Mary Houle

Key discussions during this meeting included the acceptance of a consent agenda covering warrants for payment, and the acceptance of a donated Yamaha trumpet for the Music Department. The committee reviewed the first reading of two policies: the Medication Administration Policy, revised due to a state regulation concerning nurses administering medication across state lines, and the Health and Wellness Policy, which aims to support dietary habits, promote wellness behaviors, and increase physical activity opportunities. The committee also reviewed the first reading of the addition of SORI and DCF background checks. Financial adjustments included the transfer of monies to cover extensive weekend snow removal costs and the transfer of funds related to a student moving from out-of-district tuition to local special education tutoring. In continuing business, the committee voted to accept Calendar #4 after receiving feedback from the Granby Education Association representatives. The Superintendent provided updates on the strategic plan initiatives covering instruction, safe/supportive schools, communication, and systems/structures. The Finance & Operations report covered building maintenance, communication with town officials regarding Chapter 70 funding, and a review of the Governor's budget. The committee entered an executive session to discuss strategy related to collective bargaining for Unit A.

The meeting included votes to approve warrants and the consent agenda minutes from December 16, 2025. New business featured a presentation on the High School Incentive Program, which the Chairperson requested be presented by students at the next meeting. Changes to the GJSHS Handbook were discussed, with an update to the Chemical Health Policy approved by removing a paragraph regarding breathalyzer and urinalysis, while changes related to Special Education and Physical Restraint Procedures were tabled pending state approval. The committee also voted to approve wording changes to the Bullying Policy. Discussions covered the SY26-27 Calendar, including polling the union for recommendations and confirming observance of MLK Day and Juneteenth, and a potential Open Meeting Law training. Continuing business involved discussing outdoor lighting upgrades and input prioritization for the upcoming budget hearing, focusing on School Safety and Social/Emotional Learning. Subcommittee reports included discussions on SORI/DCF background checks and positive budget outlooks, though delays in receiving town financial information impacted the year-end report submission.

The meeting agenda included an Executive Session to discuss strategy concerning collective bargaining or litigation, as declaring an open meeting could negatively impact the public body's position. The open session topics included consent agenda items, visitor's comments, and reports. New business featured a presentation on an Incentive Program for the High School and votes on proposed changes to the GJSHS Handbook regarding the Code of Conduct for Special Education, Chemical Health Policy, and Physical Restraint and Behavior Support Procedures. Discussions were also scheduled regarding the SY26-27 Calendar options and potential training on the Open Meeting Law. Continuing business covered discussions on outdoor lighting and a Budget Hearing Question Form.

The meeting included the approval of warrants and a discussion concerning outdoor lighting in the parking lots following complaints about brightness and angle, especially near areas that experienced prior slips and falls. The Building Commissioner advised that the LED lights need shielding or directional adjustment. The Committee also conducted a first read and subsequent votes on several policies, including the Graduation Policy (IKF) and the Competency Determination Policy (IKFE), while voting to remove the policy IKFAB related to MCAS passing requirements. Financial actions included approving a payment for a training invoice for the Superintendent and approving a monetary transfer from Instructional Materials to Main Office Supplies for the purchase of walkie-talkies and related equipment. The Budget Hearing question form was also discussed, with plans to increase public feedback via newsletters and communications.

The school committee discussed and voted on several key items, including a co-op with South Hadley for Boys Lacrosse, the GEA Sick Bank Representative, and Subcommittee Reorganization for Evaluation. The Superintendent's Report covered topics such as licensure for staff with DESE, the Name the Snow Plow Contest, MCAS policy changes, and MCAS results. The Finance & Operations Report included a draft of the FY27 Budget Calendar and discussions on informing the community about the budget hearing.