Jessica Johnston

The meeting included an executive session to discuss collective bargaining updates for secretaries, aides, and custodial staff. The committee conducted an organizational meeting and reviewed action items regarding the meeting schedule, the fee schedule for the upcoming academic year, and custodial services. Additionally, the agenda featured presentations on student government, the introduction of a new assistant principal, a robotics team update, reports from the School Building Committee, and a review of special education annual determinations.

The document outlines the Norwell Public Schools' Strategic Plan, which commenced its first year of implementation during the 2025-2026 school year. The plan focuses on major work in instruction, student support systems, and facilities planning. Key priorities include district-wide professional development on Universal Design for Learning, refining the Norwell Tiered System of Supports (academic and social-emotional), and continued collaboration with the Massachusetts School Building Authority as the High School project enters its Feasibility Study phase.

The agenda for the meeting covers an executive session regarding collective bargaining strategy with the Education Association of Norwell Secretaries and Aides, the signing of warrants, and the annual board appointment for the South Shore Education Collaborative. Further discussions include a presentation from the student government representative, an update on the FY'27 budget and town meeting, the review of the 3rd quarter FY'26 budget report, the proposal of the 2026-2027 school committee meeting schedule, and the opportunity for public comment.

The Norwell Public Schools' 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, approved on May 19, 2025, is a five-year roadmap designed to guide the district's future direction. It focuses on four key strategic areas: Teaching and Learning, which aims to create rigorous and relevant learning experiences; Safety, Belonging, and Well-Being, dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive environment; Learning Opportunities, designed to enhance knowledge and foster innovation; and Finance, Facilities, and Human Capital, which promotes collaboration for funding, facilities, and staff recruitment. The plan seeks to empower students to be versatile, innovative, and responsible citizens, prepared for a dynamic global society.

Norwell Public Schools is initiating the creation of a new five-year Strategic Plan, partnering with the Teaching and Learning Alliance. This process will involve comprehensive engagement with students, parents, staff, administration, and community leaders through focus groups and surveys to identify strengths, challenges, and opportunities. The plan aims to establish a clear mission, core values, and vision, define action plans with strategic objectives and initiatives, and focus on continuous improvement and systemic renewal for the district.