The recent meeting of the Hamilton-Wenham Regional School Committee was marked by decisive actions on contracts and collaborative discussions on policy updates. Additionally, the committee’s approval of the PEC agreement lays the groundwork for a three-year plan to adjust insurance premium splits.

The committee engaged in a review of the Hamilton-Wenham High School student and family handbook, where proposed updates were a focal point. The inclusion of guidelines regarding the use and misuse of artificial intelligence within the school environment was a notable topic.

A member of the committee suggested leveraging a local resource for further information on the implications of artificial intelligence in schools.

The discussion on the handbook also touched upon the presence of a statement about free and reduced lunch applications. With lunch currently being free, the committee questioned the statement’s relevance, yet acknowledged the importance of such applications for accessing other services. The broader implications for families, potentially unaware of these additional benefits, were considered.

Further examination of the handbook involved grading guidelines and the anticipation of pending Title IX changes. Concerns were raised about the need for a consistent district-wide policy on grading, and while no immediate action was taken on Title IX, the committee recognized the importance of aligning policies with upcoming revisions to federal regulations.

During the meeting, the superintendent’s evaluation was another significant item. Although the participants in the discussion were not identified, it was mentioned that the evaluation included typos and adjustments to performance goals. The evaluation’s approval, with a proposed change in the communication plan language, was indicative of the committee’s collaborative relationship with the superintendent, who expressed gratitude for the feedback and intentions to use it to develop future goals.

The committee also discussed the custodial contract, which saw a split in salary changes and separate considerations for maintenance technicians. The cafeteria workers’ contract was not ratified, and thus it was decided to address it in the subsequent meeting.

In terms of financial matters, the committee voted to approve the PEC agreement, which involved the negotiation of insurance premiums and splits. The agreement is part of a multi-year strategy to achieve a more balanced split of insurance costs between the school district and its employees. The committee members expressed their appreciation for the efforts invested in the negotiations.

The meeting concluded with the committee addressing outstanding minutes, acknowledging retirees for their service, and planning for future discussions to be held during the Summer Retreat. The next meeting was announced, and the committee adjourned into executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategies.