Kathleen M Castriano

This document, presented as a community forum, outlines the progress and future steps in the Statement of Interest (SOI) process to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) for the Locke Middle School. It details the existing facility conditions, highlighting significant deficiencies across site civil, exterior, electrical, fire alarm, accessibility, and mechanical systems. The presentation then introduces strategic considerations for the future, including assessing a centralized middle school campus, evaluating a modern replacement for Locke School, reviewing grade 8 placement, investigating flexible grade-level configurations, and exploring innovative facility models to address infrastructure, demographic shifts, and the broader needs of the Billerica community.

The presentation covers the FY25 budget for Billerica Public Schools. Key discussion points include current enrollment, high need subgroups, race/ethnicity demographics, and college & career readiness. The budget development process, including a line-by-line analysis, partnership with CLA, and zero-based budgeting strategies, is highlighted. The presentation also details the school committee-approved budget, considerations and assumptions, new positions/expenses, reductions/new revenue, main expense categories such as salaries, facilities & operations, special education out of district placements, and transportation. It also touches on contractual wage increases for union employees and the circuit breaker program.

The Billerica School Committee held a regular meeting where they discussed various topics. A student spotlight was presented by Locke Middle School, and updates were given by the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent, including information on homeless education and a facilities study. The committee discussed proposed policies and BPS School Handbooks, aiming for consistency across schools. They also reviewed and approved School Committee Goals. The meeting adjourned to an executive session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy.

The presentation to the School Committee covered middle school sports, the athletics budget, and an overview of BMHS athletics. Topics included the history of competitive traveling teams in BPS, the impact of budget constraints on middle school sports, and an alternative proposal for middle school spring sports in 2025. The BPS athletics budget was discussed, including sources of funding such as the general fund, athletic revolving account, and athletics fundraising. The BMHS Athletic Association's role in supporting the athletic program was also highlighted.

The Billerica School Committee held a regular meeting where they discussed various topics. The committee adjourned into executive session to discuss negotiations with nonunion personnel. The consent agenda was approved, including meeting minutes, bills, budget transfers, field trips, donations, and acknowledgement of Valley Collaborative's Quarter 2 Report. The Superintendent provided updates on the Safe Routes to School program and the Great Kindness Challenge. The Student Government representative shared information about a successful SPAC event and the upcoming Robotics Season. The committee recommended the hire of a Director of Finance and Operations. The Superintendent's proposed FY26 budget was presented and discussed. Proposed policies were approved, and the committee recapped their visit to Locke Middle School. Sub-committee updates were provided.