Braintree parents oppose Highlands school closure amid budget concerns and traffic issues

The Braintree School Committee meeting on March 3, 2025, sparked significant community concern regarding the potential closure of Highlands Elementary School. Parents and community members expressed their worries about the implications of closing the school, emphasizing the importance of Highlands as a central gathering place for families and children in the neighborhood.

One parent highlighted that while closing Highlands could save the district $800,000, it would also incur a $600,000 debt, raising questions about the financial logic behind the decision. The parent voiced concerns about the lack of a clear plan for the building if it were to close, referencing the negative impact of abandoned schools in the area, such as Foster Elementary, which has fallen into disrepair.

Community members also criticized the school committee for not adequately exploring redistricting options or providing transparency about the decision-making process. There were calls for more inclusive representation in the working groups discussing school closures, as some felt that not all schools were fairly represented in the discussions.

Additionally, concerns were raised about the future influx of students due to new housing developments in Braintree, with over a thousand apartments planned. Parents worried that closing Highlands could lead to overcrowding in other schools, creating a cycle of challenges for the district.

Traffic issues were another significant concern, as parents noted that moving students from Highlands to South Elementary could exacerbate congestion during school pick-up and drop-off times, affecting families' daily routines.

The meeting underscored the community's desire for more engagement and communication from the school committee regarding school closures and district planning. As discussions continue, parents are eager for clarity and a comprehensive strategy that addresses their concerns and the needs of Braintree's growing student population.