Development News for Haverhill, Massachusetts

Haverhill Schools Report High Vaccination Rates Amidst National Concerns

The Haverhill School Committee received an update on vaccination rates and immunization requirements for students in grades K-12. Nancy Thompson, Director of Health and Nursing Services, and Dr. John Maddox, district physician, presented the Massachusetts school immunization requirements, which include vaccines for TDAP, polio, hepatitis B, MMR, and Varicella. For grades 7-12, meningococcal vaccine is also a requirement in Massachusetts, differing from CDC guidance. The district reported that most schools have over 90% immunization rates, with specific schools showing a significant impact from the meningococcal vaccine. Medical exemptions are rare (one student), while religious exemptions account for 109 students. The presentation also covered exclusion guidelines for illnesses like chickenpox and general guidelines for return to school after illness, emphasizing a focus on communication with DPH and parents. Lessons learned from COVID-19 highlighted the importance of in-person schooling and the well-being of educators.

Haverhill School Committee Debates Whittier Tech Appointment Policy Revisions

The Haverhill School Committee discussed proposed revisions to the policy regarding appointments to the Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School Committee. The policy subcommittee recommended three changes: eliminating preference for a Haverhill School Committee member for the Whittier Tech seat, changing reporting to biannually, and allowing reappointment of incumbents without a letter of intent. A motion to suspend the rules to vote on the policy at its first reading failed. During the first reading, concerns were raised about the clarity and equity of item 5i, specifically regarding the reappointment of incumbents and whether it creates an unequal application process. The committee acknowledged that item 5i needs clarification to ensure it is equitable for all candidates. The application period for the Haverhill appointment to the Whittier Tech School Committee was also announced, running from February 11 to March 11, 2026.

Whittier Tech Pursues Building Project Options and Updates Educational Programs

The Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School administration provided an update on a significant building project, including options for relocation, renovation, or a new building at the existing site. The school is currently in the eligibility stage with the MSBA (Massachusetts School Building Authority). Options being considered include relocation to Northern Essex, a new building at the current site, renovations at the existing site, or renovations with an addition. The project's municipal working group, comprised of town managers, administrators, and mayors from the 11 surrounding communities, has met to advance the project. Additionally, the school is exploring amendments to its regional agreement concerning operating costs and capital repairs. The feasibility study, if approved, will be funded by Whittier Tech ($2.5 million), with no direct cost to the member cities and towns. The school also presented updates on its various career technical education (CTE) programs, student enrollment, cooperative education placements, early college programs, sports, club activities, community service projects, and enrollment admissions process, including a new lottery-based system for admissions.