The meeting began with a discussion of the FY 26 budget, presented by Superintendent Jill Davis and the Business Administrator. The proposed budget, totaling $58,862, could not be finalized due to the pending certification of excess and deficiency funds by the Department of Revenue. This budget anticipates a $646,000 increase in Chapter 70 funding, a crucial source of state funding for public education. Superintendent Davis emphasized priorities such as curriculum enhancement, maintaining class size, and investing in educational technology and professional development for educators.

A point of discussion was the reduction in transportation costs, which led to a $770,000 budget decrease, reflecting strategic reallocation of funds. The committee also considered the introduction of a stipend for a cluster chair in response to departmental reorganization and the expansion of duties within the construction and transportation cluster. Additionally, with increased participation in athletics, the committee proposed adding coaching positions for flag football, totaling $16,100.

The committee’s deliberations also covered the utilization of excess and deficiency funds. Due to the lack of certification, the recommendation to use $425,000 from these funds was postponed, pending resolution at the next meeting. This sum would have been allocated towards expenses such as a capital project for a career center and vehicle purchases aimed at reducing transportation costs for student work sites.

In a shift from fiscal matters, the committee reviewed changes to the Title IX policy, prompted by a federal judge’s ruling that necessitated a reversion to 2020 standards. This update required clarifications on definitions and supportive measures, with new provisions addressing issues like pregnancy. These revisions ensure the school remains compliant with current federal guidelines.

The committee also addressed the significant change in graduation requirements due to the elimination of the MCAS as a requirement. The interim guidance now stipulates that students must pass specific courses, including English, math, and a science subject, for graduation eligibility. This change impacts the class of 2025 and beyond, potentially benefiting 99 former students who had not graduated due to failing MCAS. The administration is reaching out to these individuals to inform them of their new eligibility for diploma attainment.

Furthermore, a proposal was discussed for five members of the school leadership team to attend a professional development conference in California, which would cost approximately $11,883. This opportunity aims to enhance team-building and support for non-English-speaking students, building on the school’s recent successes in increasing attendance and improving test scores.

The meeting also celebrated student achievements, with updates from the student representative on various activities and accolades. Notably, 52 students qualified for the state leadership and skills conference, and athletic teams had strong seasons, with boys’ and girls’ basketball teams advancing to state tournaments. The competitive dance team and individual wrestling achievements were also highlighted.