Principal Elizabeth Rodriguez of the Taunton Public Virtual Academy presented an expansion proposal approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, requiring a committee vote prior to the June 7th deadline. The TPVA, noted for its blend of synchronous and asynchronous learning and a focus on social-emotional development, has reached its capacity of 75 students and boasts an 81.3% retention rate. The academy aims to grow, emphasizing the right staffing to support its objectives. The committee was presented with detailed enrollment data, showing significant numbers of ninth and eleventh graders, high rates of students with IEPs or on 504 plans, and a diverse racial makeup with a recent increase in male student enrollment. The school has experienced a substantial rise in individual student attendance, an area of continued focus.

Committee members expressed their support for the TPVA proposal, acknowledging the academy’s effectiveness in addressing specific student needs and its positive outcomes in terms of enrollment and retention. The expansion’s financial aspects were also discussed, including the impact of increased enrollment on the district’s budget. The commendation was extended to the staff for their dedication and to the state for its role in the approval process for the virtual academy.

The meeting also highlighted the TASC program, where director Siobhan Tolson detailed the program’s initiatives in offering high school students work-based learning experiences. A particular focus was on the paid placements facilitated for 59 students through the Youth Works program and a partnership with Coastal Career Academy for a CNA training program. Li Mari Ferreres, a student participant, shared her enriching experience working at Morton Hospital. The program also included a mentoring component for additional career support.

The committee was informed about the Pre-Employment Transitional Services (PRTS) program, which assists students with disabilities in preparing for careers and postsecondary education. The program, tailored to individual student needs, was bolstered by a grant from Webster Bank, supporting a Youth Empowerment conference and other resources. Questions were raised about the need for more paid internships, especially to aid students with transportation challenges.

Financial discussions encompassed the preliminary budget for fiscal year 2022, with updates on the House Ways and Means budget and a projected increase in Chapter 70 funding. The superintendent highlighted plans for the budget presentation and upcoming discussions. The need for state relief regarding Chapter 70 funding not matching true inflation rates was stressed, resulting in a motion for the superintendent to draft a letter supporting relevant legislation. The use of reserve funds for budget shortfalls and infrastructure upgrades was also explored, with a request for further information on the funds and their management.

Recognitions during the meeting included student achievements in programs such as Junior Achievement, with teams from local high schools generating profits and donating to charity. Additionally, an outstanding Vocational Technical student was celebrated.

The committee engaged in discussions about the utilization of the Hamilton Street facility, opting for a grade span of 5 to 12. Other business included a motion related to a building requiring a code report, the approval of an updated organizational chart, and the review of bids for cafeteria supplies. The finance and law subcommittee addressed the FY 24 quarter 3 budget update, authorizing the administration to prepay tuition and purchase supplies with any remaining funds at the end of the fiscal year.