During the meeting, the committee emphasized the importance of building background knowledge in science and social studies through the selection of culturally responsive texts and materials that align with the overall curriculum. They also stressed the need for intentional collaboration between ELA and science/social studies departments to ensure alignment and opportunities for extending learning.

The committee’s debate over the new literacy curriculum revealed a range of viewpoints on the best approach to implementing the changes. While there was a clear desire to adopt a research-based perspective on literacy instruction, concerns were raised about the pace of implementation and the need for adequate preparation and support for teachers. The committee discussed the potential of starting with a pilot program versus a full-scale K2 program and the implications for professional development within the budget. Additionally, the importance of assessments and diagnostics to identify students who may need extra support was highlighted, along with the need for a strong tier one program to cater to both struggling and advanced students.

Another pressing matter addressed during the meeting was the support for world language teachers. The committee underscored the need for additional Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) positions, with a minimum of 15.1 FTE highlighted as necessary to maintain the language program’s effectiveness. The challenges faced by a Chinese language teacher, who planned 26 unique lessons each week with limited prep time, were brought to light.

The discussion also touched on the fiscal year 2024 budget, with the Administration and Finance team working on submitting the budget to the comptroller’s office. The committee explored the process for requesting a reserve fund transfer and the associated timeline, with plans to meet on the 26th to vote on the transfer if a deficit still existed.

The evaluation process for the superintendent was another key topic of the meeting. Some members voiced concerns that the current process did not allow for an evaluation based on the school committee’s own criteria. There was a consensus to negotiate the indicators used for the superintendent’s evaluation, with the aim of implementing a more active role in the goal-setting process in the future.

On the operational side, updates from various subcommittees were provided, including the progress on the Pierce and Driscoll projects, with ongoing geothermal drilling and plans for field and landscaping work. Traffic calming measures on Westborne Terrace were also discussed, as well as the building commission’s efforts to address leakage in the high school’s basement.

The policy subcommittee discussed the need for a handbook review and the electronic dissemination of policy documents. The negotiations subcommittee reported on discussions with the Brookline Educators Union about the Brookline Early Education Program (BEEP), while the government relations subcommittee had no new updates. The meeting concluded with a vote to enter executive session for matters related to collective bargaining strategy and negotiations with non-union personnel.