The meeting began with the committee’s approval of the implementation of the “Pass Program,” an electronic pass system designed to streamline student movement and reduce classroom interruptions. The system, piloted in the previous year, allows students to record their passes using iPads, moving away from the traditional pencil-and-paper methods. This program aims to enhance safety and track student movements more effectively, thereby minimizing disruptions during instructional time. The electronic system will help identify patterns in student movement and discipline, enabling staff to monitor frequent absences from classrooms more effectively. Despite some concerns about the strictness of the school’s policies, particularly regarding student movement, the committee emphasized the necessity of maintaining order to foster a conducive learning environment.

Following the discussion on the pass system, the committee approved the School Improvement Plan for the 2024-2025 school year. The business manager presented the year-end variance report alongside a transfer request, detailing the financial adjustments necessary to balance the budget before the annual state reporting. Unexpectedly large grants received during the fiscal year contributed to budgetary flexibility, allowing for the reallocation of funds for supplies and equipment. A surplus in health insurance lines, attributed to a lower-than-expected increase in health insurance rates and decreased usage, also played a role in the budget surplus. This led to a discussion on the accuracy of budgeting estimates, with the business manager confirming that favorable conditions resulted in substantial savings.

In her report, Superintendent Maureen Lynch highlighted several personnel actions and the approval of the budget as of June 30 by all communities. She detailed her involvement in several initiatives, including a free MCAS summer program that served approximately 150 students, offering skills in English, math, and biology. Additionally, she participated in remote meetings related to Early College opportunities with Northern Essex Community College and efforts to develop a new website and app for the school. Superintendent Lynch also reported her attendance at the Skills USA competition in Atlanta, where Nathaniel Shrimo won a second National Gold Medal in electronics.

The committee also discussed the number of Co-op students, with approximately 387 students placed in Co-op positions throughout the community, a significant increase compared to previous years. This was attributed to a high demand for employment opportunities and the attractiveness of the students participating in Co-op programs.

In the realm of policy, the committee addressed the scheduling of subcommittee meetings. While the executive committee noted no immediate meetings were required, they anticipated convening once bids for legal services came in. Discussions also included the approval of several policies during their second and final reading, such as those related to electronic messaging by school committee members and the school nutrition program. Additionally, the policy committee introduced a first reading for a new public comment policy, outlining the process for submitting written comments to be read during meetings.

A recommendation was made for the approval of Nicole Malloy as the new school nurse, effective August 26, requiring a suspension of the rules to allow for the motion. This motion passed, followed by another motion to approve the appointment of the school nurse.