SAUGUS — The School Committee accepted a $500,000 early college grant and agreed to name the Saugus High School courtyard after its former Principal Ken Fabrizio at its regular meeting Thursday.
The committee voted unanimously to receive the grant from the state, which is designed to promote “Early College” programs that empower students traditionally underrepresented in higher education. Massachusetts Early College Designated Programs allow high school students to gain credit for college-level courses and expose them to a variety of career opportunities, reducing the time and expense required to earn a college credential.
As a parent of college students, School Committee Chair Vincent Serino said he thinks the early college programming that will soon be available to Saugus students is “so valuable.” He said he has seen many students go to college who weren’t prepared and then drop out.
Executive Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Susan Terban said the grant will enable Saugus Public Schools to ensure students are given the opportunity to complete 30 hours of college credit before graduating high school. Terban added that the grant will also aid the operation of a new Tutoring Hub.
“So many students for whom college was not in reach are going to be able to take advantage of this,” committee member Ryan Fisher said.
Committee members also approved a request from the retired Superintendent of North Reading Public Schools Jon Bernard to rename the Saugus High School courtyard after his friend and colleague Fabrizio. Bernard said he envisions a plaque and possibly a bench in the courtyard to honor the work Fabrizio has done for Saugus Public Schools over 39 years.
Fabrizio first started as a teacher in 1963 and served as Saugus High School’s principal for 17 years until his retirement in 2002. Bernard said he is not seeking any public funds and that the project will be privately-funded. Bernard called Fabrizio a “kind and caring” educator and described him as someone truly dedicated to his work.
“This is an amazing way to honor someone that truly believed in high standards in education and truly believed in what this town is all about,” committee member John Hatch said.
At the meeting, the committee also accepted a $7,300 Civics Teaching and Learning grant, as well as a $6,709 donation for the Saugus High School girls soccer team’s new uniforms.
Rachel Barber can be reached at [email protected].
