Michael Bowlby

The meeting included several agenda items, such as reviewing a Grade 7 out-of-state field trip request, which was subsequently withdrawn due to insufficient interest. The committee conducted second and third readings for multiple policy updates, including Educational Equity, Access to Buildings and Grounds, School Food and Nutrition, Graduation Requirements, and Student Fund-Raising Activities, among others. The Superintendent provided updates on activities at Holbrook Middle-High School and John F. Kennedy Elementary School, noting parent-teacher conferences. A major focus was the Public Hearing for the Proposed FY27 Budget, which requested an appropriation of $19,251,104, representing a 6% increase, citing expanding special education services, increased staffing for English Learners, and escalating transportation expenses as key needs. The committee also voted to support the proposed FY27 budget and approved the third readings of the listed policies.

The meeting agenda included the review of the FY26 School Department Operational Expenditure Report, Payroll Expenditure Report, and Schedule of Warrants Paid. Field trip requests for DECA district and state competitions were discussed and later approved. The committee also conducted the first reading of Policy JJB regarding Educational Equity, second readings for several policies including access to buildings, meal modifications, community use of facilities, graduation requirements, competency determination, fundraising, parent advisory councils, visitors, staff gifts, and relations with booster organizations, and the third reading of Policy EEAA concerning walkers and riders. The Superintendent reported on district-wide progress in social-emotional learning, professional development, student acceptance events, and the ongoing creation of a new 4-year strategic plan with DESE. The Curriculum Director presented MCAS results, showing moderate progress toward improvement targets. Financial reports were reviewed with no concerns, and new personnel hires and one resignation were noted. The Firewall Discussion, required for the e-rate program, was held with no public input. The naming subcommittee reported on the dedication of the Phyllis Tanner Media Center and plans for a community survey regarding future naming considerations.

The Holbrook School Committee meeting included updates on senior events, field trips, sports, new exploratory classes, and upcoming PSATs. The committee welcomed the new Holbrook Middle-High School Assistant Principal. The Superintendent reported on district-wide professional development and the creation of a new strategic plan. The committee discussed and approved a donation of two drum sets and a monetary donation for school supplies. An out-of-state field trip request for the Student Television Network Convention was approved pending additional information. The annual appointment of the Superintendent to the North River Collaborative board of directors was also approved.

This document outlines the fiscal management goals for Holbrook Public Schools, emphasizing the Committee's role as a trustee of funds to achieve district educational objectives. The plan prioritizes the educational program in all resource allocation decisions. Key goals include equitable fund allocation for maximum educational returns, thorough advance planning with staff and community involvement for budget development, advocating for funding levels that support high-quality education, utilizing best techniques for budget development and management, and providing timely and appropriate information to the community.

The document outlines the school system's overarching goal to develop each child into a confident, participatory, continuous learner, and meaningful contributor to society. This is supported by five key objectives: ensuring proficiency in basic academic skills, developing the capacity to recognize and cope with an unknown future, fostering meaningful interpersonal relationships among students, staff, and community, and maximizing efficiency in the allocation of both material and human resources.