The most pressing topic of the meeting was the committee’s focus on curriculum development across all courses and departments. The goal is to create a cohesive written curriculum that integrates essential questions, concepts, content, skills, instructional strategies, and assessment practices. This curriculum is also aligned with the school’s vision for its graduates. The committee was informed that core classes already have a solid written curriculum in place, and efforts are ongoing to finalize elective courses, such as entrepreneurship and technical writing. Additionally, attention was called to the need for implementing the vision of the graduate and developing effective assessment methods to ensure students meet these newly established standards.

The committee also addressed progress in providing timely interventions and support for students. This involves establishing a formal process to identify and refer students who require additional assistance. The significance of these goals was underscored by the anticipation of an upcoming visit from the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association, which would assess the advancements made over the past two years. This visit was scheduled for the following Monday through Wednesday.

In the realm of policy updates, the competency determination policy was under its second reading. A member highlighted the relevance of a recent press conference by Governor Haley, which discussed graduation ideals. A lengthy report from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) on statewide graduation requirements was noted, and the committee expressed confidence that the current policy aligns with preliminary guidance. Nonetheless, further review was deemed necessary to ensure alignment with upcoming recommendations, expected by June 2026.

Discussions extended to the career technical education policy, revisited from the previous meeting. An update was provided on planned tours for students to Diamond, as well as efforts to promote Westport High School’s offerings to middle school students. A positive note was the vocational schools’ initiative to cover transportation costs for students, an encouraging development for expanding educational opportunities.

The committee acknowledged the first quarter report from the South Coast Educational Collaborative, though no further discussion ensued. Additionally, a Memorandum of Agreement with the US Federation Teachers concerning district clubs was approved without further elaboration.

The meeting also highlighted school improvement plans at various educational levels. The West School’s plan focused on enhancing early literacy, implementing a comprehensive math intervention model, and establishing a functional data team for performance analysis. This included improving tier one instruction in reading and math to ensure that 80% of students meet or exceed grade-level proficiency.

The MCumber School’s plan emphasized measurable growth in early literacy through evidence-based instruction, universal screeners, and small group interventions. It also aimed to strengthen early numeracy instruction, enhance safety and security measures with local police collaboration, and improve family and community partnerships through communication and volunteer opportunities.

At the middle high school level, an improvement plan was outlined with four priority areas identified in a prior NEAS conference: written curriculum development, vision of the graduate implementation, intervention and support systems, and active learning and student engagement. The plans set specific actions and goals to support student achievement and foster community involvement. Committee members expressed appreciation for staff efforts, particularly in literacy initiatives and building positive family and community relationships.

Additionally, the committee recognized a grant from the Westport Educational Planning Foundation, totaling $3,670.13, directed towards the middle high school’s engineering teacher. This grant highlighted the community’s support for educational advancement, with committee members expressing gratitude for the foundation’s contribution.