The committee approved the launch of a new attendance notification system, which will primarily utilize text messages to alert parents about their child’s attendance status, with phone calls as a backup for those unable to receive texts. The committee emphasized flexibility, allowing parents to opt in or out of specific notification methods according to their preferences. The system will pull attendance data based on active marks of tardy or absent. This change aims to enhance communication between schools and families, improving overall attendance management.

Another topic was the discussion surrounding the district’s cell phone policy. The committee debated the necessity of maintaining autonomy in crafting policies tailored to the needs of the Malden school community. Currently, students in grades K through 8 are required to submit their cell phones at the start of the day, while high school students may keep their phones, provided they remain out of sight. The committee acknowledged the importance of balancing technology’s educational benefits with the need for disciplined use, with one member highlighting a case where a student used a phone to enhance language acquisition and social integration.

The meeting also covered student enrollment trends, revealing a decrease of 175 students compared to the previous year. This reduction was attributed to various factors, including the timing of Labor Day and a preliminary election, which affected the school schedule. Despite the decline, over 150 new students are in the process of registering, illustrating a dynamic situation. The district is following up with families to understand enrollment changes and ensure all students are counted for crucial funding purposes.

Staffing updates were presented, focusing on the successful recruitment efforts that filled many classroom positions, especially in special education and ESL classes. The district’s early recruitment strategy involved posting positions in March, aligning with peak hiring periods. Although a few vacancies remain, the committee expressed satisfaction with the current staffing levels and acknowledged the contributions of the assistant superintendent and other staff members in achieving these results.

Furthermore, the committee discussed the need for ongoing community engagement and support for educational initiatives. The Superintendent outlined plans for professional development sessions, with 46 different offerings designed to equip teachers with effective instructional strategies. These efforts aim to foster a collaborative and inclusive environment, aligning with the district’s core values and the school year’s theme, “strong alone, stronger together.”

The meeting briefly touched on other agenda items, such as the acceptance of a $6,000 donation from a local wind development company for prom expenses and resolutions supporting Senate Bill 2581, which regulates cell phone usage in schools. The committee expressed its stance that while policies addressing cell phone use are necessary, local districts should maintain the autonomy to determine the specifics.

In terms of district-wide communications, the ParentSquare platform received positive feedback for its ease of use, with a commitment to increasing caregiver registration. The committee is working to ensure communications are accessible in caregivers’ preferred languages.

Concluding the session, the committee approved a contract with SEIU Local 888 for custodians and a 3% salary increase for non-union personnel, effective July 1, 2025.