Proposal for a Permanent Home for Odyssey
Dear Odyssey Families, Staff and Community,
I am writing to share some exciting news about the bright future of Odyssey Community School.
When I was hired as Executive Director, the Board of Trustees shared one overarching priority they have had for many years: to secure a permanent home for Odyssey Community School (we are currently renting space). I am thrilled to share that we have taken an important step toward making that vision a reality.
Yesterday, the Manchester Board of Directors heard a presentation outlining the opportunity for Odyssey Community School to establish its permanent home at the Washington School property in Manchester at 94 Cedar Street. Following the presentation, the Board of Directors approved a Letter of Intent (LOI) between the Town of Manchester and Odyssey Community School.
The approval of the LOI represents a significant milestone. While it is not the final approval for the project, it reflects the commitment of both parties to work collaboratively on the next steps, including school design, renovation and expansion plans, funding strategies, negotiating a 99 year lease, and other actions necessary to bring this vision to life.
A permanent home would allow Odyssey to grow from two classrooms per grade level to three classrooms per grade level, enabling us to expand programming for students and welcome more families from our waiting list, which currently includes more than 450 students.
Just imagine the possibilities:
Bright, spacious classrooms filled with natural light
Expanded learning spaces to support innovative programming
A larger gymnasium with bleachers, a space for whole-school assemblies and community events
A stage for student performances
Beautiful green fields and outdoor spaces for learning and play
A renovated and updated school with lots of space and a full kitchen
A partnership with the Leisure and Recreation Department (Mahoney Leisure Lab) to offer expanded afterschool/summer activities for students and the community
Although there is still much work ahead, our current timeline would not have students moving into a new facility until approximately 2029. Over the coming months and years, there will be extensive planning, design, fundraising, and collaboration before construction can begin.
This is an exciting moment in Odyssey's history, and it would not be possible without the unwavering support of our families, staff, Board of Trustees, and the Manchester community. Together, we are creating opportunities that will benefit Odyssey students for generations to come.
As this project progresses, we will continue to keep you informed and share updates as additional information becomes available.
Thank you for your continued support and for being an important part of the Odyssey Community School family.
If you are interested in more information, here is a copy of the slides that were shared with the Manchester Board of Directors.
In partnership,
Sally Dastoli
Executive Director