Among notable topics was the update on various technology projects throughout the district. The technology director presented a thorough report on the achievements of the technology department, including the activation of panic buttons, infrastructure upgrades, and security measures such as the installation of vestibules and a districtwide two-way radio system. Notably, a technology assessment conducted by an external group resulted in high scores for the district across various focus areas, with recommendations for continuous improvement. Projects such as Chromebook deployments, high school teacher device refreshes, and the Hamington Elementary library renovation were also discussed.

The meeting further explored the implementation of a new tool called Pocket Talk for ELL teachers, completion of wiring closet upgrades, and ongoing updates to the wireless system. The technology department’s efforts in professional development for staff were acknowledged, and the committee reviewed the progress made on service requests, ticket closures, and firmware upgrades on network switches.

The committee also considered the registration process for summer programs. Discussions revolved around the efficiency of new software, capacity limitations, and the involvement of high school and college students in staffing these programs. The popularity and expansion of programs like Lions Pride, Summer Fest, and Summer Quest were recognized, with potential enrollment challenges prompting a suggestion of a lottery system to ensure fairness.

In line to the technology discourse, the committee debated the integration of technology in teaching, advocating for a more collaborative and project-based approach. The development of a long-range tech plan, an updated acceptable use policy, and the implementation of data analytics were key points. The committee tackled the details of the empowered digital use policy for students and staff, focusing on specifying unacceptable content and the consequences for K-4 students. A tiered Chromebook repair fee schedule was discussed, with its possible effect on student behavior under consideration. Furthermore, the potential repurposing or redistribution of returned Chromebooks within the district was confirmed.

Digital equity was a recurring theme, as the committee discussed repurposing school devices for community use and addressed the challenges of implementing an Esports program. Commitment to growing the Esports program was expressed despite the hurdles faced. The empowered digital use policy was reviewed and updated, with changes to be incorporated into the student and staff handbooks. Questions arose regarding the use of personal devices and connectivity to the school network. The committee’s goals and progress were reviewed, emphasizing the importance of tracking accomplishments in relation to established targets.

The committee looked at new goal setting processes, aligning them with the district’s strategic plan and evaluating outcomes. The superintendent’s goals for 2023-2024 were discussed, along with the timeline for his evaluation. A motion to accept the school committee’s professional goals and the superintendent’s goals was put forth. The discussion also included a recommendation for a budget transfer as the fiscal year concluded, addressing the need for consistency in the evaluation process and the impact of new committee members on these processes.

Additionally, the committee discussed the payment for the turf fields at McCarthy Middle School and the high school. A proposal to transfer the expense from the revolving fund to the local budget was made, which would increase the funds available in the revolving fund for future turf revenue. Budget transfers for employee separation costs were also discussed, along with the need to budget for future replacement of the turf fields.

The Personnel report for May was reviewed, noting new hires, resignations, and an assignment change. The committee touched on the use of i-Ready scores at Harrington to improve reading comprehension and the updates from PTO meetings at McCarthy and Parker schools focusing on hiring and engagement in board leadership roles. Lastly, the upcoming 4th of July parade and plans for the next meeting in July were briefly mentioned.