The board’s primary focus was on the budget amendments proposed to offset anticipated staff reductions for the upcoming fiscal year. A significant proposal was put forward to utilize $250,000 from the Fiscal Year 2025 Excess and Deficiency (END) funds to save four positions, including three teaching roles and one paraprofessional position. It was emphasized that this financial maneuver would not affect the assessments for the towns of Freetown and Lakeville, despite the overall budget increase. The board recognized the potential need to incorporate some expenses into the general fund in the future as the reliance on school choice funds diminishes.

Another topic was the proactive measures discussed to enhance bus safety, particularly in light of recent issues with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). Dr. Barbara Starky, the interim superintendent, presented a report focusing on bus safety at railroad crossings. The initiative included collaborative training sessions for bus drivers and district administrators, who participated in an exercise to observe safety protocols from the perspective of a train. This was complemented by classroom safety training facilitated by safety engineers, emphasizing the distinct differences in dealing with commuter trains versus freight trains. The administration’s ongoing plans include periodic bus rides for safety monitoring and additional evacuation drills to reinforce safety protocols among students. The board underscored the importance of clear communication and student attentiveness during these drills to ensure maximum safety.

Public comments also brought attention to the issue of educator compensation. Sean McGee, a second-grade paraprofessional, stressed the financial struggles paraprofessionals face due to insufficient wages. He argued that many paraprofessionals have to seek additional income sources or qualify for government assistance to meet their financial needs. The board acknowledged these concerns but also highlighted the ongoing budget and contract negotiations as factors influencing the timing of potential pay rate adjustments.

The board received an update on a donation from Grace PTO, which pledged $1,000 towards replacing percussion instruments for fourth and fifth graders. This donation was accepted unanimously, with the board expressing gratitude for the community support. The principal was informed, and a thank-you note to the PTO was deemed appropriate to acknowledge their generosity.

Other discussions included the challenges related to the ongoing monitoring of bus routes and the exploration of potential changes to school start times to improve efficiency. The board is considering methods to gauge student bus ridership for the next academic year, with an eye on eliminating unnecessary stops and ensuring that elementary students return home at reasonable hours. The administration has been in communication with elementary principals to address these logistical concerns, and further discussions are anticipated.

The board also touched upon personnel changes within the payroll department, with the current payroll specialist transitioning to a new role. A temporary replacement has been secured, and a new specialist with extensive district experience has been introduced to ensure continuity in payroll services.