In light of a June 27th Supreme Court ruling, a significant topic discussed was the addition of language in the school handbooks regarding families’ rights to request exemptions from certain curriculum content based on sincerely held religious beliefs. This change is a direct response to the court’s decision, and the committee has worked with attorney Paige Tobin from Murphy Lamaria Murphy and other school attorneys in Massachusetts to create language that will be adopted statewide. The committee noted that this addition had already been discussed during an administrative retreat and communicated to staff members.

Another crucial update in the handbooks involved the introduction of an “off and away” policy for personal devices, which aligns with existing middle and high school policies. This policy aims to minimize distractions and focus on learning by requiring students to store devices away during school hours. Concerns were raised about student anxiety without their devices, but the committee emphasized the importance of the policy for educational focus.

Construction updates were another focal point of the meeting. The committee received a detailed report on the status of the Charleswood and Hopkins construction projects. The Charleswood project has progressed with tree clearing and storm management systems in place, and foundation work is scheduled to begin soon. The speaker assured attendees that despite an increase in Pending Change Orders (PCOs) due to site conditions, the projects remain on schedule. Updates on Hopkins included the completion of brick installations and exterior features, with the temporary certificate of occupancy expected shortly, allowing teachers to return as planned.

Additionally, the committee reviewed a new traffic plan for the upcoming school year, designed to manage flow around the school and construction zones efficiently. The plan includes designated areas for parents, bus queuing lanes, and clear signage to guide students and parents during drop-off and pick-up times.

In staffing news, Mr. Bishop was introduced as the new superintendent, alongside Jess Bey, the director of student services, and the Elmwood administrative team. The committee also approved a request for a 1.0 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) ABA paraprofessional at the middle school to address an unexpected need, which will be funded through grants.

The meeting also highlighted contributions to the district. A donation acceptance proposal for a technology upgrade was approved, with a touch display panel valued at approximately $2,500 set to enhance educational settings. Additionally, a $1,000 violin was donated to the music program by town resident Kelly Hibbert, offering valuable support to the string program.

In administrative matters, the committee approved a series of handbook changes, including adjustments to attendance and tardy policies. These changes aim to incentivize attendance by linking it to participation in school-sponsored activities and moving away from rigid tardy consequences towards more flexible solutions.

The committee also discussed the school’s athletic program, unveiling a new middle school athletic philosophy to ensure consistency across all levels. A new conflict resolution policy was introduced to clarify communication channels for resolving issues between students, families, and coaches. Handbook updates included the addition of new MIAA rules for transfer and exchange students, and a prohibition on gambling was added to the code of conduct.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the superintendent’s entry planning process, which will involve school visits, meetings with staff and families, and community surveys aimed at gathering feedback for district improvement. The committee also reviewed its norms and protocols, planning to incorporate changes regarding financial responsibilities and fiduciary duties.