The discussion on the school committee’s website updates was a focal point of the meeting. Bridget Hanigan, the communication specialist and innovation pathways coordinator, presented an initial draft of the updated website. The new design aims to enhance accessibility and navigation, featuring clearly defined sections, headers, and icons that comply with ADA standards. The draft includes a general welcome section, a list of school committee members, the committee’s goals, links to meeting information, and a section for public questions. The site also plans to introduce a news section that will provide updates before and after each meeting.

Committee members expressed their approval of the proposed changes, noting the significant improvement in design and usability. However, concerns were raised about the discoverability of essential meeting materials, such as drafts of future school calendars linked to specific meetings. Suggestions were made to implement a search function to facilitate access to these materials. Some members suggested funneling feedback through the communication subcommittee and emphasized avoiding information duplication across sections. The placement of the diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging statement was also discussed, with suggestions to elevate its position within the website’s structure to ensure it is more prominently featured.

In addition to website updates, the committee reviewed travel plans for significant student trips. Principals from various elementary schools presented their plans for a district-aligned trip to Oceanwood Camp in Ocean Park, Maine, for fifth graders. This trip, scheduled for October, aims to provide a consistent experience for all fifth graders across the district and foster a common identity among students. The principals highlighted the importance of early planning to facilitate fundraising and ensure proper vetting of chaperones.

A committee member raised concerns about the cost of the trip compared to previous years. While it was acknowledged that costs had risen slightly, they remained comparable to those from the previous year. The discussion also explored the educational merits of fall versus spring trips, with principals explaining that fall trips offer better community building opportunities and more engaging outdoor activities due to milder weather.

The meeting also included a presentation on a longstanding eighth-grade trip to Washington, D.C. This trip connects with the eighth-grade social studies curriculum and serves as a crucial educational experience. The fall trip, piloted successfully the previous year, received positive feedback. Visiting in the fall allowed for a more intimate experience at key sites due to lighter crowds. The trip is proposed for October 20-23, distinct from the spring trips of other schools within the district.

Principal Grady and Dean of Students Mark Schultz emphasized the substantial preparation undertaken by teachers and the positive impact of such trips on students’ personal growth and independence. The discussion also acknowledged the challenges faced by nearby districts in maintaining similar excursions post-2020, highlighting the Nashoba community’s support for continuing these experiences for its students.

Beyond these discussions, the committee reviewed the district’s recent financial audits conducted by Roselli and Clark. The audit process, praised for its thoroughness and positive results, highlighted the district’s clean records and strong cooperation. The transition to Roselli and Clark, after a lengthy relationship with a different firm, was considered successful and beneficial, prompting suggestions to continue this partnership.

The committee also addressed feedback from student representatives, who shared insights on the student handbook and midterm schedules. They expressed a desire for clarity in handbook feedback and suggested adjustments to the midterm schedule to better accommodate student needs. The importance of coordinating feedback with the school council and Dr. Buon was emphasized to ensure effective communication and understanding of state law requirements.

The meeting concluded with discussions on future agenda items, including a proposed budget update and capital submission update expected for the next meeting in February. Members were encouraged to submit any additional agenda items they wished to address.