Rebecca Ann Duda

The subcommittee discussed the Maintenance of Effort update for the 2025-2026 school year and reviewed the development of the 2026-2027 budget. Key topics included the status of the Memorandum of Agreement with the City, projections for health insurance and transportation cost increases, contractual salary obligations, and an update on the Governor's FY26 budget allocation. Additionally, the committee addressed questions regarding School Resource Officer funding responsibilities and the alignment of the City's cash contributions with rising district requirements.

This document outlines the goals and objectives for a Facilities Master Plan Study for Lowell Public Schools, aimed at addressing current and projected overcrowding in PK-8 schools and the High School, and resolving deferred repair and maintenance needs. Key strategic priorities include optimizing operational organization through student enrollment projections, preferred class and school sizes, grade configuration changes (e.g., K-5, 6-8, 9-12), and providing adequate space for special needs and early childhood programs, while also considering sustainability and ongoing facility investment. The plan also focuses on improving physical spaces by designing for family engagement, enhancing dedicated Special Education areas, considering multiple high school location options, resolving classroom overcrowding with 21st-century flexible learning environments, and upgrading safety, security, and technology infrastructure. Various preliminary alternatives and potential site opportunities for new constructions and renovations are explored for both PK-8 and high school facilities.

Lowell 2030 is a strategic plan that outlines the future direction for Lowell Public Schools. The plan emphasizes collective action, collaboration, and empowerment to achieve success. Key areas of focus include ensuring equitable access to high-quality education for all students, addressing disparities in academic outcomes, particularly for English language learners and students with disabilities, improving graduation rates and college readiness, and fostering a safe and welcoming school environment that promotes inclusion and respect for diverse cultures and languages. The plan highlights the importance of strong communication, family involvement, and a supportive learning community.

This document outlines an updated asbestos management plan for the Edith Nourse Rogers School, detailing the re-inspection and condition assessment of asbestos-containing building materials (ACBM). It ensures compliance with AHERA regulations by specifying protocols for ACBM response actions including removal, repair, encapsulation, enclosure, and a continuous Operation & Maintenance (O&M) program. The plan delineates responsibilities for the Local Education Agency in record-keeping, training, and public notification, alongside outlining safe work practices to mitigate health and environmental risks from asbestos exposure.

The Lowell Public Schools strategic plan, 'Lowell 2030,' aims to transform education and empower every learner over the next five years. It seeks to build a dynamic school district where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking flourish, preparing students to be lifelong learners and global contributors. The plan is built upon four core priorities: ensuring rigorous and relevant education in every classroom, establishing safe and welcoming schools, developing an exceptional and diverse workforce, and implementing supportive and efficient operational systems.