During a recent Boston City Council meeting focused on education, discussions centered around the digitization of historical artifacts and exhibits from local schools, particularly South Boston High School. The proposal aims to create a virtual exhibit that would make these important cultural items accessible to the public, addressing a growing interest in preserving local history.

The council explored the capabilities of the city’s archival team, which can digitize photographs and documents, although they noted limitations in handling larger items. The team has previously worked with collections from schools, including the Horace Mann School for the Deaf, and has successfully digitized some of those materials for public access. Residents can view these digital assets through the city’s archives website, boston.gov/archives, which features an online catalog and a digital repository.

Council members expressed enthusiasm for engaging the community in this project. Plans were discussed for a public session in late May to gather input on how to best document and capture the history of South Boston High School. A follow-up listening session is also anticipated in the fall, allowing residents to share their thoughts and experiences.

The collaborative spirit of the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to preserving local history while fostering community involvement. As the project moves forward, it promises to enhance public access to Boston's educational heritage, ensuring that significant stories and artifacts are not lost to time.