Haverhill, MA (December 14, 2024)—Whittier Tech High School has been invited into the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) Eligibility Phase. This milestone represents an opportunity to create a modern, innovative learning environment that will benefit students, communities, and the regional workforce for generations to come.

At the December 13 MSBA meeting, Superintendent Maureen Lynch expressed gratitude and enthusiasm for the project. “We are thrilled to celebrate this momentous milestone for Whittier Tech,” said Lynch. “We are committed to approaching this opportunity with care, collaboration, and transparency. Our focus is on serving students and building a stronger regional workforce to meet the demands of the future.”

Whittier Tech is considering a partnership with Northern Essex Community College (NECC) to build its new facility on NECC’s campus. This shared model could enhance efficiencies, reduce costs, and create innovative educational opportunities for both institutions. Shared spaces like gymnasiums, theaters, and administrative areas would add value to both schools and their communities while supporting the development of a strong regional workforce.

“This project has the potential to not only benefit Northern Essex and Whittier Tech but also the educational and workforce needs of the communities we serve,” added Lane Glenn, President of Northern Essex Community College. “While we’re still in the exploratory process of this partnership, today’s decision by the MSBA is a significant step, and we look forward to the next phase.”

Whittier Tech serves 11 communities: Amesbury, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Ipswich, Merrimac, Newbury, Newburyport, Rowley, Salisbury, and West Newbury. To navigate the MSBA’s multi-year process, Whittier Tech will establish a working group dedicated to guiding the school through each phase. Maintaining open and consistent communication with these communities will be essential to the project’s success.

“Building on the lessons learned from our previous cycle, we are eager to work together with our member communities, NECC, and the MSBA to create a brighter future for Whittier Tech,” Lynch said.

For more information and updates about the project, visit the website.