The committee unanimously approved a proposed trip to Japan in 2026, aimed at expanding the global citizenship program. The trip is designed to include educational activities and a service component, with scholarships available through a program utilizing credits from the travel company. The planning for this trip is being initiated early to allow families to manage the financial aspect through monthly installments. The trip will be primarily open to juniors and seniors in the global citizenship program. The committee agreed that more details will be provided at a future meeting before a formal vote is taken.

Following this decision, the committee shifted focus to the high school schedule change discussions. A significant portion of the meeting centered on transitioning away from the current block schedule. Meetings with the teachers’ union are scheduled to begin the following week, and there is an urgency to finalize the committee members involved in this process. An MOA with the teachers’ union specifies that a proposal must be submitted by January 1, 2025, with a ratification deadline of April 1, 2025. The committee discussed the logistics of this transition, emphasizing the need for timely communication with students regarding course selections.

The committee also addressed concerns regarding the equity issues tied to the block scheduling, particularly its impact on special education and English language learners. There was a unanimous agreement to appoint specific individuals, including members with special education experience, to oversee the schedule change.

Another topic was the recent successful override vote, which saw a turnout of approximately 35% and 66% support. Committee members expressed gratitude for the community’s involvement, highlighting the engagement of various demographics, including families with young children and those without current ties to the school system. One member reflected on community responsibility towards local education, stating, “I didn’t have kids in the schools anymore but people supported the schools when my kids were in school and I want to make sure that I pay that back.” The communication subcommittee was commended for effectively disseminating information, contributing to the successful vote.

In connection with the override vote, the committee discussed a thank-you letter to the community. The letter highlighted gratitude for various groups, including the town clerk’s office, the town administrator, and the select board, for their contributions to the election process. The need for clarity and inclusivity in messaging was emphasized, with suggestions to ensure that those without school-aged children were also recognized as part of the supportive community.

The meeting then transitioned to a budget update, where the committee reviewed key projects, including work on the high school auditorium wall, grounds maintenance, and playground updates. A significant topic was the resurfacing of the high school track, which had not been attended to for nine years. An estimate for repairs was discussed, noting that the track had a life expectancy of five to ten years, with resurfacing expected in June.

Discussion also included the Adams roof project, with a request for funding submitted to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). The timeline for the MSBA’s decision was mentioned, with a meeting scheduled for the end of October. The committee emphasized that their request for capital funding at the upcoming town meeting would be contingent upon receiving MSBA approval.

The potential development of a new track and field area was another major topic. The project includes a 50-yard dash track, a long jump runway, and a shaded structure for community use. The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) has previously funded the engineering plan and is exploring joint funding options combining town and CPC funds. The project aims to align with a broader strategic plan for parks, particularly in relation to the planned Lyen Street Corridor, which has received a $500,000 grant.

Additionally, the committee considered creating four tennis courts at Goodwill, complicated by the necessity of replacing a basketball court elsewhere. The visibility of the proposed new location was highlighted as a significant improvement to address community concerns related to vandalism and trash.

The committee also addressed the creation of an advisory committee focused on school start times. The goal is to streamline and simplify the scheduling process, moving from three start times to two. The committee sought to ensure that the members would include a mix of administrators, school committee members, parents, and staff, ideally reflecting diverse perspectives from all school levels. The urgency of acting quickly was emphasized, with a completion deadline set for January 1st.