A major agenda item revolved around enhancing student safety across the district. The superintendent outlined possible measures, including increased police presence, improved camera technology, and additional fencing around school premises. The emphasis was on ensuring the safety of students and staff, with plans for focus groups to further discuss the role of School Resource Officers (SROs) in elementary schools and the potential for comprehensive fencing solutions. The committee acknowledged the community’s concerns as reflected in numerous emails from parents.

Discussions then transitioned to the issue of grade reconfiguration within the school district, driven by a significant decline in student enrollment over the past decade. The committee deliberated a proposal to reconfigure the Lawrence School to accommodate grades five through seven by 2032, with eighth graders potentially moving to the high school by 2030. This plan aims to address the challenges posed by decreasing student numbers, which have dropped nearly 20% since the 2014-2015 school year. The Lawrence School’s enrollment figures mirrored this trend, decreasing from 576 to 474 students in recent years.

The proposed changes aim to reduce the number of transitions students experience, thereby fostering a more stable educational environment. Committee members discussed the importance of minimizing grade transitions to enhance student learning and social stability, drawing comparisons to other schools in the Old Colony region where similar configurations have proven effective. By consolidating grades and creating a more streamlined educational journey, the committee hopes to improve continuity and strengthen the support system for students.

The meeting also addressed the potential advantages of integrating eighth graders into the high school. This move could provide students with access to advanced courses and expanded elective opportunities, fostering a more enriched educational experience. Concerns about safety and logistical issues, such as transportation and scheduling, were acknowledged, with assurances that these would be carefully managed to ensure a smooth transition. The committee emphasized the importance of maintaining strong educator-student relationships to support both academic and personal growth during this transition.

Community feedback played a role in the committee’s deliberations. Participants underscored the need for further data collection and community engagement to ensure that any decisions made reflect the community’s needs and aspirations.

In addition to grade reconfiguration, the meeting explored the implications of the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) grant. Members discussed the necessity of renovating school facilities, particularly the Lawrence building, to meet future needs. Concerns were expressed about the fiscal responsibility of maintaining seven operational buildings amid declining enrollment, with suggestions to reduce this number to six. The potential release of Morse Pond School back to the town was debated, with some advocating for its retention until more comprehensive data is available.