HW Elementary School Project

We have an important opportunity for the voters of Hamilton and Wenham to make a decision about a historic proposed project for the HW Regional School District at Hamilton & Wenham Town Meetings. For several years, the district has been assessing the needs of our elementary schools, considering factors such as aging facilities, enrollment trends, and current educational best practices. You can read details of our facilities assessment HERE. 

After thorough research and a collaborative visioning process involving over 40 community members, teachers, staff, and students, it became evident that a consolidated elementary school offers the most sustainable and cost-effective solution. This approach ensures all students have access to modern, high-quality learning environments while optimizing resources efficiently.

I want to ensure all families have the historical context and complete scope and details of the project. Below is background information to address some of the questions we have received recently. 

• The HWRSD has a rare opportunity to fund a new elementary school with the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). The MSBA is a state agency that helps local school districts pay for the design and construction of schools. The MSBA has agreed to reimburse the HWRSD 51.28% of reimbursable costs for this project.
• This project involves the construction of a state-of-the-art facility designed to provide a modern and dynamic learning environment for young students. It will allow ALL elementary students in grades 1-5 the opportunity to attend a facility that can more equitably support their growth and development. 
• If this passe, construction should begin next summer with an estimated opening date of Fall of 2028.
• This project has earned the support of a majority of our teachers. In a recent survey, over 80% of the Hamilton-Wenham Regional Education Association (HWREA) members strongly support the project. You can read more comments from our teachers' union HERE.