TC Insider End of School Year 2021-2022

Dr. Karen Maguire has a long history in Vocational Schools, and transitioning from her role after twenty-three years in a different district to Superintendent-Director at Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School was a big step, especially during a worldwide pandemic. “I was excited to start at Tri-County. Being in vocational schools for so long, I knew about the school and thought it would be a good fit due to the wonderful traditions and excellent long-term staff. The school was looking towards the future, and I was excited to help secure that future,” commented Dr. Karen Maguire.

During her first few weeks at Tri-County, the hallways were so quiet you could hear a pin drop. The trepidation of the students and staff returning to school wearing masks and practicing social distancing after one and half years of remote academic learning was palpable. “Imagine starting a new school as a freshman, getting a few months under your belt, and then coming back as a junior. We were not sure what the social-emotional implications would be and were surprised by how quickly the students bounced back and how quickly our school became a social setting again.”

While getting her bearings at Tri-County, Maguire finished her Education Doctorate (Ed.D.), finalizing her dissertation project, which focused on adults who were formally raised by their grandparents. An Ed.D. prepares students to create positive learning spaces, which Maguire always wanted to do. She started in April 2019 and was grateful that it gave her something positive and different to focus on during the pandemic.

Maguire took the position of Superintendent-Director, knowing that a building project would be imminent. Tri-County’s school building was built in 1974 and opened in 1977, and while maintenance does a great job of keeping the building aesthetically pleasing, the underbelly needs work. “Just like a house, a building does not last forever, and ignoring it doesn’t just go away,” said Maguire. She came from a district where the school continued to educate while a building was constructed around them. The experience and knowledge gained provides a good baseline for the building project at Tri-County. Currently, the MSBA is determining whether a renovation would be possible or if a new building is necessary. “There is a skills gap for trade areas, and we can help bridge that gap with the students we train. We require a facility that can meet the needs of our future workforce.”

One of the changes Maguire made this year was to invite eighth-grade students and family to an open house held in the fall. Students and caregivers had an opportunity to experience different career programs and learn what Tri-County offers. The result was a record number of applications. “Vocational training allows students to flush out what they want to do before college. We offer an exploratory program that allows students to work within each career program before selecting their top six programs to explore in-depth.”

During her first year, Karen Maguire has handled the pandemic and the social-emotional trauma that students come back with, a staff who were in unknown territory, getting familiar with the building, learning people’s names while everyone was wearing masks, teacher contract negotiations, a new building project, finishing her doctorate, and building relationships with sending towns. “The year flew by. I raised three children, which went quickly but was even faster. I already feel like I am part of the community, and I am thankful for everyone who has made that possible.” While her first year is coming to a close, she looks forward to the future, including expanding high school vocational and adult education offerings, an updated school building, and new traditions.

All students enrolled in the Legal and Protective Services (LPS) Program at Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School benefited from the ten-week-long IMPRESS Series (Invitational Massachusetts State Police Real Encounters Speaker Series). LPS program instructors collaborated with Trooper Farrah Gray from the Massachusetts State Police Community Action Team to cover various topics ranging from Forensic Science to Drone Field Work.

The series kicked off with an introduction from Trooper Gray and Jennifer Knight-Levine. Knight-Levine is the Executive Director of the SAFE Coalition, a non-profit organization committed to educating and supporting those affected by substance use disorder and mental health concerns across southeastern Massachusetts. Students commented, “I didn’t know that the Massachusetts State Police had so many specialized units throughout their ranks,” and “I am now more interested in a career that deals with improving overall relations between communities and law enforcement.”

Trooper Joseph Hall spoke to the students about a year-long extensive investigation into an Organized Crime operation out of Leominster, MA. Trooper Hall’s extensive training and keen observation skills during a routine traffic stop helped uncover a crime ring with over a million dollars worth of stolen retail goods. The students could ask questions about the investigation, view pictures of the seized evidence, and learn more about Trooper Hall’s philosophy on community policing. Students said the presentation reinforced the adage, “Treat others the way you wish to be treated,” and they enjoyed learning more about the humanity of policing. “If we ever become officers then we should be mindful of our decisions and the effects they can have on other people’s lives. We should treat people how we want to be treated,” said Nora Sheerin, Grade 10.

Lt. Ann Marie Roberston from the Unresolved Cases Unit enthralled the students as she described the nail-biting investigation leading up to her solving a 2001 homicide in New Bedford. “I am DEFINITELY more interested in this career path after hearing Lt. Robertson Speak. This career seems like one where they would literally never be a dull day at work. It seems like you’re always doing something new, and looking for someone new, and nonetheless, it’s a rewarding career,” remarked Andrew Jennings, Grade 9.

