School Committee

LOWELL SCHOOL COMMITTEE , 2025 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Date: May 07, 2025 Time: 6:30PM Location: City Council Chamber, 375 Merrimack Street, 2nd Floor, Lowell, MA 01852 Members of the public can view the meeting via LTC. Those wishing to speak about a specific agenda item must register in advance by emailing the Superintendent. Please include the agenda item, as well as your phone number and email address so we can provide a Zoom link for access. The email address is skeo@lowell.k12.ma.us. If you do not have access to email, you may contact us at 978-674-4324. All requests must be submitted by 2:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. 1. SALUTE TO FLAG 2. ROLL CALL On a roll call at 6:30 p.m., members present were, namely: Mayor Rourke, Mr. Bahou, Mr. Conway Ms. Delrossi, Ms. Doherty, Mr. Lay and Ms. Martin. 3. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS 3.1. Spotlight On Excellence: Early College Programs The first Spotlight on Excellence featured the Early College Programs. Mr. Sisson, President of Middlesex Community College, along with members of his staff and students who have participated in the 3.2. Spotlight On Excellence: Butler Middle School's Participation in the Celtics Playbook Initiative The second Spotlight on Excellence featured the Butler Middle School's Participation in the Celtics Playbook Initiative. The School spoke about their participation and how worthwhile the playbook initiative was. 3.3. Public Hearing Inter-District School Choice Program The Public Hearing on Inter-District School Choice Program was held and no spoke in favor or in opposition of the Inter-District School Choice Program. 3.4. Budget Public Hearing Notice 155 Merrimack http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 2 of 9) 4. MINUTES 4.1. Approval of the Minutes of the Special Meeting of the Lowell School Committee of April 16, 2025 Ms. Martin moved to accept and place on file the minutes of the Special and Regularly Scheduled School Committee meetings that were held on April 16, 2025; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 4.2. The Approval of the Minutes of the Regularly Scheduled Lowell School Committee Meeting of April 16, 2025 Ms. Martin moved to accept and place on file the minutes of the Special and Regularly Scheduled School Committee meetings that were held on April 16, 2025; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 5. PERMISSION TO ENTER 5.1. Permission to Enter - May 7, 2025 Mr. Lay moved to approve the Permission to Enter; the motion was seconded by Ms. Delrossi. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 6. MOTIONS 6.1. [By Eileen DelRossi]: Request the superintendent establish a mental-health-focused youth advisory council so that the students in our community can have their voices heard and considered when the decision-makers make decisions for the members of our community. Ms. Silva and Ms. Lussier registered and spoke in favor of creating a mental-health focused council for students. Ms. Delrossi moved to approve; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 6.2. [By Jackie Doherty]: Request Superintendent provide the committee with a curriculum plan to ensure students receive a comprehensive education on issues related to planet health, sustainability, and climate change throughout their K-12 experience in the Lowell Public Schools. Ms. Doherty moved to approve; the motion was seconded by Mr. Lay. The motion passed with 7 yeas. L http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 3 of 9) 7. SUBCOMMITTEES 7.1. Approval of the Minutes of the Curriculum and Instruction Subcommittee Meeting of April 29, 2025 Ms. Martin, Chairperson of the Curriculum and Instruction Subcommittee informed the Committee that a detailed overview of the financial literacy and economics curriculum at Lowell High School was provided, highlighting a structured, multi- knowledge and economic understanding across multiple grade levels. The program features three distinct courses, each tailored to students at different stages of their academic journey: Freshman Seminar: Introduction to Financial Literacy (Grade 9) Introduction to Economics and Finance (Grades 11 & 12) Financial Algebra (Grade 12) The subcommittee also discussed on curriculum modernization, professional development, and alignment with the 2023 Comprehensive Physical Education (CHPE) frameworks. Key initiatives include: Renewal of Michigan Model Health Curriculum licenses Targeted professional development for middle and high school educators through Lighthouse Wellness Appointment of Lead Teachers to promote vertical alignment across grade levels Development of new instructional resources aligned with CHPE standards with students about the dangers of drug use. Ms. Martin moved to accept the following report as a report of progress; the motion was seconded by Mr. Bahou. