The centerpiece of the meeting was the announcement regarding the next steps in the MSBA process. The collaboration between the school committee and the select board was highlighted, emphasizing community engagement as a key component. Members expressed optimism but acknowledged the practical challenges ahead, with tasks due within a tight 30-day window. This urgency highlighted the need for efficient communication and planning, as the project will unfold over several years, demanding sustained commitment and effort from all stakeholders.

The committee also discussed the communication strategy for this development, agreeing that a collaborative memo involving all relevant parties would be released following a select board meeting on December 22. The debate centered on whether to include a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section, with some members cautioning that doing so prematurely could cause confusion. Instead, the FAQ would be developed more thoroughly after the meeting, allowing for informed responses to community questions. Suggestions included creating an ongoing FAQ and a dedicated website for the building project to keep the public informed.

The conversation about differentiated mathematics pathways for middle school students was another focal point, with proposals for various levels of instruction starting in seventh grade. The plan aimed to ensure equity and access to appropriate learning levels without imposing financial burdens on families. Concerns were raised about the possibility of requiring summer courses for advancement, urging the committee to find ways to support students equitably. The proposed pathways would allow fluid transitions between levels, aligning with guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Budget discussions also took center stage, particularly concerning rising costs in electricity and heating, which required adjustments to the budget lines. A proposed 10% increase in the electricity budget reflected broader trends impacting the town. The total school budget was projected to increase by 5.05%, driven by rising legal fees and transportation costs. The committee examined multi-year trends to identify potential budget reductions and ensure compliance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), focusing on accessibility and staff training.

Technology upgrades were discussed, including the transition to Wi-Fi 7 and the need for new network switches at the high school. The projected cost for these upgrades was approximately $150,000, with 40% expected to be covered by federal funding. Discussions also touched on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the school system. A steering committee was formed to address AI’s evolving role in education, with considerations for privacy, security, and potential environmental impacts.

The school calendar was another topic of interest, with proposals to adjust the start and end dates for the 2026-2027 school year. The committee aimed to address concerns about holiday scheduling and professional development days. The impact of scheduling on families, particularly regarding child care, was a significant consideration, prompting discussions about aligning professional development days with election days to optimize resources.