What are the deficiencies in the existing building?

Facility-Related Issues

Virtually all components of the high school’s mechanical and electrical systems are original to the building and have been utilized beyond their expected “useful life design.” No major renovations, aside from an update to the fire alarm system, have occurred since the building was opened.

The BHS building has been well-maintained, but is heavily used. Throughout the building, signs of severe wear and tear are evident. Many windows throughout the building leak and have caused damage throughout the lobby and 1st floor classrooms. In addition, there have been leaks in the small theatre, and even with remediation this is a recurring issue. The current PA system is inadequate, unreliable, and does not sufficiently reach all students. Security is lacking in the building, as there is no entry-control system  and the building does not have security cameras or adequately secured doors. In addition, the building is not ADA compliant, there is not a wheelchair accessible elevator, and access to several classrooms, offices, and restrooms is limited. For a complete list of building deficiencies, please visit: www.belmont-ma.gov/belmont-high-school-building-committee/pages/historic....

Space Constraints

In 2013, the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) identified the limited space at BHS as negatively impacting the delivery of instruction and curriculum. Because of this and multiple building infrastructure issues, BHS is currently on warning for facilities. In addition, space constraints have resulted in limited flexibility for instruction throughout the building. Many spaces have been repurposed and modified in an attempt to accommodate programmatic needs. For example, the building’s garage space has been converted to an orchestra and chorus rooms, science labs are being conducted in general classrooms—not designed as science labs, office spaces have been converted into English Language Learner (ELL) classrooms, and lecture halls have been converted to wellness classrooms. Every space in the high school is being used at maximum capacity.