The central focus of the meeting was the introduction and unanimous appointment of Dr. Robin Benoy as the interim deputy superintendent of teaching and learning. Superintendent Linus J. Guillory Jr. expressed enthusiasm for Dr. Benoy’s extensive background, which includes roles in instructional design and STEM coordination. Her experience as a middle school principal in various districts was noted to be instrumental in her selection. Dr. Benoy’s appointment followed a comprehensive screening process that involved curriculum coordinators and principals.

During the discussion, Dr. Benoy shared her immediate plans as she steps into the interim role, emphasizing her intention to engage with coordinators and principals to align ongoing initiatives with district goals. She highlighted her experience in strategic planning at Harvard Public Schools. Dr. Benoy also underscored the importance of supporting teachers through extensive training and community communication to ensure the effective implementation of new curricula, particularly in literacy.

Committee members posed questions about Dr. Benoy’s approach to leadership, focusing on her strategy for curriculum rollout and teacher support. Dr. Benoy articulated a leadership philosophy centered on relationship-building and understanding staff needs, which she sees as foundational to her role. She acknowledged the complexities of implementing new curricula, highlighting the necessity of providing ongoing support and resources to educators.

The meeting also addressed the transition of the BASE program to the Recreation Department, an initiative that has been in the works to ensure the program’s sustainability and growth. The committee discussed a draft memorandum of agreement with Brookline Recreation. Tim Davis, the director of Recreation, emphasized the partnership’s importance in maintaining the legacy of the BASE program, which includes popular courses such as photography, ceramics, and woodworking.

Financial management of the BASE program was a notable concern, with committee members seeking clarity on how the Recreation Department would sustain the program under a revolving fund structure. This system requires that revenues generated by the program be used exclusively for its purposes, avoiding commingling with other funds. The discussion included potential challenges in managing staff expansion and logistical implications of shared facilities between the School Department and the Recreation Department.

The committee also deliberated on the music extension program, which offers affordable private instrument lessons as part of the performing arts curriculum. The collaboration with the Recreation Department aims to maintain the program’s accessibility, particularly for low- and middle-income families. The committee recognized the urgency in finalizing agreements to ensure timely planning for the fall semester.

A motion to approve the memorandum of agreement transitioning BASE to the Recreation Department was proposed and received unanimous support from the committee. Members expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. Personal anecdotes shared by committee members underscored the integral role of community programs in educational development.

The meeting concluded with a reflection on the critical nature of clear communication with the community regarding the changes to the BASE program. The committee recognized the need for transparency and public awareness as the transition progresses.