The deliberation on athletic fees emerged as an element of the meeting, driven by a 56% increase in busing costs from fiscal year 2020 to fiscal year 2023. The current fees for high school sports stand at $200 per year, and middle school sports at $100, with a family cap of $500. A proposal to increase these fees by $50 was presented, potentially raising the family cap to $750. The board grappled with the need to balance revenue generation with the impact on family finances and participation rates. While some members supported the increase, others suggested alternatives such as a gradual step program over three years. The board committed to further discussion to arrive at exact numbers.

The meeting also highlighted the cooperation between high school students and Page Hilltop School. Thirty-seven 11th and 12th-grade students interned at the school, gaining valuable experience and providing support. The school committee members recognized the program’s expansion and its positive influence on the students’ future career prospects. The interns, including students named Mel, Haley, and Marissa, shared their personal and professional growth experiences.

In a broader educational context, the board discussed the ASRSD family engagement plan aiming to enhance communication with families and increase diverse participation in school events. Suggestions included an online suggestion box for feedback and adjusting event times to accommodate working parents. Furthermore, the meeting addressed the ongoing challenges with school bus transportation, including unscheduled stops and the supervision of students, which prompted the board to vote on changes to the bus schedule.

The board’s attention was also given to the success of the local high school’s athletic programs, acknowledging the achievements of various sports teams. The baseball team boasted an 8-2 record, while the softball team held a 4-4 record. The middle school sports programs were also recognized for their participation numbers and successful events, such as the first home meet for the unified track program and the hosting of the Midland Wachusett League meet.

The recognition of an individual who received National Certification through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association further underscored the importance of athletics within the community. Moreover, the board discussed equity in user fees for the boys’ and girls’ ice hockey teams, considering the fairness of additional charges due to unique arrangements with neighboring schools.

The meeting also touched on the topic of school choice, debating the number of open seats at different grade levels and the potential of adding another section to maintain equitable class sizes. The fluctuating enrollment numbers and the need to provide quality education within budgetary constraints were central to the conversation.

The use of cell phones by students during school hours was another area of concern, with a consensus among board members on the necessity of implementing a policy to restrict usage. The negative impact of cell phone distractions and social media disruptions was highlighted, with a commitment to draft a policy for future meetings.

Additional discussions included a report on the re-enrollment for the extended day program, the competitive gaming program’s successes, and the middle school’s environmental initiative that was nominated for the 2024 EBC Community Choice award.