The school committee discussed the governor’s budget proposal, which brings a 3.05% increase in Chapter 70 funding, translating to $756,000 for the Athol-Royalston district. This increase, along with a 16.66% rise in Regional School transportation funding, amounting to an additional $128,000, is expected to provide much-needed financial support. Despite these positive developments, the district faces a decrease in Charter School reimbursement, reducing funding by over $68,000. Additionally, the district’s classification as a low-income area fell back to group 10, 16 students shy of moving to group 11, with funding implications tied to these figures.

Concurrently, the district is contending with rising foster care expenses, which have exceeded budget projections by nearly $50,000 due to an increased number of foster students. Transportation costs are also a concern, with increases between 12% and 33%, prompting discussions with state legislators about potentially capping these costs, given the district’s reliance on a single bus company. These financial strains are partially offset by a $325,000 Intensive Assistance Grant, approved for three years to support salaries and address budget overages.

In other financial matters, the committee noted a $20,000 overage in the SRO budget line due to discrepancies in the agreed payment to the School Resource Officer. Unemployment costs have also risen, adding to budget challenges. Nevertheless, many budget lines remain under budget, preventing the district from entering a deficit and maintaining overall financial balance.

The meeting also highlighted a planned collaboration between the school district and town officials to address future housing developments and their potential impact on student enrollment. With the River Bend project potentially adding around 50 housing units, and other inquiries suggesting hundreds more, the committee emphasized the need for strategic planning to ensure educational resources can accommodate any influx of students. The chair stressed that the district must remain engaged in these discussions to prepare for any changes in enrollment that housing developments may bring.

In terms of academic and extracurricular activities, the committee recognized several student achievements. Senior Carly Chase qualified for the state indoor track competition in shot put, while the high school’s mock trial team, despite a 0-3 season, was commended for their argumentative skills. The high school also hosted an event with Massachusetts Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler, who emphasized the importance of FAFSA for accessing tuition benefits at community colleges and state universities. Furthermore, the Academic Decathlon team is set to compete at MIT, and students will present research at the regional science fair.

Efforts to enhance student learning and community engagement were also discussed. The district is implementing collaborative teaching strategies, particularly for fifth and sixth graders, through bi-weekly meetings for special education teachers and interventionists. Initiatives like a STEM day and the “Walk to Learn” model aim to foster differentiated instruction and improve student outcomes. There is also a focus on community engagement, with increased parent and community attendance at school events. A voting process for outdoor recess equipment involved students.

Policy updates were considered, specifically regarding public participation. Proposed changes aim to broaden input from district staff and students, regardless of residency, and clarify procedures for public input during meetings. Additionally, a need to align student work with state standards was discussed, with the building instructional leadership team reviewing student work to improve instructional methods and address learning gaps.