Plymouth School Committee debates relocation of preschool to Plymouth South Middle School

The Plymouth School Committee convened on April 7, 2025, to address significant changes affecting the local preschool program, particularly the proposed relocation of the Plymouth Early Childhood Center (PEC) to Plymouth South Middle School. This move has sparked considerable concern among educators and parents regarding the potential impact on preschoolers' accessibility to services and overall learning environment.

During the meeting, several educators from the PEC voiced their apprehensions about the transition. Jamie McAfferry, a special education teacher, highlighted the importance of maintaining the quality of services for students, especially given the recent 41% increase in preschool enrollment. She expressed worries that the new location may not provide adequate space or resources to support this growth, noting that the available classrooms at Plymouth South Middle School would be nearly full upon the move.

Heidi King, a speech language pathologist, raised concerns about the suitability of the proposed therapy room, which is currently a chemistry lab. She emphasized that the acoustics and layout of the room would not support effective speech therapy, which is crucial for many students' individualized education plans. Additionally, she pointed out that the new motor room space would be smaller and less accessible than the current facility, potentially hindering the therapeutic services provided to preschoolers.

Meredith Wodzinski, another special education teacher, shared her experiences with previous relocations of the preschool program and the challenges that arose from those moves. She stressed the importance of ensuring safe and convenient access for all students, particularly those with disabilities, and highlighted the need for adequate outdoor space and restroom facilities to meet the growing demands of the preschool population.

The committee's discussions underscored the community's commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for its youngest learners. As the school district moves forward with the proposed relocation, the voices of educators and parents will be crucial in shaping a solution that prioritizes the needs of preschool students and their families. The committee plans to continue engaging with stakeholders to address these concerns and ensure that the transition is as smooth as possible for all involved.