The following District presented on the progress of its proposed project at the October 28, 2015 Massachusetts School Building Authority (the “MSBA”) Facilities Assessment Subcommittee (the “FAS”) Meeting:

City of Quincy
Reay E. Sterling Middle School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager: Joslin Lesser + Associates, Inc.
Designer: Ai3 Architects, LLC

The District presented its educational vision for the proposed project and, with the support of its project team, presented an overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution to replace the existing Reay E. Sterling Middle School on the existing site.  The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) appropriate scaling of building design to integrate with the surrounding neighborhood; 2) site circulation; 3) location of and access to service areas; 4) the District’s demonstrated diligence related to educational programming; 5) the importance of fully utilizing the neighborhood cluster and project-based breakout space design for maximum student benefit; 6) utilization of Massachusetts e-rate technology program; 7) design considerations as they relate to the most current FEMA mapping and site drainage; 8) the District’s plan for one-to-one technological programming; 9) consideration of having two exits from science rooms, project spaces, and art classrooms; 10) library and media center staffing; 11) consideration of covered entrances for handicap accessibility and drop-off; 12) the District-wide perception of the proposed grade configuration; and, 13) the District’s preparation for the Massachusetts Historical Commission review.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

The following Districts presented on the progress of their proposed projects at the September 9, 2015 Massachusetts School Building Authority (the “MSBA”) Facilities Assessment Subcommittee (the “FAS”) Meeting:

Town of Dedham
Early Childhood Education Center
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager: Construction Management Services, Inc.
Designer: Knight, Bagge & Anderson, Inc.

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and the design team presented an overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution to relocate Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students currently attending the Early Childhood Education Center to a new Early Childhood Education Center on the existing Dexter School site.  The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) fostering transitions for students and connections for teachers as students move from the ECEC to a neighborhood elementary school;  2) the educational benefits of a stand-alone ECEC versus combining the ECEC with an existing elementary school; 3) reasoning as to why a PK-K grade configuration is valued by the District and its community; 4) the use of the proposed Welcome Center; 5) the benefits of larger classroom spaces for incorporating specialty subjects, physical movement, and support for english language learners; 6) the appropriateness of a kiln room for ECEC students; 7) proposed technology for delivery of the curriculum and the District’s overall technology plan; and 8) sheltered entrances.

The FAS requested additional information regarding: 1) further refinement of floor plans to align with the goals stated in the District’s updated Educational Program. Specifically, to embrace the welcoming qualities inherent in an early childhood education center, as noted by the District during the FAS meeting; 2) providing additional information about the proposed use of the Welcome Center including proposed programming, location and layout; and 3) review of site considerations for student drop-off and parking areas.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

Mount Greylock Regional School District
Mount Greylock Regional Middle/High School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager: Dore & Whittier Architects, Inc.
Designer: Design Partnership of Cambridge

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and the design team presented an overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution of an addition and renovation project at the Mount Greylock Regional School.  The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) the topography of the site and the scale of the addition to the proposed building; 2) further development of the proposed building entry area; 3) the remediation of current moisture concerns in the existing building; 4) the potential to develop or increase break-out spaces and natural light in the corridors or other areas; 5) the delivery of core academic programming and associated small group seminar space; 6) more structured teacher planning time/professional development with the new facility’s spaces; 7) the class size policy stated in the District’s educational program; 8) consideration of lengthening class periods for science and other specialty programs to foster better instruction; 9) the potential future uses for the stained glass shop; 10) regionalization opportunities in Berkshire County; and 11) the extent of tuition-in students from non-member cities and towns.

The MSBA looks forward to the District keeping staff informed of the ongoing discussion between the Town of Lanesborough and the Adams-Cheshire Regional School District as the proposed project progresses.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

The following Districts presented on the progress of their proposed projects at the July 8, 2015 Massachusetts School Building Authority (the “MSBA”) Facilities Assessment Subcommittee (the “FAS”) Meeting:

Town of Billerica
Billerica Memorial High School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager:  KVAssociates, Inc.
Designer:  Perkins + Will

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented its overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution to replace the existing Billerica Memorial High School on the existing site. The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) the layout, flexibility and means of egress of maker spaces, robotics and science labs; 2) District acknowledgement of ineligible spaces; 3) community outreach as the project progresses; 4) the District’s financial capacity to finance the project and estimated tax impact to residents; 5) the proximity of the proposed building to abutting condos and the District’s actions of working with the condo association; 6) teacher certification and transition associated with grade reconfiguration; 7) future transition to interdisciplinary course offerings; and, 8) E-rate funding for technology.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

Town of Granby
West Street Elementary School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager:  Colliers International
Designer:  Jones Whitsett Architects, Inc.

