Tobin School & Vassal Lane Upper Schools

OVERVIEW

The Tobin Montessori / Vassal Lane Upper Schools project consisted of the demolition of the existing school facility and the new construction of a four-story, 359,100-square-foot, state-of-the-art building. Situated on a 9.1-acre site bordered by residential neighborhoods, an armory, and commercial properties, the project presented significant logistical challenges requiring thoughtful planning and coordination. The new facility consolidates the Tobin Montessori School, Vassal Lane Upper School, and multiple Department of Human Service Programs, including Special Start, into one modern educational campus located between Vassal Lane, Concord Avenue, and Alpine Street.

The new building features two gymnasiums, a 400-seat auditorium, art and band practice rooms, a cafeteria, administrative offices, parking accommodations, landscaped outdoor areas, and dedicated play spaces. Designed to meet the City of Cambridge’s educational and sustainability goals, the facility reflects the City’s commitment to high-performance learning environments. The Tobin Montessori / Vassal Lane Upper Schools are Net Zero Ready under the City’s Net Zero Action Plan, making the building one of the most sustainable and energy-efficient school facilities in the Commonwealth.