Delving into the details of the school choice program, the committee voted to accept additional students at Chelmsford High School and Parker Middle School. The district, which currently has 37 students in the program, will increase its intake to 40 students. This decision is aligned with the state’s Chapter 70 program, which funds school districts per student. The discussion also touched upon the reciprocal nature of school choice, acknowledging that there are students from the district who participate in school choice elsewhere. However, the exact number of such students was not readily available at the meeting.

The school choice topic is notable not only for its impact on the student body and school funding but also because it reflects the district’s efforts to embrace educational diversity and choice. It is indicative of a broader strategy to adapt to changing educational needs and preferences within the community.

The trip to Quebec City for McCarthy Middle School students studying French is scheduled from May 19th to 24th, 2024. Chelmsford High School’s theater guild will head to Boston from March 21st to 23rd, 2024, and high school students studying French will visit L’Shel, France, from April 16th to 27th, 2025.

The committee’s discussions on field trips also revealed an enthusiasm for developing opportunities for students learning American Sign Language. The idea of exploring local performances or events related to ASL was floated as a way to provide relevant experiences for these students, though specific plans were not finalized during the meeting.

In addition to these highlights, the meeting covered the implementation of new educational programs and strategies. A significant portion of the discussion centered around the Reveal Math program, which is being implemented in the district. The program is designed to encourage a mathematical mindset, foster meaningful discussions, and integrate social-emotional learning aspects into math education. Educators shared observations of increased student engagement and advanced classroom math dialogue, and they noted the program’s flexibility in allowing teachers to customize lesson orders. There was also acknowledgment of the importance of parental support in adapting to the new curriculum and the professional development provided to teachers.

The Strategic Plan’s presentation was another focal point, with an emphasis on the regular progress monitoring meetings held every six weeks. This plan encompasses the district’s Mission, Vision, Theory of Action, Priorities, and Goals, with particular attention given to academic achievement, social-emotional learning, human capital, and operations and facilities. Updates on measurable goals and initiatives were shared, including the focus on eighth-grade math, the implementation of new curriculum, and support for diverse student populations.

They advocated for a clear understanding of the actions being taken to meet the established goals and for effective communication of progress to all stakeholders.

Furthermore, the committee addressed updates from liaison reports, which included staff appreciation events, after-prom planning, and fundraising activities organized by Parent-Teacher Organizations. There were announcements regarding the Arts and Technology Education Fund applications and an upcoming televised debate. The committee also discussed plans for a public forum on the building, with logistics still in the works.