# school-committee — 17 documents, concatenated for reading and search # # This is a CONVENIENCE BUNDLE, not a source. Every document below is # published separately and byte-identically; cite the individual file, # whose path is given in each header, rather than this bundle. # Index of all boards: https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/minutes/INDEX.txt # The town's own scanned original is linked per document. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-05-07-minutes-7207.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-05-07 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-05-07-minutes-7207.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05072025-7207 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 MEETING MINUTES COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETING Wednesday, May 7, 2025 LHMS Collaborative Room #D132 6:30 – Hybrid School Committee Superintendent Brian Lehtinen, Chair - Present Dr. Kate Burnham Anthony Sculimbrene, Vice Chair - Present Carol Archambault, Secretary - Present Peter Beardmore, Member - Present Laura Brzozoski, Member - Present Recording Secretary Courtney Fuller Guests: Dr. Susan Gilson – Director of Administration and Finance, Dr. Deborah Bookis – Director of Teaching and Learning In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadc ast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page. (http://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law 1. Call to Order by Mr. Lehtinen at 6:31 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Recognition & Farewell to Outgoing Committee Members Mr. Lehtinen reports Mr. Beardmore will not be returning, he brought a sharp mind and strategic lens to our work on the school committee, his financial expertise and deep understanding of systems made him an invaluable resource especially in times when we needed to make tough long- term decisions. Peter always had ideas worth hearing and opinions worth considering. He never hesitated to speak up even when it wasn’t easy or popular. Sometimes his candor came across a little strong but it always came from a place of passion for doing what is right for students and taxpayers. His honesty and drive to improve things and his commitment to transparency have shaped many of the conversations and decisions we have had at the table. Peter’s decision to step away to spend more time with his family speaks volumes about his priorities and I know I speak for many when I say we wish him all the best. His contributions to this committee will have a long lasting impact and his voice will certainly be missed, but knowing his voice will continue to be heard from the public comment mic. Ms. Archambault was already a dedicated member of the school committee when I first joined and from the beginning she set an example of thoughtful student centered leadership. Carol has always brought a caring grounded perspective to our work especially when it comes to advocating for our youngest learners. She often saw angles I hadn’t considered and was always willing to dig in to help and do the work that often goes unseen, but is so critical. I have learned a great deal from Carol, not only about educational policy, finance, and governance, but how to lead with kindness and clarity. I Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Kate Burnham, Superintendent of Schools ===PAGE 2=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 am genuinely a better committee member and a chair because of the time I have spent working alongside her. Her voice will be missed and her impact will be lasting. Mr. Sculimbrene Peter I think all the things Brian said are true, but I also think that the thing that makes it so enjoyable to be on a committee with you is that you have a really good nature, you know that you are going to say things sometimes that inflame people’s passions and you are fine doing that. The thing that makes you different then so many people is that you do this regularly, is you can take it when they do it back and that is truly a great person to have in your corner. I have often asked you questions and I have often sought your advice but really I think it is fun to know you, no one else can handle the things you can handle. Brian I have been stunned at how good you are at executing on every part of the job. You get everyone involved, you answer every email, you provide thoughtful responses every time and I know that bodes well for your future. I wish you all the luck. Carol, I have enjoyed learning from you and listening to you. I have taken to heart what you said the first time I met you which is are you willing to speak for the trees. I am happy to have known you and I will continue to speak for the trees. I am also going to say you are one of the wisest people I have ever met, you know what the right answer is just by thinking about it being reflective and being kind. I hope to be more like that as I get older I still feel sometimes I rush to judgement and I am impulsive as I was when I declared I did not want to be involved with the superintendent search. I am so grateful that you are gracious and kind, you share your wisdom with everyone here. Ms. Archambault When I was told Peter was going to jump from Fincom to the school committee I said “How is he going to do that?” I thought he was going to do both so I spent all this time trying to trap him into saying “I can’t do both” when he said “I’m not going to do both” I have been delighted to work with you, you always have a fresh way of looking at things and when I don’t know what government person to talk to I ask you, because you know all those inner workings. Brian, I have been continually amazed at how you juggle this job with your three young boys and