The possibility of closing five shops at Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School is expected to be a top agenda item when members of Whittier Tech School Committee meet Wednesday night. Superintendent Maureen Lynch is scheduled to discuss the potential closing of Early Education and Care, Design and Visual Communications, Engineering, Construction Craft Laborer and Masonry programs. She told WHAV resources committed to the currently declining programs are needed to support plumbing and heating and HVAC. “There’s only so much funding that we have and we have to be good stewards for the taxpayers. I’m trying to take care of my kids and my staff,” Lynch said.
A regional approach for Merrimack River cleanup is the aim of a nearly $200,000 state grant recently awarded to the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission. The Haverhill-based Commission, serving 15 communities, was awarded a $198,500 Community Compact Efficiency and Regionalization Grant in December for a Merrimack River Cleanup Project involving Andover, Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen and Tyngsborough. According to the Commission, the program includes regular cleanup of floatable debris during the recreation season, piloting an annual shoreline cleanup event in each community, improvements to the Early Alert Tool model, production and circulation of outreach materials to community-based organizations and installation of informational signage at Merrimack River landings to promote awareness of Merrimack River water quality.
A 29-year-old Haverhill man pleaded guilty Monday in federal court in Boston to selling cocaine and illegal firearms in and around the Boston area. Cordell Miller pleaded guilty to distribution of, and possession with intent to distribute, cocaine; aiding and abetting and trafficking in firearms and conspiracy to do so. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for May 7.
Students at Groveland’s Dr. Elmer S. Bagnall School last week took part in Northeast Passage’s Similarity Awareness program which teaches students about disabilities and helps foster a culture of inclusivity. Bagnall students participated in activities such as handball, “Taco Tag” and “Banana Tag” while using wheelchairs. They experienced what using a wheelchair involves, including challenges, and learned activities can still be collaborative and fun.
