Amherst-Pelham Regional School District public meetings in 2023
79 substantive meetings from 2023, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Amherst School Committee
The Committee will review an update on the iReady Classroom Math curriculum for K-5 students and discuss moving 6th grade students to ARMS. Members will also vote on Superintendent goals for the 2023-2024 school year and a motion to accept gifts.
- Vote to approve 2023-2024 Superintendent Goals
- Math Curriculum Update: iReady Classroom Math in Amherst-Pelham K-5
- Discussion regarding 6th Grade Move to ARMS
- Elementary School Building Committee update
- Motion to accept gifts
4 Towns Meeting
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District's 4 Towns Meeting is an informational session where officials will present draft FY25 expense projections, revenue and assessment projections, and a capital plan proposal with related debt. Attendees will have an opportunity for feedback and questions. The meeting is largely informational, with the only formal action being a motion to adjourn.
- FY25 draft level-service budget presented for information
- FY25 revenue and assessment projections discussed
- FY25 capital plan proposal and related debt presented
- Public feedback and questions on budget items
- Meeting held virtually for the four member towns
Subcommittee for a New Superintendent
The subcommittee is meeting to discuss the process for hiring a new superintendent. Discussion topics include the search timeline, job posting content, stakeholder meetings, and a contract.
- Welcome guests from McPherson & Jacobson executive search firm
- Discussion of superintendent search timeline
- Discussion of job posting content
- Discussion of holding stakeholder meetings
- Discussion of contract
School Equity Advisory Committee
The School Equity Advisory Committee will discuss its future direction and receive an update on the RJ working group. Members will also discuss handbook findings and learn about district equity audits and bullying form protocols.
- Discussion on committee direction
- RJ working group update
- Discussion of handbook findings
- Information on district equity audits
- Review of bullying form protocols
Joint Amherst-Pelham Regional and Union 26 School Committee
The joint Amherst-Pelham Regional and Union 26 School Committee will meet to discuss and possibly vote on appointing an interim finance director, new ARHS courses, and a tabled motion on debt authorization for the track and field project. They will also receive updates on the superintendent search, bullying/harassment data, and a sabbatical request. Public comments are accepted until 3:00 PM on December 19, 2023.
- Appointment of interim finance director (possible vote)
- New courses for Program of Studies at ARHS, including Advanced Engineering and Design
- Tabled motion regarding debt authorization for track and field project (possible vote)
- Sabbatical request for John Bechtold for SY24-25
- Bullying/harassment report update
Policy Subcommittee Meeting
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District Policy Subcommittee is meeting virtually to discuss and review a draft hiring policy and an amended IGA (Intergovernmental Agreement) on curriculum development and instructional program evaluation. The meeting also includes public comment and planning for future agenda items. No final decisions are listed; items are marked as discussions.
- Review of Hiring Policy Draft
- Review of Amended IGA: Curriculum Development and Instructional Program Evaluation
- Public comment period
- Future meeting agenda planning
Subcommittee for a New Superintendent
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District's Subcommittee for a New Superintendent is meeting virtually to discuss the superintendent search process. They will review the contract with McPherson & Jacobson search firm, approve minutes from prior meetings, and finalize the search committee interest form, outreach plan, and superintendent job posting. The job posting will be recommended to the Regional and Union 26 School Committees for input to the search firm.
- Review contract with McPherson & Jacobson search firm
- Approve minutes from October 25, November 14, and November 21, 2023 meetings
- Finalize Search Committee Interest Form
- Finalize Search Committee Outreach Plan
- Finalize Superintendent Job Posting
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee met on December 5, 2023, and approved changes to Policy BDA, the Superintendent Goals for the 2023-24 school year, and accepted gifts. The committee also discussed the Four Towns Meeting, enrollment data, and the first look at the 24-25 budget and capital plan.
- Approved changes to Policy BDA: School Committees: Committee Organizational Meeting
- Approved Superintendent Goals for the 23-24 school year
- Accepted gifts (amounts not specified)
- Discussed enrollment data (Oct 1 Pelham School Enroll SIMS)
- Discussed first look at 24-25 budget and capital
Policy Subcommittee Meeting
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District Policy Subcommittee is meeting virtually to discuss the hiring process policy per DESE recommendations and the curriculum selection policy. The meeting also includes planning for future agendas and standard procedural items.
