The central focus of the meeting was the presentation of the MCAS results, where school administrators reported a rise in accountability ratings for both Acushnet Elementary School (AES) and Ford Middle School (FMS). AES achieved an impressive accountability percentile of 93, while FMS scored 55. This improvement reflects the district’s performance above state averages in the majority of assessments, particularly in English Language Arts and math for grades 3 through 8. However, it was noted that science results showed a temporary dip due to a new curriculum, although AES had already started regaining lost ground.

Concerns were raised about curriculum progression, particularly the challenging transition from seventh to eighth-grade math. This prompted dialogue on enhancing student engagement and support systems, like the introduction of vertical thinking tasks, before students seek additional intervention services.

Committee members sought clarification on how accountability percentiles are calculated, noting the significant influence of attendance on these scores. It was acknowledged that chronic absenteeism had impacted results, and there are ongoing efforts to address attendance issues. The conversation underscored the necessity for continuous curriculum evaluation, especially considering the challenges posed by the pandemic and the evolving educational landscape.

Another topic was the evaluation of curriculum effectiveness, with discussions on the potential timeline for introducing new curricular changes. The importance of professional development for teachers during curriculum transitions was emphasized, as initial score dips are common before improvements take hold. The committee considered insights from other communities and discussed the possibility of teacher visits to observe diverse instructional practices.

A notable announcement during the meeting was the district’s receipt of a grant for math tutoring for grades 4 through 8, along with the appointment of a math interventionist at both the elementary and middle schools. This initiative aims to bolster student learning and performance in mathematics, addressing some of the identified gaps.

The meeting also touched on a proposed ballot question concerning the removal of high school graduation testing requirements. Concerns were voiced about the potential negative impact on future funding and accountability measures if such testing requirements were eliminated. The loss of these standards could jeopardize the educational advancements achieved since the introduction of MCAS testing.

Policy updates were another highlight, with first readings for several non-discrimination policies aligned with new Title IX regulations. These policies are set to undergo further review and discussion in upcoming meetings, with an emphasis on thorough understanding and feedback incorporation.

Operational updates included a forthcoming director of technology report and a review of water intrusion issues in school facilities. Additionally, food service updates revealed that Acushnet was selected for a federal compliance review of its school meal programs. Transportation issues were also addressed, focusing on the need for better communication with the service provider, Amaral, which was reportedly improving.

Lastly, the committee discussed community communications, including recent district newsletters and an after-school program that had faced delays but was now operational, providing a month of free care to affected families.