The meeting saw the unanimous approval of a vital financial precaution: an annual vote to authorize borrowing. This measure, while never utilized under the current superintendent’s tenure, acts as a safety net, enabling the school to secure short-term funds if necessary while awaiting assessments from towns or state funds. The superintendent emphasized its importance despite its lack of use. The committee members voiced unanimous support for this precautionary measure.

Another financial topic was the approval of 17 donations totaling $82,425.50. This influx of funds was welcomed by the committee, with a motion made to accept the donations, which was unanimously approved. The donations reflect community and stakeholder support.

The Whittier Tech Educational Foundation’s update provided further insight into financial and community engagement efforts. Highlighting a successful year of fundraising through events like a golf tournament and a comedy night, the foundation managed to support over 153 students during the holidays and awarded 26 scholarships totaling $26,250 to the senior class. As plans for the eighth annual golf tournament at Bradford Country Club unfold, the foundation continues to invite community participation and seek additional sponsorships and donations, further strengthening its ability to support the school’s mission.

In a move toward expanding educational opportunities, the committee discussed progress related to the proposed new high school in collaboration with Northern Essex Community College. The letter to be signed commits the towns to create a new Whittier Tech Regional School District agreement and support the district during the feasibility study phase, acknowledging the financial responsibility involved. This development highlights the ongoing collaborative efforts between Whittier Tech and local communities to enhance educational infrastructure and opportunities for students.

The committee also reviewed the superintendent’s annual evaluation, which revealed positive feedback. 61.5% of committee members rated the superintendent’s overall performance as exemplary, with 38.5% rating it as proficient. In particular, the superintendent’s impact on student learning was highlighted, with 84.6% of members rating it as high. This evaluation underscores the superintendent’s effective leadership and dedication to fostering a strong educational environment.

Additionally, the committee deliberated on whether to hold a July meeting, a month when meetings have historically not been scheduled. After discussions weighing the importance of convening during the summer against traditional practice, a motion to cancel the July meeting passed.

The meeting also addressed updates to the student-parent handbook, which underwent revisions to ensure compliance with non-discrimination regulations and introduced new policies, such as a cell phone policy requiring students to power off their devices upon entering classrooms. These updates, aimed at aligning school policies with workplace expectations, were unanimously approved.