The significant conversation surrounding cell phone usage in schools took center stage. Acknowledging the growing distraction posed by smartphones, the committee emphasized the need for a unified approach between the high school and middle school. Current policies vary, with Athol High School allowing students to carry phones but requiring them to be off during class, while the middle school prohibits visible phones during the school day. This inconsistency has led to an increase in cell phone-related conduct referrals, rising from 29% last year to 39% this year.

To address these challenges, a proposed “bell-to-bell” policy would require students to secure phones at the start of the day, only accessing them at dismissal. The intent is to restore focus and alleviate the burden on teachers, who often contend with distractions caused by phones. Research and successful implementations in other schools, such as East Boston High School and Brockton High School, were cited to support this approach. These schools reported improved student engagement and focus after adopting stricter phone policies.

Community concerns also revolved around maintaining student contact with families during travel and after-school activities. The committee assured that phones would not be confiscated during transit, only secured during instructional time. Additionally, exceptions would be made for students with documented medical needs requiring personal devices.

Financial matters also received attention, with updates on the fiscal year 2025 budget. Although the school choice allocation of $500,000 had been approved, only partial expenses were reported. The committee faced significant overages in special education, medical therapy services, paraprofessional staffing, and transportation, totaling about $1.1 million. These were mitigated by savings in utilities, unfilled staff positions, and adjustments to out-of-district tuition funding.

An update on extraordinary relief funding, amounting to $75,235, was provided, aimed at offsetting out-of-district tuition expenses. The committee discussed a new out-of-district tuition agreement projected to cost approximately $182,938, impacting the fiscal year 2026 budget. To address current transportation overages, a proposal to transfer $100,000 from the transportation stabilization fund was approved. Additionally, a $9,500 request from school choice funds for a high school field trip to Washington D.C. was granted.

Reports from committee members highlighted the upcoming graduation and class day, with encouragement for attendance. Appreciation was extended for collaborative efforts in bridging gaps for students transitioning from middle school to high school, although a need for follow-up on staff performance reviews was noted.

The meeting also spotlighted student achievements. The high school’s innovation career pathway designation in communications was also celebrated, alongside the induction of 20 students into the National Honor Society and preparations for the graduation ceremony.

Updates on the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) project were shared, including compliance certification due by May 30th and the importance of transparent communication with the public regarding the process. A building committee restructuring was discussed, aligning with MSBA mandates.