It has come to our attention that there is information, misinformation, and concern circulating around graduation and the DHS turf field replacement. We are writing to ensure that everyone has accurate and consistent information about this project and its implications for the commencement ceremony in June.

The DHS turf field and track are in need of replacement. This project has been discussed and reviewed by the District and the School Committee over the past two years, culminating in approval of funding and our plans to begin work this spring. The exact timing for the project's start has not yet been determined.

Timing Considerations:

• The project has just - this week - been released to bid. We will not have final timing until we have a contract for the work in place. A contract is not anticipated to be awarded until at least the last week of April.

• The project is estimated to take a minimum of 3 months to complete barring any complications. It is a process that is prone to delays and may have a significant impact on DHS fall athletics which begin in the middle of August.

Student/Community Impact Considerations:

• Fall sports at DHS have our highest student participation rate - used by four different fall sports impacting nine of our DHS teams which are composed of approximately 230 students overall.

• During the fall sports season the DHS turf field and track are in use daily until approximately 9:00 pm. If the new field is not ready, DHS practices and games will be shifted to Gonzalez Field. This will have a significant impact on recreational sports programs and community use.

If it is possible to begin field construction in May, the plan will be to hold the DHS outdoor commencement ceremony on June 3rd at Memorial Field as we have done in recent years. There are still many unknowns regarding the timing of the project. We expect to gain a better idea of the project’s projected schedule in the month ahead and we will be sure to provide families with details as soon as we have them. 

Regardless of when the turf field project begins, we, as a community and as a District, will come together to celebrate the Class of 2023 in a way that recognizes their many outstanding accomplishments over the years. We understand that these kinds of situations can be frustrating and upsetting and we appreciate all of the feedback that has already been shared. If you would like to further discuss the project or it's implications please feel free to contact us. 

Sincerely,

Ian P. Kelly, Ed.D. Interim Superintendent

James Forrest, DHS Principal