- Hiring Process Policy Review/Development per DESE Recommendations
- Curriculum Selection Policy
- Future Meeting Agenda Planning
Joint Amherst-Pelham Regional & Union 26 School Committees
The joint Amherst-Pelham Regional and Union 26 School Committees will meet to discuss and possibly vote on the superintendent search, receive updates on the track and field project and ARMS principal search, and consider forming a subcommittee on investigative reports. The meeting includes procedural items like approving minutes and accepting public comments.
- Update, discussion, and possible vote on new superintendent search (RFP-2024-R-02)
- Track and Field Project Update
- ARMS Principal Search Update
- Discussion on proposed subcommittee regarding investigative reports
- Motion to accept gifts
CANCELED Amherst School Committee
This meeting of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School District's Amherst School Committee was canceled. The agenda included routine procedural items such as approval of minutes, public comment, superintendent and chair updates, future agenda planning, a warrant report, and acceptance of gifts. No substantive decisions or discussions are scheduled.
- Meeting canceled
- Public comment via email, text, or voicemail by 3:00 PM on meeting date
- Acceptance of gifts (action item)
- Warrant report (information item)
Superintendent Search Planning Subcommittee of the Regional and Union 26 School Committees
The Superintendent Search Planning Subcommittee is meeting to review and rate proposals submitted in response to a request for proposals (RFP) for a superintendent search firm. They will discuss the bids and determine which ones to recommend to the Regional School Committee and Union 26 Committee. This is a discussion and recommendation step, not a final decision.
- Review and rate all bids/proposals for superintendent search firm RFP
- Discuss bids/proposals
- Determine bids/proposals to recommend to Regional School Committee and Union 26 Committee
School Equity Advisory Committee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District's School Equity Advisory Committee is meeting in person to discuss several topics, including the relationship between the Restorative Justice (RJ) Working Group and the School Committee, new narratives for the RJ program, the School Committee's vision on social justice, district discipline policies, program access, and clean food. The agenda is largely discussion-based with no votes or decisions listed.
- Discussion of relationship between RJ Working Group and School Committee
- Discussion of new narratives for the RJ program
- Discussion of School Committee's vision on social justice
- Discussion of discipline policy in district and each school
- Discussion of clean food
Joint Amherst-Pelham Regional & Union 26 School Committee
The joint Amherst-Pelham Regional and Union 26 School Committee will meet to discuss and vote on the superintendent's goals, review the ARHS student handbook, and receive updates on enrollment and professional development. The meeting includes public comment and reports from the superintendent and chair.
- Vote on FY24 Superintendent Goals
- Review and approval of ARHS Student Handbook
- Enrollment report as of October 1, 2023
- Update on district-wide professional development (Nov 7)
- Acceptance of gifts (motion)
Superintendent Search Planning Subcommittee of the Regional and Union 26 School Committees
The Superintendent Search Planning Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional and Union 26 School Committees is meeting to continue planning the search for a new superintendent. They will discuss the search committee interest form, outreach plan, and draft job posting, and address any school committee member concerns.
- Review of draft search committee interest form and suggested text changes
- Discussion of search committee outreach plan
- Review of draft superintendent job posting, with reference to postings from Groton, Norwood, Marshfield, and Natick districts
- Discussion of school committee member concerns
- Approval of minutes from September 27 and October 11 meetings
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee is meeting to discuss and act on several items, including the superintendent's goals for FY24, a review of two policies (BDA and AAC-E), a proposal for a pavilion, and accepting gifts. The meeting includes public comment, updates from the superintendent and chair, and approval of minutes.
- Discussion of FY24 Superintendent Goals
- Review of policies BDA (Committee Organizational Meeting) and AAC-E (Regional District Formation)
- Discussion of Pavilion Proposal (4,085 KB attachment)
- Action to accept gifts
- Public comment via email/text to [email protected]
Joint Pelham School Committee & Pelham Select Board
The Pelham School Committee and Select Board are meeting jointly, primarily to appoint Markyta Ables-Conyers as a Pelham School Committee member. The rest of the agenda consists of procedural items: calling the meetings to order and adjourning both bodies. No other substantive business is listed.
- Appointment of Markyta Ables-Conyers to the Pelham School Committee
- Call to order of the Pelham School Committee
- Call to order of the Pelham Select Board
- Adjournment of the Pelham School Committee
- Adjournment of the Pelham Select Board
Joint Amherst-Pelham Regional & Union 26 School Committee
The joint Amherst-Pelham Regional and Union 26 School Committee will meet to receive an update on the superintendent search, review the first quarter FY24 budget, and discuss student activities. The agenda also includes discussion of hybrid meeting formats and superintendent goals, along with routine items like minutes approval and public comments.
