A detailed report from the superintendent brought to light significant mental health concerns among students, based on data from the Metro West adolescent health survey conducted in the fall of 2023. The survey revealed that 12% of middle school students and 16% of high school students experienced depressive symptoms, while 9% of students in both groups reported having serious suicidal thoughts. The report highlighted that middle school girls and LGBTQ youth were particularly vulnerable, with these groups showing notably higher risks of depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts compared to their peers. The superintendent emphasized that these findings would inform the school’s improvement plans.

The superintendent also discussed the impact of digital media usage on students, noting that a significant percentage of both middle and high school students used smartphones for more than three hours a day. This usage reportedly affected their attention, sleep, and school performance. On a more positive note, the survey showed a decline in alcohol and nicotine use among students compared to previous years.

In parallel, the committee addressed the ongoing Hopkins project, where a newly discovered stream on the property has necessitated additional work with the Conservation Commission, delaying the bidding process by approximately two weeks. This delay accompanies a review of playground renderings, including plans for an adaptive playground to improve accessibility for students with different needs.

The budget discussions for the Hopkins project revealed a focus on technology expenditures, with a proposal for technology purchases that benefited from the state’s procurement program, reducing costs from an estimated $58,000 to $35,325.60. The committee approved additional technology items totaling $150,999, which included projectors and phone installations.

The committee also tackled the impending construction and operational impacts associated with the Hopkins School addition, scheduled to open in February 2026. A significant challenge arose due to the closure of the current gym and cafeteria, leaving no kitchen facilities available during a five-month transition period. The committee examined various logistical solutions, ultimately proposing the setup of a temporary kitchen trailer at an estimated cost of $380,000. The committee unanimously approved a $130,000 budget for the trailer, emphasizing the urgency of securing the lease and equipment to meet student meal preparation needs.

Additionally, discussions covered the repair of a loop road in use for over 30 years, with plans for full-depth paving as part of a ten-year capital plan. The estimated design cost for this project is $150,000, with total anticipated expenditures around $1.45 million, contingent on environmental permitting due to the proximity to wetlands.

The committee also reviewed and approved the school physician contract for the 2025-2026 school year, which included a 3% increase over the previous year. In labor matters, the committee ratified a successfully negotiated cafeteria workers’ contract and discussed ongoing nurse negotiations, which were postponed due to absent members.

In other matters, the committee discussed the superintendent evaluation process in light of Dr. Carol Cavanaugh’s upcoming retirement. A motion was made to submit a simple statement of proficiency to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education instead of conducting a full evaluation.

Lastly, the committee approved a new scholarship established by the Brophy family and accepted a donation from the Hopkinton Music Association for musical instruments, reflecting ongoing community support and involvement.

The meeting concluded with policy readings on field trips and financial assistance, clarifying that expenses for overseas trips would not be covered by the school budget. With unanimous approvals, the committee moved forward on these policies.