A highlight of the meeting was the recognition of the boys and girls cross country teams and their coaches for outstanding performances in the season. The teams achieved titles including CAC champions, state vocational champions, MIAA Division 3A champions, and a historic victory for the girls team at the MIAA Division 3 Allstate Championship—the first in the school’s history. The athletes and coaches introduced themselves and shared their accomplishments, with several students receiving accolades such as being named Lowell Sun All-Stars.

Equally notable was the success of the Model United Nations club, which impressed with their participation at the UMass Lowell Model United Nations Crisis Conference. The students brought home multiple awards, including two best delegate awards, two outstanding delegate awards, and three honorable mentions. Maya, one of the participants, shared her experience reenacting the Treaty of Versailles as Woodrow Wilson, and Jasmine Gonzalez expressed pride in her peers’ achievements. Aiden Simmons, recognized for his role during the Pearl Harbor crisis, earned first place and a custom gavel. Anna Deona, the club president, noted the growth of the club, highlighting its transformation into a robust group with consistent attendance.

Shifting focus from student achievements to educational policy, the committee discussed changes in the competency determination policy following the repeal of the MCCAST as a graduation requirement. The new policy emphasizes coursework completion and end-of-year assessments over standardized testing, aligning with evolving educational standards. For the class of 2026, students must complete courses in English language arts, mathematics, and science technology and engineering. Safety nets, including credit recovery tutoring and potential portfolio submissions, are in place to support students who might struggle with these requirements.

In tandem with these policy updates, the committee discussed the introduction of algebra and geometry into the curriculum. Algebra is now a mandatory subject for ninth graders, a change aimed at improving readiness and success rates in mathematics, with fewer students requiring summer school or credit recovery. The committee is keen on ensuring students graduate with a strong skill set, balanced with the need for accountability in educational outcomes.

The meeting also covered updates to the Practical Nursing Student Handbook, with the Board of Nursing removing the program’s warning status. This approval allows for increased cohort sizes for both day and evening classes. Jen Mashado, the director of practical nursing, updates made to the handbook, which include accommodations and veterans’ access choices.

Among logistical discussions, the committee deliberated on the disposal of an older vehicle, a 2012 bus, now replaced by a new van. Plans were discussed for declaring the vehicle surplus and potentially auctioning it as a work truck. The committee also considered a proposal for staff working arrangements during the holiday break. However, this proposal met with skepticism due to past challenges with remote work policies.

As the meeting drew to a close, the committee agreed to enter an executive session to discuss contract negotiations with non-union personnel. Upon returning to open session, a six-month extension of the superintendent’s contract was approved. The meeting adjourned with well-wishes for the holiday season, concluding a session rich in student achievements and policy advancements.