Westwood Letter To The Editor In Support of Hanlon-Deerfield

WESTWOOD, MA – The following letter to the editor was submitted by the Committee to Support New Hanlon-Deerfield School.

Most Westwood residents would agree: The draw to Westwood has never been the town center. Most come to Westwood for the schools. Always deeply committed to educational excellence, Westwood schools consistently receive high state rankings and national awards. Later this month, residents can reaffirm that commitment to education by voting “YES” to the new Hanlon-Deerfield Elementary School at Town Meeting on October 18th and at the Special Town Election on October 26th.

Here’s some history: Hanlon and Deerfield Schools were built in the 1950s when children sat in rows, art and music were limited, and special education didn’t exist. These buildings have served this community well for decades, but have moved beyond their useful lives. Structurally, they require significant upgrades: HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, for example, need to be replaced. The schools lack accessibility, Hanlon needs a new roof, and classrooms are overcrowded. From an education perspective, these schools don’t support 21st century teaching and learning.

So, let’s talk money: This project addresses the needs of two schools for the price of one. The price is $88 million, and when compared to similar projects this is the going rate for new schools these days. If we vote YES in October, however, we will receive an $18 million grant from the state for the project.

Here’s why the state will give us $18 million: In 2015, Westwood completed a capital needs study. Having determined that Hanlon was in most need of repair, the district applied for and was accepted into the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) grant program. Acceptance into the program on first try was no small feat. The MSBA receives around 85 applications annually on average and accepts about 15 districts based on need. So, thanks to the School Administration’s efforts and the MSBA, the price is down to $70 million if we vote YES in October.

Here’s the kicker: If this vote doesn’t pass, we lose the $18 million, and Westwood residents will be left to foot the entire bill. Doing nothing is not an option: The schools’ needs must be addressed. Renovations alone will cost $41 million. That price doesn’t include educational, capacity or community improvements.

If we vote YES, our return on investment includes a state -of -the art educational facility suitable for 21st century learning, new community arts and athletics spaces, a new trailhead to Lowell Woods, and a positive impact on our property values.

Please join us in Voting YES at Town Meeting on October 18th AND at the polls on October 26th. Vote YES for Westwood Public Schools!

Sincerely,

The Committee to Support New Hanlon-Deerfield School, www.yestowestwoodschools.org

The above letter does not necessarily reflect the views of Patch.