Sanford City Commission Deliberates Waste Pro Rate Increase Amid Contract Negotiations

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Sanford City Commission focused on Waste Pro’s request for a rate increase, driven by contractual negotiations and inflationary pressures. Waste Pro’s representative, Tim Dolan, proposed an increase to address a 6.13% shortfall, citing the economic climate and comparing rates with nearby municipalities. The commission also discussed local funding for Sanford Main Street, emphasizing the need for continued financial support, and reviewed the proposal of a poet laureate program to enhance community engagement through the arts.

Greater New Bedford Regional Technical School Committee Discusses Key Policy Updates and Student Performance Concerns

Overview: The Greater New Bedford Regional Technical School Committee meeting on November 10, 2025, focused on several topics, including a policy change to the SMEC capital reserve account, student performance metrics, and ongoing educational initiatives. The committee unanimously voted to update the SMEC capital reserve account policy, raising the fund limit to $2 million to allow for future funding opportunities without additional requests from member districts. The meeting also addressed student performance concerns, particularly a drop in the Student Growth Percentile (SGP) and the implications of the state’s accountability measures.

St. Francis Area School Board Discusses Work-Based Learning Program and Literacy Initiatives

Overview: The recent St. Francis Area School Board meeting focused on several topics, including the introduction of a work-based learning program aimed at providing students with essential workforce skills and updates on literacy initiatives across the district. The board also welcomed new elementary school principals and addressed student wellness programs, vaccination rates, and staffing challenges.

Moorhead School Board Certifies Election Results and Discusses Education Initiatives

Overview: In a meeting of the Moorhead Area School Board, the members certified the results of a recent special election and discussed comprehensive community education programs. The board also addressed enrollment figures and future educational strategies.

Acushnet Faces Critical Decision on $288 Million High School Project Amid Financial Concerns

Overview: The Acushnet Board of Selectmen, in conjunction with the finance committee, convened to address an upcoming vote on November 18th regarding the future of the Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School. The session focused on financial implications, educational needs, and community impact, as the town deliberated over a proposed $288.7 million project to construct a new high school to replace the aging facility opened in 1975. The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) has committed to reimbursing approximately $129 million, covering around 60.5% of eligible costs, should the project proceed. However, failure to secure approval could result in Acushnet shouldering the entire burden of maintaining the current, inadequate building, estimated at over $134 million without state assistance.