The transportation contract with EH Marfield Bus Company was a focal point, as it represented the only bid received for the essential service. The committee faced a budget overage of $36,000, which compounded concerns about the missing performance bond. The bond serves as a financial safeguard. Without it, the district faces substantial risk, especially since no alternative bidders are available. Some members suggested accepting a holding check as assurance, though this was met with legal concerns. The urgency of securing reliable transportation for students prompted discussions about rebidding the contract and considering emergency procurement measures with state officials.

Concerns about the timeline for receiving the performance bond were emphasized, given that the bus company had known about the requirement since August. The potential consequences of not having a bond led to suggestions for an emergency meeting to urgently address these transportation issues. The committee also discussed using last year’s rates for current payments to the bus company until the bond issue is resolved, highlighting the precarious nature of the situation.

In addition to transportation, the committee reviewed various fiscal matters, including unexpended grants from fiscal years 2023 and 2024. Notably, the DESI one-time pandemic assistance fund, with a remaining balance of $174,800, was earmarked for strategic spending, such as the purchase of a dump truck. The committee recognized the need to allocate these funds effectively to address over-budget line items and capitalize on cost-saving opportunities. The fiscal year 2025 year-to-date figures were also presented, revealing some overages due to new hires and increased demand for services, although these were expected to be offset by savings in other areas.

The meeting also covered the superintendent’s evaluation process, which faced scrutiny due to the absence of recent MCAS scores. Members expressed discomfort with proceeding without this critical performance data, noting that it would be publicly available soon. The committee debated the evaluation format, with a proposal to use Google forms for data collection while maintaining the option for paper submissions. This dual approach aimed to accommodate different preferences while ensuring comprehensive data collection. Members emphasized the importance of aligning evaluation goals with current priorities and suggested postponing the process until the MCAS data could be reviewed thoroughly.

A related discussion focused on the superintendent’s goals, which included enhancing student learning, management and operations, family and community engagement, and professional development. Specific actions, such as the implementation of evidence-based literacy practices and the introduction of a new learning walk tool, were highlighted. However, concerns arose about the lack of specific metrics, particularly in relation to MCAS scores, which could complicate the evaluation.

The committee also addressed facility maintenance, with notable donations from alumni and local businesses. Richard Adams, a CEO and Athol High School alumnus, offered to paint various structures, and Tom Man of Man Lumber cleaned a deteriorated granite sign at O’Brien Field. Both contributions were acknowledged with gratitude, as they improved the aesthetic appeal of school facilities.

Additionally, the committee reviewed a contract for the purchase of a dump truck for salting and plowing operations. Priced at $36,500, the truck was selected to reduce reliance on outsourced services, with funding proposed from the pandemic assistance grant. The acquisition was seen as a strategic move towards long-term cost savings, given the previous year’s outsourcing costs of approximately $40,000.

The meeting concluded with discussions on academic initiatives, public relations, and policy updates. Chronic attendance was identified as a critical indicator of school culture, and concerns about teacher retention and student performance were raised. The possibility of reinstating principal presentations was discussed.