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 7.2. Approval of the Minutes of the Special Education Subcommittee Meeting of April 29, 2025 Ms. Delrossi, Chairperson of the Special Education Subcommittee, informed the Committee that significant progress has been made in the second half of the school year. She stated that staff has been regularly meeting with all cohorts to collaboratively address caseload challenges and stated that their has been an increase in service requests. In response to that, the department has implemented greater flexibility and expanded support. The Director of Special Education Department is currently evaluating all programs, exploring additional training opportunities for staff, and conducting in-house reviews. Mr. Lay moved to accept the following report as a report of progress; the motion was seconded by Mr. Conway. The motion passed with 7 yeas. L http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 4 of 9) 8. REPORTS OF THE SUPERINTENDENT 8.1. FY26 Proposed Budget Superintendent Skinner presented the proposed fiscal year 2026 (FY26) budget for Lowell Public strategic plan. For the second consecutive year, the proposed budget includes reductions in staffing and services. Initially, it was anticipated that the Chapter 70 appropriation $261,489,114, reflecting a 7.59% increase over FY25 would largely offset rising costs in areas such as health insurance, transportation, and contractual obligations, requiring only modest cuts, primarily within the central office. However, a reduction of more than $4 million in the city's contribution has significantly altered that outlook. As a result, more substantial reductions are now necessary, including cuts that will affect school-level staffing and services. The proposed budget reflects the most current and accurate financial data available and serves as the foundation for upcoming budget deliberations. Superintendent Skinner added that as we strategic plan for continuous improvement will guide the critical decisions ahead. Ms. Doherty stated that she was disappointed with what the city offered for their cash contribution. Ms. Doherty moved to ask the city to provide in writing the reasoning behind the $4 million cut and to show the Committee in writing the $58.9 million maintenance of effort charge offs; the motion was seconded by Mr. Conway. The motion passed with 7 yeas. Ms. Martin stated that we need to do what we can on our side, and we need to look at a tiered approach (i.e. $3 million, $2 million, $1 million cut). Mr. Conway stated that we have been good partners with the city and that he believes they have a short memory of all the money that we contributed. Mayor Rourke requested a list of all new positions with their salaries that have been created/added in the last 5 years and how many were paid by the ESSER funds. Ms. Martin moved to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.7 as reports of progress; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 8.2. Response To Motions Bundled (By Fred Bahou and Dominik Lay 04/16/25) Regarding Middle School Lunch Mr. Laguerre registered and spoke in favor of having a more environmentally friendly packaging product. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Hall provided several updates to the School Committee regarding food service operations across Lowell Public Schools. First, Dr. Hall shared that Fridays have traditionally been known as "Pizza Day" throughout the district. This day sees some of the highest student participation in school meals, with many students who typically bring lunch from home choosing to join the school lunch program. While cheese pizza is a staple option, it is not the only offering. Students may also choose from L http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 5 of 9) a rotating selection of specialty pizzas such as pepperoni, BBQ chicken, or Hawaiian as well as a salad of the day, sandwich of the day, and peanut butter and jelly. The next motion had to do with the Packaging of School Lunches. The report explained that meals are typically pre-packaged into "clamshell" containers after cooking. This method, rather than assembling meals on trays as students pass through the lunch line, allows for quicker service and ensures more time for students to eat and socialize. The goal is to minimize time spent waiting in line and maximize the lunch experience within the constraints of the school schedule. The next response was in regards to Lunch Portions in Middle Schools. The report the Department of Food and Nutrition Services. These guidelines determine portion ranges for different age groups. The primary differences between grade levels appear in the categories of meat/meat alternates and grains. For middle schools, the USDA requires a daily minimum of 1 oz. of protein and 1 oz. equivalent of grain. Lowell Public Schools exceeds this minimum by serving 2 oz. of each per entrée, placing the district at the high end of the weekly requirement 10 oz. of each over the course of the week. Meals also include fruits, vegetables, and dairy, and are planned to align with federal limits on calories, saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars. Students with greater nutritional needs are encouraged to take all meal components offered to maximize intake