The issue of transportation cuts was a focal point of discussion, as parents expressed frustration and concern about the impact on their children’s commutes. The cuts resulted from funding challenges that have affected the city and school district. One parent detailed their son’s difficult journey to school, involving two bus rides and a 15-minute walk, while another highlighted the necessity of traveling across the city due to the introduction of a lottery system for middle school placements. The committee acknowledged the situation, noting that while $9.7 million was allocated for transportation this year, increased from the previous year, it was insufficient to maintain previous service levels.

The transportation cuts were partially a result of broader funding shortages, with the committee emphasizing that similar cuts had been made in surrounding communities years earlier. Members expressed regret over the situation, citing state and federal funding issues and rising costs as contributing factors. Parents urged the committee to find funding solutions. The committee was informed of the difficulties faced by low-income families relying on school transportation.

In response to the transportation concerns, Dr. Dianne Kelly addressed the challenges outlined in the district’s handbook and discussed the importance of the circuit breaker program, which helps offset special education costs. The district received $9.2 million from the city, but the funds were not deemed sufficient given the current needs.

The meeting also featured presentations from the equity advisory board, which discussed their work over the past year. Various working groups within the board addressed issues such as family engagement, community relations, and inclusivity in school events. Efforts included creating a checklist for event facilitators, developing a guide for inclusive event planning, and supporting new teachers through professional development sessions. A notable initiative was the introduction of a welcome club at Revere High School, aimed at supporting new students and fostering a sense of belonging.

The committee discussed the development and implementation of a language access plan, designed to improve communication with families who speak languages other than English. The plan, developed in collaboration with UMass Amherst, aims to ensure that all families receive important school information in a comprehensible manner. The plan includes mechanisms for gathering information on language preferences and ensuring that communications are tailored appropriately.

Efforts to enhance personalized learning were outlined, with preparations underway for the new Revere High School, set to open in three years. The focus is on establishing a framework for personalized learning that accommodates students’ individual interests and paths post-graduation. The initiative includes dual enrollment and internship programs, competency-based credit awards, and flexible learning pathways tailored to diverse student needs.

The committee also approved updates to the guide for parents and caregivers, formerly known as the student handbook, and the faculty handbook. Changes included updates to the school calendar, removal of obsolete forms, and alignment of equal employment opportunity language with state law. The student handbook emphasized a zero cell phone policy, and changes to the guide for parents and caregivers were documented for public access.