The discussion on the bullying prevention intervention plan was both detailed and comprehensive. The committee acknowledged the difficulties of dealing with bullying that originates on social media, especially since it often takes place outside of school hours. To combat this, the committee emphasized the seriousness of their approach to bullying, highlighting the annual review process with students and staff and the inclusion of the plan in open houses to educate families on the legal definition of bullying and the process for reporting it. The committee also stressed the importance of supporting parents and students in reporting incidents, offering assistance with filling out report forms when necessary.

Another topic was the removal of asbestos at the Ashby Elementary School. The committee received five bids and, after positive reference checks, voted to award the contract to the lowest bidder at $79,215. The funding for this project will be drawn from Ashby town’s ARP funds, not the district budget. This project is a critical step in ensuring a safe learning environment for the students and staff of Ashby Elementary School.

The superintendent’s evaluation was another focal point of the meeting. The committee conducted a thorough evaluation based on the superintendent’s goals and performance standards, ultimately rating the superintendent as proficient in several key areas, including instructional leadership, management and operations, family and community engagement, and professional culture. The overall rating for the superintendent was also proficient. Committee comments highlighted the superintendent’s contributions to student development, effective district leadership, and adept management of budgetary issues. Suggestions for the future included increasing opportunities for student participation and enhancing transparency and communication with stakeholders.

Subcommittee updates were also a topic of interest, particularly regarding the Ashby Elementary Building Committee and the Finance Subcommittee. The committee discussed the need for Ashby representation and the procedure for appointing community members to these subcommittees. It was determined that the chair of each subcommittee should recommend appointments, and all community members must be approved by the entire committee.

In addition to these discussions, the committee addressed policies on various issues. A new policy on sexual harassment was approved for a first reading, despite not being vetted through the policy subcommittee. Further, a new policy regarding the use of cell phones and portable communication devices in schools was discussed, with particular concern for high school students using cell phones for classwork. A policy on student absences and excuses, as well as a policy on school admissions that included a requirement for potty training for preschool and kindergarten students, were both approved for a first reading.

Public communications featured a resident raising concerns about appointing an Ashby resident to the finance subcommittee. The suggestion was made for the school committee and the Ashby select board to collaborate in finding a suitable candidate. This topic was slated for further discussion later in the meeting.

The meeting concluded with a motion to go into executive session for several purposes, including compliance with legal and federal grant requirements, and to prepare for collective bargaining with the teachers’ association. This executive session was indicative of the committee’s ongoing efforts to address legal, operational, and personnel matters confidentially and effectively.