The reorganization of the business office was a central topic, with the committee approving the transition from contractual accounting services to hiring a full-time district accountant. It was emphasized that the reorganization would be budget neutral, with a cost impact analysis presented to support this assertion. The new accountant will also assume the role of assistant Treasurer for the school committee, filling a key position in the management of the district’s finances.

Updates to student handbooks commanded discussion time during the meeting. The committee reviewed changes to the elementary, middle, and high school handbooks, which included modifications to policies on health curriculum, disciplinary measures, and the use of personal electronic devices. A notable amendment in the elementary school handbook was the removal of information about grades four and five. Adjustments to the middle school handbook encompassed updates on attendance requirements and a new tier system for unexcused absences, aimed at addressing chronic absenteeism. High school handbook changes focused on updating graduation requirements and policies regarding academic integrity.

The sale of pre-worn athletic jerseys as a fundraising initiative sparked a debate. The committee deliberated on whether the proceeds should be directed specifically towards athletics or if they should be at the discretion of the school committee. Ultimately, a motion was made to allow the sale, with the understanding that the allocation of funds would be determined by the committee.

The student handbooks also saw significant revisions, with a particular focus on maintaining age-appropriate environments across grade levels. The elementary handbook emphasized creating a supportive atmosphere for younger students, while adjustments in the middle school handbook addressed the categorization of eighth graders and updated the language regarding disciplinary measures and Chromebook usage. Furthermore, the high school handbook revisions included clearer guidelines on cheating and plagiarism, teacher choice, and the provision of extra help for students.

The committee discussed the impact of a proposed Saturday restorative program aimed at addressing student absenteeism. The program would require students with unexcused absences to attend sessions from 8 am to 11 am, during which they would work without access to their cell phones. Additionally, the meeting covered updates on the implementation of a comprehensive health curriculum and the establishment of a “Citizens of the Month” section in the handbooks.

Financial matters were also addressed, with the Athletics budget being overdrawn and adjustments made to move expenses to the athletic user fee fund. The forecast for the fiscal year 2024 was presented. Discussions ensued regarding state aid, with the committee examining the third revision of the cherry sheet and its implications for the budget.

Facility maintenance and the use of school facilities were other key points of discussion. The committee approved requests for the use of school facilities by local sports programs and reviewed ongoing maintenance projects, such as the replacement of front steps at the high school and the completion of air compressor repairs at the elementary school. The facilities report included an update on the Middle School lighting project, where efforts to consolidate billing for solar panel credits were underway.

The meeting also covered the summer breakfast and lunch program, confirming its availability to all children under 18 in the community, regardless of enrollment in summer programs. Additionally, the committee received updates on the director of Athletics and Student Life search, with candidates progressing to the final interview rounds, and discussed the continuation of the Boys and Girl Club’s programs despite changes in school times.

A shift towards sustainability was proposed through the suggestion to minimize paper usage in meetings and transition to electronic documents. This prompted a discussion on the practicality and financial implications of implementing such a change. Moreover, the timing of bus route releases was questioned, with committee members acknowledging the need for parents to plan accordingly for childcare.