coaching at school all at the same time. I have enough trouble this job and I am retired with my husband at home, with no cats or dogs! You do what you say you are going to do, everything gets done in a timely manner and I thank you very much for taking the chair this year, so I could take this last year and not do all that stuff. Mr. Beardmore Wow, thank you. I have been thinking a lot over the last several weeks about the last six years of my public service, but the last three years in particular, and thinking back to my appointment. I think I had a lot of people wondering what that meant, but I outlined four things that I really wanted to focus on, student achievement, facilities budget, public engagement, and communication and I have been thinking about if I were to grade those things on a rubric over the last three years where would I put us. I am reasonably a tough grader I think, but in totality I give myself the “Ralphie Essay” a C+ and I probably shot my eye out more than once over the course of the last three years and that is just being honest. I think there is a lot of work here to do and I am very proud of what we have accomplished. I am most proud of the dialogue that we have built as a committee amongst ourselves, but also with the broader Lunenburg government and the public, which is something that existed nearly to this degree three years ago as it does today. I am most proud of that. Carol and Brian, first of all thank you for being excellent chair people of this committee. I am a lot to deal with sometimes and you both know particularly when I lock on to something that I can’t let go of. I know that is hard to deal with and keep the train running in a reasonable straight line, I think you both did that with extraordinary grace and attention, you both did a fantastic job and I am honored to call every member of this committee friends. It is going to be hard not doing this moving forward and not be part of this committee. I also want to thank Dr. Burnham and the entire administrative team and faculty, your time, attention, and responsiveness has been excellent. We have not always agreed, as you knew when I showed up that would be the case, but the way we have worked together and worked through some extraordinarily challenging issues and times has been truly and honor to learn from you and to ===PAGE 3=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 work with all of you. I greatly appreciated that. To the members of the public, thank you for putting me here for a few years and I look forward to returning to your ranks and we will see what happens next. Ms. Brzozoski I want to thank you all for so many years of service and for showing me the ropes. I have only been on for two years. Carol when you were the chair you were scary and sweet, I think people underestimate and forget you are a grandma, very sweet and kind, but you have a backbone of steel, you used to be a teacher and you will stand up and fight passionately for the students here and I loved that. Brian you have been fantastic, the way you communicate, I like getting emails and seeing your responses to the community members as our spokesperson, because they are always so well written. I mean you are a math teacher, not an English teacher, your English skills are great. Peter, I love when you agree with me, but when you don’t it is a little scary how passionate you can get. You have definitely shown me how important it is when you are in a small town and disagree with someone you can do it in a kind emphatic way. There is a way to do it and still maintain relationships that is one of your strengths. Mr. Lehtinen shares himself and Peter will continue to serve in the future, however, has invited delegation here tonight to honor Carol. Representative Scarsdale. Representative Scarsdale states it is truly an honor to be here tonight and certainly I am glad I was able to be here early and catch the comments. The conversation between all of you and how you interact and respect you have for each other is amazing. Lunenburg is lucky to have you. Peter I would not give you a C+, I would give you an A+ for your passion and your dedication to such important issues such as education and funding around it. It has been an honor to work with you too Brian. I am glad you are continuing your service to the community. Carol, you are very kind and you present in a soft and gentle way, but you do have a backbone of steel. I remember when I first met you and I was running for state representative the first time. Lunenburg was new to the Middlesex, because of redistricting, and I remember how patient you were, and while I understood issues with Chapter 70, you helped me see it in a whole new light, your patience and depth of knowledge, your willingness to think outside the box and how can we solve this. I was in awe of you when I first met you and that never changed for a single moment. I am still in awe of you. The delegation wishes you the best, Senator Cronin and Rep Kushmerek had other engagements tonight. Senator Cronin is at the state house fighting for the House budget on the Senate side, which hopefully will be good news for all of us, but they did send me with citation, honestly they are similar to mine. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the House of Representatives and Senate, be it hereby known to all that we offer our sincerest congratulations to Carol Archambault. In recognition of your 7 years of indefatigable commitment and dedication to the Lunenburg Public Schools, specifically to the Lunenburg School Committee. The entire membership of both chambers extends it very best wishes and expresses the hope for future good fortune and continued success in all endeavors given this seventh day of May at the State House Boston Massachusetts, signed by Speaker of the House , Ronald Mariano, Senate President, Karen Spilka, State Representative Michael Kushmerek, Margaret Scarsdale and State Senator John Cronin. Carol I don’t think you will have a typical grandmother’s retirement, I fully expect to see you out and about on the streets and continuing to lead with your heart and you beauty we wish you all the very best. Tatum Furman, Student Rep This is for everyone, for a 17 year old, I don’t zone out at these meetings as much as you think I would. I have learned a lot for you all, how to hold my ground, how to express my opinion and how to speak publicly. It has been very beneficial to me in life, these meetings actually part of what made me want to go into Political Journalism after high school You affect students more than you know, but for me personally this has been a big part of my life for the past 2 years. ===PAGE 4=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 Dr. Burnham I wanted to echo all of the comments that have been made. I don’t think I have much more that can be added, I think everyone covered all that ground pretty well. I have been extraordinarily lucky to have worked with a consistent board for as many years. I think it is fantastic that you are five unique individuals and you all bring talents to the work, it makes for a better stronger board. While three of you are exiting soon, I will be exiting as well, so I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to all of you, it has been a pleasure to work with you and I think we have done a lot of work together, we navigated COVID, several of us Post-Covid and have had some very difficult budgets. Thank you for your partnership, encouragement, and your support is much appreciated. Carol is known for the Lorax, those of you who have been to a graduation or tow may know I am known for the turtle. I would like to say this quote, it is an anonymous quote, “behold the turtle for him to make progress he must stick his neck out” every single one of you, by taking on this role and engaging in every single meeting, you are sticking your neck out, sometimes that can feel dangerous, but that is how we make progress. I think we have made progress, thank you for your service, thank you for sticking your neck out and thank you for all the progress we have made for the children of Lunenburg. You are greatly appreciated by everyone in the school district. Ms. Archambault I want to thank everybody, the 7 1/3 years that I have been sitting here has been extraordinarily interesting, I have learned so much about town government. I have learned that you have a voice, so many people do not realize, you all have a voice and you need to use it. I wish to thank my committee members who have nothing but the very best in their hearts for the students of Lunenburg. Whether it was my first committee I sat with all the way through, everybody just wants what is best for our kids collectively. When I came to this committee I was hoping my goal was to make some curriculum changes and I cannot thank Dr. Burnham enough for the curriculum changes that she oversaw and the growth in our district as well as the staff, the teaching and learning department, the students who work so very hard, everybody worked hard together to make those changes. I also wish to thank people for their friendship, or people I didn’t know, like Liz, she is delightful and knows everything about everything and I can’t thank you enough because every time I text her with something she says of course I will do that, and she does. It has been quite an experience and I wouldn’t change it. John Bowen Jr. I want to say to the committee members who are leaving and who have serviced this town, thank you for your service. Mr. Beardmore, Ms. Archambault thank you for your service on this committee. 4. Public Comment Justin Repucci 1147 Mass Ave I am going to respectfully ask the school committee to consider how the new bus fee policy applies in cases where walking to school is unsafe. We live within the 2 mile range, but we are on a busy state road with no sidewalks. Walking is not a safe or a realistic option, I understand the goal of the policy is that distance is used as a fair metric, but assumes walking is a viable option, in some cases it is not. I am not here to ask for special treatment based on finances or convenience, I am asking for a process that accounts for safety and road conditions when determining who pays for the bus fee. I’d like to ask the committee to consider a safety exemption or review this process so families like mine aren’t penalized for this circumstance. Jane Hall 73 Pine Grove Road I wanted to compliment the school committee on the process that you have followed as you lead up to tonight, hopefully appointing or making a decision about who you are going to appoint for the next superintendent of schools. I was a little nervous when there was a little hiatus and the timing, but I think you did yeoman’s work over the last two months. I wish you all luck tonight. Thank you for the opportunity to serve on the screening committee and attending the meetings was very informative. You have four very qualified candidates, and I don’t envy you tonight. The only think I hope is that you are thinking about how you make the decision that is based on what are the needs of the district and the town, because, sometimes we can be very ===PAGE 5=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 influenced on the type of person I might like to work with. This is much bigger than that as you all know, so I wish you luck and I am happy to be here to hear the deliberations that take place. John Bowen Jr. 162 Highland Street I have been the only student to show up