The topic of school choice dominated much of the meeting, as the committee grappled with enrollment trends and capacity concerns. The discussion centered on whether to open school choice at the elementary or secondary level, taking into account the complex implications of such decisions on school capacity, resources, and long-term enrollment. They also considered the increase in homeschool enrollment and the impact of transfer students to vocational schools. Building projects within the town, including the development of apartments and single-family homes, were presented as factors that could influence future school enrollment figures.

The committee debated the financial implications of accepting new students through school choice, with contrasting viewpoints on the potential gains or losses per student. The possibility of redistricting and reconfiguration to balance enrollment disparities between schools was also discussed. A particularly divisive issue was whether to extend school choice to siblings of current students, especially regarding the potential impact on high school enrollment. Ultimately, the committee could not reach a consensus on opening school choice to new students and decided against opening additional slots for first, second, and third grades at HBB for siblings only. However, a motion to open a single slot at the kindergarten level for the sibling of an existing school choice student succeeded unanimously.

Television production teacher Adam Peltier and students were recognized for their award-winning films, which were judged by industry professionals. The students shared their experiences and discussed the influence of the filmmaking process on their future aspirations. The committee encouraged meeting attendees to view the films and a related talk show on the Middleboro TV website.

A tribute was paid to Daniel Dugen, a former teacher in the district, with her mother speaking about the recognition Dugen received from Representative Keating in the Congressional Record. The committee expressed their gratitude for Dugen’s contributions to the speech and theater workshop and for her impact on the community.

Looking ahead to the end of the school year, the committee discussed Senior Week activities for the class of 2024. The schedule included Future Signing Day, yearbook distribution, and a senior class meeting, with an emphasis placed on counting all days leading up to graduation as school days and the importance of making responsible choices during this period.

The committee also reported on the success of the Special Olympics sectionals meet, praising Middleboro High School student athletes for their support and inclusion of special athletes. There was a push to treat Unified sports like other varsity teams, with the program showing growth and calling for increased student participation.

Moreover, the committee highlighted upcoming summer programs, including Summer Splash for rising kindergarteners through sixth graders, and a new high school program for credit recovery and the Futures Academy. The high school’s college application preparation program was mentioned, as well as the detailed summer athletic program, which features a wide range of activities for various age groups. Despite the cancellation of one program due to low enrollment, the committee discussed finding alternative options for interested students.

Additionally, the meeting covered the superintendent’s evaluation process, with the committee unanimously approving the evaluation and emphasizing the importance of data-informed decision-making and setting collaborative goals for the year. The need for a systematic approach to gathering data and continuous feedback was discussed, along with the potential impact of the municipal calendar on the evaluation process.

The meeting concluded with administrative matters, including the approval of two fundraising events, the memorandum of agreement with the Massachusetts Educator Association, and the election of a delegate for the Massachusetts Association of School Committees. The next scheduled meeting was set for Wednesday, with an executive session on the agenda, as well as a discussion of available dates.