- Update from Superintendent Search Committee with possible vote
- First Quarter FY24 Budget Update
- Student Activities and possible vote
- Discussion on Hybrid/In-Person Meetings
- Accept Gifts motion
Superintendent Evaluation Subcommittee of the Amherst School Committee
The Superintendent Evaluation Subcommittee will meet to discuss and refine goals for the Amherst School District Superintendent. The subcommittee will also plan future meeting agendas.
- Reviewing and refining Superintendent goals
- Future meeting agenda planning
Superintendent Search Planning Subcommittee of the Regional and Union 26 School Committees
The Superintendent Search Planning Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the form for indicating interest in serving on the Search Committee, including translation, optional name, and socioeconomic status categories, and to finalize the RFP for a superintendent search firm. The meeting is procedural and discussion-focused, with no final decisions expected.
- Discuss translating interest form to other languages and identify languages
- Discuss making the form name optional
- Discuss adding a socioeconomic status category to the form
- Finalize RFP for Superintendent Search Firm
Amherst School Committee
The Amherst School Committee will meet to approve minutes, hear public comment, and receive updates from the superintendent and chair. They will discuss subcommittee assignments, an elementary school building project, and a possible vote on superintendent goals for 2023-2024. The committee will also discuss the planned move of 6th grade to Amherst Regional Middle School (ARMS) and remote/hybrid meeting policies, plus accept gifts.
- Possible vote to approve superintendent goals for 2023-2024 school year
- Discussion of 6th grade move to ARMS with timeline and data
- Discussion of remote and hybrid meeting guidance
- Motion to accept gifts
- Approval of minutes from October 10, 2023
Joint Amherst-Pelham Regional & Union 26 School Committee
The joint school committee will meet to discuss and potentially vote on the superintendent's goals for the 2023-2024 school year, receive updates on the middle school roof and Q1 budget, and hear a report from the superintendent search subcommittee. The meeting also includes an executive session to discuss strategy related to several MCAD complaints. Public comments are accepted until 3:00 PM on the meeting date.
- Executive session to discuss strategy on MCAD complaints (Doreen Cunningham, Luis Algarin, Otis Collins, Lamikco Magee, William Chapman)
- Superintendent Search Subcommittee report and job description
- Q1 Budget Update (Region FY24 Quarter 1 Review)
- Possible adoption of Superintendent goals for 2023-2024
- Discussion on hybrid/in-person meetings
Joint Meeting of the Amherst Regional School Committee and the Union 26 School Committee
This is a joint meeting of the Amherst Regional School Committee and the Union 26 School Committee. The agenda includes only procedural items: a call to order and a vote on whether to enter executive session. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed.
- Vote to enter executive session under M.G.L. c. 30A, section 21(a)(1) to discuss an individual's reputation, character, physical or mental health, or discipline/dismissal/complaints, without returning to open session
Superintendent Search Planning Subcommittee of the Regional and Union 26 School Committees
The Superintendent Search Planning Subcommittee of the Regional and Union 26 School Committees is meeting virtually to discuss the process for hiring a new superintendent. Agenda items include conversations with search firms, a proposed search timeline, a draft job description, and a search committee interest form. All items are listed as discussions, with no final decisions scheduled.
- Conversations with search firms
- Proposed new search timeline
- Draft superintendent job description
- Search committee interest form
- Next steps discussion
Amherst School Committee
The Amherst School Committee is meeting in person at ARHS Library to discuss the FY24 first-quarter budget, receive an update on the Elementary School Building Committee, and make subcommittee assignments. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes, accepting gifts, and a warrant report, with public comments accepted by 3:00 PM on the meeting day.
- FY24 Quarter 1 Budget Update (discussion)
- Elementary School Building Committee Update (report)
- Subcommittee Assignments (discussion)
- Motion to accept gifts
- Approval of minutes from July 19, July 24, and October 3, 2023
Special Amherst School Committee Meeting
This is a special meeting of the Amherst School Committee, held in person, primarily to orient a new member. The agenda includes only procedural items: call to order, orientation, and adjournment, with no substantive decisions or discussions listed.
- New Member Orientation
- Motion to adjourn
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes, electing a secretary, and accepting gifts. They will also discuss the first quarter budget, draft superintendent goals, and whether to hold meetings virtually or in person.
- Vote to approve minutes from July 18, August 29, and September 18, 2023
- Discussion of first quarter FY24 budget (report attached)
- Discussion of draft superintendent goals
- Discussion of virtual versus in-person meetings
- Motion to accept gifts
Amherst School Committee
This meeting of the Amherst School Committee is purely procedural, consisting of a call to order, reorganization, and adjournment. No substantive decisions or discussions are on the agenda.
