In April 2024, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced plans to explore a potential shared campus model involving Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School and Northern Essex Community College on NECC’s Haverhill campus. The proposal is being explored in collaboration with state and local partners as part of ongoing efforts to modernize and expand educational opportunities in the Merrimack Valley.
According to the announcement, the initiative would explore opportunities to:
Create a new, modern facility for Whittier Tech
Expand access to postsecondary education and Early College opportunities
Increase enrollment capacity at both institutions
Identify additional funding opportunities beyond local municipal contributions
The proposal follows years of discussions regarding Whittier Tech’s facility needs and reflects a broader effort to develop innovative, cost-conscious solutions for the District’s eleven member communities.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey stated that the collaboration aims to provide “an efficient, affordable and innovative” approach to meeting the needs of students and communities throughout the region. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll described the effort as an opportunity to align educational growth with the financial realities facing municipalities.
The announcement also highlighted the long-standing partnership between Whittier Tech and NECC through Early College and adult vocational programming. Officials noted that a shared campus model could strengthen workforce development opportunities and create expanded pathways for students pursuing both career and technical education and higher education.
Since the original announcement, additional community engagement efforts, including public listening sessions and continued collaboration with member communities, have taken place as the feasibility study and planning process continue.