The Scituate School Committee opened its February session with a heartfelt plea from the community regarding stagnant wages for district substitutes. Richard Aaron, a substitute teacher for four years, shared his appreciation for the students while highlighting that pay hasn’t increased during his tenure. I've been a substitute teacher since I retired four years ago... it's been the best four years in terms of work of my life, Aaron told the committee, before noting, as subs we're not getting paid a dime more than it was four years ago. Interim Superintendent Thomas Raab acknowledged the concern, stating that while paraprofessional and nurse salaries were corrected last year, I think our daily subs are next on the list. It's certainly top of mind that it's something that we have to do. Chairperson Nicole Brandolini agreed that the current $110 daily rate bears overview as the district researches regional costs.

Following public comment, the committee turned its attention to the FY27 budget and ongoing safety concerns at the First Parish and Route 3A crossing. Carey Borkoski emphasized the need for a crossing guard in the area, stating, I just wanted to mention it as we go through budget approval that that's something that still kind of exists for us. It's a safety issue. Peter Gates inquired about the logistics of the role, asking, Are they employees of the police department? Raab confirmed that while they are technically police employees, he would coordinate with the Chief to see what options might be available, though the cost would likely fall outside the school department budget. Motion Made by M. Fenwick that the school committee vote to approve the FY27 proposed budget at 55 million 29 thousand 61 as presented. Vote Passed 5-0.

Assistant Superintendent Ryan Lynch provided a teaching and learning update, noting that mid-year benchmark assessments for grades K-5 are complete. Lynch highlighted that the district is refining how data is shared with parents, admitting, We recognize that one of the reports from the fall was not as simple to read as could have been. So we've made that improvement. During a subsequent review of "Section C" administration policies, the committee compared local standards against Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) guidelines. Maria Fenwick advocated for updating vague language regarding superintendent evaluations, asking, Why would we not just update the policy? to reflect current practices. Janice Lindblom supported the idea of creating a more predictable annual calendar for such tasks, noting, I think even just having that checklist and knowing we'll never be opening new schools frequently would help maintain consistency during committee transitions.

The meeting concluded with a celebratory student report featuring the high school’s production of "Mean Girls" and the success of the Model UN team. The committee also formally accepted a generous contribution to a district program. Motion Made by J. Lindblom that the school committee vote to accept the gift from Cassie and George Tibo for the amount of $2,520 with a great. Vote Passed 5-0. Brandolini reminded residents that a critical redistricting meeting is scheduled for February 25th at the Performing Arts Center, adding that she is hoping the AI news picks this up to ensure maximum community turnout. The meeting was adjourned at 6:42.