The TPVA was a focal point of the committee’s agenda, as the superintendent and principal provided updates on the academy’s progress. Data presented included an 81.3% retention rate, demographics of enrolled students, and performance statistics such as an average grade of 80 across 109 completed courses by 34 students. The superintendent emphasized the academy’s mission-driven approach, live synchronous teaching, and partnership with Imagine Learning Ingenuity, a key provider of virtual courses, which also aids in tracking student progress.

The academy’s model, which focuses on social-emotional learning and individualized student needs, has shown success in retention and student performance. Challenges such as student engagement and the need for codifying unique processes were discussed. Testimonies from a social studies teacher and a graduating senior praised the human connection and flexibility of the virtual school.

In addition to student performance, the financial impact of TPVA on the district was examined, with projections indicating both enrollment-related and fixed costs. Discussions revealed the academy’s role in retaining students within the district, countering a slight decrease in enrollment.

The committee also tackled the fiscal year 2024 budget, with concerns raised about the allocation of funds for teachers and librarians. The authorization to prepay tuition for fiscal year 2025 and the approval of special education legal services expenses were among the financial decisions made. A significant part of the budget conversation revolved around Chapter 70 education funding, its connection with inflation, and the consequent impact on revenue projections.

The superintendent highlighted the challenges posed by low inflation and its effect on revenue, alongside the increase in Chapter 70 funding for fiscal year 2025. To address the gap between actual inflation and the allowed increase in education funding, the committee discussed drafting a letter in support of a bill that would adjust the inflation calculation for education funding. Moreover, the committee contemplated the use of reserve and revolving funds to maintain financial stability and support infrastructure upgrades.

The committee also reviewed bids for cafeteria supplies, with openings for bread, groceries, and milk referred to the administration for further review. Approval was granted for the Taunton High School Student Activity request, and April’s procurement card charges were accepted. The committee acknowledged the importance of ensuring paid internships for students and discussed monthly meetings with the Taunton Area School to Career Council and business partners to enhance services for young people.

Student achievements were celebrated, including recognition of eighth-grade students for their MCAS exams, a pep rally for 10th graders, the graduation of Tiger Tots, and the softball team’s ring ceremony. The committee also recognized the first student from Taunton High School to receive an award from the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators.

Furthermore, the committee expressed its intention to continue annual leadership events following positive feedback from over 200 students, and advocated for the expansion of the Junior Achievement program to middle schools after students generated profits from recycled materials.

The subcommittee on curriculum and instruction discussed student struggles with specific subjects and plans for a community impact team. While the finance and law subcommittee brought up the cafeteria bids, student activity requests, and budget updates, including special education expenses.