The approval of the CEP program emerged as a key decision from the meeting. Food Service Director Naen Lenen detailed the program’s framework, explaining the eligibility percentage rate and the distinction from Universal meals. Committee members deliberated the program’s financial implications, administrative requirements, and its effects on families. Despite concerns, the benefits, such as providing free meals to students in high-poverty areas, were deemed significant, leading to the approval for Turkey Hill.

Concussion management in student athletes was another significant topic, with Dr. Ridley, a sports and exercise medicine provider from UMass, and the district’s athletic director and athletic trainer present to discuss protocols and care. Dr. Ridley stressed the importance of conservative measures in assessing concussions, the challenges of follow-up care, and the need to incorporate mental health support in response to concerns about suicidal ideation in athletes. The importance of communication among coaches, trainers, and athletes, as well as the involvement of sports medicine practitioners in clearing athletes to return to play, was emphasized. The MIAA’s ongoing work to update concussion protocols was also mentioned.

Staffing issues were a persistent theme throughout the meeting. The superintendent reported on the high number of separations, attributing them to retirements, non-renewals, and budget cuts. Concerns were raised about the turnover at the primary school and the need to fill nurse and social worker positions. The superintendent also acknowledged challenges with custodial staff vacancies.

Financial discussions included the FY24 budget carryover, with Dr. Burnham and Dr. Livingston explaining the process of maintaining open purchase orders to facilitate current fiscal year bill payments. The need for improved efficiency in procedures between the school department and the town was mentioned, with a suggestion to hold a workshop to streamline financial practices.

The evaluation of inclusion support programs was highlighted. The shortage of substitute teachers was identified as a widespread challenge, prompting the committee to recognize the need for continued problem-solving efforts.

Additional topics discussed included the fiscal year 2024 quarterly budget, the impact of ESSER funds, the Keystone collaborative’s role in special education, and the district’s personnel report. A community member’s public comment raised concerns about the finance director, school bus hiring policies, and the status of individuals providing financial services to the district, which were addressed by the committee.

Other items on the agenda included training for bus drivers, budget allocation for the superintendent’s conference attendance, outsourcing of landscaping services, and the maintenance of school facilities. Concerns about electricity usage, the cleaning of the TCP facility, and library usage by students were also discussed. The committee expressed interest in a workshop on finance and proposed a future discussion on cell phone use by students in schools.