A major topic of discussion was the high school robotics team’s financial constraints and logistical challenges. The team, which has seen an increase in membership, faces a budget shortfall with no current allocation in the school budget. A request was made for $10,000 to be set aside in the fiscal year 2026 budget to help cover costs. This amount, while a starting point, would not completely cover the expenses incurred by the team for competitions and other related activities. The initial registration fee for competitions alone is approximately $6,000, exclusive of additional costs for each event.

The team competes in a format that includes district events, with requirements to attend multiple competitions to qualify for state and world championships. The competition involves intricate challenges, such as designing a robot to handle both a PVC pipe cylinder and a ball, alongside a climbing component. Despite these challenges, the team recently celebrated winning a banner at an event.

The committee discussed the disparity in resources among different teams, noting that some teams have more financial backing, which provides them with an advantage in acquiring specialized kits and parts. This disparity prompted a conversation about the objectivity in judging competitions. The robotics team’s achievements, despite limited resources, were recognized, and there was a strong sentiment to support the team similarly to how sports teams are funded and celebrated.

Proposals were also made to explore corporate sponsorships through the Innovation Pathways program to alleviate some financial pressures. Establishing formal partnerships with local companies like GE was suggested as a means to secure ongoing support. Integrating robotics into the school’s curriculum was another area of concern, as past discussions had not yet led to concrete action in this regard.

In tandem with the robotics discussion, the committee addressed the upcoming upgrades to the high school auditorium. The project, approved by the town meeting, allocates $480,000 for a new theater lighting system. Additionally, a $200,000 grant from National Grid is contingent upon completion by March 31. A new sound system, approved in the fiscal year 2024, is also scheduled for installation within the same timeframe.

The committee acknowledged potential disruptions from these installations, particularly regarding the timing of the work during musical rehearsals. The auditorium is expected to be off-limits for about three weeks due to safety concerns associated with the installation process. The importance of student safety during construction was emphasized, with only administrative staff allowed access until the area is deemed safe.

Further, the committee discussed the use of Swampscott Elementary School, which will currently be restricted to school department activities only. This decision ensures the $98 million facility is used solely for school purposes during its closure phase for outside organizations. As a result, some events will be relocated to Swampscott Community School, which offers a more suitable environment.

Other topics covered in the meeting included a detailed report from the North Shore Education Consortium, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of its programs and the distribution of resources among districts. Concerns about facilities, particularly an ongoing HVAC project at the Kevin O’Grady School, were noted.

The search for a new Director of Teaching and Learning was also discussed, with a timeline for interviews outlined. However, the candidates’ preferred start date of July 2025 poses logistical challenges, and efforts are being made to encourage an earlier start to facilitate a smoother transition.

The committee also addressed the recent approval of a gift from the Weather Spoon Foundation to support classroom audiovisual resources, clarifying that this does not pertain to the auditorium. Additionally, there was a planned joint meeting with the select board and finance committee to discuss various matters collectively, including the formation of a search committee for a permanent Town Administrator.