The meeting opened with an in-depth conversation on the climate and sustainability coordination group’s work. The committee emphasized the importance of mental health considerations in climate education and discussed potential resources, including those used in states with mandated K-12 climate education.

The committee then shifted focus to the Brookline Early Education Program, specifically addressing the proposed tuition increase for the upcoming year. The enrollment in the Early Childhood Inclusion Program (ECIP), consisting of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and peer students, has remained consistent, with around 288 students. However, the program’s costs are not fully covered by tuition, with the school operating budget and a revolving fund bridging the financial gap. The proposed tuition fee of $15,500 for the next year was recommended as a transitional figure, allowing for adjustments after collecting more data. The committee acknowledged the program’s costs, which estimated at $9 million, are not fully represented by the tuition fees, and the decision regarding the fee could be revisited in the future.

The meeting also delved into the financial management of BEEP, with discussions on the transparency of tuition fees and how they contribute to the program’s costs. Concerns were raised about the potential impact of increased staffing costs on the revolving fund and the operating budget. The committee grappled with ensuring fiscal responsibility while maintaining the program’s sustainability and accessibility to all families.

Additionally, the committee reviewed state grants, donations, and other financial matters, including the positive outcome of eliminating user fees for the BHS South Brookline bus, which led to an increase in ridership. The Finance subcommittee approved grants for mental health and Civics teaching without commentary, and gifts to the high school and district were similarly passed without discussion. The committee also touched on the logistics of state-funded lunches and the inclusion of a PreACT fee in the fee schedule, noting that the fees are not for profit but to cover test costs for students.

The meeting concluded with an emphasis on the need for clear policy directives to support sustainability efforts and the electrification of school facilities. Planning for future presentations and the retention of recommendations post-elections were also discussed, with the committee considering the involvement of college interns to enhance the visual appeal of their reports.