For the past two months, the Wellesley High School Preservation Committee has presented reasons for preserving and restoring our historic1938 Wellesley High School building. Our goal has been to demonstrate to the community the value of keeping the 1938 building intact. Its complete preservation and restoration are important parts of the vision for achieving a state of the art high school that will embody all that is best in Wellesley education. We ask to be included in the planning for this important project. We shall continue to provide information and respond to frequently asked questions.

Q. What shall we do about future overcrowding in the 1938 building?
A. The structurally sound 1938 building has enabled a variety of classroom spaces to be utilized to good advantage. Continued use of functional space in the 1938 building should be carefully planned and creatively implemented to accommodate expected enrollment increases.

Q. It is important to save the exterior of the 1938 building. Should the interior also be preserved and restored?
A. Yes. Restoration of the interior should be implemented in light of the original design. The details envisioned by the 1938 architects not only continue to be serviceable, but also contribute to a practical and esthetic environment. The quality of materials used in rooms and corridors cannot be duplicated in today’s market. Restoration of basic features such as doors to classrooms and stairwells; wooden casings and trim; and interior brickwork and tile, should be undertaken. All of these elements, and more, are essential to the warm and welcoming atmosphere that characterizes Wellesley High School today.

Q. How can the restoration of the 1938 building be accomplished with minimal disruption to the daily operation of the high school?
A. The summer months offer an opportunity for phased implementation of the process. This requires coordination of schedules so that work of the highest quality can be done in an efficient and timely manner.

Next week: Restoration and Preservation I – What needs to be done?