Students in the program have been engaged in making and delivering meals to homebound clients and participating in cooking classes at the Senior Center. The synergy between culinary arts and food justice teams was also emphasized, along with the involvement of marketing and restaurant management students in conducting market research for the school’s cafe.

Continuing the focus on CTE, the discussion highlighted the program’s growth, particularly the expansion of the food justice and climate program and the progression of a student-run cafe. The committee took note of the variety of pathways the CTE program provides, spanning construction, food science, child development, and business and marketing classes. Additionally, attention was brought to the need for addressing transportation challenges that students face, especially concerning ride-sharing services and the related liability policies.

The committee’s actions also included approving contracts for custodians, food service staff, and secretaries, as well as accepting donations and grants that will bolster the district’s resources. A significant in-kind donation from the Valley Group, valued at $9,287, was earmarked for materials for the Lawrence Greenhouse.

In the realm of school governance and oversight, the committee conducted the summative evaluation of the superintendent, concluding with a proficient ranking in multiple categories. The evaluation process itself was a point of reflection, with the committee acknowledging the need for additional training to ensure clarity and consistency. Suggestions for a workshop or training session at the beginning of the year were made to address these concerns and to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the evaluation process.

The success of the spring sports teams was also shared. In the public comments section, the well-being of the students was a focal point, with a community member highlighting the negative impact of sleep deprivation on teens. This was coupled with the announcement of a new candidate, Glend Cohen, for the school committee.

The meeting also underscored the district’s focus on equity and inclusivity, with the superintendent revealing that the equity audit findings would be discussed at a future meeting. This discussion is set to be part of an event aimed at exploring the data and planning subsequent actions. The committee also acknowledged a donation supporting composting initiatives and provided updates on upcoming events, including the Multicultural Fair and graduation ceremonies.

There was a sense of gratitude extended towards departing members and a collective acknowledgment of the importance of the school system’s leadership.