The meeting commenced with an urgent update from the superintendent regarding a cybersecurity breach affecting the PowerSchool student information system. The breach, identified on January 8, involved compromised credentials, but the district reassured that the stolen data did not contain sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, except for a few dating back to 2006. Legal counsel has been engaged, and affected individuals are being notified. A third-party investigation has been promised by PowerSchool, with results expected the following week.

Transitioning to the main agenda, the committee delved into the FY 26 budget workshop. The superintendent introduced the methodology for budget design, consistent with previous years, while highlighting the importance of aligning budget requests with strategic objectives and student needs. A presentation by the assistant superintendent laid out the district’s mission, vision, and values, emphasizing academic achievement in a collaborative and inclusive environment.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to dissecting the operational and assessment increases within the proposed budget. The committee reviewed requests from department and building leaders, acknowledging that not all requests would be funded. The governor’s budget, expected on January 22, would provide financial data, including Cherry sheets and regional transportation funds. The committee faced the daunting task of addressing large assessments, understanding these numbers would likely decrease as the budget process evolved.

Further discussions centered around staffing needs, with a focus on Mary Rollinson Elementary, where enrollment forecasts drove requests for additional positions. The committee also explored potential resource sharing for related arts teachers and evaluated the kindergarten registration process to determine staffing triggers.

A debate emerged concerning class sizes across various grade levels, highlighting equity issues. Concerns were expressed over disparities, such as a large class size difference between third and eighth grades. This discussion segued into the staffing and budget reductions at Hill Middle School resulting from schedule optimization following teacher departures.

The conversation also tackled the Nashoba Regional High School’s enrollment projections and staffing considerations, including a planned reduction in the science department. The superintendent assured the committee that educational quality would not be compromised despite declining enrollments. Questions arose regarding class size variability, particularly in elective courses, and the potential for increasing school choice numbers.

The committee then reviewed financial requests related to teaching and learning, with a focus on competitive grants and curriculum development priorities. The need for high-quality instructional materials and professional development was emphasized, alongside efforts to support student data privacy. Discussions also included funding for ongoing equity and inclusion work and the introduction of academic tutors to close learning gaps.

Special education services were another focal point, with increasing demands and costs being addressed. The need for additional staffing, especially in speech and language services, was underscored. Rising out-of-district tuition and transportation costs posed further financial challenges, prompting discussions on potential policy changes at the state level to alleviate these burdens.

The technology budget was presented, highlighting the need for improved communication and data sharing, as well as enhanced school safety through reliable internet connectivity. The athletics budget was also reviewed, reflecting increases in fees and transportation costs, though no further rebranding efforts were planned.

As the meeting drew to a close, the committee confronted the anticipated budget reductions required to meet fiscal constraints. Concerns centered around achieving a historic high of a 5% operational increase, with potential personnel cuts looming. Members emphasized the importance of communicating the value of educational investments, even as they grappled with immediate financial concerns.