of essential nutrients. The last motion was in response to Consideration of Extended Lunch Periods. The report explained that school administrators must carefully balance instructional time with time allotted for meals. While the desire to extend lunch is understood, doing so would either require extending the school day or reducing classroom time neither of which have proven feasible under current conditions. Mr. Bahou moved to send agenda item # 8.2. Response To Motions Bundled (By Fred Bahou and Dominik Lay 04/16/25) Regarding Middle School Lunch to a School Improvement & Performance Subcommittee for further discussion; the motion was seconded by Ms. Martin. The motion passed with 7 yeas. Ms. Martin moved to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.7 as reports of progress; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 8.3. Response To Motion (By Fred Bahou, 03/05/25) Regarding employment opportunities approved in 2024-2025 Budget which are still not filled. Dr. Hall, the Assistant Superintendent for Operations, provided a report to the Committee that informed them that the following positions are vacant: HR Director Auditor Director of Family Leadership Institute (since January). Native Language Teacher 2 Special Education Nurses (grant funded). Early College Coordinator (grant funded) Ms. Martin moved to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.7 as reports of progress; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. L http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 6 of 9) 8.4. Response To Motion (By Eileen DelRossi, 04/02/25) Regarding Community Engagement Cancer Walk Ms. Brown-Le Grand, the Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services provided a report to the Committee that informed them on Sunday, May 4, 2025, Lowell General Hospital held its annual Cancer Walk, a powerful community event that raises funds to support cancer care services for patients and families in our region. This event was promoted to all schools, with all staff and students invited to attend. While it is not possible to indicate at this late stage how many families and staff may be individually participating, the Abisi Adult Education Center is proud to announce that they will once again be participating in this meaningful event. This year marks their 21st consecutive year supporting the Cancer Walk, and they are excited to continue this important tradition. They walk not only to raise funds, but also to show solidarity, support, and hope for those whose lives have been affected by cancer. In addition, throughout the 2024-2025 school year, Lowell Public Schools (LPS) communities. have actively participated in a variety of donation drives and charitable events aimed at promoting student engagement and community service. These meaningful initiatives have included: It's All About Kids, a Women's Hygiene Product Drive for the Lowell Community Health Center (LCHC), a Food Drive for the Dwelling House of Hope, support for the Special Olympics, Youth Health Alliance activities, contributions to Catie's Closet, and awareness campaigns such as Autism the Seas and Autism Double- Checked, STEM Cell Drive, as well as Valentines for Veterans, among many others. This demonstrates LPS commitment to promoting student community engagement and support of local charitable organizations. Ms. Martin moved to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.7 as reports of progress; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 8.5. Response To Motion (By Fred Bahou, 09/18/24) Regarding Pawtucketville Memorial Rugs Dr. Pinto, Assistant Superintendent for Finance, provided a report to the Committee that informed them that Dr. Hall made two inquiries to the Principal at the Pawtucketville, Ms. Jones (October 10th and November 13th, 2024) and Dr. Pinto also followed up (December 4, 2024). Principal Jones responded that she had made inquiries with staff personnel twice to offer reimbursements on rugs no one came forward and no reimbursements were necessary. Ms. Martin moved to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.7 as reports of progress; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 8.6. Response To Motions Bundled (By Fred Bahou, 03/05/25) Regarding Email and Password Access to Students Dr. Pinto, Assistant Superintendent for Finance, provided a report to the Committee that informed them that this initiative would take time and careful planning to complete. The IT Dept. is currently testing a solution with at least one of our middle schools. Currently, our process involves password resets upon request through a ticketing system, with IT personnel working directly with teachers and students. Additionally, we have the capability to force a password change through Google, prompting students to create a new password at their next login. To ensure security, any broad implementation would need to be conducted in a controlled manner, school by school, to prevent bad actors from taking advantage of the transition period. In reviewing this request, several logistical, security, and technical