The superintendent’s update on financial matters provided a detailed overview of the town’s educational budget, highlighting a significant reduction in federal grants totaling approximately $133,000. These grants, including Title 1C, Title 2A, Title 3A, Title 4A, and Title 4B, will no longer be available, prompting discussions about potential budget adjustments and the need for alternative funding. While the governor’s budget saw a $130 million veto, this was less than previous years, with a specific $20 million reduction in charter school reimbursements. Despite this, the chapter 70 funding for the town is projected to increase from $9,621,389 to $9,832,139.

Amidst these financial challenges, the committee considered how the increase in chapter 70 funding might compensate for the lost federal grants. The superintendent clarified that historically, these funds have sometimes been reallocated to the school budget but are generally passed to the town.

The meeting also addressed the transition to a new ELA curriculum for kindergarten through sixth grade, aligning with the science of reading. The rigorous selection process for the new curriculum involved piloting materials with teachers. This shift rendered the existing journey books surplus, and the committee approved a motion to manage these excess materials. The difficulty of reallocating used textbooks was acknowledged, with logistical challenges both locally and internationally.

Further discussion centered on the operating protocols, which guide the committee’s operations, communications, and decision-making processes. Minor edits were reviewed, emphasizing the importance of respect, confidentiality, and open-mindedness in discussions. The protocols were accepted with unanimous support.

One of the issues highlighted during the meeting was the decline in school enrollment over the past three decades. A member proposed convening a special meeting in August to focus exclusively on this issue before the regular agenda items commence in September. The committee acknowledged the need to address the implications of declining enrollment proactively, considering its impact on school resources and planning.

Concerns about the building needs task force and its recommendations were also discussed. A member questioned whether the committee had received a final report from the task force, which had dissolved after presenting its recommendations. The committee recognized its responsibility to implement and make decisions based on these recommendations, highlighting a shared uncertainty about the next steps.

As the meeting drew to a close, an executive session was called to discuss strategies regarding negotiations with various FEA units. This confidential session required a roll call vote, with all members in favor of moving into private discussions.