- Call to order at 6:02 p.m.
- Reorganization of the committee
- Motion to adjourn, approved unanimously
Joint Amherst, Pelham, Regional & Union 26 School Committee
The joint Amherst, Pelham, Regional, and Union 26 School Committees will meet to discuss the permanent superintendent search process, including a presentation from MASC and an update from the search subcommittee. They will also receive reports on the interim finance director position, track and field project, and consider accepting gifts. Public comments are invited.
- Permanent Superintendent Search Process - MASC Presentation
- Superintendent Planning Search Subcommittee Update
- Interim Finance Director Position Update
- Track and Field Project Update (RFP-2024-R-01)
- Motion to accept gifts
Superintendent Search Planning Subcommittee of the Regional and Union 26 School Committees
The Superintendent Search Planning Subcommittee of the Regional and Union 26 School Committees is meeting to plan the search for a new superintendent. They will discuss the timeline, hiring a search firm, and the composition of the search committee. This is an early planning session, so no final decisions are expected.
- Discuss high-level timeline and process for superintendent search
- Discuss hiring of a search firm
- Discuss composition of Search Committee
- Determine meeting schedule
- Future agenda planning
Joint Meeting of the Union 26, Pelham and Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committees
The joint meeting of the Union 26, Pelham, and Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committees will discuss and decide on processes for the superintendent search, along with other business. The agenda includes public comment, updates from the superintendent and chair, and discussions on LGBTQIA+ issues, Open Meeting Law, and superintendent goals. The meeting will conclude with a motion to enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation.
- Discussion on superintendent search decision-making processes
- Public comment period (submissions due by 3:00 PM on meeting day)
- LGBTQIA+ update
- Open Meeting Law review and response
- Motion to accept gifts as listed
Special Pelham School Committee
This is a special meeting of the Pelham School Committee with a procedural agenda. The committee will select representatives to the Regional School Committee and then adjourn. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed.
- Selection of Regional School Committee representatives
Joint Regional & Union 26 School Committee Meeting
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District and Union 26 School Committees are meeting jointly to discuss and possibly vote on appointing an interim superintendent. The agenda includes public comments, discussion of the appointment, and potential executive sessions for contract negotiations, followed by a possible vote on the interim superintendent's contract.
- Discussion and possible vote to appoint interim superintendent
- Executive session for contract negotiations with nonunion personnel for interim superintendent position
- Possible vote to approve contract for ARPS interim superintendent
- Public comments accepted until 3:00 PM on August 31, 2023
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee is holding a virtual meeting to reorganize, discuss future agenda planning, and adjourn. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no substantive policy or financial items listed.
- Call to order
- Reorganize committee
- Future agenda planning discussion
- Motion to adjourn (approved)
Joint Amherst-Pelham Regional & Union 26 School Committees
The joint Amherst-Pelham Regional and Union 26 School Committees will meet virtually to discuss the superintendent's departure and the appointment of an acting superintendent. The agenda also includes reorganizing both committees, public comments, an update on LGBTQ+ supports, and accepting gifts. The meeting begins with executive sessions to approve minutes.
- Discussion of superintendent departure and filling vacancy, including acting superintendent appointment
- Reorganization of the Regional and Union 26 School Committees
- Public comments accepted until 3:00 PM on August 23, 2023
- LGBTQ+ Supports Update
- Motion to accept gifts (Region gifts 8-23-23.pdf)
Joint Regional School Committee and Union 26 Meeting, and Regional School Committee Meeting- POSTPONED TO 8/23/23
This joint meeting of the Regional School Committee and Union 26 was postponed to August 23, 2023. The agenda includes discussion of the superintendent's departure, possible appointment of an interim superintendent, and a separation agreement. Other items include reorganization of the committee, LGBTQ+ supports update, and acceptance of gifts.
- Discuss separation agreement and appointing interim superintendent
- RSC Reorganization
- LGBTQ+ Supports Update
- Accept Gifts (action item)
- Warrant Report
Joint Regional and Union 26 School Committee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional and Union 26 School Committees are meeting jointly. The only substantive action is a vote to enter executive session to discuss strategy for negotiations with nonunion personnel, Michael Morris. The rest of the agenda is procedural, including the call to order for each committee.
- Vote to enter executive session for Region committee
- Vote to enter executive session for Union 26 committee
- Negotiations with nonunion personnel, Michael Morris
Joint Pelham School Committee & Pelham Select Board
This is a brief joint meeting of the Pelham School Committee and Select Board. The only substantive item is the appointment of a new School Committee member; the rest is procedural (call to order and adjournment).