considerations L http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 7 of 9) need to be addressed. While there are potential benefits of alumni retaining access to their school email accounts, there are significant security, logistical, and technical considerations that make this approach challenging. Currently, we offer Google Takeout for students, allowing them to transfer their Google content to a personal Google account before graduation. We also provide guidance on how to create a personal Google account and transfer their data. However, leaving student email accounts active beyond graduation presents multiple risks and challenges. Ms. Martin moved to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.7 as reports of progress; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 8.7. 2024 Graduation and Dropout Rates Ms. Crocker-Roberge, the Assistant Superintendent for Schools & Leadership informed the Committee that following the public release of this information on May 1, 2025, the memo she provided contained the results of the graduation and dropout rates for the cohort of 2024 and the annual dropout rate for the 2023-2024 school year. The following summary of key results include: In 2024, more students graduated, and fewer students dropped out. The 4-year cohort graduation rate at the district level has recovered from last year's decline and is back to the same level as pre-Covid years. More students are leaving high school after four years instead of five, and with diplomas. The 2024 cohort dropout rate is lower than the dropout rate of the 2023 and 2022 cohorts. The annual dropout rate is lower than the previous two years and also lower than in 2019. The district is narrowing graduation gaps: More students belonging to the Asian, Black, and Hispanic/Latino subgroups are graduating however, fewer students belonging to the White subgroup are. The Students with Disabilities graduation rate in 2024 was an eighteen-year high More multilingual students graduated in 2024 than in almost any of the previous 5 years As part of an overall effort to improve educational outcomes for all students, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) uses the 4-year graduation rate and annual dropout rate as metrics in its accountability system. Ms. Martin moved to accept the following Reports of the Superintendent 8.1 through 8.7 as reports of progress; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 8.8. Home Education Superintendent Skinner recommended that the following parents/guardians be allowed to home educate their child: Rosemarie Berrabah Mandy Pereiras Mr. Conway moved to approve home education; the motion was seconded by Mr. Lay. The motion passed with 7 yeas. L http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 8 of 9) 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1. Approval to Accept and Expend Allocated FY25 Awards The grants funds provided in the report have been secured by the Lowell Public Schools through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Community Initiatives (CI) in collaboration with One8Foundation. Ms. Delrossi moved to approve, accept and expend the allocated FY25 awards; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7. 9.2. Budget Modification Request Mr. Lay moved to approve the budget modification in the amount of $617,619; the motion was seconded by Mr. Conway. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 9.3. Vote Of Inter-District School Choice Mr. Lay moved to not participate in the Inter-District School Choice for the 2025-2026 school year; the motion was seconded by Ms. Martin. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 9.4. ArtUp Murals at Community Schools Mr. Bahou moved to approve the ArtUp Murals at the Community Schools; the motion was seconded by Ms. Delrossi. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 9.5. Research Proposal Annenberg at Brown University Mr. Lay moved to approve the Annenberg at Brown University Research Proposal; the motion was seconded by Ms. Martin. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 10. COMMUNICATIONS 10.1. Lowell High School Graduation Commencement Speaker Mr. Lay moved to bundle and accept the communications and place them on file; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 10.2. Abisi Adult Education Graduation Mr. Lay moved to bundle and accept the communications and place them on file; the motion was seconded by Ms. Doherty. The motion passed with 7 yeas. L http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us  (Page 9 of 9) 11. PROFESSIONAL PERSONNEL 11.1. The Members of the United Teachers of Lowell Hereby Donate ten [10] Sick Leave Days to Mary Lynch McAvinnue Elementary School Teacher. Mr. Conway moved to approve the professional personnel; the motion was seconded by Mr. Bahou. The motion passed with 7 yeas. 12. ADJOURNMENT Ms. Doherty moved to adjourn at 8:22 p.m.; the motion was seconded by Ms. Delrossi. The motion passed with 7 yeas. Respectfully submitted, Liam Skinner, Superintendent and Secretary to the Lowell School Committee LS/mes L http://www.lowell.k12.ma.us