The session highlighted the impactful work of the DECA club, which strives to prepare students for leadership and entrepreneurial roles. Members shared their experiences from recent events, including a successful tailgate gathering and plans for future community-engaging activities such as a booth at the Trunk or Treat event and a costume party. These initiatives aim to broaden DECA’s appeal beyond its traditional business focus, attracting a diverse range of students.

Dylan Medos, the vice president of finance, detailed the club’s ambitious fundraising goals, which include raising $24,000, with $20,000 dedicated to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Medos stressed the dual purpose of these fundraisers: generating funds and fostering community connections. A notable upcoming event is the “Miles for MDA” fundraiser, scheduled for November, which promises to involve various clubs at Taunton High to boost visibility and student participation in extracurricular activities.

Von Patell, the vice president of marketing communications, discussed strategies to enhance DECA’s outreach by diversifying communication channels and creating content that resonates with both the school community and the broader public. Patell emphasized the need to market DECA as an appealing and accessible opportunity for students.

The committee lauded DECA’s efforts, with members expressing appreciation for the positive community impact and the hard work of the club’s advisers. A lighthearted moment ensued when a committee member humorously mentioned their long-standing waitlist status for a Disney trip chaperone position.

The meeting also featured a report from Isaiah Wendle, a member of the Taunton High School student advisory committee, who highlighted several student achievements. Wendle noted the strong performance of the girls’ varsity and junior varsity soccer teams, the math team’s upcoming competition at WPI, and the exceptional PSAT scores of students Megan Sang and Rowan Kimber. He also acknowledged the field hockey team’s victory in their first game and invited the community to participate in an annual sickle cell walk organized by the African-American club.

In addition, Wendle paid tribute to Mrs. Lasser, who will retire after 27 years in the Taunton public schools. He expressed gratitude for her dedication, which the audience acknowledged with applause.

Budget-related matters were another focal point of the meeting. The committee discussed special education expenses for the fiscal year 2026, with $50,000 allocated for legal matters related to student services. As of July 2025, an invoice for $6,100 had been received, leaving a balance of $43,846.96 for the remainder of the fiscal year. While questions arose regarding spending compared to previous years, it was noted that summer expenditures were typically minimal.

Further budget discussions included the review of bills payable for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, totaling $20,841.18 and $860,526.35, respectively. The committee scrutinized various charges, including air duct services, high school science supplies, and training costs for AP courses. Concerns were raised about a $30,000 instructional service contract for a high school program designed to prepare students for college or the workforce, though its success and continuation were ultimately supported.

Additional expenditures included $717.50 for lock boxes from Yonder Inc., intended to enhance phone management during school hours. This drew attention to the ongoing logistical challenges of implementing an effective phone management system.

The meeting concluded with a report on attendance improvements at Taunton High and Totten Alternative High School, attributed to the efforts of Stephanie Hoy, director of student services and transportation. Initiatives included personalized plans, outreach, and creative incentives, highlighted through a video presentation emphasizing the importance of school attendance for future success.