Further discussions included the superintendent’s detailed report on initiatives such as increasing mental health supports, establishing an independent living center at BHS for students with special needs, and aligning structured learning activities with state law. The finalized world language courses for rising sixth graders and efforts by the district’s literacy leadership team were also noted. Additionally, the superintendent announced the launch of position control, a system to manage staff positions and funding, which is expected to improve the budgeting process.

The committee also engaged in discussions regarding the implementation of Access Control at BHS to improve building safety, requiring visitors to check in at the main office, and the value of accreditation by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Concerns about the effectiveness and cost of the accreditation process were raised, alongside the importance of the vision of a graduate in the district’s Strategic Plan. The committee did not reach a consensus on these topics, with further discussions anticipated.

Another point of discussion was the professional development practices at BHS. The aim is to establish common practices for all educators, with professional development sessions occurring monthly. The school is working to involve teacher leaders in the process and seeks to develop written curricula to ensure consistency across courses and departments. This endeavor is partially influenced by NEASC accreditation standards, and the school is aligning its efforts to meet recommendations and ensure accreditation.

Public comments included concerns from a speaker about the placement of geothermal wells for the new Pierce School building, citing potential impacts on groundwater temperatures and the ethical considerations of using park space. Another speaker brought up an issue of a termite infestation in a math classroom at the high school, questioning the school’s response to the pest problem.

The committee debated on several warrant articles related to the fiscal year 2025 budget, including school renovations, modifications to meet IEP accommodations, long-term capital planning, and classroom capacity. A discussion on Article 10 appropriations involved whether to wait for the advisory committee’s vote before making their decision and the possibility of modifications to proposed amounts.

The meeting also featured a presentation by the Brookline Teen Center, emphasizing its partnership with the public schools and the need for replacement funding. The importance of the center as a “third space” for teens and the challenges of securing sustainable funding were highlighted. Additionally, the committee said farewell to a departing School Committee member, who was leaving to work at the United Nations, and discussed a proposal for a statutory revision to the student code of conduct.

Lastly, the School Committee touched on the Pierce project, particularly the upcoming contract for demolition and community meetings to discuss the project and address geothermal concerns. Updates on the electrical service upgrade at the Heath School and the transition to the Newbury school were also presented.