Merrimack Vocational High School

The Merrimack Vocational High Schools provide a high school setting for students who are interested in gaining vocational training in addition to core academics. Students are encouraged to make choices and to identify the connections between their academics and vocational opportunities.

“This is the best program ever.”

~ Student

Business leaders have identified the characteristics they value in the workplace: oral and written communication skills, problem solving ability, self-management capacity and co-operative working style. Small class sizes and a variety of teaching methods motivate the hard to reach student to gain these skills. The program utilizes concepts based on a Reality Therapy model that holds students responsible for their actions through natural consequences and peer group feedback. The Reality Therapy approach to problem-solving focuses on making decisions and taking action to control one’s life.

Specialized, interest specific, vocational trainingopportunities are provided through 5 in-school shops or in one of our various internships in the local business community. Our current list of in-school shops are: small engine repair, fine furniture making/ wood shop, computer tech lab, car detailing shop, and culinary arts/catering. Students develop trade skills and independent life management skills through vocational shops and/or community-based work experiences.

Age/Grade Range

Age 14–22/Grades 9–12+

Program Location

80 Brick Kiln Road, Chelmsford, MA
84 Brick Kiln Road, Chelmsford, MA
248 Boston Road, Topsfield, MA

Program Hours

8:15 a.m.–2:15 p.m., Monday through Friday

School Year

September through June

Additional Services

30 day summer program

Outdoor education

Artist-in-residence

Daily access to fitness gym

Group counseling

Anger management

Conflict resolution

Parent Advisory Council

Referral Process/Contact

Initial contact from SPED Director, followed by referral packet sent to :

In the Chelmsford Area —
     The Merrimack Vocational High School
     Dr. Donald W. Meals Educational Development Center
     84 Brick Kiln Road
     Chelmsford, MA 01824
     978-528-7884

In the Topsfield Area —
     The Merrimack Vocational High School
     248 Boston Street
     Topsfield, MA 01983
     978-528-7848