Harvard Public School District

The meeting involves an executive session dedicated to discussing collective bargaining strategy with the HTA, specifically regarding the potential impact of an open meeting on the bargaining position of the school committee.

The committee meeting addressed the appointment of a new assistant superintendent and reviewed the FY26 budget. Key actions included approving the purchase of a new school dishwasher, extending the bus contract for one year, and extending the food service management contract with Whitson's Culinary Group, with an emphasis on required performance improvements. Discussions also covered the Student Advisory Council report, district technology initiatives, the status of vape detector funding, HVAC project timelines, and recent community-engaging school events. Furthermore, the committee approved specific policy updates, accepted a new cultural food club, and processed reimbursements for student clubs. Subcommittee reports included updates on policy planning, Devens jurisdiction discussions, and transportation advisory activities.

The committee held a public hearing for the FY27 budget, noting key staffing adjustments and financial challenges. Other business included a report from the Student Advisory Council, the approval of a tree planting grant proposal for HES, and the formal approval of contracts for the MSBA HVAC project. The committee also reviewed and approved a revised 2026-27 school calendar and several field trip and grant requests. Reports were provided by the Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent, covering areas such as staff evaluations, professional development planning, facility repairs, and ongoing project updates. The meeting concluded with reports from various subcommittees and an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy.

The committee reviewed and approved the Bromfield High School Program of Studies for the upcoming year, which includes a new AP English Language course. The FY27 budget was finalized with a request for an override to the town. Discussions were held regarding school choice openings for the 2026-2027 school year, and a new reading specialist job description was approved. The committee received updates on the MSBA HVAC and roofing project, the Assistant Superintendent search process, and district-wide professional development. Additionally, the committee reviewed and approved several policies, accepted a grant from the Harvard Schools Trust, and entered into an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy.

The policy subcommittee discussed several student-related policies, including JKAA concerning restraint of students, JICH regarding drug and alcohol use, and JJF for student activity accounts. The subcommittee also reviewed the JICFB bullying prevention policy and its related intervention plan, as well as the JL student welfare policy. Further policy discussions were scheduled for future meetings, including topics such as student allergy policies, health services, religious holidays, physical examinations, and field trips.