A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing concerns about the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) and the proposal to eliminate its status as a graduation requirement. Committee members expressed their support for a “yes” vote on ballot question two, which seeks to remove this requirement. Concerns were raised about the potential negative impact of the MCAS on students, particularly those in minority or disadvantaged groups. A member emphasized the need for careful legislative consideration, stating, “It’s your job to pay attention and fix… first do no harm.”

Linda Marquee, expressing her professional experience in aiding students to pass the MCAS, criticized the test’s structure, stating, “the very idea that we educate our students… and then expect them to pass a test that many is set up for many of them to fail is very disturbing to me.” This sentiment was echoed by the mayor, who suggested exploring alternative assessment methods that could offer a more holistic view of student capabilities.

Concerns about the ST Math program’s scheduling and its effect on students’ creative learning were also prominently discussed. Sixth-grade students, supported by parents and community members, voiced their dissatisfaction with the program’s timing during special classes like music and art. Leo Cohen, a sixth grader, presented a petition with 170 signatures, urging for the program to be moved to an alternative time slot such as the Wind Block. Students argued that the current scheduling of ST Math detracts from their creative and physical education time, with one remarking, “I haven’t met a single kid who’s been at all interested in it.”

The meeting also focused on a superintendent search update. A committee was being formed with representatives from various educational levels and community members to ensure a diverse selection process. The committee approved a slate of candidates, including parents Jennifer Cameron, Drea Marx, and Hannah Sullivan, along with a student representative, Walter Baker.

Additionally, the ratification of collective bargaining agreements with the East Hampton Education Association was approved. The three-year contracts, covering teachers and support staff, were passed unanimously, with Eric abstaining due to a potential conflict of interest. There were concerns raised regarding the financial implications of these agreements, with a call for the district to explore external funding sources to safeguard fiscal stability.

Discussions surrounding the MCAS data revealed a downward trend in student performance, particularly in math and English Language Arts (ELA). The need for curricular updates was highlighted, with suggestions to improve writing instruction and align curricula across grades to provide a cohesive educational experience. The superintendent acknowledged these challenges, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning to address disparities in student achievement.

The committee also reviewed the impacts of the pandemic on learning, noting that the seventh-grade cohort had been particularly affected. The need for consistent instructional strategies and effective teacher collaboration was underscored as vital for student success.

On the logistical front, the committee addressed the introduction of an after-school bus service, available to all middle and high school students without prior registration or fees. This initiative was implemented in response to student feedback and aims to facilitate participation in after-school programs.

The meeting encompassed financial discussions, including the end-of-year financial report and the special education tuition rates for Fiscal Year 2026. The finance director emphasized the unpredictability of costs and the necessity of maintaining a dedicated fund for unforeseen expenses.

As the meeting concluded, members expressed appreciation for the summer food service program, which increased participation compared to the previous year. A suggestion was made to invite the food service director to a future meeting for further updates.