A comprehensive report on the accountability data for Dennis-Yarmouth Middle School highlighted both progress and areas needing improvement. The school was classified as not requiring assistance, owing to significant curriculum achievements. The principal noted a marked improvement in English Language Arts (ELA) proficiency, particularly among English Learners and students with disabilities. The school met 49% of progress targets in 2025, a substantial increase from 23% in 2024. Notable strengths included ELA achievement and English language proficiency, with students with disabilities and Hispanic or Latino students exceeding set targets in ELA.

However, the report also identified areas for enhancement, particularly in math achievement and chronic absenteeism, which showed an increase across most student groups. Math performance was below the state average, with only 29% of students meeting or exceeding expectations. The school emphasized the necessity of consistent student attendance to sustain academic gains and proposed action steps such as refining instructional practices and expanding math leadership training.

In comparison, Dennis-Yarmouth High School’s accountability report classified the school as needing assistance due to a low participation rate in certain subcategories. Despite this classification, progress was observed in ELA and math achievement for 8th and 10th graders, with an increase in advanced coursework completion among high-need and low-income students. Chronic absenteeism was reduced by nearly 6% among the lowest performing students and over 8% amongst English language learners. The high school plans to implement a support system for teachers to foster curriculum understanding and provide targeted feedback to boost student achievement.

Fiscal matters were another focus. The committee discussed the closure of the fiscal year 2025 budget, noting variations in budget appropriations and expenditures. While there was a 1% remaining budget at the end of the fiscal year, disparities in spending were evident, with over-budget figures in administration, instruction, and transportation, contrasted with under-budget expenditures in pupil services and utilities. The report outlined major accounts, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and resource management within the school system.

The meeting also addressed a notable unexpected revenue of $169,000 for homeless transportation, which was not originally budgeted. Discrepancies in year-end budget and revenue summaries prompted clarification. Concerns were raised about the unpredictability of state aid and its impact on revenue forecasting. The committee acknowledged the need for improved budget management and forecasting.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to revising the student dress code policy. The proposed updates aimed to reflect current standards and practices, though some members expressed concern over the simplification of the policy. Debate centered on whether the revisions adequately addressed issues of harassment and intimidation. The committee agreed to treat the policy as a first reading, allowing more time for review before a vote, with further discussions planned to refine the policy.

Additionally, the committee discussed the implementation of various educational models and curricula, with an emphasis on the student support team model and tier three interventions. Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) are being developed to enhance classroom discourse between students and teachers. The committee also explored strategies to combat chronic absenteeism and improve curriculum development, particularly for math in grades eight and up.

The meeting concluded with updates from subcommittee representatives and a summary of the district’s five-year capital plan, which includes a prioritized list of projects and a pricing structure. The committee expressed commitment to modernizing business processes and enhancing operational efficiency. Plans were announced to celebrate staff members who have served for 25 years, with an event scheduled for January 8 featuring a local jazz pianist.