Town-Wide Petition for a New Burlington High School

To: The Burlington School Building Committee and Town Officials

Subject: Urgent Action Needed for a Brand-New Burlington High School to replace the existing building

We, the undersigned residents of Burlington, urge town officials to prioritize a brand-new, independent building (Option NC5) to replace the existing Burlington High School instead of the addition/partial renovation option (AR8) currently left on the table that only prolongs disruption and defers the inevitable. Our students deserve a modern, safe, and fully equipped learning environment that prepares them for success in an increasingly competitive world.  Surrounding communities have made significant investments in education, while Burlington students continue to learn in outdated, insufficient facilities. A well-designed school with modern technology, science labs, and functional learning spaces is essential to student success, engagement, and preparation for the future.

The new build option currently left on the table, (NC5) provides the least amount of disruption for students, allows for a faster move-in timeline (36 months), and ensures a seamless educational experience. Burlington students have already endured significant learning disruptions due to COVID and forcing them to learn in a prolonged construction zone for nearly 4 years, is NOT an acceptable solution. ALL Students deserve a learning environment that allows them to focus on their studies with minimal noise and disruptions.

Additionally, an entirely new building that replaces the existing one makes the most financial sense. The difference in out-of-pocket costs per household between the new construction of a brand-new building (NC5) and the addition/renovation option currently left on the table, (AR8), is negligible at best. As of March 13th’s, projected costs, for only $0.27 more per day, it's a no brainer that the most fiscally responsible and beneficial decision for the entire town and for BOTH current and future students of Burlington, would be option NC5. This which would give us a brand-new high school building AND varsity field!! 

The long-term benefits of a fully modernized school are invaluable. A new, energy-efficient, and purposefully designed facility will lower maintenance costs, meet modern educational standards, and provide a high-quality learning environment for generations to come.

Any decisions made about our town’s High School MUST be made with our students' best interests in mind and the majority of our ENTIRE town. It is the School Building Committee’s responsibility to ensure the best possible outcome for ALL Burlington students, both now and in the future.

Reasons to Support a brand-new building to replace the current Burlington High School:

✔ Prioritizing Student Learning & Well-Being

• Students will NOT be forced to learn in an active construction zone in such close proximity to their current classrooms. A brand-new facility eliminates logistical challenges and disruptions, in the least amount of time.
• A high-quality learning environment fosters engagement, motivation, and academic success.
• A new building would incorporate significantly more natural sunlight and windows in classrooms. Proven research has shown that natural sunlight and windows in classrooms can significantly improve student learning by enhancing focus, mood, creativity, and overall well-being, leading to better academic performance.

✔ Long-Term Cost Efficiency

• New buildings reduce maintenance costs and feature modern, energy-efficient systems.
• A fully rebuilt school requires fewer future repairs and upgrades, making it the most responsible financial investment

✔ Meeting Modern Educational, Safety & Accessibility Needs

• Updated security features with controlled access points and emergency preparedness.
• Fully ADA-compliant accessibility for all students and staff.
• Optimized layout to improve classroom space, natural sunlight, traffic flow, and student experience.

✔ Energy Efficiency & Environmental Sustainability

• Use of green building materials and renewable energy sources to reduce the town’s carbon footprint.
• Improved insulation and efficiency will lead to lower operational costs over time.

✔ Community Growth & Investment

• A modern high school is a major community asset, attracting families and businesses while increasing property values.
• Investing in a state-of-the-art facility will boost student and staff morale, fostering a stronger sense of town pride.

Burlington deserves a first-class high school, and our students deserve the best that we can do for them. We must stop delaying the inevitable and make the decision that benefits our students and the entire town, for generations to come.

Still not convinced of the direct negative impact AR8 will have on your child's education?

Please take a closer look at the image below that paints a clearer picture for everyone...

 

 

 

 

 

We, the undersigned, call upon town officials and School Building Committee members to move forward with the NC5 without further delays, and work collectively and collaboratively with the Burlington Conservation Department and Commission. Option NC5 can be a win-win solution for our entire community, AND any natural resources that Conservation protects. 

By signing this petition, I affirm my support for a brand new independently built Burlington High School and urge town officials to take immediate action. 

Deadline: Thursday, April 17, 2025

For More Information Visit: www.bhsbuildingproject.com

School Building Committee Email Addresses:

attubato@bpsk12.org;
bob.cunha@bpsk12.org;
christopher.donald.campbell@gmail.com;
cmonaco@bpsk12.org;
conti@bpsk12.org;
czerwinski@bpsk12.org;
ddavisondc49@gmail.com;
jbrooks@bpsk12.org;
jdanizio@burlington.org;
kbond@bpsk12.org;
lchen@bpsk12.org;
lmaida@bpsk12.org;
masimon@rcn.com;
mimibixh@gmail.com;
mmassardo@bpsk12.org;
mnawoichik@bpsk12.org;
ncoscia@bpsk12.org;
nguanci@bpsk12.org;
pinkham29@gmail.com;
psagarino@burlington.org;
Rcunha@bpsk12.org;
regan@bpsk12.org;
sullivan@bpsk12.org;