MSBA approves Salem High preferred schematic; Bates roof project approved with about $2.5M reimbursement

Superintendent Steve told the school committee on Sept. 8 that the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) voted to approve the Salem High School preferred schematic report, clearing a key milestone for the planned new 9–12 building.

The superintendent said the approval signals MSBA support for the district’s preferred direction — new construction for grades 9–12 — and that the district will develop and submit a final design to MSBA in December. Staff also plan public displays of the design in elementary, middle and high schools and at upcoming open houses so families and students can view the proposed building plans.

At the same MSBA meeting, the authority approved the Bates School roof project with approximately $2,500,000 in reimbursement to the district, the superintendent said. He said that roof work is expected to be scheduled for next summer.

The superintendent noted MSBA indicated reimbursement rates for building projects may shift after Jan. 1 in response to construction-cost changes, which could be beneficial to Salem’s reimbursement percentage and potentially to the district’s debt-exclusion planning. He also said staff will engage Salem High staff over the coming weeks to refine interior spaces in the final design submission.

Committee members asked for more opportunities to view designs and for broader public placement of display boards; Member Hoffman suggested adding the community center as a display location. The superintendent said staff will print display boards and consider suggested locations.

The report also noted a recent visit from Lieutenant Governor and former Mayor Kim Driscoll to observe the district’s Cartwheel telemental-health program; officials said the visit included parents and students describing their experiences with tele-mental-health services.