- Appointment of new School Committee member
Amherst School Committee
The Amherst School Committee is meeting virtually to enter executive session for collective bargaining and litigation strategy, and to vote on ratifying the APEA contract. The meeting is largely procedural, with the contract vote being the main action item.
- Vote to approve APEA contract ratification
- Enter executive session for collective bargaining and litigation strategy
- Approve minutes in executive session
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee is meeting virtually to consider entering executive session for collective bargaining and litigation strategy, and to vote on ratifying the APEA contract. The agenda also includes a warrant report and adjournment.
- Vote to approve APEA contract ratification
- Executive session for collective bargaining and litigation strategy
- Warrant report
Joint Amherst-Pelham Regional School & Union 26
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee and Union 26 will hold a joint virtual meeting. They will discuss a draft response to an Open Meeting Law complaint filed on June 14, 2023, and review Policy BEDH regarding public participation. The meeting also includes procedural items like reorganization, public comment, and approval of minutes.
- Discussion of draft response to Open Meeting Law complaint dated 6-14-23
- Review of Policy BEDH on suspension of public participation at committee meetings
- Public comment period (submissions due by 3:00 PM on July 6)
- Approval of minutes from April 25, May 16, May 30, and June 20, 2023
- Reorganization of Union 26
Policy Subcommittee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District Policy Subcommittee will meet to discuss and potentially revise two policies: BEDH on public participation at committee meetings and JICFB on anti-bullying. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and planning for future agendas. No final decisions are expected; items are listed as discussions.
- Discussion of BEDH - Public Participation at Committee Meetings, with proposed edits by J. Shiao
- Discussion of JICFB - Students: Anti-Bullying, including draft policy and BPIP changes
- Approval of draft minutes from June 1, 2023
- Future meeting schedule noted: Thursday 6/20, 5:30pm
Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting to consider entering executive session for collective bargaining with the Amherst-Pelham Education Association (APEA) and to discuss related strategy. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no public action items listed.
- Enter executive session for collective bargaining (APEA)
- Discuss strategy for collective bargaining or litigation
- Approve minutes in executive session
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee is meeting virtually to discuss a budget update for FY23, including proposed transfers, and to review the School Improvement Plan. The committee will also hear reports from the superintendent, principal, and chair, and consider accepting gifts. The meeting includes approval of the May 2, 2023 minutes and public comment.
- Discussion of FY23 budget transfers (memo attached)
- Review of Pelham School Improvement Plan
- Motion to accept gifts
- Approval of May 2, 2023 minutes
- Public comment via email to [email protected]
Policy Subcommittee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District Policy Subcommittee is meeting virtually to discuss several draft policy changes, including anti-bullying, emergency plans, and distribution of materials. The meeting includes procedural items like approving minutes and planning future agendas.
- Discussion of JICFB anti-bullying policy with draft changes and MASC reference policy
- Review of EBC emergency plan and closing policies
- Discussion of KHA distribution of written materials on school property
- Review of BEDH public participation at committee meetings
- Future meeting scheduled for Thursday 6/20 at 5:30pm
Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee will meet on May 30, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the ARHS Library. The agenda includes discussions on supports for LGBTQIA+ students, protocols for sharing confidential information, and a first read of Policy IJA on instructional materials reconsideration. The committee will also vote on approving Policy IJA, an evaluation tool, and accepting gifts. The meeting will open with a motion to enter executive session to discuss complaints against a public employee.
- Discussion of supports for LGBTQIA+ students, with draft and final statements attached
- First read and discussion of Policy IJA: Instructional Materials Reconsideration
- Vote to approve Policy IJA
- Vote to approve evaluation tool
- Motion to accept gifts (approved unanimously)
EMERGENCY MEETING: Joint Meeting of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School & Union 26 School Committees
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School and Union 26 School Committees are holding an emergency joint meeting to consider entering executive session for contract negotiations with nonunion personnel and to vote on the final contract for the acting superintendent. The meeting also includes public comments and procedural items. The agenda is largely procedural, with the main action being the contract approval.
- Vote to approve the final contract for the acting superintendent
- Executive session for contract negotiations with nonunion personnel (Doug Slaughter)
- Executive session for collective bargaining strategy with APEA
- Public comments accepted via email, voicemail, or text by 3:00 PM on May 25, 2023
Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting to consider entering executive session for collective bargaining with the Amherst-Pelham Education Association (APEA) and to discuss bargaining or litigation strategy. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no public action items listed.