Lt. Sean Barry, of the MA State Police Special Tactical Operations (STOP) team outlined the hard work and education that led him to his position as Executive Officer of the MA Police STOP Team.  LPS students invited Automotive Technology students to explore the inside and outside of the bearcat armored vehicle. “Lt. Barry wanted us to remember to take accountability for your actions, get comfortable with the uncomfortable, and challenge yourself,” said Lisa Grealish, Grade 12.

Students were allowed to explore Trooper Matthew Polinski’s hybrid cruiser’s capabilities after he spoke with them about several cases he has handled involving firearms and drugs.

Tri-County Alumnus, Lt. Michael George, spoke with the students about how the State Police utilize drones to help locate missing persons and assist troopers in the field under urgent circumstances. The students were pleased to invite the Engineering and Computer Information Systems students to learn more about Lt. George’s career, the technical capabilities of unarmed aerial devices, and to watch a live demonstration of a drone gathering images around Tri-County. All students were certified as recreational drone operators through FAA Training.

Forensic Scientist of the MA State Police, Beth Saucier Goodspeed, ABC-BIO, discussed with both LPS and Medical Assisting students how civilian scientists collaborate with State Troopers investigating ballistics, drugs, DNA, bombs, evidence, and criminalistics.

Field trips to the State Fire Academy allowed students to hear from Troopers Jim Colella, Dan Riopel, Mike Rocket, and Steve Sicard from the Department of Fire Services speak about the work and equipment used by the bomb squad. Students participated in bomb-sniffing K9 training and watched a demonstration of the robotic equipment that the department relies upon to save lives. “This presentation taught me a lot like how to deal with evidence and not contaminate it or how long people can be on the stand or how the defense fights to win,” said Ian Wilson, Grade 10.

Norfolk County State Police Detective Unit’s Lt. John Fanning joined students and provided case information and resources as examples of different experiences he has encountered. The information was inspiring and taught students that anyone with the drive to do good could overcome obstacles to become a State Trooper.

Ninth and eleventh grade LPS students participated in a visit to the Boston Harbor to meet with the State Marine Unit and learn about the work they do on the waterways. Tenth grade LPS students rode a State Police boat around Boston Harbor with the troopers.

The IMPRESS Series wrapped up with a distracted driving demonstration where students learned more from the MA State Police Traffic Programs Units about the consequences of distracted driving. The students drove go-karts on a closed obstacle course that simulated impaired and distracted driving and then engaged in field sobriety tests using sobriety impairment goggles.

The IMPRESS Series allowed the Legal and Protective Students to learn more about some career options in law enforcement after graduation. The students enjoyed discovering the different facets of the Massachusetts State Police Force and being able to ask questions of each speaker.

Louis E. (Ted) Hoegler was nominated for the honor of Lifetime Achievement Award from The Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) for his dedication and service to both Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School and his town of Walpole. Hoegler served as the Town Clerk of Walpole for 28 years and as a Town Meeting Member, Charter Commission Member, and a member of the 250^th and 275^th Town Celebration Committees.

Hoegler helped found the Tri-County School Committee 45 years ago and has remained an active member since. In addition, Hoegler was on the school’s original construction commission before the school was built.

In 2015, Tri-County dedicated the school’s main office conference room to both Hoegler and fellow founding school committee member, Robert J. Rappa of Franklin. Hoegler and Rappa created a scholarship fund to support Tri-County students after graduation. Hoegler commented that he sees the future in the teenagers at Tri-County and that is what motivates him to continue to serve on the school committee board.

“The dedication Ted has shown to our students and the school as a whole is outstanding. From serving on the school committee to awarding scholarships to support our graduates, the honor given by the MASC is well deserved. Thank you, Ted, for all you have done and continue to do,” said Dr. Karen M. Maguire, Superintendent-Director.

Attention Tri-County Alumni! We are forming an Alumni Association to strengthen our community connections and to be a resource to our graduates like you! 

We look forward to providing a community in which you can connect with fellow alum, seek out mentorship, post jobs, and more.

If interested in receiving more information. please fill out this form 

Tri-County prepares our graduates for a wide variety of fulfilling career and education opportunities upon graduation. Our alumni apply their knowledge to make meaningful contributions to society. Take a look at our Alumni Spotlights to see where their education has taken them and the lessons they have learned along the way.

What is your favorite memory of studying at Tri-County?

Being part of NASA Hunch the inaugural year. We were the first students to pitch to MIT and the first team to travel to Houston. A highlight was being able to travel with my classmates and it was my first plane ride.

Imagine you were going to start high school over again- with the benefit of hindsight- what advice would you give yourself?

High school is rough for everyone. Work past the judgement of others and be confident in yourself. Find enjoyment and do what you love.

Would you recommend studying at Tri-County, why?

Abso-hecking-lutely! The ability to get such a wide view of career options from auto body to early education is more than a typical high school allows. Understanding the career opportunities that are available can help you find a career you love. The teachers are knowledgeable, skillful, dedicated, and care about student success.

Is there anything else you would like to share with our current students?

Follow your passions wherever that is!