Efficiency and Regionalization Study

Nauset Public Schools and the towns of Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, and Wellfleet are working together on an Efficiency & Regionalization Study of our elementary and middle schools.

The Study Will:

• Assess facilities, operations, and programming for Nauset Middle School and elementary schools in all four towns.

• Identify a priority framework — developed through community input — that will guide options for the future.

• Deliver recommendations to town and school leaders by June 2026 to support strong, sustainable schools.

• The study will result in recommendations with deep analysis, empowering town and school leaders to move forward with informed decision-making after the study is complete.

 Together, we can build strong, sustainable schools that reflect the values of our four towns.

The Process 

The study will unfold over the course of the 2025–26 school year:

• Spring 2025: RFP and Selection Process — A committee including the Superintendent, Town Managers/Administrators, Select Boards, and School Committees of each town jointly issued a Request For Proposals. After a thorough proposal review and interview process, HMFH Architects and Civic Solutions Group were selected to guide a multi-faceted approach to the study centered on community priorities

• Summer 2025: Kickoff -  Steering Committee launches the study.

• Fall 2025: Community Engagement — Gather input from families and residents to create a priority framework that will guide all future analysis, draft scenarios, and final recommendations. 

• We are HERE ➡️ Winter 2025–26: Analysis — Evaluate facilities, enrollment, finances, and programming.

• Spring 2026: Draft Scenarios — Develop and refine possible scenarios with the steering committee, aligned with the priority framework.

• Summer 2026: Findings & Recommendations — Share final study results and comprehensive recommendations with school and town leaders, providing a foundation for future decision-making.

The Steering Committee

 The Steering Committee guides this project and builds consensus across the four towns. Members include:

• Representatives from each town’s School Committee and Select Board

• Town Managers/Administrators

• Superintendent of Nauset Public Schools

Click here to view the steering committee member list. The committee is facilitated by HMFH Architects & Civic Solutions Group and will meet about six times over the course of the study.

Study Priority Framework

These priorities reflect what our communities value most in a successful school. They were developed from community input—including sessions, surveys, school leaders, and the Steering Committee—and will guide the next phase of the study and the final recommendations. The study priorities will be used to assess potential scenarios and shape the final recommendations for town leaders. Ultimately, each town will decide how to move forward after receiving final recommendations. 

School Culture, Belonging, & Student Wellness

• Students feel known, respected, and a sense of belonging

• Culture of kindness, equity, respect, and positive discipline

• Strong and consistent system of  fair behavioral expectations

• Mental health, wellness, and whole-student supports embedded in daily practice

Learning, Enrichment & Student Experience

• Academic excellence through engaging, rigorous instruction that prepares students for the future

• Project-based, hands-on, and outdoor learning with opportunities in arts, music, STEM

• Personalized support for diverse learners and special education needs.

• Rich extracurriculars, clubs, and afterschool options

Excellent Staff & Leadership

• High-quality educators are supported to build relationships and provide effective instruction

• Professional development and dedicated planning time

• Leadership that communicates vision, values, and shared goals

• Culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Family & Community Partnership

• Transparent, consistent communication with families

• Active family partnership, support, and engagement.

• Support identity and connection to each individual community and across towns.

• Community hub with partnerships expanding programs, services, and real-world experiences.

Facilities, Resources, & Operational Conditions 

• Multi-use, safe, well-maintained facilities that support programs, accessibility, and community use

• Outdoor spaces designed for learning and play

• Adequate staffing and balanced class sizes

• Effective scheduling, transportation, and resources for specialized services and learning materials

• Financial sustainability to maintain programs and facilities

 Please bookmark and share this flyer below, also linked here, with engagement session information!

 Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this study happening?
Nauset Public Schools and the towns of Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, and Wellfleet are working together to address challenges like declining enrollment, aging school buildings, and limited resources. The study will help ensure strong, sustainable schools for the future.

What is the goal?
The project will result in recommendations for how our middle and elementary schools can best serve students, families, and communities across the region.

How will decisions be made?
Community input will shape a priority framework this fall. That framework will guide draft scenarios and final recommendations shared with school and town leaders in 2026. The study's outcome will be a set of thoroughly analyzed recommendations, not final decisions, designed to guide the towns in their subsequent decision-making process

How can I get involved?

• Stay updated through the district’s website and newsletters

• Reach out to the steering committee members from your town with questions

• Stay tuned for updates on when the final recommendations will be presented to each town

When will the study be complete?

The Steering Committee and consulting team are expected to present final recommendations by June 2026. Specific dates coming soon!