Citizens for Needham Schools (CNS) has followed the Needham Public Schools’ (NPS) School Master Plan and Pollard project discussions closely for many years. We strongly agree with the assessment of the School Committee, School Administration, and Pollard and High Rock faculty and staff that the best way forward is to create a Grade 6-8 Pollard Middle School. This 3 grade configuration will have many academic benefits (as detailed in the 98 page educational plan submitted to the MSBA), as well as increased social and extracurricular opportunities for our middle school students.
While the academic, social/emotional, and extracurricular benefits are covered in depth in the educational plan, it is important to realize the financial benefits of a Grade 6-8 Pollard Middle School as well. Financially, this option also makes the most sense for our town. Both High Rock and Pollard are undersized, have significant space constraints, and have redundant expenses incurred by having to support two middle schools. A combined program will tackle all of these issues. While a 3 grade school has a higher upfront cost, this design plan will also free up High Rock School for other future uses. First, it will be available for swing space for the Mitchell school rebuild, likely saving at least $40 million that would otherwise be spent on building a temporary school. It also eliminates the need for an addition to High Rock (which would be required if separate 6th grade programming remains there long-term). Finally, after the Mitchell rebuild is complete, High Rock would be available for future town use, as a 6th elementary school, or to support other needs. At a time when many towns have regretted selling off schools and buildings, having High Rock as a flexible resource for the future is a wise investment. These future cost savings will easily make up for the higher initial upfront expense.
This is a once in a generation opportunity to create the amazing middle school experience that our students deserve and to provide the town with flexibility for the needs of the future. CNS strongly supports the plan for reuniting the middle school program in a Grade 6-8 Pollard Middle School.
NPS Resources: