School Committee authorizes MSBA statement of interest for H.B. Lawrence School replacement

The School Committee voted to authorize the superintendent to submit a Statement of Interest (SOI) to the Massachusetts School Building Authority for a core project to replace H.B. Lawrence School (156 Cabbage St.). The motion, recommended by the finance and operations subcommittee, describes the building—built in 1930—as undersized and lacking modern instructional spaces and accessibility features.

The SOI text presented to the committee lists specific deficiencies: undersized classrooms and gymnasium, no media center, insufficient space for students with disabilities and English learners, failing plumbing and heating systems, limited ventilation and absence of accessible public bathrooms and interior doorways. The motion explicitly noted that submitting an SOI does not guarantee MSBA approval or award and does not commit the city to filing a future funding application.

Member Sheehan noted the subcommittee recommendation and emphasized that the SOI requires city council approval before the superintendent may submit an application for funding; the committee confirmed the motion by roll call. The action authorizes staff to proceed with the SOI process and to coordinate with city council as required by local governance procedures.

If accepted by MSBA, a core project could fund full replacement or addition to obsolete buildings; however, committee members and staff repeatedly said the SOI is an expression of interest and not a commitment to any particular funding or vendor. The committee did not set a schedule for next steps beyond the SOI authorization at the meeting.