- Enter executive session for collective bargaining with APEA
- Discuss strategy for collective bargaining or litigation
- Approve minutes in executive session
Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee (POSTPONED)
This meeting of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is marked as POSTPONED. The agenda includes a first-read discussion of Policy IJA on instructional materials reconsideration, a track and field update, discussion of an evaluation tool, a warrant report, and a motion to accept gifts. The meeting would also include approval of prior minutes, public comments, and a move into executive session for collective bargaining.
- Policy IJA: Instructional Materials Reconsideration (first read, discussion only)
- Track and Field Update
- Evaluation Tool Approval (discussion)
- Warrant Report
- Motion to accept gifts
EMERGENCY MEETING: Joint Meeting of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School & Union 26 Committees
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee and the Superintendency Union 26 School Committee are holding an emergency joint meeting. The only substantive item is a motion to enter executive session to discuss negotiations with nonunion personnel regarding the appointment of an acting superintendent. The motion was approved unanimously.
- Motion to enter executive session for strategy sessions on nonunion personnel negotiations (acting superintendent appointment)
- Motion approved with all nine members voting yea
Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting virtually. The agenda consists solely of procedural items: calling the meeting to order and entering executive session to conduct collective bargaining with the Amherst-Pelham Education Association (APEA) and discuss strategy, with no intention of returning to open session.
- Call to order at 4:00 PM
- Enter executive session under M.G.L. c. 30A, s. 21(a) for collective bargaining (APEA)
- Discuss strategy for collective bargaining or litigation
- Approve minutes in executive session, no return to open session
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee is meeting virtually to discuss the third-quarter budget, conduct a superintendent evaluation, and review a warrant report. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving minutes and accepting gifts.
- Discussion of 3rd Quarter Budget (Pelham Q3 FY23 Budget Report.pdf)
- Superintendent Evaluation discussion
- Warrant Report
- Accept Gifts
- Approval of minutes from Jan 11, Feb 7, and Mar 7, 2023
Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting in person. The agenda consists solely of procedural items: calling the meeting to order and then entering executive session to conduct collective bargaining with the Amherst Pelham Education Association (APEA) and discuss related strategy. No public discussion or votes on substantive items are scheduled.
- Enter executive session for collective bargaining with APEA
- Discuss collective bargaining strategy
- Approve executive session minutes
Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting to consider entering executive session for collective bargaining with the Amherst-Pelham Education Association (APEA) and to discuss related strategy. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items listed.
- Enter executive session for collective bargaining with APEA
- Discuss collective bargaining strategy
- Approve minutes in executive session
Policy Subcommittee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District Policy Subcommittee will discuss draft changes to the policy on reconsideration of instructional materials (IJA) and the anti-bullying policy (JICFB), including a draft reconsideration form and related BPIP changes. The meeting is a discussion, not a final vote, and also includes planning for future agenda items such as emergency plans and distribution of written materials on school property.
- Review of draft policy changes for IJA: Instructional Materials Reconsideration
- Review of draft reconsideration form for instructional materials
- Discussion of draft changes to JICFB: Students Anti-Bullying policy
- Review of draft BPIP changes related to anti-bullying
- Future agenda planning: EBC* Emergency Plan and Closing Policies, KHA Distribution of Written Materials on School Property
Amherst School Committee
The Amherst School Committee will meet in person to discuss and act on several items, including a third-quarter budget update for fiscal year 2023, a math and curriculum update, an analysis of student retention for charter/choice out students, and proposed preschool fees for fiscal year 2024. The committee will also consider approving minutes from previous meetings and accepting gifts.
- 3rd Quarter FY23 Budget Update
- Math & Curriculum Update
- Charter/Choice Out Student Retention Analysis
- Preschool Fees for FY24
- Accept Gifts
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee is meeting virtually to discuss updates on the math curriculum, prepare for Town Meeting, and review upcoming agenda topics. The committee will also consider approving minutes, accepting gifts, and hearing public comments.
- Math Curriculum Update report
- Town Meeting preparation discussion
- Motion to approve minutes of March 7, 2023
- Motion to accept gifts
- Public comment via email to [email protected]
Amherst School Committee
The Amherst School Committee will consider formally endorsing the Elementary School Building Project and encouraging voters to support the debt exclusion vote on Tuesday, May 2nd. The meeting also includes approval of the February 16, 2023 minutes, public comment, and reports from the Superintendent and Chair. Other business includes future agenda planning, a warrant report, and accepting gifts.
- Endorsement of Elementary School Building Project and support for May 2 debt exclusion vote
- Approval of minutes from February 16, 2023
- Public comment period (submissions due by 3:00 PM on March 29)
- Superintendent's and Chair's updates
- Acceptance of gifts
Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting to discuss cell phone use in schools and receive a food service update. The committee will also convene in executive session for collective bargaining and strategy discussions, approve minutes, accept gifts, and hear public comments.
- Discussion on cell phone use in school
- Food service update
- Executive session for collective bargaining and strategy
- Approval of minutes from March 2 and 21, 2023
- Motion to accept gifts
Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting to consider entering executive session for collective bargaining with the Amherst-Pelham Education Association (APEA) and to discuss related strategy. The agenda is limited to procedural items: calling the meeting to order and entering the closed session, with no public discussion items listed.
- Enter executive session for collective bargaining with APEA
- Discuss collective bargaining strategy under Open Meeting Law exemption
- Approve minutes in executive session
Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee voted to approve a $33,703,908 budget for fiscal year 2024, including amendments to the district agreement and assessment of member towns' debt. The committee also voted to accept school choice students for 2024-2025, approved a home education policy change, and accepted gifts.
- Approved FY24 budget of $33,703,908
- Amended district agreement section six, subsection J
- Voted to assess member towns' debt
- Approved accepting school choice students for 2024-2025 if space allows
- Approved policy change for IHBG (Home Education of Students)
Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting virtually to consider entering executive session. The closed session is for collective bargaining with the Amherst-Pelham Education Association (APEA) and to discuss strategy, as well as to approve minutes. No other business is listed on the agenda.
- Enter executive session for collective bargaining (APEA)
- Discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy
- Approve executive session minutes
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee voted to approve the FY24 budget of $2,362,584, approve school choice students for 2023-2024, and accept gifts. The meeting also included approval of January minutes, public comment, and updates from the superintendent and chair.
- Approved FY24 budget of $2,362,584
- Approved school choice students for 2023-2024 school year
- Motion to accept gifts
- Approved minutes of January 11, 2023
- Public comment via email by 3:00 PM on March 7
Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting to consider entering executive session. The purpose is to conduct collective bargaining sessions with the Amherst-Pelham Education Association (APEA) and to discuss strategy related to collective bargaining or litigation. The agenda is procedural, with no public discussion or decisions listed.
- Enter executive session for collective bargaining (APEA)
- Discuss strategy for collective bargaining or litigation
- Approve minutes in executive session
Joint Amherst & Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Amherst and Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committees are meeting jointly to discuss the FY24 Amherst Schools Budget and hold a School Choice Hearing. They will also consider a resolution to make free breakfast and lunch permanent. The meeting includes public comment and approval of prior minutes.
- FY24 Amherst Schools Budget discussion
- School Choice Hearing
- Resolution for permanent free breakfast and lunch
- Approval of minutes from February 16, 2023 and January 10, 2023
RESCHEDULED Joint Amherst & Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Amherst and Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committees will hold joint and separate sessions to discuss budget proposals for fiscal year 2024. The agenda includes a discussion on a resolution for permanent free breakfast and lunch and hearings regarding school choice.
- FY24 Amherst Budget hearing
- FY24 Regional Budget presentation and hearing
- Resolution discussion: Permanent Free Breakfast & Lunch
- School Choice Hearings (Amherst and Regional)
- Stabilization Fund Authorization of Disbursement vote
4 Towns Meeting
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District is holding its annual 4 Towns Meeting to present the School Committee Annual Report, FY24 expense and revenue projections, and a proposed capital plan with related debt. The meeting is informational and includes a feedback and questions session, with no votes scheduled beyond adjournment.
- FY24 expense projections
- FY24 revenue and assessment projections
- FY24 capital plan proposal and related debt
- Amherst Regional Middle School roof update
Amherst School Committee Public Forum
The Amherst School Committee is holding a public forum to receive a presentation on the 6th grade timeline and to hear comments from the public. The meeting is primarily informational and discussion-oriented, with no votes or decisions listed on the agenda.
- Presentation on 6th Grade Timeline
- Public comment period for questions and discussion
- Virtual meeting format
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee is meeting to discuss the FY24 budget, including a line-by-line review and the second quarter budget report. They will also discuss the permanent principal search and hold a school choice hearing. The meeting includes routine items like approving minutes, accepting gifts, and a warrant report.
