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Medford panel advances task force to study grade reconfiguration after space-utilization survey
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Summary
Superintendent Dr. Gallucci presented a space-utilization study and community survey results (about 160 respondents) recommending further review of an Option 2 reconfiguration (K–4 elementary, McGlynn 5–6, Andrews 7–8); the committee agreed to form a task force in January to study feasibility and report in spring.
Superintendent Dr. Michael Gallucci presented the results of a space-utilization study and a district survey that the committee said will inform a new task force to review a proposed grade reconfiguration.
The study, conducted with HMFH Architects, examined Brooks, Mississauga, Roberts, McGlynn and Andrews schools for spaces that could increase capacity. Dr. Gallucci summarized a proposed Option 2 — moving to K–4 elementary schools, McGlynn as a 5–6 school and Andrews as a 7–8 school — and said the committee is not making a decision but asking a January task force to study viability. “No decision has been made,” he said, adding any change would target the 2027–28 school year if pursued.
The district reported roughly 160 survey respondents at the time of presentation: about 115 caregivers/parents, 44 educators and one student; the chair later referenced 170 respondents at a different point in the meeting. The survey surfaced five themes committee members identified as priorities for the task force: transitions and developmental fit, continuity of specialized programming (English-learner and special education services), capacity and long-term enrollment projections, transportation and logistics (start times and bus eligibility), and equity/community concerns including the prospect of ending the middle-school lottery.
Member Reinfeld urged the task force to review case studies from districts that have made similar transitions and to consider both intended and unintended consequences. Dr. Gallucci said staff have already begun informal outreach to several districts mentioned by respondents and will compile research and focused information for the task force.
Committee members discussed logistics that the task force should review including staffing, transportation eligibility, after-school care for fifth and sixth graders and how specialized programs would be maintained across new configurations. Dr. Gallucci and members stressed alignment with strategic planning and MSBA timelines where appropriate.
The committee expects to form the task force in January with meetings beginning in February and a report or recommendation to follow in the spring. Specific operational questions — such as exact capacity numbers and transportation eligibility — were flagged for the task force to resolve.
