UPDATE: Chelmsford residents are urged to attend a pivotal public forum on the Parker Middle School building project, scheduled for Thursday, November 20, at 7 p.m. This meeting will take place at the Chelmsford-Lowell Elks Lodge, located at 300 Littleton Road. A prior meeting of the School Building Committee will start at 6 p.m. at the same venue.
The Parker School project is currently in the crucial feasibility study phase, with the recent appointment of LeftField Project Management as the owner’s project manager and Ai3 Architects as the project designer. David Saindon, project executive with LeftField, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating, “If a district gets invited in, that district has won the lottery.” He underscored the low acceptance rates for communities applying to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), noting that many districts have been waiting years without success.
Being included in this pipeline allows the MSBA to contribute to the funding of the Parker project, with a base reimbursement rate of 52% for eligible building costs. This financial support is crucial for the Chelmsford community as they seek to enhance their educational infrastructure.
Tori Geier, project manager with Ai3 Architects, recently toured the existing Parker Middle School. She emphasized the building’s age-related issues, particularly concerning accessibility and code compliance. The majority of learning spaces do not meet MSBA size guidelines, highlighting the pressing need for an upgrade.
During the previous forum held on October 22, community members participated in an interactive mapping exercise, identifying challenges and opportunities at the existing site. Attendees were encouraged to envision what success for this project would look like, with responses emphasizing town support, accessibility, and a focus on STEAM education. Many expressed the hope for an inclusive, sustainable learning environment.
This upcoming forum is a vital opportunity for community members to voice their opinions and influence the future of Parker Middle School. Residents are encouraged to attend and contribute their thoughts on this transformative project.
For more information about the Parker Middle School building project, visit parkermsproject.com.
In another important community initiative, State Rep. Tara Hong is holding a Pet Food Drive to benefit the Lowell Humane Society on Saturday, November 22, from 10 a.m. to noon at 951 Broadway St. The drive aims to support the society’s pet food pantry, which addresses pet food insecurity, especially during tough economic times.
Hong stated, “I am grateful to the many organizations in our community working to meet that need.” She also plans to coordinate a Pet Food Drive within the State House, inviting fellow legislators to contribute.
Residents who cannot attend the drive are encouraged to visit lowellhumanesociety.org/donate/wish-list for alternative ways to support this vital cause.
These events highlight the community’s dedication to both educational improvement and animal welfare. Immediate participation is encouraged to ensure the success of these initiatives.
