Agreement Marks First Step in MSBA Process Toward a Future-Focused Whittier Tech Campus
In a show of regional unity, Whittier Tech and its 11 partner communities have taken a bold step forward in reshaping the future of vocational and technical education. Yesterday, at the 50-yard line of the Whittier Tech stadium, community leaders gathered to officially sign a letter of agreement, entering the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process—a critical milestone that opens the door to a new, state-supported school building.
“I’m grateful to our 11 communities for their partnership and commitment to the future we’re building—for both our students and the regional workforce,” said Whittier Tech Superintendent Maureen Lynch. “We’ve come a long way together, and this moment marks a major milestone. The work is just beginning, and as we plan ahead, we remain focused on the commitment we’ve made to these communities and our students.”
One of the options under consideration is a shared Whittier Tech campus located on the grounds of Northern Essex Community College (NECC)—a first-of-its-kind model in Massachusetts. Leaders say this partnership could dramatically expand access and opportunity, opening doors for high school and college students alike.
“The potential of this project represents a new vision for career readiness for the state of Massachusetts,” said Dr. Lane A. Glenn, President of Northern Essex Community College.
“One which involves community leaders collaborating to share resources while creating new opportunities for students and employers to build the workforce of the future.”
The agreement marks the start of the MSBA’s Eligibility Period, which is designed to evaluate and confirm a district’s readiness to enter the state-supported construction pipeline. If successful, Whittier Tech could receive substantial financial support from the Commonwealth—a key to making a new building project economically viable for its 11 member communities: Amesbury, Georgetown,
“The Newbury Select Board unanimously supported signature confirmation of our willingness to take the three specified actions required by the MSBA Eligibility Period Letter,” said Newbury Selectboard Chair William DiMaio. “We recognize the tremendous opportunity this will present to students and the potential for cost savings for the member communities.”
The act of coming together to pursue this vision reflects a powerful shift. In recent years, communities have grappled with tough questions about cost, capacity, and the future of vocational education. Today, however, the district stands aligned in purpose.
“Our communities have undergone a lot of debate these last few years, and so it’s encouraging that the 11 different cities and towns are on the same page and willing to move forward for our Whittier students,” said Amesbury Mayor Kassandra Grove. “I’m especially excited about the potential partnership with Northern Essex Community College and the opportunities that will create for our students.”
“Our kids deserve a school where they can receive the best vocational education available and we know there is a demand to expand access to this education and grow the local workforce,” said Haverhill Mayor Melinda Barrett. “Haverhill is proud to be a part of this collaborative effort alongside the 10 other communities in the district, Whittier, and NECC to explore a shared campus model, which would be a first in our Commonwealth. This will be a long process and Haverhill is committed to seeing it through in the name of doing right by our kids and benefiting our local and state economy.”
The Whittier Tech Working Group—composed of representatives from each member community—will continue to meet regularly to guide the process, share progress, and maintain alignment. For ongoing updates, project milestones, and opportunities to get involved, subscribe to The Future of Whittier Tech newsletter.
