11:51The newly ratified schedule will introduce a five-period day structure with 64-minute periods and a 41-minute daily support block. Students will enroll in seven classes but will drop two classes daily. This approach aligns with scheduling practices in nearby districts like Ashland and Needham. The committee emphasized that the schedule maintains math and foreign language courses as full-year subjects, altering the previous 77-minute block system to 64-minute periods. The daily support block is intended to provide students with additional help from teachers, addressing concerns about academic support.

22:06The committee’s decision followed a roll call vote, with all present members voting in favor of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the HFT. The town administrator was invited to participate in the voting process but did not attend the meeting. The ratification was promptly communicated to Miss Katona, the president of the HFT. In anticipation of the transition, the committee plans to extend the high school registration period to April 14, providing students with more time to consult with guidance counselors.

26:51A draft communication was prepared and reviewed, with minor edits suggested for clarity.

05:44Amid discussions about the new schedule, concerns were raised by community members about the current state of the math curriculum in Holliston Public Schools. One public comment highlighted a perceived regression in the program and challenges faced by teachers due to inadequate professional development support. The commenter noted a vote by math teachers advocating for reinstating levels in seventh and eighth-grade math, which was reportedly dismissed by the administration.

There were specific concerns about proposed changes to the curriculum, particularly the removal of geometry standards from the algebra curriculum. The commenter criticized the decision to replace traditional instruction with math tutors, describing it as ineffective. The individual urged the committee to engage more with students and teachers to gather feedback, emphasizing that students found the proposed methods unappealing.

Additionally, questions were raised about the hiring of new math tutors without a clear integration plan. The need for a comprehensive strategy was stressed, highlighting the urgency for the administration to listen to educators and involve them in reform efforts.

09:55In response to these concerns, a member of the central office praised the recent Community Bridges event, which connects students with special abilities to local businesses for internships. The event was noted as a success, with encouragement for local businesses to open opportunities for neurodivergent students.