The Southampton School Committee’s deliberations on the override vote were crucial, given the potential impact on the district’s staffing and resources. If the community does not approve the measure, the district will face a reduction of ten full-time employees at Norris, affecting educational services. An update from the budget finance team was presented, noting the completion of critical financial reports, including the excess and deficiency report for Chesfield Ocean. These reports are essential for applying funds to the budget and ensuring fiscal stability.

The committee also discussed the progress of audits for fiscal years 2023 and 2024, with a commitment to meet the deadline for the 2025 audit. Despite challenges from previous fiscal years, the team expressed confidence in managing current and future fiscal projections. Members were reminded to complete evaluations of the superintendent, emphasizing accountability and transparency in leadership roles.

Budget constraints were a recurring theme throughout the meeting, with discussions about fiscal year 2025 actuals indicating a stable financial situation expected to improve as fiscal year 2024 concludes. This fiscal management is vital for ensuring the district can sustain its educational commitments without compromising quality.

Another discussion centered around the nurse leader stipend and job description. The current nurse at New Hingham has assumed the role of nurse leader, fulfilling state reporting and professional development obligations. Although budget constraints prevent reinstating the full position, feedback from nurses has been positive, and continuous engagement with nursing staff is planned to ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process.

The committee also focused on educational enhancements and student experiences. Principal Lisa Pluto reported on school enrollment, student life activities, and the completion of important testing sessions like MCCAST and Fastbridge. Furthermore, the town’s approval of capital committee recommendations for school improvements, totaling approximately $55,000, was acknowledged. These enhancements include new outdoor gym doors and replacing carpets with tiles in preschool and kindergarten classrooms.

Superintendent Vita Peron provided insights into the district’s financial health, emphasizing the importance of equitable funding for rural and regional districts. She reported on an increase of $38,890 in state reimbursements for special education, attributing this success to diligent efforts by staff in identifying and claiming services. The superintendent also addressed transportation concerns, assuring the committee that the recent acquisition of the bus company Durham by a national entity would not pose issues, thanks to a negotiated contract extension with reduced rates.

The meeting included a proposal to hire a business office intern to assist with financial tasks, funded through extended forensic work. The role aims to support the closing of fiscal years and prepare for audits. A motion to approve the job description for the intern was passed unanimously.

Additionally, the committee approved a field trip for fifth graders to Albany, New York, facing logistical challenges such as securing a nurse and transportation but emphasizing the importance of providing students with enriching educational experiences. The trip was approved in advance to facilitate last-minute arrangements if necessary.

The committee addressed Title IX policy updates, with a motion to revert policies AC-R, ACA, and ACAB GBAA to their 2002 versions. This decision was made as part of a consent agenda, passing with a vote of 3 to 1.