Cynthia A. Basteri

The committee conducted an interview with the candidate for the position of Superintendent of Schools. Following the interview and subsequent deliberation, the committee voted to offer the position to the candidate, pending acceptance and successful contract negotiation. Additionally, information regarding upcoming school sports events was shared.

The committee meeting covered student representative updates on various high school clubs, homecoming, and athletic seasons, including a special recognition for the success of the golf team. Additionally, a student was recognized as the MIAA student athlete of the month for his academic and extracurricular accomplishments. The Food and Nutrition Services department presented information on National School Lunch Week, the upcoming Junior Kitchen Explorer program, and efforts to increase student engagement with nutritious meals.

The meeting primarily focused on recognizing student achievements across various areas. Key acknowledgments included honoring high school athletes and MCAS award recipients, as well as acknowledging students who achieved academic excellence in sports like football and cheerleading through the TYF/AYFC scholarship program (maintaining a 96% average or higher). Additionally, the committee recognized the Tewksbury Redmond Fourth Grade Tackle Football Team for an undefeated, perfect season and their Massachusetts State Championship. The Girls Varsity Volleyball Team was also recognized for being ranked number one in Division Three and reaching the state semifinals. Finally, several students from grades 3-8 were honored for exceeding expectations on the MCAS tests in subject areas including English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science, with special recognition for students achieving perfect scores on one or more tests.

The Special School Committee Meeting focused on the New Superintendent Search timeline and feedback collection, including stakeholder surveys and listening sessions with union leadership and district administrators. The discussion centered on organizing collected data into a draft Leadership Profile for the next Superintendent, covering four standards: Instructional Leadership, Management and Operations, Family and Community Engagement, and Professional Culture. The committee debated four search options and ultimately voted to move forward with posting the position internally, setting the proposed salary range at $195,000-$205,000 and establishing a timeline for posting the job in February 2026, applicant screening, and subsequent public interviews.

The School Committee Meeting facilitated a discussion where members presented a slide with a QR code directing citizens to a questionnaire. The primary topic involved compiling a profile for the desired next Superintendent based on the questionnaire results and previous meetings, focusing on necessary experience and strong leadership skills. A citizen in attendance specifically requested that the new Superintendent possess significant experience and potentially focus on restoring greater library access for students.