In January 2023, the MSBA (Massachusetts School Building Authority) recommended and approved the Essex Elementary School for admission into the Eligibility Phase of the MSBA grant process. Being accepted means the MERSD Essex Elementary School has been identified as being one of the neediest schools in the state (close to being out of options to address the structural issues of the building) and a good candidate for the grant program.  The MSBA grant program provides technical assistance and financial support (a minimum of 30% reimbursement) for the planning and construction of a new/renovated school.

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Acceptance into the program comes at a critical time.  In the fall of 2022, MERSD commissioned Habeeb & Associates to conduct a needs assessment of both facilities to provide a data-based resource to guide in the development of a timeline to address the replacement of Essex Elementary School. The results were reported to the community in November 2022 and clearly showed that Essex Elementary has passed its useful life. The study identified approximately $9 million in capital investments needed to maintain the aging facility. (Habeeb Report ’23)

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• Essex Elementary School is a 67 year-old building that the MSBA has identified as “being “being almost out of options” to address structural deficiencies

• Obsolete architectural and mechanical systems contribute to excessive operational and maintenance costs

• Unfavorable learning environment with a leaking roof, single pane windows, outdated lighting, and ventilation/heating systems

• Inadequate size and inefficient arrangement of academic and administrative space with converted locker rooms and closets being used for office and instructional space and limited special education and meeting venues

• Instructional limitations due to the lack of appropriate instructional space

• Non-compliant handicapped accessibility

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Participation in the MSBA program will allow MERSD to work with the MSBA team of experts to conduct a feasibility study to determine the most cost-effective solution for providing a renovated/rebuilt facility. 

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A Feasibility Study is Necessary Because:

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• This is a requirement of the MSBA to qualify for state-funded reimbursement for any future building project, including renovation

• Creates a transparent process that investigates potential options and provides multiple solutions for the town to consider, including cost estimates and schematic designs for repair, renovation, or new construction

• Provides the school, town officials, and voters the facts needed to make educated decisions about the future of the school and, more importantly, the students it serves