Minuteman Career and Technical High School Committee Approves Budget Amid Graduation Preparations
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
05/14/2024
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Recording Published:
07/06/2024
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Duration:
81 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Acton, Arlington, Belmont, Bolton, Concord, Dover, Lancaster, Lexington, Needham, Stow
- Meeting Overview:
The recent meeting of the Minuteman Career and Technical School Committee was marked by the unanimous approval of the school’s budget by all nine-member towns and the excitement surrounding the upcoming graduation and student achievements. The committee also addressed several key administrative and operational efforts, including the principal search process, school admissions, and property management.
A highlight of the meeting was the commendation for Superintendent Mahoney’s work, particularly concerning the new computer system and financial controls. This positive feedback coincided with the independent auditor’s report, which outlined the absence of deficiencies or material weaknesses. The superintendent’s efforts, alongside the current staff’s diligence, were seen as crucial in maintaining compliance, particularly during times of turnover in key positions.
The graduation ceremony was a topic of enthusiasm, with committee members encouraged to take part in the diploma distribution. Celebrating student accomplishments was a recurring theme, with senior spirit week, the National Honor Society induction ceremony, and the Skills USA officers’ presentation being notable mentions. Student representatives reported on various activities, including the themed dress-up days, prom, and the students’ success at the state level, leading to participation in Nationals in Georgia. Efforts to raise funds for this event were discussed, including a film screening initiative.
The meeting also recognized the success of Minuteman students at a Rotary Club scholarship lunch, where three seniors received scholarships. The senior sign-out procedures were outlined, involving exit interviews and final sign-outs with various departments. This process reflects the school’s endeavors to ensure students are well-prepared for their post-graduation paths.
In the realm of school administration, the committee discussed the ongoing principal search process. The extension of the application deadline and the rigorous selection strategies were mentioned. Additionally, the admissions report revealed that 163 in-district students had accepted admission, with the committee aiming to reach their target number of 185 students. The discussion also touched on the State Opportunity Act Grant application, the annual school choice vote, and the strategic handling of surplus school property.
The disposal of unused property from shop, classroom spaces, or maintenance areas was approved, with items set for auction, including upgraded welders. The committee deliberated on whether proceeds from the auction should be reimbursed to the state, given that some items were purchased through state-funded grants.
Furthermore, the policy subcommittee reported on the administration’s completion of a review of policies, with plans to meet and discuss potential eliminations. In a move towards proactive maintenance, the Capital planning subcommittee selected a company to conduct a Capital assessment of the school’s buildings and properties, outlining the development of a 10-year maintenance plan.
The meeting ended with a discussion on the pros and cons of admitting out-of-district students. The Enrollment, Membership, Access, and Capacity (EMAC) committee expressed the desire to prioritize in-district students while also considering out-of-district applicants to reach the targeted class size of 175 students. The committee also acknowledged issues with admissions-related software.
Kevin Mahoney
School Board Officials:
Jeff Stulin, Alice DeLuca, Erika Elzey
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
05/14/2024
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Recording Published:
07/06/2024
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Duration:
81 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Acton, Arlington, Belmont, Bolton, Concord, Dover, Lancaster, Lexington, Needham, Stow
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