A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the district improvement plan, with a focus on literacy objectives based on classroom visits by partner consultant TNTP. The findings highlighted positive aspects such as the use of high-quality texts and student engagement. However, disparities in reading levels between English learner students and other groups were also a focal point, with the committee addressing the need for targeted support for these students and special education pupils. The committee sought to clarify goals for student performance and strategies to address reading level disparities.

Concerns were raised about the effectiveness of the consultant reviews in improving outcomes, particularly for English Learners and students with disabilities. Data analysis revealed varying performance among schools, with the Tenny and Timony schools showing higher percentages of English Learners reading at or above grade level. The committee emphasized the need to understand the specific factors contributing to these differences.

The meeting also touched on the variance in fall and spring screening for kindergarten students and the importance of acclimating students to technology and teaching them about emotions. Discussions included concerns about the potential cutbacks in mental health service grants at both state and federal levels, with the committee expressing a desire for more information on grant availability.

Advanced Placement (AP) exams and coursework were another topic of discussion. The committee reviewed data on the number of testers, qualifying scores, and the percentage of students earning qualifying scores on AP exams. They also examined the enrollment of grade 9 students in core courses and completed advanced coursework by grade 11 and 12 students, raising questions about the data’s alignment with historically disadvantaged groups.

The potential impacts of state-level budget cutbacks on test scores and educational outcomes were a concern, with member Willette commenting on the possible long-term effects on diverse and high-need populations. The superintendent presented the Student Opportunity Act (SOA) plan, which aims to use evidence-based programs and funding from various sources to support underserved student groups.

The committee also focused on the percentage of ninth graders passing all courses and the strategies to support their academic needs. A multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) was outlined to provide academic supports and interventions, with plans to use federal grants, local funds, and state grants to improve the program. The committee approved a resolution similar to one in Haverhill to bring attention to funding issues, and the district’s SOA plan was passed with majority support.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the budget memo and legislative delegation. There was a proposal to send a letter and updated budget memo to the legislative delegation for review, along with a discussion on the importance of community involvement in advocating for school funding.