Kara Blanchard

The meeting commenced with roll call attendance confirmation, followed by a moment of silence for military service members. Committee members offered farewell remarks, thanking departing members Dr. Mark McCarthy, Donald Lamoth, Doug Gerard, and Sandra Peret for their service and dedication. The Student Advisory Council presented a proposal to create a "Teacher of the Month" program at each high school, nominated by students, with the goal of recognizing educators who go above and beyond, fostering stronger relationships between students and teachers, and setting the stage for a future Teacher of the Year selection. The Superintendent echoed thanks to the departing members and wished staff and students a restful holiday break before the 2026 portion of the school year.

The key discussion centered on the Preferred Schematic Report (PSR) for the Anna E. Berry Elementary School project, which evaluated five design alternatives (A1, A2, A4, B3, and D3). The meeting included updates on project timelines leading to a potential MSBA board meeting approval on February 25, 2026. The commission also reviewed and approved two invoices from Collier for professional services rendered through October 31, 2025, and November 30, 2025, totaling $18,815.60 and $25,973.40, respectively. The Owner's Project Manager update detailed the schedule for submissions to the MSBA and subsequent facilities assessment meetings. The designer update presented a detailed comparison of the five design alternatives, focusing on square footage, costs, programmatic support, traffic implications, and site considerations (including parkland status and wetlands discovery). Design alternative B3, proposing a new school on the Zatella site and demolition of the existing Berry School, was selected as the preferred schematic due to it being the least expensive option that fully supports the district's vision and resolves long-standing traffic issues at both sites.

The meeting included public announcements by school committee members and the superintendent, covering topics such as sidewalk maintenance during winter, school safety protocols, and congratulations to Chap Comp for winning the sword. A presentation was given on the use of body cameras by school resource officers, addressing concerns about privacy and data retention. The committee also discussed personnel actions, professional development opportunities for staff, and revisions to various policies, including those related to electronic devices, fundraising, and visitors to schools. Additionally, the committee approved bills and warrants, with one member abstaining due to a conflict of interest.

The meeting included a personnel action report with new hires, resignations, and retirements. Warrants were approved, totaling just under $4 million, along with a payment for the Massachusetts Association of School Committee's annual dues. The 2025 to 2026 Students Rights and Responsibilities Handbook was also approved.

The meeting included public announcements by committee members, where condolences were shared and upcoming events were highlighted. Public input addressed concerns about respect for educators, staff safety, and the need for fair and living wages. Speakers emphasized the importance of a health and safety committee and advocated for better allocation of educational funding. The committee also discussed the fiscal year 2026 budget and personnel actions.