West Bridgewater updates MSBA elementary plans and seeks funds for cameras, AEDs and Chromebooks

Superintendent Mr. Bodwell updated the committee on the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process for an elementary building project, saying the district is evaluating preK–4 and preK–6 options at the Rosel McDonald site, reviewing enrollment projections, wetlands concerns and preliminary site designs. He said the district is preparing a preferred schematic report for the MSBA by May 1 and will hold a community forum on April 1.

On the capital improvement plan for the coming town meeting, the superintendent outlined three priorities: replace and expand security cameras and door access controls at the Middle Senior High School (the proposal cited adding 51 cameras and three door control kits, producing more than 100 camera feeds), replace six automated external defibrillators districtwide and acquire about 125 student Chromebooks. "These upgrades will set us up for the next 10 years," Mr. Bodwell said, and he noted the safety upgrades had support from the West Bridgewater Police Department and the district’s Safe Schools committee.

Committee members asked for detail on quantities and replacement cycles; Mr. Bodwell said the six AEDs would replace those purchased in 2015–2017 and that Chromebooks are intended to refresh devices for incoming seventh graders and for loaners at the secondary level. The capital requests will go to the town capital committee for consideration prior to town meeting.

Next steps: the committee will consider these capital items as part of the town capital process and present them at the March capital meetings.