Two freshmen from Acton-Boxborough Regional High School presented a climate resolution focused on making the district more eco-friendly and fighting climate change. The resolution does not require immediate financial investment but instead emphasizes the commitment to sustainability. This presentation reflects the students’ engagement with environmental issues and the community’s response to broader ecological concerns.

The meeting revealed a sense of relief among educators and the Acton-Boxborough Education Association regarding the narrow passage of the recent override, which is important for maintaining educational opportunities, mental health care programs, and extracurricular activities. The override’s success ensures that the A budget will proceed, with the previously considered B budget, which would have come into play had the override failed, now becoming irrelevant. The chair reminded the attendees about the importance of the upcoming town meetings to approve the budget, highlighting the need for community support.

Each principal shared their school’s achievements, including the implementation of restorative practices, modification of data team meetings, and incorporation of social-emotional learning into those meetings. The positive impacts of these efforts were noted, such as improved instruction, enhanced teacher capacity, and increased student engagement. A committee member requested more specific examples of how these changes have directly benefited students.

The committee also discussed a new approach to providing extra support to students, focusing on a systematic method to determine the best support based on input from various specialists. Concerns were raised about the correlation between chronic absenteeism and school bullying and their impact on students’ experiences. The importance of maintaining small class sizes was emphasized, as was the need for family outreach and communication.

The superintendent provided a year-end update, mentioning visits to over 150 classrooms and efforts to spend more time in schools. The superintendent’s goals, including developing a high-performing leadership team and improving communication, were discussed alongside the use of Parent Square for efficient communication with families. The superintendent evaluation process was also addressed, with a deadline of May 24th set for submitting evaluations.

Communication efforts surrounding the budget process were a focal point, with committee members urged to attend town meetings to support the school budget. Efforts to engage with the community included office hours at the Town Hall, coffee meetings, and door-to-door canvassing. The committee stressed the importance of transparency and availability to address concerns even after the budget vote.

On the financial side, the committee approved a general funds and long-term funds investment policy, bringing the committee into compliance with audit reports. The health insurance trust’s status was also discussed, with a financial report indicating approximately $2.5 million on hand. Furthermore, the decision to pause the installation of a battery array with solar panels due to safety and financial concerns was debated, highlighting the complexities of integrating sustainable energy solutions into school infrastructure.

The meeting concluded with the approval of the consent agenda, which included various donations and meeting minutes, and a reminder about a future workshop on making budget decisions and a potential upcoming meeting on May 6th.