The committee engaged in a discussion about the backpack policy at Medford High School, following an update from the student advisory committee. Students have initiated a petition to repeal the current policy, which imposes size limitations on backpacks, arguing that it impacts their daily routine and creates equity issues. The debate focused on the reasons behind the policy and the practical consequences of a change, including concerns over hallway and classroom clutter, as well as safety and classroom dynamics.

The students provided firsthand accounts of the struggles they face under the current backpack policy, such as carrying multiple binders between classes and dealing with crowded hallways and time constraints. They proposed alternatives like tote bags or backpacks to ease the transportation of their materials and discussed the impracticality of accessing lockers during short passing periods.

Another major topic was the school’s homework policy, where students called for a balance between homework and personal responsibilities, such as jobs and family obligations. They criticized “busy work” assignments and unreasonable due dates, advocating for assignments that reinforce class learning and respect cultural diversity by avoiding due dates on religious holidays.

The committee also explored the policy regarding makeup work for students absent due to illness, emphasizing the need to ensure students have adequate time to complete missed assignments without feeling pressured to attend school while sick. The grading of homework based on completion rather than accuracy was debated, with the committee considering the benefits of this approach, such as promoting effort and discouraging cheating. The potential impact of snow days on homework assignments was discussed, with suggestions to avoid additional homework on these days.

Feedback from teachers, parents, and students on the homework policy was deemed necessary, leading to a proposal for a subcommittee meeting with the curriculum and instruction subcommittee to discuss the issue further. The urgency of revising the homework policy was underscored as a priority for the school committee.

Turning to transportation issues, the committee members highlighted safety concerns during bus boarding at the high school, the absence of designated bus departure and arrival positions, and inconsistencies in bus schedules. The overcrowding on certain bus routes, especially the 95 bus, was also a point of contention. The committee considered reaching out to Vivian Ortiz, a safe routes to school expert, for an audit of drop-off and pick-up procedures.

The discussion on transportation extended to school bus safety, crowding, and the lack of consistent signage for bus pick-up locations. The necessity for a clear dismissal and bus boarding protocol was raised. A student representative brought attention to unsafe bike lanes and the need for protected bike lanes.

Lastly, a flowchart outlining student organizations and the student decision-making process was presented. The committee praised the flowchart’s design and supported its inclusion on the school committee website to demonstrate that student voices are valued. The meeting concluded with a unanimous motion to adjourn.