Politics & Government

MHS Science Lab Approved For Up to $8M State Funding

MSBA voted today to approve the funding for the renovation of Medford High's science labs.

The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) announced Wednesday its Board of Directors has approved state funding for part of Medford High School's new science lab project.

In a statement from state treasurer Steven Grossman, MSBA chairman, and MSBA Executive Director Jack McCarthy, the MSBA will contribute up to $8,021,075 of eligible expenses for this $13.8 million project.

That funding will come once the MSBA and Medford enter into a project funding agreement, which will include the budget and scope of the project.

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The MSBA is providing the funding through their Science Lab Initiative.

“Ensuring that our students have access to a top-notch, 21st century science curriculum not only better prepares our kids for the demands of an evolving job market, but it also enhances the future competitiveness of the Commonwealth,” said Grossman in the statement. “I’m delighted to see this important project move forward.” 

Find out what's happening in Medfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

MSBA said the project will be a full renovation of the "core area" labs with eight new labs on the high school's third floor. Nine other labs will be upgraded with no further reconfiguration. In addition, MSBA said roofing, mechanical systems, windows and fire sprinkler systems will be improved.

“Today’s vote is another step in the MSBA’s ongoing partnership with Medford for the revitalization of public schools in the district,” McCarthy said.

Earlier this week, Medford Schools Superintendent Roy Belson called the science lab project a "very exciting" one for the district. He said the current labs have been in place since the school's construction in 1970.

Belson said he expects to go back to the Medford City Council within the first few weeks in February to ask for a bond for the remaining funds.

If approved, the work for the new science labs would likely begin over the summer and extend into the 2013-2014 school year, Belson said.


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