The Merrimack Vocational High School

This program develops transitional skills and provides a high school setting for alternative education students who are interested in gaining vocational training in addition to academics. This program utilizes concepts based on a Reality Therapy model that holds students responsible for their actions through natural consequences and peer group feedback.

“This is the best program ever. I get to go out and meet new people.”

~ 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. These are the components that the Merrimack Vocational Alternative High School brings to the student.

Specialized, interest specific, vocational training opportunities 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

Ages 14 – 22/Grades 9 – 12

Program Locations

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

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 Alternative High School
84 Brick Kiln Road
Chelmsford, MA 01824
978-528-7884

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