The Norton Planning Board approved a new custodial contract for the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028, covering the Norton custodial unit. The contract aims to streamline language and better organize the custodial association, which is divided into three groups based on hire dates. The negotiation process was noted for its smoothness, attributed to the union’s preparedness and a member’s commendable contributions.

Another topic at the meeting was the proposal to increase student parking fees at the high school from $25 to $75 for the fiscal year 2026. This suggestion arose due to rising maintenance costs for the parking lot, including line repainting and snow removal. The previous fee reduction from $100 was mentioned, highlighting past financial management decisions. Concerns were raised about the implications of charging for parking while retaining the authority to revoke parking privileges, questioning whether the fee adequately deters inappropriate behavior. The board noted that the high school sells approximately 180 parking passes, and the increased fee would boost revenues from about $4,000 to over $13,000. Despite some dissent, the motion to approve the fee increase passed, reflecting ongoing efforts to balance school funding needs with fair student charges.

The meeting also addressed updates to school handbooks, focusing on elementary and middle school policies. Notable changes included emphasizing the importance of attendance and evolving homework expectations, now primarily digital. A new “good standing” policy was proposed for middle school students to encourage attendance, academic achievement, and appropriate behavior, with a rubric delineating disqualifying criteria. This policy aims to foster student engagement and accountability, integrating restorative pathways for regaining good standing through individualized agreements with teachers. These initiatives highlight the district’s focus on promoting a supportive educational environment.

The discussion on handbook updates also touched on the application of these rules to student athletes, clarifying that Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association policies would govern athletic participation based on academic eligibility. Concerns about the logistics of refunding field trip fees for students falling out of good standing were raised, emphasizing prioritizing students’ opportunities to improve their standing over financial constraints. The timing of rubric implementation was considered.

In addition to these discussions, the board considered proposals for geomapping services to address district alignment challenges, particularly concerning school start times. Two firms, Dillinger Research and Applied Data and Ross Habar Associates, were highlighted for their distinct approaches. Dillinger’s proposal, offering flexibility with an hourly rate for 75 to 150 hours, emphasized community engagement and collaboration. In contrast, Ross Habar’s comprehensive project provided budget clarity with a fixed cost of $19,500. The board discussed the financial implications and the importance of active involvement in the process.

The board deferred the final decision on geomapping services to the next meeting, allowing time for detailed proposal review and further questions. There was a consensus on inviting both companies to present their plans at the upcoming meeting.

In other business, the meeting briefly covered upcoming events such as the Norton High School spring concert, class night, and graduation. A recent finance committee meeting’s decision to allocate $500,000 from stabilization to the school district budget was noted, although it was acknowledged that this funding would still fall short of achieving a level services budget for the next school year. A moment of remembrance honored the contributions of Ed Podfin, a long-time community coach.