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented its overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution for an addition and renovation project to the existing East Meadow School that will relocate PK-3 students currently attending the existing West Street Elementary School.  The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) ongoing improvement to the proposed layout of interior spaces such as small reading spaces, courtyards and shipping/receiving spaces; 2) the structure of District administration and transition of current and interim Superintendents as it relates to the educational program; 3) community outreach; 4) fostering support within the District and school faculty for the Project; 5) the layout and maintenance of proposed and existing courtyard spaces; 6) the status of the requested updated educational plan and strategic plan; and, 7) E-rate funding for technology.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

Town of Provincetown
Provincetown Schools
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager:  Atlantic Construction & Management, Inc.
Designer:  Raymond Design Associates, Inc.

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented its overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution for a limited renovation and repair project at the existing Provincetown Schools. The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) the current student population, the size of the facility, and associated annual operating costs; 2) spaces adapted for lower grade students and the potential to include improvements to the PK-1 classrooms; 3) the location of the proposed new oil tank as well as the location of the existing oil tank and its removal; and, 4) handicap design provisions and accessibility.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

The following Districts presented on the progress of their proposed projects at the June 24, 2015 Massachusetts School Building Authority (the “MSBA”) Facilities Assessment Subcommittee (the “FAS”) Meeting:

City of Newton
Cabot Elementary School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager: Joslin Lesser + Associates, Inc.
Designer: DiNisco Design Partnership, Ltd.

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented its overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution of an addition and renovation project at the existing Cabot Elementary School.  The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) the closure of a portion of a public road; 2) ownership of the Cabot Park land; 3) the timeline associated with state and local approvals; 4) safety measures associated with elementary level STEM programs; 5) site and building accessibility and entry; 6) the District’s position on providing 1:1 technology in the future; 7) the universal pre-K program; 8) foreign languages taught at the elementary level; and, 9) the proposed “swing space” and transition schedule associated with the utilization of the Carr School.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

Minuteman Regional Vocational Technical School District
Minuteman Vocational Technical Regional High School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager: Skanska USA Building, Inc.
Designer: Kaestle Boos Associates, Inc.

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented its overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution to replace the existing Minuteman Vocational Technical Regional High School on the existing site.  The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) the proposed location of permanent trade space utilities; 2) required permitting for the construction of the facility in the new host-town of Lincoln; 3) the percentage of students receiving special education at the current and proposed facility; 4) proposed spaces for the LABBB Collaborative and TOIL rooms; 5) the difference in cost per square foot associated with the new construction options evaluated; 6) how proposed spaces will allow for the evolution of future programmatic changes; 7) how the proposed curriculum influences in-service training, the role of industry advisory groups, and internships; 8) availability of natural lighting in all spaces; 9) exterior features; and, 10) the potential for students and alumni to be involved in aspects of the building design.

The FAS requested that the District keep the MSBA informed of conversations with member towns as the proposed project progresses.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

Narragansett Regional School District
Templeton Center Elementary School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager: Colliers International Group, Inc.
Designer: Symmes Maini & McKee Associates, Inc.

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented its overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution to replace the existing Templeton Center Elementary School and Baldwinville Elementary School on the Templeton Center Elementary School site with a new facility.  The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) the use of five-sided classrooms; 2) the location of the art and music spaces; 3) the transition of the current and interim Superintendent as it relates to the educational program; 4) professional development for the incoming 5th grade teachers; 5) educational needs for performance space; and 6) the District’s scheduling of common core planning time.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

The following District presented on the progress of its proposed project at the May 13, 2015 Massachusetts School Building Authority (the “MSBA”) Facilities Assessment Subcommittee (the “FAS”) Meeting:

Town of Carver
Carver Elementary School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager: PMA Consultants, LLC
Designer: HMFH Architects, Inc.

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented an overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution to replace the existing Carver Elementary School on the existing site. The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) the educational program and its relation to the proposed building layout; 2) progress of the conceptual design; 3) utilization of the proposed multi-purpose room and cafeteria; 4) the interior layout of the building and flexibility for potential variations in enrollment; 5) pre-kindergarten space needs; 6) handicap accessibility and coverage of entrances; and 7) environmental concerns related to wells and adjacent cranberry bogs.

