The meeting opened with a focus on the district’s financial planning, as the committee reviewed and adopted the FY 2025 budget. The budget reflects a considerable reduction from initial proposals, achieved through staffing adjustments and curricular expenditure cuts. The necessity to maintain a balanced budget was a central theme, with discussions on the composition and allocation of revenue sources. The budget planning also included the process for calculating town assessments, incorporating state aid, local receipts, and debt assessments. The aim was to apply the 5-year average enrollment figures to determine final assessments for the towns of Dennis and Yarmouth. The committee voted to adopt the budget, which contained a transfer from the Excess and Deficiency (E&D) funds towards the operating budget, along with the assessments for both towns.

Following the adoption of the budget, there was positive feedback from the town select boards about the budget presentations. The building committee reported that discussions would continue regarding fields and select board meetings, with an emphasis on the upcoming elections.

The Superintendent provided updates on the generous donations received for the preschool program and Ezra Baker School, as well as positive feedback from recent town meetings. A consent agenda was also approved, which included the authorization of donations and a surplus property memo.

A public comment raised concerns about cuts to interventionists and emphasized the need for public support at town meetings. The meeting concluded with routine discussions on vendor payments.

Earlier in the session, the committee celebrated the achievements of Rosanna Washon, who was awarded the Superintendent’s Award for Academic Excellence. Washon, who ranks third in her class and has been accepted to Yale University, was recognized for her high GPA and extensive involvement in extracurricular activities and community service. Her contributions included volunteer work such as crocheting and donating items to raise funds for charitable causes, along with teaching Haitian students via Skype. Washon’s dedication also extended to her participation in the school’s track team and leadership roles in various student organizations.

Additionally, a student representative provided a report on school affairs, highlighting upcoming events such as spring sports, a National Honor Society blood drive, a trip to Japan, and a language National Honor Society induction. The report also mentioned various fundraising initiatives and celebrated a senior student’s accomplishment at the regional science fair. The school community was gearing up for celebrations like Pi Day and preparing for the eighth-grade dance.