Whittier Polytechnic Institute could move to a novel “shared campus model” with local community colleges after failed construction plan

Whittier Technical College may move to the nearby Northern Essex Community College campus, state officials announced Thursday. (Herald photo: Todd Prusman)

After a vote to give Whittier Polytechnic Institute a new building failed, the Healey administration is proposing an entirely new solution to give the school the space and resources it needs, with future integration with a local community college. there's a possibility that.

“While my administration knows that Whittier Tech needs a new, modern facility, we also understand that area residents are concerned about cost,” Gov. Maura Healey said in a release Thursday. ” he said. “This potential collaboration between Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School and Northern Essex Community College is designed to meet the needs of our students and community in an efficient, affordable and innovative way.”

The Healy-Driscoll government unveiled its “shared campus proposal” on Thursday, announcing its intention to begin working with local authorities and school communities on the plan in the coming weeks. This model would combine Whittier Polytechnic Institute with Northern Essex Community College's (NECC) Haverhill campus, just a few miles away.

The shared campus model, the administration says, “creates a new, modern facility at Whittier Polytechnic Institute, expands access to postsecondary education throughout Northeastern Massachusetts, increases enrollment capacity at both institutions, and provides more affordable options.” We will look for ways to do so.” The release is laid out.

The proposal comes just over two months after voters rejected a costly referendum that would have put about $444.6 million toward building a new high school campus.

Elementary and Secondary Education Committee Chairwoman Katherine Craven said the plan “opens new and creative paths for students at Whittier Area Vocational Technical High School, providing not only a better education but also a path to post-secondary education.” We have the potential to introduce students to the benefits of facility.

State and local officials said in comments that the proposal is unusual and “innovative.”

“This proposal creatively shares common facilities, eliminates unnecessary educational silos, maximizes limited tax construction funds, and fosters future problem-solvers and creatives.” It has national implications because it maximizes learning opportunities for professional students who are thinkers: Massachusetts,” Craven said.

The release included broad support from state representatives, mayors and town managers, and business leaders.