One of the most consequential decisions made during the meeting was the approval of a revised school calendar that will rotate holiday recognition each year. For the 2026-2027 school year, the calendar will include observances such as Good Friday, Lunar New Year, and Eid. Superintendent Balen emphasized the importance of early communication with families about these changes, as this will be the first year of implementing the new approach. Discussions arose about how to recognize holidays falling on weekends, with suggestions to offer a day off on the closest Friday or Monday. The committee also considered how to balance holidays like Diwali and Lunar New Year.

In addition to the calendar changes, the committee unanimously extended Superintendent Balen’s contract through June 30, 2027. This decision followed an executive session held earlier in December, where members expressed appreciation for Balen’s leadership and the stability his continued tenure would bring to the district.

Budget discussions were another focal point of the meeting, as the committee reviewed the financial needs and adjustments necessary for the upcoming fiscal years. A motion was passed to realign the budget to address priorities outlined by Superintendent Balen. These included increasing the availability of the Assistant Superintendent in teaching and learning, allocating resources for a lead teacher in educational technology, and providing a stipend for a music educator to head the fine and performing arts department. These adjustments aim to enhance educational delivery and address unfilled positions from earlier in the year.

The meeting also addressed the community schools summer program fees. The committee discussed a proposal to increase fees by 10% to close financial gaps from the previous year, attributed to the expansion of Camp Tucker and other factors. Concerns about the impact of fee increases on enrollment were raised, with suggestions to implement smaller annual increments to mitigate “sticker shock” for families. Despite these concerns, the motion to approve the fee increase was passed.

Community engagement was a recurring theme, with discussions on improving communication between the school committee and Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs). A proposal to assign each committee member as a liaison to a specific school’s PTO was considered to enhance direct communication. This initiative aims to gather insights and feedback, particularly in light of the upcoming superintendent search. The committee emphasized the importance of engaging with PTOs to better understand community needs and concerns.

Updates on construction projects, specifically at Cunningham School, were provided. The installation of cubbies, which had faced delays due to unsuitable deliveries, was anticipated to be completed within two weeks. The temporary lighting situation was also addressed, with plans to resolve it in coordination with ongoing construction efforts. The facilities advisory committee reported on the progress of the Cunningham construction project, including preparations for a new library and the necessity of clearing the attic to facilitate upcoming work.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of the Foundation for Education’s 30th anniversary and its fundraising efforts, which include campaigns like “$30 for 30 years” and events such as the Monster Dash and an upcoming derby race. The Foundation continues to seek volunteers, particularly for financial roles, to support its mission of enhancing educational experiences.