The meeting placed emphasis on student leadership development through the High Five Adventure Training program in Vermont. Dean of Students Ron Versalone presented five student leaders who attended the training. Kelsey, a sophomore in cosmetology, shared her initial fears and subsequent growth in leadership skills. Natalie Gorman echoed similar sentiments, noting how her outlook changed positively through the program. Bobby Horen, a sophomore in the Information Technology program, specifically referenced overcoming his fear of heights by tackling the Pamper Pole, a 40-foot tall telephone pole challenge. Horen’s comment, “I was right after going to high five… my family and my friends have noticed that I have changed,” underscored the personal growth experienced by the students.

Michael Morgan, a senior in Engineering Technology, reflected on his two-year participation in the leadership trip, emphasizing resilience and teamwork. He remarked, “A good leader knows when to step back and let the followers lead.” Morgan highlighted the group’s ability to adapt to adverse weather conditions during their activities.

In addition to student leadership, the committee reviewed the outstanding performance of the Skills USA chapter. Superintendent Jill Davis introduced Brad Morgan, the Skills USA adviser, along with chapter officers. Laura Bon, a senior in the medical laboratory assisting program, reported the chapter’s numerous successes at the Skills USA Nationals, including new initiatives and participation in technical events at the National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta. Bon expressed gratitude for the committee’s support, which was echoed by senior Nicholas Mor, who highlighted the chapter’s national medals and their recognition as a gold-level chapter of distinction for the ninth consecutive year. Notably, the chapter celebrated a first-place finish in robotics.

Tommy Marshall, elected as the Skills USA Massachusetts State President for the 2024-2025 school year, expressed excitement about upcoming opportunities and responsibilities. Michael Morgan, another senior, also spoke about the chapter’s recognition at the national conference and thanked the committee for their unwavering support.

The meeting also covered various school activities and updates provided by Superintendent Davis. She introduced Tyler Pathano, the new student representative, a junior in the plumbing program, who shared his ambitions to pursue co-op opportunities and join the National Technical Honor Society. Tyler is a multi-sport athlete with aspirations to attend a Division One school for track and explore options with the Marine Corps.

Superintendent Davis outlined the 2024-2025 student activities and clubs, with details available on the school’s website. Upcoming events included the freshman and sophomore planning committee’s annual field trip to Screamfest and the junior prom scheduled for December 6. The application period for the National Technical Honor Society and National Honor Society had closed, with notifications for eligible juniors and seniors expected soon. The school had also participated in Dred Home Day, engaging families about enrollment and student life.

The committee discussed the cooperative education program, noting that 26.5% of senior students were on co-op placements, a high participation rate for September. This figure was expected to rise as the year progressed.

Administrative matters were addressed, including the renewal of the medication administration policy and the 2024-2027 Medical Behavioral Health Emergency Response Plan. Assistant Superintendent Principal Michael Barton explained that changes to the medication policy were limited to the date, while updates to the emergency response plan primarily involved personnel names and contact information. Both policies were unanimously approved by the committee.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments and expressions of support for the student leaders’ contributions to the school community. The committee showed appreciation for the efforts to familiarize new hires with school procedures and praised the structured approach of the freshman program over the summer, which was deemed the most engaging year compared to previous ones.