to serve 1,000 students, Shawsheen now enrolls more than 1,300. The building’s aging infrastructure and limited space make it increasingly difficult to provide the modern, hands-on learning experiences that students need for today’s workforce. Routine maintenance and patchwork repairs are no longer sustainable or cost-effective.
A Thoughtful, Collaborative Process
Rather than jumping to conclusions, this process is about planning carefully and responsibly. The upcoming feasibility study—required by the MSBA—will evaluate the current building, explore options for renovation or replacement, and provide detailed cost and funding models. This ensures that any future decisions are grounded in data, expert analysis, and community input.
Investing Wisely
Participating in the MSBA process allows Shawsheen and its five member communities to maximize state funding opportunities, stretching local tax dollars further. By moving forward together now, the towns protect access to millions in potential state aid and set the stage for informed, transparent decision-making in the years ahead.