Thompson, the newly appointed principal, expressed his eagerness to lead at South Elementary School, the largest in the district. Despite a three-month gap before officially starting, his experience and commitment to the school were emphasized.

The student representatives from Plymouth North and Plymouth South High Schools reported on activities including the Freshman Challenge Day, an Interact Club benefit show, SAT school day for juniors, proms, and athletic events. Their updates provided a snapshot of the vibrant student life and extracurricular engagement within the schools.

A crucial part of the meeting involved the discussion of academic achievement data across the district. English Language Arts (ELA) proficiency maintained at 34%, with growth increasing to 54%. In math, proficiency rose from 26% to 35%, with growth also up from 42% to 52%. However, science scores decreased, a trend attributed to the difficulties faced by transient students. The committee emphasized the importance of focusing on student engagement, responsive teaching, and refining literacy initiatives in the upcoming year. Social-emotional learning was also a focal point, with plans to revisit classroom practices and self-regulation techniques.

The Hedge School’s improvement plan was presented, highlighting successful collaboration with the reading and writing project and the inclusive English language program, which demonstrated high growth for English learner (EL) students. There was a brief interruption due to technical difficulties during the presentation.

The Federal Furnace School Improvement Plan was discussed, with the principal providing insights into student demographics, the Intensive Learning Center, and the school’s vision centered on lifelong learning and kindness. A wide array of events and activities were mentioned, including the Children’s Business Fair and the One Book One School initiative. Enrichment clubs, cultural awareness, and racial equity efforts were also highlighted. The school’s focus on small group instruction, data analysis, and social-emotional learning through programs like Second Steps and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) was discussed in detail.

Community engagement initiatives at Federal Furnace, such as parent surveys, school council involvement, and various events, were presented alongside the emphasis on equity, diversity, and belonging. The principal outlined the school’s performance on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) tests, with focused efforts to uplift students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and English learners.

A proposal for a field trip to Newport, related to the study of “The Great Gatsby,” was approved without objections.

Discussion around the district’s performance assessment against effective administrative leadership standards was led by the superintendent, who also addressed the Student Opportunity Act. The act mandates addressing disparities among students, including English learners, students with disabilities, and various ethnic groups. The committee inquired about specific challenges and the application of funding to target these disparities.

Transportation fees were another topic, with the committee approving an increase in bus fees to $150 per student and a family cap of $450. The rationale was the fee’s alignment with other districts and the consideration for one-way transportation and waivers for lower-income families. Additionally, athletic fees were raised from $135 to $175 per athlete, with a maximum family cap of $875 per year, to maintain equity among different sports.

Policy updates were considered, focusing on the reformatting of outdated policies to ensure legal and handbook compliance. The job description for the 7D van driver was approved, mirroring that of the bus driver but with specific licensure requirements.

The superintendent provided strategic planning updates, including the submission of the Statement of Interest application and the enhancement of the volunteer program. The meeting acknowledged retirements and the search for replacements, including for principals and the director of special education.

A highlight was the recognition of Kathleen Shaw, a teacher named as one of five State finalists for the National Science Foundation’s presidential award. The committee expressed pride in Shaw’s accomplishment and the upcoming town meeting was discussed as a key event.

Retirements of Martha Eno, Ann Marie Ross, and Christine Morgan, who contributed a combined 82 years to the district, were acknowledged with gratitude. The committee also deliberated on the appointment of a representative to the master planning committee and received progress updates.

Reports from committee members touched on a virtual exchange, a Rotary Club donation, and a letter addressing state school budget concerns. The consent agenda was approved, with revisions to the minutes from previous meetings to ensure transparent documentation of voting processes.