Broward County School Board Faces Call to Address Chronic Absenteeism Crisis

Overview: The Broward County School Board meeting was dominated by an urgent discussion regarding the district’s chronic absenteeism crisis, affecting approximately one-third of its students. The board also grappled with budget constraints exacerbated by declining student enrollment and debated policy amendments related to public participation and school sponsorship programs.

Reading Select Board Considers New Home for Overburdened Food Pantry and Early Opening for McDonald’s

Overview: At the recent Reading Select Board meeting, discussions centered around finding a new location for the Reading Food Pantry, addressing operational changes for a local McDonald’s, and charter revisions. The food pantry’s ongoing struggle with space limitations and accessibility issues has led to a proposed move to the Pleasant Street Center. Meanwhile, McDonald’s request for earlier opening hours prompted deliberations about balancing business needs with neighborhood concerns.

Brookline Confronts Real Estate and Development Concerns Amid Protests and Infrastructure Challenges

Overview: At the Brookline Select Board meeting on September 9, 2025, discussions revolved around real estate management, development concerns, and infrastructure projects, as well as public commentary on these issues. The board took steps to address community grievances regarding ongoing construction disruptions by the MBTA and scrutinized the town’s approach to managing its real property assets.

Clarksville-Montgomery County School Board Reviews Surplus Buses and Discusses Enhanced Athletic Programs

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Clarksville-Montgomery County School Board tackled issues, including the disposal of surplus buses, the expansion of athletic programs, and updates on education grants and student support initiatives.

Kansas City (KS) Unified School Board Sanctions Tax Rate Hike Amid Community Debate

Overview: In a contentious meeting, the Kansas City (KS) Unified School Board voted to exceed the revenue neutral tax rate for the fiscal year 2025-2026, despite significant public and board member opposition. The decision aims to address funding shortfalls and prevent cuts to educational programs, a move defended by some board members as essential for maintaining educational quality. However, the decision has sparked a debate about the financial burden on taxpayers and the need for alternative solutions.