Expanding opportunity through research, journalism, and civic engagement in Massachusetts

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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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Research — Gateway Cities

2025 Gateway Cities Housing Monitor

The MassINC Policy Center’s annual deep dive into the housing trends shaping opportunity and growth across Massachusetts.

September 17, 2025

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Newsletter — Gateway Cities

Gateway Cities Journal | Legislative hearing focuses on empowering Gateway City residents with Community Schools

Gateway City leaders filled Beacon Hill to champion a new Community Schools Commission that could help scale a model proven to strengthen neighborhoods, deepen trust, and expand opportunity for children and families.

November 14, 2025