In a recent government meeting, school committee members engaged in a robust discussion regarding the future of local educational facilities, particularly focusing on the proposed base repair and new construction options for Neary and Woodward Schools. The consensus among committee members was clear: the current proposals for base repairs, estimated at $62 million, were deemed insufficient and not aligned with the district's educational vision.

Committee member Mark expressed concerns about the impact of necessary repairs on students, noting that significant renovations would require relocating students, which could disrupt their educational experience for one to two years. He emphasized the importance of maintaining social connections among students during such transitions, suggesting that moving grades to different schools could hinder their development.

Andrew echoed these sentiments, questioning the rationale behind pursuing base repairs when the buildings might be too far gone to justify such an investment. He suggested that if the district were to spend such a substantial amount, it should aim for new construction that better meets modern educational needs.

Kathy supported this view, arguing that the existing schools should not merely receive cosmetic updates but rather should be replaced with new facilities that incorporate contemporary educational practices. She expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of a \"face lift\" for the aging buildings, asserting that a more comprehensive approach was necessary.

The committee ultimately voted unanimously to remove both base repair options for Neary and Woodward Schools from future consideration, signaling a shift towards exploring new construction alternatives. The discussion then turned to the feasibility of new construction at Woodward, with members expressing doubts about the logic of building a new facility when the existing one is relatively recent, having been constructed only 20 to 25 years ago.

Larry, a committee member, highlighted the significant costs associated with upgrading existing buildings to meet current energy codes, further complicating the decision-making process. He noted that the existing structures would require extensive renovations that might not be worth the investment given their current condition.

As the meeting progressed, the committee began to explore the option of ad renovations at Neary, but concerns remained about the practicality of constructing a three-grade school, particularly in light of the challenges posed by potential school closures and the need to maintain a cohesive educational environment.

The discussions reflect a critical juncture for the district as it grapples with the pressing need for educational infrastructure that aligns with modern standards and supports the developmental needs of its students. The committee's decisions will likely shape the future of local education for years to come.