School Board — September 9, 2025

Public hearing to gather input on utilizing up to $40,000 from the Technology Expendable Trust Fund to purchase laptop computers. The board will vote on this withdrawal at the meeting immediately following the hearing.

Discussion of replacing COVID-era Chromebooks with new devices for 9th graders and one other grade level, moving away from bulk purchases to a more regular replacement schedule.

Board discussion about current policy covering accidental damage while families pay for deliberate damage, with consideration of tightening the policy and enforcement.

Public questions about whether operating budget funds for Chromebooks should be used before relying on trust funds, and suggestions for cart-based classroom computers instead of take-home devices.

Student reps reported on successful fall sports seasons, positive reception of bell-to-bell policy, and upcoming German exchange student program.

Reports from Harold Martin and Maple Street principals on successful school openings, new staff, facility improvements, and programs including ESY collaboration.

Recognition of the back-to-back state championship girls track team, including New England champion Maddie Lane in the 3200 meter race.

Implementation of Raptor visitor management system at schools and installation of safety gates around parking areas to protect students during outdoor activities.

Report on successful summer transition program with 90% participation, including team building activities through Brown Center grant from Public Schools Foundation. 7th graders are settling in well with positive feedback from staff.

Middle-high school is fully staffed for teachers, which is unusual across the state. Still seeking one instructional assistant position. Solved 7th grade math position through creative collaboration with elementary school.

Beginning preparation for accreditation self-study with October 10th training session. Two-year process leading to collaborative visit in October 2025 and full visit in December 2028.

High school counselors conducted 'Navigating Future' session for seniors with multiple colleges participating. Follow-up parent session scheduled for Thursday covering application process and financial aid.

Board discussion of national NAEP results showing 12th graders scored lowest in reading since 1992 and math since 2005, with only one-third graduating with college-ready skills.

Discussion of alternate pathway to graduation - currently 3 students enrolled, with one recent graduate. Communication about this option occurs with 8th graders.

Over 95% of applicants accepted to CRTC programs. Automotive program had reduced capacity due to one class closure. Students must perform well in first year to continue.

Current enrollment at 911 students as of September 5th, down 24 from last year. October 1st number will be reported to state for adequacy funding. Enrollment is dynamic with continuing additions.

Discussion of EFA impact on enrollment, noting difficulty tracking actual public school departures versus families who never used public schools. Removal of income cap creates tracking challenges.

Students attending private/religious schools can participate in district sports programs. Process involves registration through athletic director with student ID assignment for fee payment.

Board approved school board goals for 2025-2026 school year after previous discussion at retreat and August meeting. Goals will be posted on website and revisited periodically.

Extended discussion on using up to $40,000 from technology trust fund for laptop computers. Covered device management, student usage patterns, and damage prevention strategies.

Annual review shows district pay rates generally in line with market. Certified teacher subs slightly below average at $100/day vs $109-114 average. Discussion of potential loyalty incentives.

Unassigned fund balance of $519,032 will be returned to taxpayers, exceeding the $500,000 target set at annual meeting. 5% contingency fund maintained at required level.

Food service program experienced a gross loss of $126,673 for the year, with revenue down $33,000 from previous year despite higher federal reimbursements. District raised meal prices by 25 cents to address deficit.

Discussion of the 5% contingency fund operations, clarifying that while $1,077,325 was the total funding level, only about $200,000 was added as fresh capital after accounting for annual liquidation and tax relief allocation.

Business Administrator proposed new format for monthly financial reports to make them more user-friendly, clearer, and less administratively burdensome while maintaining accuracy.

District emphasized importance of families filling out free/reduced meal applications, now available online and as fillable PDFs, which helps with federal funding and various grant metrics.

Four policies were approved for final adoption: AB (Parental Bill of Rights), KI (Visitors to Schools), JFABD (Admission of Homeless Children), and JFABE (Education of Children in Foster Care).

Board approved new network administrator Alex Lock, contract extensions for occupational therapist and additional assignments for staff covering special education and math instruction needs.

Discussion of challenges finding qualified preschool teachers and formal recognition of preschool coordinator role with new stipend position for expanded case management duties.