The approval of the FY26 budget was a central focus of the meeting, with committee members discussing and voting on a total budget request of $38,838,857. The budget includes allocations for administration, teaching, student services, operations, fixed charges, capital debt, and out-of-district tuitions. Key budget drivers were identified, such as increased special education costs, particularly high transportation expenses related to foster care and McKinney-Vento services. To address these needs, the budget accounts for additional paraprofessional positions and expenses related to speech and language therapy and occupational therapy. Furthermore, salary increases were outlined, including the addition of an elementary school dean and stipends for summer school programs.

Health insurance emerged as another significant cost factor, with a reported increase of 19.97% and a shift to a 70-30 participation structure impacting employees. The committee also discussed the low-income grouping reduction from 11 to 10, resulting in a loss of $956,647. To mitigate the financial burden on the towns of Athol and Royalston, the committee highlighted efforts to manage and absorb rising costs, particularly in transportation, while seeking transparency in the budget process. The general fund portion of the budget, amounting to $34,792,94, was approved with unanimous support, alongside the town assessments detailing transportation and debt expenses.

The committee also addressed the use of $50,000 from certified excess and deficiency funds as a funding source. This decision was part of a broader strategy to ensure the district’s schools could operate effectively in the upcoming year.

In addition to the budget discussions, the meeting featured the approval of a memorandum of agreement concerning the school nurse’s hours at Athol-Royalston Middle School. The agreement accommodates the nurse’s family obligations by adjusting her workday while ensuring coverage for after-school health needs. Concerns were raised about the nurse’s availability during the new hours, but communication with families of students requiring immediate medical attention was prioritized to ensure comfort with the schedule change.

Another noteworthy development was the introduction of a new club at Athol High School called the Kindness Team, open to students in grades 9 through 12. This initiative will be supported by two advisers, each receiving a stipend of $400 annually. The formation of a Coding Club at Athol-Royalston Middle School was also approved, offering students in grades five through eight an opportunity to engage in coding activities under the guidance of an adviser with an $800 stipend.

The meeting also included a proposal from the National Junior Honor Society for a donation aimed at enhancing student communication. The donation consists of items such as a TV, bracket, and Chrome box to be installed in the cafeteria, addressing the issue of students missing morning announcements. This motion received unanimous approval.

In terms of contractual agreements, the committee reviewed and approved a contract with the Duprey Law Office. A update to the contract involved compensation for work related to board of special education appeals, which had previously been provided without additional fees. The new agreement, running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, includes a retainer fee of $5,250 per month, acknowledging the essential nature of this work for the district.

The restructuring of the academic calendar for the 2025-2026 year was presented, emphasizing the consolidation of professional development days at the beginning of the school year. This restructuring aims to enhance teacher preparedness and support, alleviating the challenges typically faced at the start of the academic year. Discussions underscored the need for consistency in half-day schedules to avoid creating difficulties for parents and staff.

An update on the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) was provided, noting that changes were not expected until the next major milestone on May 1st. The committee discussed the potential development of a question-and-answer sheet for community engagement and information dissemination via platforms such as the Bears Den.

In addition to these agenda items, the committee reviewed financial statements and introduced a health insurance opt-out incentive program. This pilot initiative aims to address rising health insurance costs by offering employees the option to opt-out during open enrollment, with a payout contingent upon continued employment. The program passed without dissent, highlighting the ongoing efforts to manage district expenses effectively.