0:00The meeting commenced with an in-depth report on a data breach involving Power School, which had affected several districts nationwide. The breach, attributed to a “threat actor,” was managed without compromising sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, as the district did not store such data in Power School. The superintendent assured the community that while the breach was serious, it had been contained, and further details were being awaited. The school district pledged to keep the community informed as new developments emerged.

1:44:01Attention then shifted to budget discussions, with the committee engaging in preliminary talks with a warrant subcommittee regarding the upcoming fiscal plans. The need for a financial override was acknowledged as a probable necessity, though the exact amount required remains undetermined. Committee members expressed concern over the absence of a finance committee within the select board, which has complicated coordination efforts. Ongoing dialogues with town officials, including the Town Administrator and treasurer, aim to align the school district’s budgetary needs with the town’s financial capacity. The urgency to finalize and present a cohesive budget plan before a townwide vote was emphasized, signaling the critical nature of these financial deliberations in sustaining the district’s operations.

0:00The committee also confronted the challenge of accommodating a surge in student enrollment, particularly at the Cott School, where student numbers rose from 584 to 621. This increase necessitated the addition of a new kindergarten classroom, with class sizes averaging 23 to 24 students in kindergarten and third grade. The principal of Cott School highlighted the commitment of staff to manage these larger class sizes effectively, despite the challenges they pose. Additionally, surveys revealed that teachers at the school have an average of 19.7 years of experience.

35:06Further discussions focused on the ongoing efforts to enhance literacy instruction in the district, with an emphasis on phonics in the primary grades. This strategic shift aligns with the science of reading. The integration of the Uly phonics program with the existing reading curriculum has shown promising results, with observed increases in student confidence and engagement.

The committee also addressed diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, emphasizing the importance of fostering an inclusive educational environment. Staff members like Laurel Bernini and others have been instrumental in promoting these values, leveraging platforms such as social media to celebrate diversity within the school community. Efforts to maintain family engagement through newsletters and transition activities were also highlighted.

50:10In terms of logistical challenges, the committee discussed the impact of sibling placements and the lottery system associated with the French immersion program. Maintaining family unity within schools continues to be a priority, alongside managing class sizes amidst rising enrollment numbers. The committee acknowledged the support received from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) for tours and walkthroughs, which has facilitated efforts to secure necessary resources.

1:44:01The meeting concluded with a policy update, where sections JK and L of the Milton School Committee policy and procedures manual were unanimously approved. Additionally, the committee reviewed capital requests and the urgency of renovating the Cunningham School’s third and fourth floors, with a $3.4 million request submitted for consideration. This initiative, alongside a $1.5 million feasibility study request under the MSBA, underscores the ongoing need for infrastructure improvements to accommodate the district’s growing student population.