The most pressing topic of the meeting was the approval of two paraprofessional positions at the middle school. This decision aimed to address staffing challenges and enhance support for special education needs. The funding for these positions was identified as coming from the IDEA grant, a source specifically allocated for special education. Questions were raised about the appropriateness of using the grant funds for these hires, but it was confirmed that this was a suitable application of the funds. The committee expressed confidence that these new positions could be filled successfully.

Another discussion revolved around the identification of students needing additional services, particularly focusing on disparities in eligibility practices. A committee member highlighted the over-identification of white students for certain services and questioned whether this correlated with an under-identification of students from other backgrounds. This observation led to a broader conversation about the need for a multi-year communication project to increase awareness and understanding within the school community. The Director of Student Services provided further details, explaining that the district would analyze the referral process for identifying specific learning disabilities (SLD) and disaggregate data by race. This would allow the district to investigate whether students of color are under-identified. The commitment to addressing both over-identification and under-identification was acknowledged, with plans to approach this sensitive issue through careful parent outreach and communication strategies.

Enrollment statistics were another focal point, with the superintendent reporting a current total of 4,129 students enrolled, a slight increase from 4,128 at the end of the previous school year. The report highlighted the dynamics of student enrollment, particularly in grade nine, where there tends to be a higher rate of exits. The superintendent noted, “Grade nine is always tricky because we have loads of kids who leave us and go to other schools.” Despite these fluctuations, optimism was expressed regarding the projected enrollment, and it was mentioned that the budget accounted for an additional 34 students this year.

The superintendent’s goals for the 2024-2025 academic year were also discussed in depth. These goals are integral to Dr. Carol Cavanaugh’s evaluation and include focusing on student achievement and supporting students’ social, emotional, and behavioral wellness. The first goal addressed the implementation of new curriculum and instructional models in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics, with an emphasis on monitoring student growth and achievement, particularly in mathematics. The superintendent highlighted the importance of reviewing upcoming MCAS test scores, noting observable improvements in student performance due to these curricular shifts. The second goal aimed at enhancing the district’s capacity to support students’ social, emotional, and behavioral wellness, with a primary focus on secondary levels.

Further discussions on the superintendent’s goals included the use of data from various surveys such as the MetroWest Adolescent Health Survey and the PAGS Pathways survey to inform practices and improvements. The introduction of the MYAP program into the high school and the administration of the Holistic Student Assessment (HSA) twice a year for grades 4 to 11 were mentioned as part of these goals. Other initiatives included developing cell phone use protocols at the middle and high school levels and ensuring continued training in restorative practices among faculty and staff.

The committee also explored the implications of a report on disproportionality in identifying white students with specific learning disabilities (SLD). The goal is to ensure equitable access to educational opportunities for all student demographics. The superintendent emphasized the importance of reducing stigma around disabilities, as concerns were raised about how families might perceive such discussions. The dialogue encapsulated a collaborative approach to tackling these multifaceted challenges within the district.

The ongoing Hopkins school construction was another point of interest. The superintendent shared images depicting the current state of construction, confirming that work is being conducted six days a week with the aim of completion by August 23. There was a reference to the removal of the basketball court and other construction efforts on the site. A question arose regarding the project schedule, to which the superintendent replied affirmatively that they were on track.

Policy revisions related to Title IX and sexual harassment were also discussed. The committee reviewed examples of unwelcome conduct that may constitute sexual harassment and emphasized that the severity and pervasiveness of the conduct would be considered in the context of the totality of circumstances. The policy was revised to include additional considerations such as pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions. It was noted that the policy, once finalized, would be sent to legal counsel for review to ensure compliance with all legal standards.