Plymouth School Committee recommends relocating Early Childhood Center to South Middle School

Plymouth Public Schools is set to relocate the Plymouth Early Childhood Center to South Middle School, a decision aimed at addressing increasing enrollment and improving facilities for preschool students. During the School Committee meeting on April 7, 2025, administrators presented a comprehensive plan to move the preschool from its current location at PCIS to a dedicated space at South Middle School, with the transition expected to take place in approximately 18 months.

The proposal comes in response to a significant 41% increase in preschool referrals over the past five years, highlighting the need for more adequate educational resources. The current preschool space at PCIS has been deemed insufficient, lacking dedicated areas for drop-off, storage, and classroom expansion. In contrast, the South Middle School site offers a more spacious environment, including a dedicated entrance and improved parking facilities, which are crucial for enhancing safety and traffic flow during pick-up and drop-off times.

Administrators emphasized that the new location is geographically central to the community, making it more accessible for families, particularly those in the southern part of Plymouth. The move is also expected to alleviate congestion at the current site and provide a better learning environment for young children.

In addition to the logistical benefits, the relocation will allow for closer collaboration with Plymouth Health High School, which has an early education program. This proximity could create valuable educational opportunities for high school students interested in pursuing careers in early childhood education.

The School Committee's decision reflects a strategic approach to managing the district's resources and addressing the growing demand for preschool services. As the committee prepares for the transition, they are committed to ensuring that the new facility meets the needs of students and families in the community. The next steps will involve further discussions and planning to facilitate a smooth relocation process.