The most notable topic addressed during the meeting was the search for a new superintendent. The committee considered engaging a search firm, with proposals from three different firms on the table, namely Hazard Young, NASDAQ, and the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC). The discussion centered on the cost-effectiveness and scope of services offered by each firm. MASC emerged as a favored option due to its local expertise and lower costs. Committee members debated whether hiring a firm was necessary, given the potential to manage the process internally and save costs that could be redirected to classroom resources. However, proponents argued that professional services could offer a more thorough vetting process, including conducting background checks and managing the logistics of the hiring process.

The committee planned to establish a superintendent search committee, with applications being accepted until early January. The committee emphasized the importance of community involvement and transparency throughout the process, recognizing the role of effective public relations in engaging the community. The debate over the search process highlighted differing opinions on the necessity of external help, with some members expressing confidence in the district’s ability to handle the search independently, while others stressed the benefits of professional guidance.

Parallel to the superintendent search, the committee addressed concerns about declining participation in high school sports, particularly football. The athletic director reported a significant drop in varsity football participation from 60 to 24 players. This decline was not unique to Littleton. The discussion explored potential solutions, including cooperative sports arrangements with neighboring districts such as Air Shirley, to sustain the football program. The importance of maintaining a robust athletic program was underscored, not only for sportsmanship but also for community engagement and student development.

The committee also reviewed participation trends in other sports, noting a post-pandemic decline from pre-pandemic levels. Initiatives such as unified sports have been introduced to provide opportunities for more students, yet challenges persist in maintaining participation levels. The success of programs like girls’ soccer, which reached the state championship, highlighted the potential for sports to galvanize community support, evidenced by strong backing from local entities like the Littleton police.

Facility improvements were also discussed, with updates on new tennis courts funded by the community preservation act and renovations to the Wickham baseball field. These developments were seen as steps toward enhancing athletic facilities and opportunities for students, although the director noted logistical challenges in scheduling and managing the different sports programs.

In addition to sports and the superintendent search, the committee reviewed fiscal year 25 capital requests, including significant infrastructure projects such as replacing rooftop units and auditorium updates at the high school. The conversation included strategies for managing these capital projects amid restrictions from the Massachusetts School Building Authority, which limits concurrent projects.

The meeting concluded with plans to reconvene in January to finalize the superintendent search committee and continue addressing the reported $2 million budget deficit linked to healthcare costs.