Governor’s Commission on School Construction

This report presents a comprehensive plan to address deteriorating school infrastructure in Maine, which faces an estimated $11 billion in facility replacement and renovation needs. It identifies four primary objectives: reducing costs, maximizing existing resources, diversifying and increasing funding, and utilizing data to best advantage. The resource helps state and local education agency staff understand the proposed transition from the current building-by-building application process to a holistic statewide eligibility and selection model.

Key findings highlight the negative impact of aging facilities on student health and safety, noting concerns like mold and poor air quality. Actionable guidance includes creating an Intergovernmental Office of School Infrastructure (IOSI) to provide sustained leadership and coordination among state, regional, and local entities. Strategies for cost reduction involve using prototype design elements, prequalifying technical teams, and expanding centralized procurement for equipment and supplies.

To maximize resources, the report advocates incentivized school consolidation, strengthened energy-efficiency standards, and increased flexibility for the Integrated Consolidated Educational Facility (ICEF) model. The resource also explores diverse revenue streams, including bonding, dedicated taxes, and the establishment of a high-level philanthropic foundation. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of data-driven planning through a Statewide School Facilities Master Plan and local Capital Improvement Plans (CIP) to ensure that state resources are prioritized to address the greatest needs