The committee focused on the superintendent search process. A brochure was discussed as a key tool in attracting potential candidates, with a particular emphasis on the requirement for a minimum of ten years in education, including teaching and administrative experience. Some committee members debated the necessity of classroom experience, considering the potential benefits of candidates with diverse backgrounds. A consensus emerged to weigh classroom experience during candidate evaluations.

To streamline the search process and ensure transparency, the committee considered engaging the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC). MASC’s involvement would help manage applications and mitigate any conflict of interest concerns, especially given the presence of an interim superintendent. The brochure’s design was praised, though minor adjustments were suggested. The committee aimed to finalize the details before the next meeting, with a tentative posting deadline set for April 18 and the actual job opening going live on April 22.

Another issue was the non-functional generator at the Junior Senior High School. A recent incident during a basketball game underscored the urgency of replacing the generator, which had been inoperative for over a year. The generator, a military surplus from 1967, is important for maintaining power during emergencies as the school also serves as the town’s emergency shelter. The committee submitted a capital request for the upcoming May town meeting to secure funds for a new generator, acknowledging the high school’s vulnerability without a backup power source.

The committee also addressed financial concerns related to special education transportation. A miscalculation by a former director led to an estimated $330,000 shortfall. Potential solutions included using anticipated savings from regular education transportation and additional circuit breaker funding. Despite these strategies, accurately forecasting transportation needs remains challenging.

In terms of calendar updates, feedback from stakeholders, including the Union, influenced the discussion. Two versions of the school calendar were presented, with a preference for a Wednesday start reflecting the majority of feedback. However, there was divergence concerning days off before Thanksgiving and Good Friday. The committee agreed to create a third version of the calendar to incorporate community feedback, with a vote scheduled for the next meeting.

The student representative provided an update on various school activities. The John and Abigail Adams Scholarship announcement was scheduled, accompanied by a celebratory breakfast. The Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program remained popular, and the Student Advisory Council reconvened to plan advisory lessons. Upcoming events included a casino-themed night, with assurances that no actual gambling would occur, and a presentation titled “Project Selfie” focusing on online safety for grades 9 and 10.

Additionally, the committee reorganized its subcommittees due to a member’s departure and a new member’s addition. The new member expressed interest in the Policy and Evaluation subcommittees, while discussions on the Collaborative for Educational Services (CES) were postponed to allow her to assess her availability.

The meeting concluded with an agenda outline for the next session, anticipating a vote on the school calendar and discussions on policy and budget subcommittees. A motion to enter into an executive session for collective bargaining strategies was made.