A notable point of interest was the discussion surrounding the expansion of the Taunton Public Virtual Academy. The possibility of increasing its capacity to accommodate 150 students was explored, with further expansion in the future. The committee sought information about the number of students turned away from the virtual academy, their subsequent educational paths, and the repercussions of expansion on staffing and costs. The superintendent stressed the need for authorization from the school committee for future expansion.

The “Coaching for Change” program also commanded attention. A video presentation featured a former student who attested to the program’s positive influence on her journey to Harvard University. The program’s partnership with Taunton public schools was outlined, highlighting the academic and social-emotional support provided. School committee members requested more comprehensive data to assess the program’s effectiveness and the number of students impacted.

The committee’s discussions on special education services were extensive. The Director of Special Education and Director of Social-Emotional Learning provided updates, citing the district’s high graduation rate for students with disabilities, which surpassed the state average. They discussed achievements and programs supporting students with disabilities, such as Unified Sports and the Rise program for students on the autism spectrum. The upcoming changes to the IEP form were also a focal point, with an emphasis on including family and student voices, document processes, and language accessibility. The implementation timeline for the new IEP form was shared, including training for special education staff and parent workshops.

Mental health support for students was another critical area, with updates on the implementation of universal screenings and evidence-based curriculums to address social-emotional skills. The committee examined current limitations in data analysis and consistency across the district regarding student support meetings and building-based mental health teams. Initiatives were discussed to improve understanding and collection of data, ensure fidelity in intervention implementation, and provide training on progress monitoring.

The meeting also touched on the establishment of reset rooms in all buildings. Qualitative data showed improvements in behavior and regulation for students using the reset rooms. The school social worker reported success in reducing the use of reset rooms and enhancing students’ socialization and academic grades.

Regarding financial matters, there was a discussion on the fiscal year 24 quarter 3 budget update. Reports on line item budget balancing, appropriation, revolving account, and grants were presented. The committee discussed utilizing surplus line items to offset negative balances and prepaying for out-of-district tuitions for fiscal year 25. However, some members requested additional information before authorizing these actions, with a suggestion to receive an encumbrance list to better demonstrate future budget spending.

The committee also debated the potential use of the B building for K through 2 students in fiscal year 2025 and discussed the ramifications of a previous change of use from educational to business, specifically for BCC. In addition, the committee commended the mayor and her staff for providing additional funding to ensure 100% net school spending. Updates on the Taunton High School Hall of Fame and a traffic and parking situation referred to the safety officer were mentioned.

The committee considered a request from a Taunton High School student for assistance with tuition for the Project Contemporary Affairs program and discussed establishing a scholarship fund for such purposes. Furthermore, the current attorney’s retirement prompted discussions about the transition process and reviewing responses to an RFP for legal counsel. Field trip requests and plans for future discussions, including the review of an organizational chart, were also approved.

The expansion of enrollment at the Taunton Public Virtual Academy and the need for accurate and transparent data were also discussed.