The FAS requested additional information regarding: 1) the District’s Educational Program; 2) the progress of the conceptual design; 3) utilization of the multi-purpose room and cafeteria; and 4) development of the media center.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

The following Districts presented on the progress of their proposed projects at the April 29, 2015 Massachusetts School Building Authority (the “MSBA”) Facilities Assessment Subcommittee (the “FAS”) Meeting:

Town of Hopkinton
Center Elementary School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager: Compass Project Management, Inc.
Designer: Drummey Rosane Anderson, Inc. 

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented its overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution to replace the existing Center Elementary School on the Irvine Street site designed to serve students in grades PK-1. The FAS, MSBA staff, and the District discussed: 1) the District’s Educational Plan including: the educational benefits of the District’s Preferred Solution, the number and location of SPED spaces and their required needs/purposes, the value of the PK-1 grade configuration to the District and the community, and how the District accommodates the four transitions during a student’s K-12 schooling; 2) the conceptual floor plans including: the need for further development relating to the placement of the media center on the second floor of the building, demonstration of how the proposed facility supports the District’s proposed educational program, the main priorities of the building’s design, and the site plan circulation/drop-off areas and building entrance locations; 3) the District’s plan to repurpose the existing Center Elementary School; and, 4) the importance of concluding feasibility study and schematic design analysis and securing community support in a timely manner.

The FAS requested additional information including: 1) an updated educational program; 2) updated floor and site plans; and, 3) a new space summary.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

The following Districts presented on the progress of their proposed projects at the March 11, 2015 Massachusetts School Building Authority (the “MSBA”) Facilities Assessment Subcommittee (the “FAS”) Meeting:

Town of Brookline
Edward Devotion School
Current Phase: Schematic Design

Owner’s Project Manager:  Town Employee, Town of Brookline
Designer:  HMFH Architects

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented an update to the District’s preferred solution for an addition to and renovation of the existing 1913 portion of the Edward Devotion School building.  The FAS and staff and members discussed: 1) the design considerations and potential advancements as it relates to classroom and corridor locations, spaces for teacher collaboration, site constraints and impact to classroom wing organization, and access for outdoor classroom and roof maintenance;  2) the clustering of Special Education spaces throughout the building; 3) consideration of including a sink in all general classrooms; 4) the potential for integration of specialty classrooms within each grade cluster; 5) the potential for a review of floor plans that incorporate minor adjustments to the existing plan without changing the massing; 6) the increase in project size and associated costs since approval to proceed into schematic design; and, 7) the project schedule.

The FAS requested additional information regarding: 1) the anticipated submittal date for a Massachusetts Historical Commission Project Notification Form; and, 2) the readiness of the District to submit its DESE submission to MSBA for the Edward Devotion School project in advance of the Schematic Design package due at the MSBA on April 16, 2015.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

The following Districts presented on the progress of their proposed projects at the February 25, 2015 Massachusetts School Building Authority (the “MSBA”) Facilities Assessment Subcommittee (the “FAS”) Meeting:

City of Beverly
Briscoe Middle School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager: HEERY International
Designer: Ai3 Architects 

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented its overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution to replace the existing Briscoe Middle School facility and the Memorial Building with a new 5-8 facility on the site of the defunct Memorial Middle School facility. The FAS and staff and members discussed: 1) Grade configurations and academic neighborhoods; 2) Consideration of including a sink in all classrooms; 3) Professional development for staff;  4) Design considerations as it relates to science rooms, courtyard maintenance, and security; 5) Handicap design provisions and accessibility; 6) Flexibility of Design to accommodate fluctuations in enrollment; 7) Building design and envelope; 8) After-school programming and, 9) ineligible costs.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.

City of New Bedford
John Hannigan Elementary School
Current Phase: Feasibility Study

Owner’s Project Manager: Daedalus Projects
Designer: T2 Architecture

The District, the Owner’s Project Manager, and design team presented its overview of the options studied during the Feasibility Study and the District’s preferred solution to replace the existing John Hannigan Elementary School on the existing site. The FAS and staff and members discussed: 1) Concerns as it relates to previous visits to the Lincoln Elementary School and Keith Middle School regarding the apparent high student population per classroom and other program delivery questions, and how this might translate to the proposed class sizes associated with the preferred solution for the Hannigan Elementary School project; 2) Timing and requirements of State and local historical concern as they relate to the existing Hannigan building and other associated properties; 3) Timing associated with acquiring additional property required as part of the District’s preferred solution and how it relates to scope, budget, and schedule; and, 4) Implementing the proposed educational program for Hannigan students who will remain at the Sea Lab facility until completion of the proposed Hannigan project.

MSBA staff is currently working with the District to reach a mutually agreeable solution to recommend to the MSBA’s Board of Directors.