Boiler issues dominated the discussions as committee members expressed frustration over the malfunctioning system, which has been a source of concern for several years. The committee learned that a recently installed pump system was rendered ineffective due to improper maintenance, with one member recounting an instance where a technician logged minimal field time, raising concerns about accountability. The committee is closely monitoring the contractor, Jamrog, and considering the involvement of another company, Diamond, to resolve the issues. A potential warranty on the pumps, which had not been used due to the system’s downtime, was also mentioned as a point of interest.

The building committee, feeling left out of discussions about significant expenses, expressed their desire for clearer involvement in financial decisions affecting the school. The school committee members acknowledged this miscommunication, noting the confusion stemming from a lack of institutional knowledge amid turnover among committee members. Plans were made to invite the building committee to the next meeting to clarify the roles and responsibilities concerning school infrastructure projects, especially the boiler.

Another portion of the meeting was devoted to the analysis of student performance data from the MCCAST assessment. The principal reported that Shutesbury students almost surpassed state averages in math, English Language Arts (ELA), and science. Chronic absenteeism was noted as an area requiring attention, with efforts to improve student attendance through health initiatives like handwashing, which had reduced cold-related absences by half. The school has also formed a committee to monitor attendance and encourage family engagement to bolster student presence.

The committee reviewed specific performance metrics, highlighting notable achievements for students with high needs and those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). It was reported that no students were categorized as not meeting expectations in ELA or math, and a high percentage of students with IEPs met or exceeded benchmarks, outperforming state averages. However, the committee acknowledged the need to close the achievement gap between students with and without IEPs. Strategies to support students in reaching benchmarks, particularly in science where no students exceeded expectations, were discussed.

In addition to student performance, the meeting addressed the broader challenges of budget management and community feedback. The committee noted the under-budget completion of several projects, such as sidewalk improvements, leading to a discussion about the community’s perception of these efforts. It was suggested that clearer communication with the building committee and other stakeholders could alleviate misunderstandings and foster a more collaborative approach to school building issues.

The session also included updates on capital projects, such as an application to the Conway School for redesigning the parking lot and driveway, which promises to enhance the school’s infrastructure with expert town planning insights.

Furthermore, the committee reviewed and approved the family handbook, addressing concerns about the accessibility of preschool information on the school website. Improvements to the site are underway to ensure user-friendliness and up-to-date information.

The superintendent shared updates on the district’s accountability standards, noting that Shutesbury is one of 63 districts to achieve pre-pandemic performance levels. This distinction underscores the collaborative efforts of staff, leadership, and families in advancing student performance despite the pandemic’s challenges.

The meeting concluded with discussions on financial reports, including the end-of-year report highlighting Title I and IDEA compliance, and the need for legislative action on funding formulas. The committee also addressed community concerns about school lunch practices.