The Neighborhood House Charter School in Dorchester has made a pivot to fully remote learning for students in grades 8-11 following a series of violent incidents near Shawmut MBTA station. The change comes after shots were reportedly fired at a student last Friday, sparking deeper concerns over the safety and security of those who travel to the school via public transportation.
Despite no incidents occurring directly on school grounds, the decision to switch to a remote learning environment was, in part, made to preemptively protect students from threats of violence in the surrounding area. "While there have been no incidents on our campus, many of our students commute to and from school on the MBTA," Kate Scott, the school's executive director, stated in a press release obtained by the Boston Herald. A student, not currently attending in-person classes, was purported to be the target of the recent gunfire incident.
The transition to remote learning was granted through June 14 by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Seniors at the Centre Street campus have already completed their academic year, hence are unaffected by the move. The last day for students is slated for the following week, on June 21. According to the information provided by the school and reported by NBC Boston, the alleged assailants do not attend the Neighborhood House Charter School.
In light of these threats, the school has collaborated with the Boston Police and the MBTA Transit Police to enhance campus security. "The school is working with its security team from Concrete Protective Services, the Boston Police Department and the MBTA Transit Police," officials told Boston 25 News. These measures are to ensure the continued safety for all those affiliated with the charter school during this heightened period of concern.
Further reports from parents and community members indicate an atmosphere of fear among students concerning their daily commutes. The Neighborhood House Charter School continues to emphasize the significance of student security, with Kate Scott expressing gratitude toward DESE for allowing the school to center the safety of our scholars, staff, and families in all of the decisions that we are making. The situation remains fluid, and the school is committed to adapting as needed to maintain a secure learning environment.
