The equity audit revealed concerns about the lived experiences of Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) students and families, pointing to limited representation and inclusivity in various school areas. The committee discussed the importance of providing high-quality instructional time, particularly for students requiring extra support, and noted the district’s effectiveness in implementing a multi-tiered system of support.

The audit also highlighted the need to improve communication of the district’s equity vision and ensure accountability for professional development in equity. Concerns were raised over the lack of diversity among the district’s teacher and leadership workforce, despite ongoing recruitment plans and a teacher diversification grant aimed at professional development. The next phase of the equity audit will involve discussions with district leadership to draft the final report for review and feedback.

Another topic of significant interest was the Innovation Pathways program at the high school. The assistant superintendent reported a strong interest from students in pathways related to business, finance, advanced manufacturing, and engineering. The application process was reopened for the advanced manufacturing and engineering pathway to accommodate additional interest and ensure inclusivity. This program is part of the district’s strategic efforts to attract students to the high school and align with current workforce demands.

The school choice process was also a key item, with the superintendent providing an overview of the automatic opening of school choice each year if not voted closed by June 1st. The recommendation for the 2024-2025 school year was to not open kindergarten through second grade to school choice, with a class size limit of 22 students for those grades participating in the program. The superintendent presented enrollment data and forecasts, which informed the committee’s consideration of the motion to close school choice.

The committee acknowledged the district’s achievement in applying to be recognized as a best community for music education, with plans to celebrate this accomplishment across school websites and with banners at each school. The committee also discussed the transparency page and its effectiveness in providing information to the community.

In other policy-related discussions, the committee addressed revisions to a policy on the transfer of positive balances for graduating students with siblings in the district. Debate ensued over the process and criteria for donating to students in need. Additionally, the committee moved to approve revisions to policy GBE, which pertained to the use of district resources for personal communication.

Subcommittee reports touched upon upcoming meetings and the progress of various committee efforts. Notably, the chair raised the issue of considering an additional school committee meeting in June to conclude matters before the arrival of new members.

The committee also called for an update on the food services outsourcing process, underlining the importance of transparency and timely progress reports in this area.