The meeting opened with a detailed presentation from Brian Denio, principal of Lincoln School, who discussed the school’s past achievements and future goals. Denio highlighted the growth of the Middle School Student Council and the successful introduction of cross-grade buddy programs aimed at fostering connections among students. He also addressed the implementation of a culture fest organized by the Lincoln Initiative for Equity, which saw community involvement.

Denio outlined several key goals for the upcoming year, aligning them with the district’s strategic plan. One primary objective is to enhance students’ academic language skills, particularly for English Learner (EL) students, to improve their engagement with complex texts and prompts. He also emphasized the need to improve communication with families and the community, proposing a more coherent schedule for school events to avoid conflicts and enhance family engagement.

The conversation then shifted to budgetary concerns, particularly the implications of the absence of Title One funds. Principals are now working within a more site-based budget model, which necessitates adjustments in how they articulate their school improvement plans (SIPs). The principal of RLE School, Donna, shared insights about her school’s high percentage of high-need students, English learners, and students with disabilities. To address these needs, the RLE School site council, comprising parents, a community member, and teachers, has been refining their SIP, with a focus on tiered interventions in literacy and math.

Donna discussed the importance of family engagement, highlighting the creation of the ROAR (Rung Organization Against Racism) group to include marginalized families in school events. She also raised concerns about the limited budget, noting a $10,000 discretionary fund used for various programs, including after-school tutoring and a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA). The need for clear communication about academic support opportunities, particularly in middle school, was emphasized as part of the strategic plan.

Another topic was the implementation of high-dosage tutoring for students needing assistance, as well as the challenges in staffing the Homework Center. David, the principal of Driscoll School, discussed the excitement surrounding the school’s transition to a new building and the resumption of school-wide events. He highlighted community-building initiatives, such as an International Night celebrating diverse cultures, and the Driscoll Dragonian newspaper engaging middle schoolers in community writing.

David also addressed budgetary impacts, reflecting on funding for professional development aimed at consistent classroom practices across subjects. A proposal was made for the district to cover the costs of essential organizational materials for middle school students, amounting to approximately $88,500. The emphasis on fostering social and emotional wellness among students, with support from a clinical team, was also a key point.

The meeting included discussions about the middle school schedule and the potential introduction of an advisory program for grades seven and eight. There was emphasis on the value of organizational systems, with insights from Carolyn, reflecting on her experience at Baker School. Kiran Patel, Vice Principal at Hayes, shared positive developments, including a strict cell phone policy that reduced usage during school hours and the establishment of a group aimed at engaging marginalized families.

Vanessa, principal of Lawrence School, discussed the introduction of a Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) structure and a pilot residency program with the Office of Educational Equity. She outlined goals centered on improving literacy and math achievement, as well as fostering a safe, inclusive school environment through social-emotional learning programs.

The meeting also addressed the Brookline Early Education Program (BEEP), with discussions on the implementation of a school day schedule and budgetary implications for the 2025-2026 school year. The principal of BEEP highlighted community engagement as a key component, with programs like Saturday sessions and weekly playgroups supporting developmental parenting.

Further discussions involved the acceptance of two gifts for the Brookline High School Outstanding Speaker Series and the Extended Day program, as well as the approval of grant applications aimed at enhancing curriculum development for English learners and supporting historically marginalized populations.