Why do we need a new high school?

The current high school faces significant challenges:

• Building and Program Deficiencies:

  • 50% of classrooms have no windows.

  • Classrooms are small and often overcrowded.

  • Outdated spaces that don’t support the authentic, modern learning experiences our students deserve.

• Deteriorating Infrastructure:

  • Poor insulation, failing windows, and an inefficient HVAC system.

  • Original roof (with limited repair in 2001) needs full replacement and insulation.

  • Temporary 2002 modular units don’t meet current energy codes.

  • Major areas (cafeteria, auditorium, media center, bathrooms) are not ADA accessible.

  • High operational costs due to energy inefficiency.

• Overcrowding and Population Growth:

  • The existing school struggles to accommodate increasing enrollment.

• Need for Modernization:

  • Updated spaces are required to support project-based learning and future educational needs.

How will the proposed project benefit the town?

• Expands educational spaces and green areas for both school and community use.

• Upgraded athletic facilities, adequate parking, and improved traffic flow.

• Energy-efficient building systems to reduce operational costs over time.

• Advanced security measures to prioritize student and staff safety.

What is the significance of the MSBA program for North Attleborough?

The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) helps fund public school construction projects through state tax dollars. North Attleboro's participation could provide a significant reimbursement, reducing the town's financial burden.

What is the expected cost of a new high school?

• The preliminary estimate for a new school is approximately $290 million. That does not take into account reimbursement by MSBA.

Why is a new building project so expensive?

• Rising construction costs due to inflation and material price increases.

• State-mandated prevailing wage requirements.

• High-quality, durable construction typical of MSBA-supported high schools.

Why would renovating the existing high school still be costly?

• Similar factors as a new build: inflation, material costs, and wage requirements.

• Additional code upgrades, off-hours construction, and scheduling challenges in an occupied building.

How will the town finance this project?

• Funding will primarily come through a debt exclusion or borrowing, with town approval.

How will this impact my taxes?

• [Information on tax impact will be provided later in the project, when estimates are more certain.]

What happens if the town does not approve funding?

• Loss of MSBA reimbursement.

• The need for costly repairs and temporary modulars.

• Mandatory ADA/code compliance upgrades without long-term improvements.

If a new high school is built, where will it be located?

• The proposed site is directly behind the existing high school.

How will this impact the current educational program?

• New Building: Construction over 1-2 years, isolated from the current school. Existing school will be demolished once the new building is ready.

• Renovation: A longer 3-4 year process with modular classrooms and added disruption from construction in an occupied building.

How will a new project improve traffic circulation and parking?

• A dedicated design will address current issues, improving traffic flow and parking capacity.

How will the sports and recreational facilities be impacted?

• The project will aim to maintain and enhance athletic facilities for student and community use.

What is the role of the School Building Committee (SBC) in this project?

The SBC, required by the MSBA, oversees the project from planning to completion. Its formation supersedes the town’s by-laws to ensure compliance with state requirements and eligibility for MSBA funding.

How will the SBC keep the community informed?

• Updates will be provided through the project website, community forums, and monthly public SBC meetings. Community input is highly encouraged.