The Scituate School Committee opened its latest session by welcoming Scituate High School senior Luke Donlin as the student representative for the 2025-2026 school year. Member Peter Gates introduced Donlin, noting that the committee sought a student with an "interest in government, whether it be local government or US government," to provide regular updates. Donlin shared that the school year is off to a strong start with 55% of students participating in fall sports and the implementation of the new MTSS initiative to support at-risk students. SHS is focused on student leadership, with Donlin noting that mentor groups are working "to help support incoming freshman students" as they transition into the high school environment.

The committee spent significant time refining the 2025-2026 meeting calendar, specifically adjusting dates to accommodate Rosh Hashanah and the town's budget cycle. Member Janice Lindblom raised concerns regarding the density of the February schedule, asking, "Is that budget? That’s why I want the week of the ninth," to ensure the public has ample time to digest financial information before final votes. Interim Superintendent Thomas Raab clarified the timeline, noting that the committee must present to the Select Board and Advisory Committee shortly after their local deliberations. Motion Made by Peter Gates to vote to approve the school committee calendar for 25/26 as amended. Vote Passed 5-0

Long-standing district traditions were upheld as the committee approved the 37th annual sixth-grade outdoor education trip to Camp Wannale. A representative for the program noted that while there were rumors of the camp being sold, they are "very fortunate to continue our relationship" for the upcoming season, providing students with science and social-emotional learning opportunities. Member Carey Borkoski spoke in favor of the excursion, stating, "I was pleasantly surprised to see it again." Motion Made by Carey Borkoski that the school committee vote to approve the instate field trip to Camp Warndale for team A on 4/27/26 to 5/1/2026 and team B 5/4/2026 to 5/8/2026 as presented. Vote Passed 5-0

Staffing challenges took center stage during a request to increase pay for substitute nurses from a flat $140 daily rate to a more competitive $35 per hour. Nursing and Health Services Department Chair Kelly Bell explained that the district has lost several substitutes because the pay was not "competitive with the role requires and demands." Chair Nicole Brandolini questioned how the district would market this change, asking, "Will folks be notified? They only know that our pay is increased when they go to apply." Bell assured the committee she would promote the new rate through regional networks and local newsletters to recruit community members. Motion Made by Carey Borkoski that the school committee vote to approve the nurse pay rate as presented. Vote Passed 5-0

The meeting concluded with the acceptance of several generous donations, including $1,000 from Coastal Heritage Bank for the METCO HBCU tour. Motion Made by Maria Fenwick that we approve the $1,000 donation from the Coastal Heritage Bank for the MECO HBCU trip. Vote Passed 5-0 Additionally, Michael Tempo of the EXL program presented donations totaling $4,460 for a student trip to Disney World, noting that such support "empowers our students to grow independence, confidence, and community engagement." Motion Made by Carey Borkoski that the school committee vote to approve $2,960 and $1,000 and $500 donation for the EXL Walt Disney trip as presented. Vote Passed 5-0 Vice Chair Maria Fenwick noted that the district will soon receive more formal updates on the middle school schedule and curriculum as the year progresses.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:43.