A concern was the potential reduction in federal education funding, with implications for Massachusetts districts, including Westport. A member of the committee outlined the “state of upheaval, uncertainty, and fear” stemming from recent federal directives, which threaten over $2 billion in funding. This includes Title One grants, crucial for supporting low-income students, and resources for English learners and special education. Specific districts, like New Bedford, face financial losses, whereas Westport was praised for its prudent financial management, facing a minimal clawback of just 54 cents. The emphasis was on the importance of careful oversight of Title One funding, highlighting that even a minor reduction could impact the district significantly.

The committee also addressed the ongoing superintendent search amid recent vacancies in the search committee. Four individuals were appointed to fill these vacancies to ensure the process continues smoothly. There is a sense of urgency to conduct the interviews without delay, with a structured approach to incorporate community feedback. A survey was proposed to gather input on desired superintendent qualities, emphasizing broad community engagement. The committee expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative effort in developing the survey.

Another focal point was the Out of School Time (OST) program, where the committee discussed updates to job descriptions, pay rates, and benefits. Changes included aligning job titles with Early Education and Care (EEC) recommendations and transitioning to a merit-based pay structure for staff evaluations. A merit-based system, effective July 1, 2026, aims to provide flexibility in compensation, moving away from a step-based structure. Concerns were raised about the fairness of merit increases, but assurances were given that the evaluation tool would be objective and based on clear criteria. The discussion also covered benefits, including a proposed sick time policy, which generated debate on its financial impact on the program. A trial period for sick time benefits was suggested, allowing the committee to assess the program’s sustainability. The committee separated the approval of pay rates and benefits for clearer decision-making, emphasizing the program’s value to the community.

The meeting also addressed school choice recommendations, particularly for high school grades nine and ten, and the possibility of accepting additional students at the fourth-grade level. Concerns were raised about the challenges of accommodating diverse student needs and the implications of increasing student numbers amid uncertain budgetary conditions. A proposal to allow five additional students in specific grades was put forth, with the committee weighing the potential impact on class sizes and resources.

In technology-related updates, the rollout of the LightSpeed filtering system was discussed, with ongoing efforts to resolve technical issues hindering classroom monitoring capabilities. Training for staff is underway, with plans to extend professional development resources to middle and high school staff once technical challenges are resolved. The technology team’s efforts were acknowledged, with expectations for a district-wide rollout in the coming weeks.

The committee also deliberated on local competency requirements for high school diplomas following the removal of the MCCAST testing requirement. The discussion focused on establishing new criteria, emphasizing compliance with the program of studies and state standards. The introduction of innovation career pathway courses was noted as a means to ensure students meet Mass Core standards, with flexibility in fulfilling world language requirements. A motion was approved to adopt the proposed competency determination for the current year, with attention on maintaining educational standards despite changes in testing requirements.