The third community meeting for Thomaston’s school feasibility study will be held on Thursday, December 4th at 6:30 PM in the Thomaston High School cafeteria. This session will focus on recommendations based on the study’s analysis and community feedback. In a recent social media post, First Selectman Rich Sileo said the town hopes to bring the their recommendation to a public hearing in early January, but this date is not “firm.”

The meeting follows the second community session on November 13th, which drew roughly 50 participants and included a walkthrough of the study’s progress to date. According to the recap prepared by Drummey Rosane Anderson (DRA), the team reviewed three major areas of work since the first meeting: updated enrollment projections, results from the online survey, and the outcomes from the breakout discussions held during the first community meeting.

Enrollment projections presented by DRA show flat numbers at Black Rock and Center School over the next decade, with a more significant decline expected at Thomaston High School, adding to its current under-utilization.

As part of the study, DRA also conducted an online survey to gather community input. The survey drew over 400 responses across residents, staff, parents, and students. Respondents generally reported strong familiarity with Thomaston schools, but when asked how well they believe the district is perceived by residents and non-residents, the average rating was only 4.82 out of 10, reflecting concerns about how the district is viewed in the community.

Residents are encouraged to attend Thursday’s meeting, learn about the recommendations, and share feedback as the study moves into its decision-making phase.

Correction: An earlier version of this article referenced a potential vote following a January public hearing. We have removed those references pending confirmation from town officials regarding the timing of any vote.