John Tarlach

The subcommittee reviewed several policies, including those regarding student immunization, communicable diseases, administering medicines, career opportunities, student fines and fees, student records, and student photographs. Updates were recommended to align policies with MASC standards, with votes scheduled for future sessions. The subcommittee also discussed future updates to timeout procedures and pending policy reviews, including cell phone legislation.

The subcommittee reviewed several student travel policies, recommending the adoption of MASC language for policy IJOA and the retirement of policy IJOA-R. Changes were proposed to policy BEDG regarding the timeline for sharing and approving minutes to align with Open Meeting Law. The committee initiated discussions on a new cell phone policy to comply with state legislation and reviewed upcoming updates for the MJK timeout procedures policy. A 2025-2026 recap draft was also reviewed.

The subcommittee reviewed several district policies including physical examinations of students, operational goals, evaluation of operational procedures, and the legal status of the School Committee. Future business planning was discussed, including the remaining policy review schedule for the academic year, the prioritization of reviewing outdated policies chronologically based on their last update date, and planning for upcoming subcommittee meetings.

The meeting featured a presentation of the HES School Improvement Plan end-of-year report, highlighting curriculum implementation successes and challenges. The committee reviewed the use of the Open Architect data platform and STAR assessments for tracking student performance. Updates were provided on the District Improvement Plan, including restorative practices and budget successes. Additionally, the assistant superintendent reported on curriculum developments, human resources updates, school events, and community engagement. The superintendent discussed election results, recent student events like prom and the celebration, technology advisory findings, Devens Educational Advisory Committee concerns, and field maintenance projects. Liaison and subcommittee reports covered budget, policy, and charter committee activities, concluding with an executive session regarding collective bargaining strategy.

The policy subcommittee reviewed several J and K series policies. This included discussions on the Student Allergy Policy, which will be shared with the Wellness Committee, and the Student Health Services and Requirements policy, which was deemed current with no changes required. The committee also continued its work on streamlining policies regarding school ceremonies, observances, and religious holidays to improve clarity between curriculum and calendar-based practices, with final reviews and votes scheduled for a future session.