The Lakeville Select Board meeting on September 9, 2025, focused on the future of Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School, highlighting plans for a new facility aimed at enhancing vocational and academic education. The discussion emphasized the need for modernization, as the current infrastructure, established in 1975, is increasingly inadequate for contemporary educational demands.

Old Colony's leadership presented a comprehensive overview of the school's current state, noting that many systems have surpassed their useful life, leading to rising maintenance costs. The school currently faces significant space constraints, with a high demand for vocational education evidenced by over 300 applications for just 150 available slots each year. This situation underscores the urgency for expansion, particularly in areas like plumbing, HVAC, and dental assisting, which align with labor market needs.

The meeting also addressed the school's maintenance efforts, including recent upgrades to security systems and facility improvements funded by grants. However, the existing building's limitations were starkly outlined, with issues ranging from inadequate classroom space to failing plumbing and HVAC systems. The leadership expressed a commitment to providing a safe and effective learning environment, which is currently hampered by outdated facilities.

A key part of the discussion involved the design process for the new school, which aims to integrate vocational training with academic learning in a modern setting. The proposed building will cluster related programs together, enhancing collaboration and learning synergies among students. Sustainability is a priority, with plans for energy-efficient systems and the use of renewable energy sources.

The board also reviewed the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) funding process, which will play a crucial role in financing the new construction. The MSBA provides grants based on need, and the school is working to ensure that the project remains cost-effective for the communities it serves.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored Old Colony's vision for a new school that not only meets current educational standards but also prepares students for future workforce demands. The next steps involve finalizing design plans and securing necessary funding to move forward with the project.