A key point of interest was the district’s financial status, which is currently stable with an estimated fund balance of approximately 3.1 million dollars. The unexpected relief has allowed the district to avoid seeking additional funding for the remainder of the year. However, the committee also deliberated on the implications of carrying a lower fund balance into the next fiscal year, especially in light of increased health insurance claims observed in March. This financial discussion extended into considerations of potential budget shortfalls and the strategies to address them, including the use of excess and efficiency funds or, as a last resort, dipping into the Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) fund.

The committee also presented a analysis of the district’s second goal: increasing the number of students meeting their stretch goals in literacy and mathematics, with particular attention to those performing below benchmark levels. Data from the I-Ready assessment was shared, showing improvements in student performance from the beginning of the year to mid-year. However, demographic data revealed an overrepresentation of certain student groups in the below benchmark category. The committee emphasized the importance of using I-Ready data to guide instruction and progress monitoring, while acknowledging the necessity of contextualizing data with additional forms of assessment.

During the meeting, the superintendent expressed gratitude for the approved budget and highlighted various recognitions and celebrations, including the contributions of Deb Bookas, who is moving on from the district. In addition, the finance director addressed a miscalculation in the budget, outlining the steps taken to rectify the error and ensure accuracy in future financial reporting.

Public participation brought forth diverse interests from the community. Gary requested that finance committee members be allowed to ask financial questions during school committee meetings, and Judy Hodge from Mothers Out Front endorsed electric school buses for improved climate and health.

The committee also focused on data-informed approaches to support learning. They discussed the use of various screeners and the new data platform Forefront to monitor first-grade literacy and numeracy, and the importance of early literacy and numeracy for long-term student outcomes. The meeting featured a presentation by a reading specialist on the progress of a student in reading accuracy and comprehension, highlighting the use of the Maze check-in, spelling inventory, and SBLES data to inform instruction.

The high school’s advisory program was highlighted as a successful initiative for building community and connections among students. The committee also previewed upcoming events, such as the Civics Fair, and discussed the importance of incorporating student voice in school operations, including handbook changes.

The committee wrapped up with discussions on attendance policy concerns, the impact of technology use in classrooms, and the need for flexibility in certain policies. The meeting concluded with updates on the formation of a task force for sustainable budgeting, the implementation of restorative practices, and support for multilingual and multicultural families.