The meeting then addressed the issue of member attendance, with reference to the town charter’s stipulations regarding the removal of a member due to excessive absences. While it was noted that one member’s attendance record was nearing the threshold that could trigger a vacancy declaration, no names were mentioned, nor was a direct action taken during the meeting. The importance of member commitment was emphasized, with the prospect of revisiting the discussion if the 50% absence mark is reached.

In addition to the school choice deliberation, the superintendent’s performance evaluation was a focal point. The superintendent received an exemplary overall summative performance rating, with the committee expressing appreciation for her professionalism and dedication. Corrections and grammatical fixes were made to the evaluation document based on individual ratings before a motion to accept the evaluation for the 2023-2024 school year was approved.

Another issue discussed was the disproportionality in special education identification, particularly regarding white students with specific learning disabilities (SLD) in reading. The committee examined the federal and state mandates for tracking data and discussed Hopkinton’s alignment with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education requirements. The absence of disproportionality in discipline and placement was noted; however, the town was flagged for disproportionality in SLD identification. A draft plan to address this issue was outlined, including actions like developing a tiered support system and providing professional development. Questions arose concerning the screening process and the interpretation of data, with a focus on improving practices and seeking Department of Education feedback.

The committee also discussed the naming of the Hopkinton High School stage after a retiring drama teacher, ultimately voting to honor her by renaming it the Valerie Von Rosen Vinga stage. Moreover, the committee approved two drama scholarships of $500 each and two Mary Roach scholarships of $75 each, which had been in existence for a long time without formal approval.

Additional topics included the approval of executive session minutes, recognition for outgoing committee members for their service, and updates on the Myap Grant aimed at enhancing post-secondary planning for students from grade 7 to 12. The committee also discussed financial matters such as the special education transportation contract, an increase in adult meal prices, adjustments to Food Service Staffing hours, and a bullying report for the 2023-2024 school year. Furthermore, the committee approved a trip to Spain for high school students in 2025.