- Budget hearing for FY24 with line-by-line budget document
- 2nd Quarter FY23 Budget Report discussion
- Permanent Principal Update discussion
- School Choice Hearing
- Motion to accept gifts (approved)
Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting virtually to consider entering executive session. The closed session is for collective bargaining with the Amherst-Pelham Education Association (APEA) and to discuss strategy, as well as to approve minutes. No other business is listed on the agenda.
- Enter executive session for collective bargaining (APEA)
- Discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy
- Approve minutes in executive session
School Equity Advisory Committee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District's School Equity Advisory Committee is meeting virtually to discuss several topics, including updates on restorative justice and human resources/diversity, equity, and inclusion (HR/DEI) efforts. The committee will also plan its annual report and review its roles and membership. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; all substantive items are marked as discussions.
- Restorative Justice Update (discussion)
- HR/DEI Update (discussion)
- Annual Report Planning (discussion)
- Roles/Membership Review (discussion)
Amherst School Committee
The Amherst School Committee is meeting to review the second-quarter FY23 budget report, discuss the timeline for moving 6th grade to Amherst Regional Middle School (ARMS), and consider the FY24 budget input process. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval, public comment, and accepting gifts. The meeting will end with an executive session for collective bargaining.
- 2nd Quarter FY23 Budget Report
- 6th Grade to ARMS Timeline discussion
- FY24 Budget Input Form and Process
- Motion to accept gifts (approved)
- Executive session for collective bargaining
Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting virtually to discuss several operational and policy items, including a human resources report, safety at ARHS, student cell phone rules, and a track and field project update. The committee will also consider policy changes, including a possible vote to remove a policy on student gifts and solicitations, and will enter executive session for collective bargaining.
- Discussion of safety at Amherst Regional High School (ARHS)
- Discussion of student cell phone rules
- Track and field project update
- Possible vote to remove policy JP: Student Gifts and Solicitations
- First read of revised policy ACEA: Service Animals
Regional Budget Subcommittee (POSTPONED; 1/17/23)
This meeting of the Regional Budget Subcommittee was postponed to January 17, 2023. The agenda includes discussions on budget forecasts and capital planning, but no decisions are scheduled.
- Budget forecasts discussion
- Capital planning discussion
- Topics not reasonably foreseen 48 hours in advance
Pelham School Committee
The Pelham School Committee is meeting to discuss the initial FY24 budget proposal and capital requests, along with routine items like minutes approval, public comment, and accepting gifts. The meeting is largely informational, with budget and capital discussions being the main substantive items.
- FY24 Initial Budget Presentation (discussion)
- FY24 Capital Requests (discussion)
- Motion to approve minutes of December 6, 2022
- Motion to accept gifts
Joint Regional & Amherst School Committee
The Joint Regional & Amherst School Committee will meet virtually to discuss the 6th grade transition to ARMS, including bathroom configurations, and security video access protocols. They will also review the Amherst elementary school building project, draft staffing plans, and the FY24 initial budget and community engagement plan. The meeting includes procedural items like approving minutes and accepting gifts.
- Discussion of 6th grade bathrooms at ARMS with possible configurations
- Security video access protocols review
- Amherst Elementary School Building Project update
- Draft staffing plan for elementary schools
- FY24 initial budget and community engagement plan
Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee
The Negotiating Subcommittee of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee is meeting virtually to consider entering executive session for collective bargaining with the Amherst-Pelham Education Association (APEA) and to discuss strategy. The agenda is procedural, with no public discussion or decisions listed.
- Enter executive session for collective bargaining (APEA)
- Discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy
- Approve minutes in executive session
Policy Subcommittee
The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District Policy Subcommittee will meet virtually to discuss updates to policies on instructional materials (IJA), admission of exchange students (JFABB), and home education of students (IHBG), referencing MASC model policies. The subcommittee will also approve minutes from November 10, 2022, and plan future meeting agendas. No final decisions are expected; these are discussion items.
- Discussion of IJA: Instructional Materials policy, referencing MASC policy IJ-R
- Discussion of JFABB: Admission of Exchange Students policy
- Discussion of IHBG: Home Education of Students policy, referencing MASC policy IHBG
- Approve minutes from November 10, 2022
- Future meeting agenda planning
Pelham School Committee (POSTPONED; New Date TBA)
This meeting of the Pelham School Committee was postponed, with a new date to be announced. The agenda, if held, would have included approval of minutes, public comment, updates, and discussions on the FY24 initial budget and capital requests.
- Approval of minutes from December 6, 2022
- Public comment via email to [email protected] by 3:00 PM
- FY24 Initial Budget Presentation (discussion)
- Capital Requests (discussion)
- Motion to accept gifts