The committee dedicated a portion of the meeting to the discussion of operating protocols, which are designed to guide the committee’s internal functions and interactions. It was noted that the Methuen School Committee currently lacks formal operating protocols, a situation not uncommon among school districts. Members were briefed on the benefits of such protocols, which can enhance communication, mutual expectations, and accountability.

During the session, examples from other districts were shared, illustrating that operating protocols often begin with a belief or mission statement. These protocols are not mandatory but are considered best practices to improve the committee’s effectiveness. They include guidelines for respectful interactions, communication channels, and handling requests for information. Members were advised on the importance of maintaining transparency and clarity, particularly regarding external communication and social media use, to prevent any unintentional violations of open meeting laws.

The meeting also addressed the need for an interim Evaluation Team Facilitator (ETF) at the high school. The committee acknowledged challenges in special education staffing, with the current demands on administrators and teachers being unsustainable. The high turnover rate among special education administrators was a particular concern, prompting discussions on the necessity of additional support. The ETF role is intended to alleviate some of the workload by assisting with IEP documentation and meeting responsibilities. The committee emphasized the importance of consistency in job descriptions and responsibilities to avoid confusion among staff and ensure adequate support for both students and educators.

In addition to governance matters, the proposed Methuen High School band trip to Disney World was a topic of interest. The band director presented the details of the trip, scheduled for April 2026. The itinerary includes a parade performance at Magic Kingdom and a session with a Disney conductor. The trip is optional, with the price per student set at $2,417. While fundraising opportunities are being pursued to offset costs, concerns were raised about the financial implications for students unable to afford the trip or participate in fundraising efforts.

The logistics of the trip, including travel arrangements and accommodations, have been a collaborative effort between the band parents association and the travel company Kaleidoscope Adventures. The committee discussed the importance of securing approval to finalize numbers and potentially lower costs if more students sign up. The band director assured that while the trip is not mandatory, efforts will be made to ensure broad participation through aggressive fundraising.

The committee also engaged in a dialogue about the superintendent’s goals for the 2025-2026 school year, highlighting a focus on student learning and literacy. The superintendent outlined strategies for integrating literacy into the district’s curriculum and emphasized the importance of professional practice and accountability. The need for earlier collaboration with city administration to avoid last-minute budget discussions was also stressed. Members discussed the importance of clear procedures for selecting indicators related to these goals and suggested focusing on chronic absenteeism and engagement across all grades.