The new, $114 million Putnam, erected next to the facility built in 1938 as Springfield Trade High, will open its doors this fall.
Deborah Owens, left, a para-professional at Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy in Springfield, and Hilary Weisgerber, director of occupational programs, prepare to say goodbye to the old building during an event on June 2. SPRINGFIELD - As the school year ends, so do the days dwindle at Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy. At least for the existing school building at 1300 State St.
The new $114 million building, erected next to the existing school that was opened in 1938, will open its doors this fall.
On June 2, students, faculty, staff and administration of today and yesteryear held a celebration to bid farewell to the existing facility.
The day was filled with video presentations, tours, music and family fun. The celebration was led by principal Gil Traverso, who said the event was intended “to share memories and celebrate our school’s great past.”
“We’re so excited to honor our history as we prepare to enter into the next stage of world-class education in our new state-of-the-art facility,” Traverso added.
The new school will open its doors in the fall, serving about 1,400 students.
Putnam evolved from its beginnings as a machine shop housed in Technical High School in 1911. The school was housed in buildings on Pynchon and Spring streets and was known as Springfield Trade High School before the building at 1300 State St. was erected.
Several alumni of Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy have shared their reflections on their vocational education and what it has meant to them. To read their stories, click on the links below:
• Russell Pepe, Class of 1962
• Linda Mariani, Class of 1969
• Daisy Cruz, Class of 2000
• Melquawn Pinkney, Class of 2012