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MassINC Policy Center The nonprofit MassINC Policy Center produces rigorous, nonpartisan research and collaborates with civic leaders to find solutions to complex social and economic challenges.

The MassINC Polling Group The MassINC Polling Group is a full-service survey opinion research company offering public opinion research to public, private, and social sector clients.

CommonWealth Beacon CommonWealth publishes in-depth, balanced, and independent journalism. It covers politics, policy, ideas, and civic life, with an emphasis on investigative reporting, in-depth analysis, and political mapping.

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Research — Policy Center

Fixing the Foundation: Uneven Access to Modern Schools and a Blueprint for a More Equitable Future

This report examines disparities in school facility conditions across Massachusetts and their implications for student learning.

October 7, 2025

Key Takeaways

Nearly 60% of Massachusetts’ lowest-rated or over-capacity schools are located in Boston or a Gateway City.
At the current pace, it could take 50 years to replace or renovate all high-need school buildings in Massachusetts.
Suburban districts received 57% of major MSBA Core Program grants since 2015, while Boston and Gateway Cities received less than 19%.

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Newsletter — Gateway Cities

Rolling Up Our Sleeves to Build the Schools Students Deserve

Massachusetts’ current school construction funding system reinforces inequities, leaving Gateway City students in outdated and inadequate facilities while suburban districts benefit disproportionately. There must be bold, collaborative solutions to ensure all students can learn in modern, 21st-century schools.

October 3, 2025