Model School Program
The Model School Program seeks to effectively adapt and re-use the design of successful, recently constructed Pre-K through 12th grade schools.
Programs
The MSBA’s grant program for school building construction and renovation projects is a non-entitlement competitive program. A city, town, regional school district, or independent agricultural or technical school (“District”) may be eligible for the grant program. The MSBA’s Board of Directors approves grants based on need and urgency as expressed by the District and validated by the MSBA. Once the MSBA Board of Directors invites a District to participate in the MSBA’s grant program, the District and the MSBA work together, in a collaborative process.
Our Initiatives
The MSBA is constantly developing new ways to improve its already successful school building grant program. In this section you will learn more about these initiatives. At the MSBA, we strive to improve the way school capital improvement projects are funded. We will continue to develop innovative ways to make the funding of school projects more efficient and fiscally responsible.
Commissioning
Building commissioning is a quality-focused process of verification of all building systems and subsystems by an independent third party. The MSBA requires and pays 100% for building commissioning for all MSBA-funded projects.
School Survey
To better understand the school building needs of districts across the Commonwealth, the MSBA conducts periodic statewide School Surveys to assess and benchmark the physical condition, general academic environment, and capacity utilization of public-school buildings. The findings of these studies are used to assess the magnitude of capital investments that might be required statewide and the relative needs of all public schools across the state.
Green Schools
The MSBA has established several sustainable programs for MSBA-funded projects, with an increased emphasis on reducing energy consumption and improving indoor air quality.
Science Laboratories and STE Learning Spaces Guidelines
In 2010, the MSBA, along with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and other consultants, developed guidelines for science laboratories in high school facilities.
My Ideal School Contest
This contest is open to all first-grade students currently attending a Massachusetts public school. The primary goal of the “My Ideal School” contest is to promote discussion among students and teachers as to how thoughtful design and construction of schools in Massachusetts supports student engagement and 21st century learning.
Post Occupancy Evaluation (POE) Insights Program
Insights are programs held periodically to highlight information learned through POE Evaluations.
Collaborative Procurement Program (C.P.P.)
Partnering with the Massachusetts Higher Education Consortium (MHEC), the Collaborative Procurement Program (CPP) offers MSBA school districts deep discounts on furniture to outfit classrooms, cafeterias, and administrative spaces in new schools—saving districts money, time, and effort.
