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Board approves machine‑shop plan at Fitch High School and directs superintendent to present robotics‑field options by June 15
Summary
The Groton Board approved converting the Fitch High School auto shop to a machine shop and relocating the robotics team to the woodshop by Sept. 2026; an amendment requiring the superintendent to present at least three permanent practice‑field options for the robotics team by June 15, 2026 passed 7–1.
The Groton Board of Education voted May 11 to approve a plan to convert the auto shop at Fitch High School into a machine shop and to relocate the school’s robotics team into the woodshop, with a completion target of September 2026. The motion, as amended to require further planning for a permanent robotics practice field, passed after separate votes on the amendment and the main motion.
Board member Jen White moved the primary motion to approve the plan. During discussion, Administrator Susan (Facilities/Operations) reviewed options considered, noted coordination with coaches and principals, and described work to inventory, relocate and preserve valuable tools and equipment. She identified staff assigned to planning and execution, including a facilities director and a project manager overseeing relocations.
Board member Ian Thomas offered an amendment instructing the superintendent to develop and present at least three plan options for a permanent robotics practice field for the board to consider no later than June 15, 2026. Ian argued the robotics program has a long history of community support and needs long‑term planning parity with other district programs. The amendment was seconded and went to a board vote; the chair announced the amendment passed 7–1 (Mitch Schimbrock voted no).
Following amendment passage the board voted on the main motion as amended. The chair announced the motion carried with seven yes votes and one abstention. Board members discussed budget uncertainty — the superintendent said the district is facing potential town‑council cuts and could not commit to construction costs without further budget clarity — but the board approved planning and relocation steps and asked administrators to include cost estimates with the June planning options.
Board members and administration agreed the June 15 deliverable should include multiple options with cost outlines so the board can consider timelines and funding at its regular June meeting. The motion instructs the superintendent to work with administration and coaches on the planning and present the options by the June 15 deadline.
The mover and seconds for each vote were recorded in the meeting transcript where noted; the amendment was moved by Ian Thomas and seconded by Adrian Johnson. The amended main motion carried following the amendment vote.
