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Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District

Empowering Students to Achieve Excellence

MES Building Project

MES Building Project

A two-story building with a white exterior and multiple windows.

Marguerite E. Small Elementary School (MES) serves approximately 375 students in grades PreK–3, including many vulnerable learners, but its outdated facility no longer supports a safe, healthy, or effective learning environment. Originally built with an open-concept design, the building now faces significant challenges, from aging infrastructure and safety concerns to limited accessibility and inadequate space for modern, inclusive education.

In partnership with the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), the Dennis-Yarmouth School District is conducting a feasibility study to evaluate the school’s needs, explore cost-effective and educationally appropriate solutions, and develop a preliminary plan for the future. This process will consider options such as renovating/replacing MES, consolidating existing sites, or possibly utilizing existing infrastructure, with the goal of creating a safe, equitable, and future-ready learning environment for all students.

This page will keep you informed with the latest updates and developments throughout the project.

 

  • The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District Announces Invitation to the MSBA Eligibility Period for Marguerite E. Small Elementary

    School. South Yarmouth, MA– December 20, 2024– On Friday, December 13, 2024, the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District was thrilled to receive an invitation for Marguerite E. Small Elementary School to enter the Eligibility Period of the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) program. This exciting news marks a significant milestone for the district, as it is the result of eight previous applications for this highly competitive process. The invitation initiates a 270-day period, which commences on April 1, 2025, and the district is eager to take the next steps toward securing funding for much-needed improvements to Marguerite E. Small and providing a state-of-the-art learning environment for our students.

    The MSBA’s Eligibility Period is the first step that could lead to the funding of capital projects aimed at improving and upgrading school facilities. This invitation brings a tremendous opportunity for the district, our students, families, and staff to benefit from modern, safe, and inspiring learning spaces.

    “We are incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication of our team in securing this invitation,” said Dr. Marc Smith, Superintendent of the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District. “Improved facilities at Marguerite E. Small will provide our students with an environment where they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We are excited to partner with the Town of Yarmouth and taxpayers to ensure that our students have access to the highest quality learning environment.”

    The district is committed to working collaboratively with the Town of Yarmouth and its residents to create a plan that addresses the evolving needs of our school community. The improvements will benefit not only the current students but also future generations, providing them with a state-of-the-art facility that supports 21st-century learning.

    “We are grateful to be in a position to enhance the educational experience for our students,” said Carol Mahedy, Principal of Marguerite E. Small. “This process marks the beginning of an exciting journey that will have a lasting positive impact on our school, and we are confident that these improvements will create a space that fosters academic excellence and growth for all.” “Empowering each student to achieve excellence with integrity in a changing world”

    “This opportunity will help pair our amazing educators and students with an up-to-date building that will improve technology, enhance accessibility, and create a new excitement in their new learning space.” said Tomas Tolentino, Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School Committee Chair. The district is excited to move forward with this opportunity and will be providing further updates as the process progresses, including opportunities for those interested in serving in the building committee. We look forward to continuing to engage with the community and ensure that the vision for Marguerite E. Small is realized.

    Learn more about the MSBA Eligibility Period process and next steps.

  • February 25, 2026

    The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District has been invited by the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to move forward into the Feasibility Study phase for the Marguerite E. Small Elementary School after successfully completing all requirements of the Eligibility Period. This step does not represent project approval, but rather an opportunity to work in partnership with the MSBA to explore and evaluate potential solutions to identified issues. As part of this phase, the District must follow all MSBA regulations and collaborate closely at each stage to remain eligible for funding. The process will include selecting an Owner’s Project Manager and Designer and conducting a comprehensive study to determine the most fiscally responsible and educationally appropriate path forward.