The meeting commenced with a series of recognitions, most notably for Carla, a committee member with over 21 years of service. Her colleagues expressed profound gratitude for her dedication and her ability to challenge conventional thinking, encouraging the committee to embrace new perspectives. A member praised Carla’s focus on student engagement. This emphasis on the quality of student experiences resonated throughout the meeting.

In addition to Carla, the committee acknowledged the contributions of Myra Calie Majeski, a teacher with 34 years in the district, who reflected on her fulfilling career and the joy derived from her work. Other retiring staff members, including Don McCarthy, Holly Stto, Linda Robinson, and Kathy Steve, were celebrated for their extensive service and impact on the district’s students. Their collective contributions were noted as essential to the community, with hopes expressed for their continued involvement in some capacity.

The meeting then shifted focus to the future, with discussions about school choice availability across the district. Specific numbers of available seats at various schools were announced, with emphasis placed on the importance of these figures for prospective families. The committee approved a motion to accept the proposed school choice numbers.

Another topic was the financial aspect of the district’s operations. The committee reviewed financial statements, with particular attention given to the $158,900 received from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education through the extraordinary relief program. This funding, earmarked for special education transportation and tuition, was praised as a vital resource secured by the diligent efforts of the special education staff.

Further financial deliberations included a review of the Cherry Sheets, which outline the state’s preliminary budget figures. Despite the various iterations, the regional transportation funding figure remained unchanged. The committee also approved a contract proposal for FY 2025, set at approximately $63,000.

A key financial move involved the creation of two new stabilization accounts—one for capital projects and another for special education. These accounts are designed to serve as a financial buffer for unforeseen expenses and to support ongoing capital needs, with funding discussions planned for the following year. The motion to establish these accounts passed without opposition.

The committee also addressed future operational needs, such as oil procurement for FY 2026. Leveraging a longstanding partnership with the French River Education Center, the committee secured a fixed rate of $2.69 per gallon, projected to save approximately $117,000 based on estimated usage. This locked-in rate was approved unanimously.

In addition to these financial discussions, the committee heard reports on student handbooks, with principals detailing updates and changes aimed at improving communication and clarity for parents and students. Notable revisions included a more student-friendly language in the middle school handbook and the introduction of a social probation policy in the high school handbook, which would link students’ eligibility for extracurricular activities to their academic performance.

The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude from committee members for the recent community support during annual town meetings, where the FY 2025 budget was approved without opposition. Acknowledgments extended to those involved in organizing school events and programs.