The student union of the new Minuteman Regional Vocational Technical High School was nearing capacity. The space, a large open area at the heart of the building, was filled with local politicians, school officials, media members, and students. They occupied every corner, filled in each gap, and pressed themselves up against two levels of balconies. Light streamed in from the room’s massive windows, positioned over the adjoining outdoor courtyard, to illuminate a scene years in the making: the official ribbon cutting and opening of the new school building.
After multiple attempts, Minuteman School Building Committee chairman Ford Spalding succeeded in quieting the room. Spalding’s remarks were followed by many more, including rousing speeches from State Treasurer Deborah Goldberg, Sen. Cindy Friedman, and Superintendent Ed Bouquillon. Lexington state Rep. Michelle Ciccolo presented a congratulatory citation.