Eleven communities prepare for feasibility study on new regional school agreement

The Newburyport School Committee meeting on April 29, 2025, focused on significant developments regarding a feasibility study for a new school building and adjustments to the committee's meeting schedule.

A key discussion centered on the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) requirements, which stipulate that by July 1, all 11 communities involved must sign a letter indicating their support for exploring the feasibility study. This commitment does not obligate the communities financially beyond the study itself. Newburyport is expected to contribute approximately $120,000 towards the feasibility study, which is part of a larger estimated cost of $2.5 million. The school committee has already allocated $500,000, with Northern Essex also agreeing to contribute the same amount. The remaining funds will be divided among the 11 communities.

The feasibility study aims to assess various options for a new school building, including potential hybrid models. The discussions have been described as tense but productive, with all parties acknowledging the need for a new regional agreement if the project moves forward. The school committee has remained somewhat on the sidelines, as the regional agreement is primarily a municipal matter.

In addition to the feasibility study, the committee discussed potential changes to their meeting schedule. Traditionally meeting on the first and third Mondays, members considered shifting to the second and fourth Wednesdays starting in January 2026 to avoid conflicts with city council meetings. Some members expressed a preference for starting the new schedule sooner, potentially in August, but ultimately decided to postpone the vote on this matter to allow for further consideration.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts among the communities to address educational infrastructure needs while navigating the complexities of regional agreements and scheduling conflicts. Future meetings will provide updates on both the feasibility study and the meeting schedule adjustments.