Tess Jarvis

The meeting included deliberation and a vote on the appointment of the next Superintendent of the Auburn Public Schools, effective July 1, 2026. Committee members discussed the qualifications of three final candidates, focusing on attributes such as collaboration, transparency, student engagement, and leadership experience. Following the discussion, a motion was made and approved to appoint Candidate A, subject to contract negotiations. The successful candidate subsequently accepted the offer during a brief recess. The committee then voted unanimously to adjourn into executive session to begin negotiations with nonunion personnel.

The meeting included the appointment of Dr. Robert Skaza as the new Superintendent of the Auburn Public Schools, subject to contract negotiations, and a discussion acknowledging the outgoing Superintendent. The committee reviewed and approved the FY'27 school year calendar, which included an adjustment for the Juneteenth federal holiday celebration. Key discussions on the FY27 Budget Draft focused on future required votes, and the committee reviewed the 2024-2025 DESE Report on Staff Attendance, noting concerns about how leaves might skew the data. Furthermore, representatives for the Secretary, Custodian, and Instructional Assistant bargaining team negotiations were approved, and Policy IKFE regarding Competency Determination was formally approved after its third reading.

The meeting included a student representative report highlighting recent school events. The committee discussed and approved a partnership with Pakachoag Music School to provide private music lessons at Auburn High School. Policy updates were tabled for additional information. The committee reviewed applications for a Student School Committee Member and appointed a candidate. They also declared surplus materials from the Food Service Department. The committee approved applying for earmark funding for a vehicle purchase and reviewed the Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy. A budget transfer was also approved.

The committee convened to review candidates, referring to them by assigned numbers, and discussed opinions on who should be brought forward for an interview. A motion was made and approved to bring forward candidates #2, #7, #11, #14, and #21 for interviews. The committee decided on the communication strategy for both successful and unsuccessful candidates, with a specific exception to hold off on notifying candidates #15 and #19, pending the outcome of initial interviews.

The school committee meeting included presentations and discussions on the FY27 budget, covering topics such as strategic plans, priorities, enrollment trends, special education, staffing impacts, and budget considerations. Administrators presented their budget expectations and changes in line items, focusing on areas like technology, facilities, pupil services, and curriculum. The committee also discussed policies, financial reports, and collaborative programs with other educational institutions. Concerns were raised about potential budget cuts and the impact of federal funding.