The MSBA and the New Brockton High School

The MSBA and the New Brockton High School

map showing Brockton and surrounding towns.

As we continue moving forward with plans for a new Brockton High School, it is important to clarify the role of the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) in the City’s proposal and the broader impact the agency has had across the Commonwealth, including most of the communities surrounding Brockton.

What does the MSBA do?

The MSBA partners with cities and towns to help build safe, modern, sustainable, and educationally appropriate school facilities. The agency works with communities to ensure projects are fiscally responsible, appropriately sized, and designed to support student achievement and long-term community needs. Along with support in determining the best design, the MSBA contributes to the final cost of the school in the form of grants.

Communities across Massachusetts apply competitively for these grants. Brockton has pursued MSBA funding since 2020, and, after years of planning and advocacy, the City has finally secured its place in the process.

How does the MSBA get its funding?

Brockton taxpayers have been supporting this program for years. Every time you spend $100.00 at the store, $6.25 is tacked on for tax. $1.00 of that $6.25 goes directly to MSBA. Now, the City has the opportunity to benefit from a program that has already helped modernize schools in nearly every neighboring community.

Which nearby communities have benefited from MSBA funding?

Many surrounding communities have already used MSBA funding to modernize or rebuild their schools, including:

  • Abington Middle/High School (2017)
  • Holbrook Middle/High School (2017)
  • Stoughton High School and South Elementary School (2019)
  • Whitman-Hanson High School (2005)
  • Whitman Middle School (currently under construction)
  • East Bridgewater Middle/High School (2013) and Central School (currently in design)
  • West Bridgewater Middle/High School (2013)
  • Oliver Ames High School in Easton (2008)
  • Easton Middle School (2008)
  • Blanche A. Ames Elementary School in Easton (2023)

For years, neighboring communities have invested in modern educational facilities with the support of the MSBA. Now, Brockton’s time has arrived.

Investing in Brockton’s Future

Thanks to the persistence, planning, and leadership of Brockton officials and community advocates, the City of Champions has the opportunity to build one of the most advanced high schools in the Commonwealth, with a substantial portion of the cost reimbursed by the state.

This new school would provide expanded opportunities in academics, career and technical education (CTE), the arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities. It would create a learning environment designed to support students’ educational, social, and emotional growth while ensuring that Brockton students can continue to learn, compete, and thrive in their own city.

Most important, a modern high school is an investment in Brockton’s future, one that can strengthen neighborhoods, attract families and businesses, and create opportunities for generations to come.