Methuen School Committee Faces Challenges Over Policy Revisions and Potential Privatization

Overview: The Methuen School Committee meeting featured discussions on policy revisions and the potential privatization of custodial services, highlighting concerns among committee members about transparency, timing, and staff implications. Members debated the urgency of finalizing numerous policy sections before the new committee members took their seats, while also grappling with financial pressures that could lead to outsourcing custodial roles.

Methuen School Committee Faces Concerns Over Competency Policy and English Learner Misclassification

Overview: During the Methuen School Committee meeting on November 20, 2025, public comments and committee discussions highlighted concerns over the competency determination policy and the misclassification of English learners (EL). The meeting delved into the ramifications of these issues on student graduation requirements and academic expectations. Concerns were raised regarding the accuracy of student placement in EL programs and the potential impact of new graduation policies on instructional standards.

Methuen School Committee Embraces RFP Process for Superintendent Search Amid Budget Concerns

Overview: The Methuen School Committee convened on November 19, 2025, to strategically plan for the recruitment of a new superintendent, focusing heavily on the Request for Proposals (RFP) process. The committee aimed to balance the need for a comprehensive search with responsible budget management, amid concerns about timing and costs.

Methuen School Committee Prioritizes New Safety and Transportation Policies Amid MASC Recommendations

Overview: The Methuen School Committee recently delved into numerous policy amendments, with a focus on safety and transportation policies, largely driven by recommendations from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC). The committee’s discussions centered on the adoption and removal of various policies to better align with current practices and legal standards, particularly emphasizing the importance of safety measures and transportation protocols for students.

Methuen School Committee Tackles Superintendent Search Amid Enrollment and Staffing Challenges

Overview: The Methuen School Committee meeting on November 10, 2025, focused heavily on the need to initiate a search for a new superintendent, a task complicated by ongoing enrollment declines and staffing shortages, particularly in special education. The committee also grappled with financial uncertainties, including potential changes to special education funding and Title I allocations, and discussed the impact of local housing developments on school capacity.