Safety concerns were at the forefront. Various speakers, including parents, educators, and staff representatives, voiced grave concerns about the safety protocols within Taunton schools. A parent, David Ellis, highlighted an increase in safety incidents, criticizing the current response plans and accountability measures. He referenced specific incidents, including a teacher allegedly assaulting a student, to underscore the need for effective management and transparency in safety protocols.

The president of the Taunton Education Association underscored these concerns, citing a rise in classroom evacuations and aggressive student behavior. She emphasized that physical violence should never be normalized within educational settings. Educators reported an environment of anxiety and fear, with students feeling unsafe due to peers’ aggressive behaviors. The association called for alternative settings for certain students to ensure safety and educational success.

Staff working conditions were another issue. Sarah Lincoln, an elementary school secretary, and other speakers brought attention to the meager pay and lack of benefits for part-time staff, such as lunch recess assistants. Lincoln illustrated the struggles of these workers through the story of Melissa Salaji, who faced financial instability despite her service to the school community. The speakers advocated for pay equity and better support for educational assistants, emphasizing the essential contributions of these roles to student welfare and school operations.

A notable account came from Karen Wera, who highlighted inadequate staffing ratios during high-energy periods like recess. She criticized the rejection of a proposed staffing ratio of one staff member for every 30 students, comparing it to standards in other fields. Wera underscored the need for supervision during recess, where incidents of spitting, biting, and aggression are reportedly common. Her request for copies of injury reports was denied, raising questions about transparency.

The meeting also revealed the emotional toll on staff due to unsafe conditions. Paula No, a library media assistant, recounted a distressing incident involving a student with a needle, illustrating unsafe working conditions for staff and students alike. Elise Greavves, a school adjustment counselor, shared her decision to leave her position due to escalating behavioral issues and the lack of consistent consequences for aggressive actions, which undermined her ability to perform her role effectively.

The topic of staff compensation was further explored, with several speakers highlighting the inadequacy of current pay levels. A speaker representing staff without a contract emphasized the need for fair wages and regular briefings on student injuries to foster transparency and informed discussions about school safety. The emotional impact of inadequate compensation and working conditions was echoed by Najib Kadish, who called for a contract that reflects the realities of staff responsibilities.

The committee also addressed ongoing financial and infrastructure matters. The Finance and Law Subcommittee reviewed and approved bills payable for Fiscal Year 2026, totaling over $1.35 million. Key expenses included school security services and maintenance costs. Questions arose about the necessity of a roll call vote for approving a $190,000 expenditure on vestibule installations, with members emphasizing the need for financial accountability while ensuring student safety.

The discussion on school safety measures and vestibule projects continued, with a motion to authorize bidding for remaining installations. The superintendent supported documenting financial decisions for auditing purposes, while some members questioned the threshold for requiring a roll call vote.

Reports from the high school subcommittee and advisory meetings highlighted student experiences and feedback. Students at Taunton High School expressed satisfaction with their teachers and school environment but noted areas for improvement, such as guidance on coursework. The Taunton Public Virtual Academy students appreciated the flexibility of the virtual setting and requested expanded course offerings.

In new business, the committee discussed participation in the upcoming Christmas parade, with members encouraged to RSVP. Communication from the city council suggested postponing a joint meeting until new council members were sworn in.