The retirements of the facilities director, the Elementary School principal, and the director of student services were central to the discussion, as the committee is currently interviewing candidates for these vacancies. The retirement of these roles within the district brings both challenges and opportunities for change and improvement.

In addition to staffing changes, the committee approved the allocation of a $45,000 Middle School career connected learning partnership grant to the cost center 2000 instruction. This grant focuses on aiding students in their career-related interests and ensuring they have opportunities for career readiness, with emphasis on the importance of utilizing the funds by June 30th, 2024.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on the district’s English Learners (EL) program. The growth of the EL population to 90 students necessitates ongoing support and resources. The program’s overview highlighted inclusive practices and the drive to provide superior academic experiences for these students. The committee discussed the use of Title III funds to recruit a part-time parent liaison and 4.6 EL teachers, with particular attention to the need for support at the high school level. Professional development for classroom teachers and strategies to address chronic absenteeism were also focal points, alongside efforts to increase parent involvement through the Multilingual Committee and the ELAC.

Another subject of note was a proposal to adjust the availability of school choice seats. The motion to add one spot for grades three through seven was carried with one dissenting vote. This move aims to attract students from other districts and improve the community’s image. Concerns about the impact on class sizes and revenue from school choice students were considered, with some members expressing interest in testing the waters by opening seats for additional grades.

The committee discussed the possibility of moving the larger playground at Green Meadow to the front of the building for safety and operational reasons. The solar project at the high school was acknowledged as progressing well, although there was some confusion about the inclusion of electronic charging stations in the original project plan.

Transportation was another key topic, with the committee considering a new bid for a five-year bus contract to mitigate inflation risks. Debates on the duration of the contract and the inclusion of option years arose, but ultimately, the request for a five-year contract was made, highlighting the necessity to send it for publication in the goods and services bulletin. The addition of exterior cameras to the buses to protect drivers and students was debated, including potential terms for renegotiating costs after the initial three-year term.

The committee also addressed concerns about school lunch quality and options, with student feedback leading to discussions about communication with the food service provider and the need for more data collection. The potential increase in prom ticket prices and the possibility of providing bus transportation to prom were also deliberated.

School events were not overlooked, as the student representative reported on recent activities, including performances, sports, and academic achievements. The principal shared updates on events such as a recognition luncheon, a successful international dinner, and an acclaimed Bingo for Books event. Furthermore, the committee discussed upcoming events like Earth Day, senior projects, and a jazz night.

Finally, the meeting concluded with discussions on the implications of the school’s financial situation, as reported by the Assessment and Evaluation Committee. Upcoming budget sessions, policy subcommittee meetings, and plans for future meetings, including a potential presentation to the Recreation Commission, were scheduled.