The meeting’s focal point was the public hearing on the proposed salary increase for Superintendent Dr. Lusa, whose annual salary was originally set at $285,000. Due to his remarkable contributions since assuming the role, a $10,000 salary increase was proposed. Board members voiced varied opinions on the proposal. While one member expressed reservations, another, Eleanor, fully supported the increase, citing the smooth transition facilitated by Dr. Lusa. Another echoed the sentiment, pointing out the superintendent’s demanding role and the extensive preparation Dr. Lusa had undertaken for summer projects tied to a $90 million referendum passed earlier in the year. These projects are important for timely construction completion. Ultimately, the board voted in favor of the salary increase, with a majority supporting the motion despite one abstention on principle.

Construction updates were another key topic, with Mr. Harris detailing timelines for several projects. The renovation of tennis courts is expected to conclude by August 29, while the high school turf field is slated for completion by August 8. Additionally, bleacher replacements at the high school are progressing, with an anticipated mid-August finish. Upgrades to the middle school heating system are also underway, expected to be finalized by August 30. These updates are part of the district’s efforts to enhance facilities in alignment with the earlier $90 million referendum.

The meeting also marked a significant farewell to Annie, a long-serving member who reflected on her 34 years in the district. She expressed gratitude and urged the board to welcome new students and staff, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the district’s legacy. Her remarks were met with applause.

Public comments introduced by Mr. Harris included an email from Mary Lungquist, a concerned parent, addressing the impact of smartphones on students’ mental health and attention spans. Lungquist advocated for a bell-to-bell policy to minimize phone distractions during school hours. The board acknowledged these concerns, considering evidence from other schools with similar policies.

In committee reports, the long-term planning committee led by Beth discussed the scope of work for the 2025 referendum projects, capacity challenges, and alignment with district core values. Updates from architect George Duthy included submissions for planning board presentations scheduled for September 4. Operations committee updates highlighted the welcoming of new administration members and discussions about a delayed playground project, fire safety inspections, potential LED lighting upgrades, and solar consultant presentations. The personnel committee reviewed job descriptions and open positions for the upcoming school year, expressing optimism about filling them. The student achievement committee discussed a field trip to Spain.

During the discussion on tariffs potentially affecting project costs, the administration clarified that while tariffs could impact inflation, no current issues had arisen in project plans. Contingency planning for bids and potential value engineering were discussed as precautionary measures.

The board also addressed the curriculum and instruction segment, which included revising preschool private provider contracts and discussing a bilingual waiver. The waiver is necessary due to insufficient students to form a separate bilingual class, requiring annual recertification. Additionally, concerns were raised about the absence of a voting day off in November or June, impacting the Littlebrook community. The board expressed gratitude for the mayor’s assistance in relocating voting from Littlebrook to other sites.

Financial reports were presented and approved, followed by discussions on fire and evacuation drills, transportation awards, and a contract regarding high school bleachers. The meeting concluded with a discussion on committee meeting schedules, proposing a consistent schedule to streamline meetings and accommodate board members’ commitments. A draft schedule will be revised and distributed for review.