The meeting began with a discussion on the challenges faced by PTOs in engaging parents and faculty. A representative from the Morton Middle School PTO emphasized the need for better synergy between parents, faculty, and school administration. The PTO has planned over 20 events for the school year, including spirit wear campaigns and book fairs. The representative highlighted the role of PTOs in recognizing faculty efforts and supporting student groups, ensuring timely deposits for field trips, and fostering community pride through events like open houses.

Concerns about faculty participation were raised, noting that many staff members attend PTO meetings only out of obligation. High staff turnover, with 33 resignations at Morton School since September 2022, was cited as a major barrier to consistent community engagement. The need for effective communication from school leadership, particularly principals, was emphasized as crucial for promoting PTO events and ensuring parental involvement.

The committee also discussed the role of technology in communication, with the ParentSquare app being identified as a critical tool for outreach. While the app has improved communication, concerns were voiced about some parents missing important information due to not being connected. Suggestions were made for training sessions to better equip parents and PTO members with the app’s functionalities.

Additionally, the committee addressed logistical challenges faced by PTOs, such as maintaining proper tax status and managing communication with the district. A representative from the Lerno PTO shared past difficulties with mismanagement that led to significant expenses and emphasized the importance of sharing ideas and experiences among PTOs to avoid similar issues. The representative also highlighted the need for clear and honest communication from the district, particularly regarding issues like mold in schools, which had previously been mishandled.

Community initiatives were a focus of the meeting, with the Four Youth Initiative providing funding for increased student opportunities. Partnerships with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club and Gnome Surf were highlighted, offering full-day enrichment programs and unique experiences for students, particularly neurodiverse populations. Mental health services, supported by a grant, facilitated the inclusion of extracurricular activities during the school day, addressing accessibility concerns.

The committee also discussed the importance of caregiver outreach, with the Parent Engagement Center (PACE) being identified as a crucial hub for activities. Successful events like “Chunk or Treat” and educational collaborations with the district attorney’s office were noted. The Family Academy, a monthly initiative, engages families in discussions and provides resources, with sessions live-streamed and translated in multiple languages to ensure accessibility.

Efforts to support English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for families were discussed, with an increased demand leading to the offer of multiple sessions. The success of these classes, celebrated with graduation ceremonies, highlighted the importance of creating a community among participants. The committee expressed pride in their ability to respond effectively to the diverse needs of families and students.

The meeting also addressed the need for an advisory committee to enhance citizen input in school committee discussions. A proposal was made to refer this matter to the full committee, alongside a suggestion to amend the city charter regarding public comments at special meetings. Concerns were raised about the existing charter limiting public comments to agenda items only, which had previously caused issues during a meeting about mold. The committee agreed to take a formal stance to expand citizen input opportunities.