Central to the meeting was the preliminary discussion of the fiscal year 2026 budget. The committee noted a projected 3.67% increase in out-of-district tuition, adding approximately $60,000 to the budget. Special education transportation costs were also earmarked for careful monitoring due to potential increases. School principals submitted new budget requests, including additional teaching positions at both East Meadow and the junior senior high school, as well as new math materials. Facility needs, such as updates to the HVAC system and a five-year fire protection inspection costing around $88,000, were identified. Gym facility repairs at two buildings were also discussed. Despite the absence of public input during the forum, members deliberated on how to enhance community engagement.

Attention then turned to the school calendar proposals for the next academic year. Two options were considered, both similar to the previous year’s schedule. A significant change was the shifting of a professional development day from November to March due to the absence of scheduled elections. The committee debated the timing of a curriculum half-day set for February 11, just before a school break, with concerns about practicality and the potential impact on standardized testing should it be moved to another month. Adjustments were considered, including possibly relocating the half-day to January or May, but the calendar’s existing commitments and testing schedules presented challenges. The need for clear communication was emphasized, with suggestions to revise color coding on the calendar to prevent misunderstandings about school days.

The committee also addressed the superintendent search, reviewing a brochure that included considerations for including a salary range. Discussion centered around whether to specify salary figures, with previous ranges of $120,000 to $135,000 mentioned, though some members preferred leaving it flexible based on experience and qualifications. Assistance from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) was proposed to manage the application process without additional costs.

In other developments, the meeting included updates on school culture and academics. Progress reports for Quarter Two had been distributed, and course descriptions for the next academic year were being finalized. Recent initiatives, such as a successful toy drive and food drive, were highlighted. The committee also discussed creative projects like door decorating contests and a “fast for night” meeting planned for January 30, which was expected to benefit senior parents.

The meeting covered various school community activities, including the Massachusetts Aggression Reduction Center’s assemblies on bullying prevention at East Meadow. The school participated in spirit week, featuring theme days like ugly sweater day and concluding with pajama day before the holiday break. The “Little Shoppers” program allowed students to purchase gifts for their families, with additional activities such as a PBIS pizza lunch and a holiday craft event planned.

The superintendent’s report touched on new state laws affecting the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS), noting that all seniors had passed this year, alleviating immediate concerns. Plans for the kitchen renovation were outlined, with bids expected to be released in January and construction anticipated to start in June. Concerns over rural school aid funding were raised, as the allocation fell short by approximately $30,000 compared to budget expectations. The superintendent committed to addressing this discrepancy with the state education department.