Elizabeth Black

The meeting commenced with an approval of the agenda. Key discussion points centered on updates regarding the Innovation Career Pathways (ICP) programs, which aim to prepare students for future careers. Updates included the success of a recent wellness fair hosted by the Midmok School Counseling Center despite boiler issues, and a recognition for the athletic director being named Massachusetts Athletic Director of the Year. Student comments highlighted fundraising efforts by the cancer club and ongoing college decision announcements. The presentation on ICP programs detailed existing pathways (Information Technology, Marketing, Finance) and the addition of two new pathways: Environmental Science and Healthcare. Discussions covered student involvement, authentic experiences like the cyber range visit and collaboration with local services (Upton Fire and EMS), industry-related credentialing (e.g., Microsoft Office certifications, CPR, OSHA), and the new ninth-grade exploratory program designed to introduce all students to the options before course selection.

The meeting agenda was approved, followed by the approval of previous minutes. Key discussion topics included the School Committee Chair's comments and student comments, which highlighted student artwork, an upcoming Best Buddy movie night, and activities from the welcome back week. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to Superintendent and Administrative reports, specifically celebrating the recognition of Chris Schmidt as the Massachusetts Athletic Director of the Year by MSSADA. Furthermore, the administration provided an update on the strategic plan goal concerning the district's rebranding and mascot transition, which involves phasing out Native American imagery and collaborating with the Nipmuc people to select a new, unified mascot and brand identity in time for new field complex upgrades. Updates were also given on reviewing secondary schedules to align dates and better support collaboration and student services, and participation in the Peak Partnership for Educators Advancing AI Knowledge cohort.

The school committee meeting included discussions and presentations on various topics. The agenda included recognition of the girls' soccer team, a presentation by the elementary school newspaper club, student representatives' reports on academic achievements and upcoming events, and a proposal for an out-of-state field trip to the Amazon. The superintendent provided updates on strategic priorities, including co-teaching and counseling initiatives, and announced a water-wise garden grant. The meeting also highlighted district events such as a literacy night and school assemblies.

The meeting included recognition of school psychologists during National School Psychologist Week. Elementary school students presented the student council's expectations pledge, focusing on safety, being on task, acting kindly and respectfully, and being responsible. The Active Minds club promoted mental health awareness through a spirit week, and sophomores and juniors took the PSAT. The English department won the Halloween contest with a Barbie feet costume. The class of 2026 is hosting a Jolly Holiday Vendor and Craft Fair, partnering with the Best Buddies Club for a food drive. The senior class requested approval for a trip to Brownstone Sports and Adventure Park. An elementary school improvement plan was presented, covering deeper learning, high-quality curriculum instruction, equity, inclusion, and well-being.

The meeting included approval of agenda and minutes from previous meetings. There was a presentation from Memorial Elementary students about the ELA pilot curriculum, where students shared their experiences with American Reading Company and Core Knowledge Language Arts. The school committee student representative provided updates on welcoming the pound clerk, DECA cabinet members visiting the state house, and the girls' soccer team winning in the semi-finals. The committee discussed and approved the transportation contract extension with Telstone, including reduced pricing. The superintendent provided a report highlighting high-quality instructional materials and the decision week for piloting materials.