04:02The meeting commenced with an unexpected presentation from the Marlborough High School robotics team. The committee had initially not planned for any presentations, but the rules were suspended to accommodate this update. The robotics team had recently triumphed at the state championship by winning the skills competition, thus securing their spot at the world championship. The advisor of the robotics club, Kyle Major, alongside Joanne Mahoney, director of robotics at the middle school, shared details of this achievement. expressed excitement about this being the first appearance of the high school team at the world championship, acknowledging the support from Superintendent Mary, who had been instrumental in the program’s development.

07:25Team members Atul and Andy Zang elaborated on their journey, noting the culmination of six years of effort in reaching the world competition. They expressed gratitude for the support received and shared their enjoyment in collaborating with other schools. The robot they developed is designed to perform specific tasks in a game titled “High Stakes,” where the objective is to strategically place rings on stakes for points. The robot operates in both autonomous and driver-controlled phases. The team also received an award for creativity at the state championship, further highlighting their innovative design and programming skills.

17:56The committee unanimously approved the robotics team’s trip to Dallas, expressing pride in their accomplishments. The logistics for the competition were discussed, with details on their departure and the international nature of the event. Team members will compete against participants from 53 countries, engaging in both preliminary and potentially elimination rounds over three days.

25:59In addition to celebrating the robotics team, the committee addressed the principal search for Good Now School. Superintendent Murphy provided updates on the screening process, introducing two finalists: Jennifer Collins and Andrew Hall. Both candidates bring extensive educational experience, with planned visits to the school to engage with staff and parents. The importance of community involvement in the selection process was emphasized, with the committee aiming to ensure a seamless transition in leadership.

37:39Transportation and student attendance were other focal points of the meeting. The committee discussed efforts to improve breakfast accessibility for students, particularly at high school entry points, to compete with external offerings. Transportation logistics were also a topic, with improvements in driver availability noted, attributed to a decline in flu cases and favorable weather conditions. However, the sudden departure of a dispatcher presented a challenge, with the committee working swiftly to fill the position, expressing confidence in the new appointee.

28:15The “no busing zone” initiative was revisited, involving collaboration with NRT to effectively map out routes. Financial discussions included the release of supply accounts to school principals as the school year concludes, following a strategic expenditure freeze to maintain budget balance.

40:34Assistant Superintendent Dr. Scaza reported on a new vision for math instruction for K-2 students, developed through a partnership with TNTP and consultant Katie Gardner. The committee plans to gather community input on these priorities through a survey in May.

41:38The success of the April vacation attendance program was highlighted. Funded by a targeted assistance grant, the program saw participation from numerous students, with plans for future sessions to address chronic absenteeism. The committee discussed the program’s structure, with different approaches for high school and younger students.

The integration of new math curriculum developments with the ongoing literacy program was also discussed, emphasizing the importance of family feedback in shaping the program’s direction.