The search for a new superintendent took center stage as Tracy Novik, the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) field director, presented remotely on the superintendent search process. Novik shared community feedback collected through meetings and a survey with nearly 200 responses, which informed the position’s description. The feedback emphasized the need for a candidate possessing vision, empathy, compassion, and kindness while retaining the current superintendent’s open-door policy. There was a desire for fresh perspectives, particularly from candidates outside the district. The community also highlighted strengths such as the quality of the teaching staff and a strong sense of community within schools. However, the need for better special education services and navigating budgetary challenges were identified as areas needing attention.

The qualifications for the superintendent position were a topic of thorough discussion. Novik suggested listing a master’s degree as a requirement while making advanced degrees preferred but not necessary. Experience as a school principal was debated, with some advocating for it as a mandatory qualification and others seeing it as preferable. There was a consensus on including data analysis skills as a qualification, recognizing the need for candidates experienced in building adjustments due to district line shifts and potential new school openings. The salary range, a requirement by Massachusetts law, was debated, with figures from nearby districts serving as reference points. A range between $175,000 and $195,000 was deemed reasonable to prevent discrepancies with neighboring districts.

The composition of the search committee was discussed, with a need to fill two more seats. There was a proposal to include a parent from a different school than Maple Shade Elementary and another community member. The selection process for candidates was suggested to be facilitated through a Google form. The committee underscored the importance of having members from various schools to reflect the district’s diverse perspectives.

The meeting also addressed student attendance issues, highlighting efforts to reduce chronic absenteeism from 27.4% to 18.4% over the past four years, with a target of 5% this year. Strategies such as attendance signage and communication with families have been implemented to tackle family vacations and health-related absences contributing to absenteeism. Moreover, the introduction of social-emotional learning tools in elementary schools was discussed, using the Devereux Student Strengths Assessment (DESA) to identify students needing additional support. The administration emphasized providing tiered support to bolster social skills and ensure consistent behavioral expectations.

In academic discussions, the committee reviewed student growth metrics for the 2025-2026 school year, setting goals for 65% of students to meet typical growth and 35% to achieve stretch growth. However, the fall data suggested ongoing challenges, particularly for students one grade level below expectations. The committee highlighted the importance of early literacy development in grades K-2, using the DIBELS assessment to set a goal of 75% of students being at or above grade level.

Community engagement initiatives were also a focus, with the introduction of programs such as the Friday dance party and “Mix It Up Lunch” to foster a positive school culture. Events like school spirit activities and fundraising for local causes were mentioned, emphasizing the role of extracurricular activities in engaging students. The meeting concluded with updates on construction projects, notably a roof project at Mapleshade School. The discussion wrapped up with a motion to adjourn, following evaluations of the superintendent’s accomplishments and ongoing initiatives.