The impending retirement of Dr. Cavanaugh at the end of the school year prompted the School Committee to prioritize the search for a new superintendent, a task noted as one of their primary responsibilities. The Committee plans to expedite the search process, having previously taken over three months during the last superintendent hire in 2017. They are considering hiring a consultant to assist with the search, leveraging expertise in educational executive searches. The formation of a diverse screening committee, potentially including teachers, principals, and community representatives, was discussed to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of candidates. Community engagement will be integral to the process, with plans for surveys and focus groups to gather input from various stakeholders. Previous searches cost around $9,000, but the Committee acknowledged that current costs might vary.

Budget discussions were extensive, covering several critical areas, with the technology budget receiving attention. A notable increase of 68.3% was detailed for tech infrastructure, driven by an emphasis on enhanced network security measures. The primary expenditure involved the software Sophos, essential for endpoint protection, due to the growing number of devices on the network. The Committee also addressed a decrease in audiovisual spending and an increase in instructional technology funding, which included new iPads for the Marathon building and staff laptops at the high school. Questions arose about evaluating alternative security software, with clarification that competitive pricing was achieved through a tech consortium.

Transportation logistics were another priority, particularly concerning student bus routes and capacity issues. The Committee acknowledged challenges with overcrowded buses and extended ride durations. Efforts are underway to optimize routes and accommodate the anticipated opening of the new Charleswood school. The district utilizes software to manage bus routes efficiently. Changes in bus routes, prompted by the addition of new buses, have improved capacity, although some routes still exceed recommended student limits.

The budget for buildings and grounds also saw a proposed 7% increase, reflecting various maintenance needs across the district. Specific projects included replacing broken green plastic boxes in parking areas to prevent injuries and addressing maintenance requirements at the middle school due to water damage. The Committee discussed strategies for managing extraordinary maintenance costs, particularly for buildings with uncertain futures. Additionally, the need for a new dishwasher for the 18 to 22-year-old program was highlighted, emphasizing its role in teaching life skills.

Special education funding continued to be a topic, with a proposed transportation budget increase of $242,000. This rise is attributed to the need for additional nursing services on vans and an increasing number of students requiring monitors during transit. The Committee recognized the growing number of students on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and discussed strategies for optimizing resource allocation across schools.

Curriculum development and instructional needs were addressed with a proposed budget increase, focused on transitioning to electronic textbooks and enhancing translation services. The Committee emphasized the importance of inclusivity, exploring AI-driven software for potential cost reductions in translation services.

Lastly, the school calendar was a subject of debate, particularly regarding the inclusion of certain holidays. A member highlighted the need for clarity on which holidays should be recognized, referencing a previous community survey that provided insights into local preferences. The Committee considered conducting another survey to gauge current community sentiment, acknowledging the complexities involved in balancing educational needs with community values.