at all of the superintendent candidate meetings for students. I take that I will be the voice of students along with my friend Tatum. In my comments to each candidate I mentioned history about Frederick Douglas, who was a US Marshall appointed by President Hayes, both of whom were against Jim Crow laws, particularly Marshall Douglas who was an abolitionist, however, they both upheld and followed the law of the land. In that discussion I inquired about how critical race theory applies to public education. Mr. Conway stated that he doesn’t believe CRT is being directly taught in school. Ms. Fortuna was directly quoted from the MASC position statement for K -2 curriculum and critical race theory, she said “We do not teach CRT but we do have a fundamental and moral responsibility to teach history and social science and in all its truth, the pleasant and the unpleasant” That is word for word in the last paragraph of the position statement. Mr. McCormack stated that he does not believe CRT is being taught at all. Ms. Menard does not agree with CRT but says she will teach standards set by the MASC and DESE. Focus indicators that were put out by the Massachusetts DOE in the 24/25 school year is online and it identifies ways to incorporate CRT teaching indirectly by using a set of semantics in teaching. This is hiding the fact that it is being taught. I also inquired about teachers expressing their own free speech in their classrooms. I mentioned a particular history classroom that is overloaded with one side of history and culture. The teacher does not promote an equal and fair representation of history throughout the classroom, because she is specifically overloading her classroom with imagery and slogans and flags of this one specific social science. I believe that is a teacher expressing her own free speech and expression in the classroom and influencing students based on a personal agenda. Mr. Conway stated he does not agree with teachers promoting their own free speech and expression within the classroom, he stated if it is being taught in a block regarding a specific historical or social science unit then it is acceptable, but the classroom should be balanced. Ms. Fortuna gave me a word salad of avoidance on the issue of free speech. Mr. McCormack stated he is unaware of teachers promoting their own free speech in classrooms but he believes that it is ok and should be allowed. Ms. Menard also stated that she is okay with allowing teachers to exercise their own free speech and expression in the classroom. In summary, students want a superintendent that leads and takes charge, not someone who is afraid of back and forth conversations or avoids difficult questions. I strongly recommend you select Brent Conway as the next superintendent of schools. He did not avoid answering my difficult questions, he was short answered, straightforward, direct, clear, and concise. Mr. Sculimbrene he did the same thing with you, the law you raised during your interview with Mr. Conway. He will tell you how it is even if it is uncomfortable. That is a leader and the person who should be leading our district education John Bowen I want to thank everybody for your time that you spent. It is a long time and arduous, you guys were slave drivers last year and it was very difficult so I don’t envy anybody here on this board for the job and duty that you have particularly this year with multiple cuts. I don’t envy the superintendent who will be walking into this disaster, it is a financial disaster, an educational disaster, and a district disaster. There are buildings that have problems, there are educational direction that is lacking in teaching because of teachers classroom size is changing. You guys are all in trouble and you are not going to make this community happy at all with any decision you make. I tell you what will make me happy – just as long as you do your job. I support my son in his direction I watched all the meetings and I think that Brent Conway is a direct, concise, short answered and someone that is not going to hand us a bunch of language, but going to say “here is the deal”. In the exchange of the law that Mr. Sculimbrene was having back and forth with him, I understand Mr. Sculimbrene being an attorney, he doesn’t like to give up a fight or an argument. A lawyer will not ask a question he doesn’t know the answer to and he wanted a specific answer, but what Brent did in the exchange is he clarified, I have no read in detail, I have no idea, I cannot do that, but I would be ===PAGE 6=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 glad to discuss it with you at a later date. I would like to know, did you guys’ discus that later on and get an answer to that legal question that you had gone through? Mr. Sculimbrene In response to Mr. Bowen’s question, after he clarified there is a case pending in the first circuit about the cheerleader scenario, but applied to student conduct as opposed to the conduct or the running of a club. So the first circuit has yet to rule on it. Basically, the gist was he was focused on that case and missed the word group in the questions. I agree with you, I though he gave it a good answer. Peter Beardmore I would like to comment on the discussion last night that occurred at the select board meeting pertaining to the discussion around the special election. To complete the override process prior to last night’s interview, Laura and I spoke at public comment. Select board meeting, the gist of my public comment was that I think there is going to be additional public outcry to make this happen. Town meeting appropriated the money, the same body that appropriates an omnibus budget. Town meeting appropriated that money, subject to the passage of an override vote. While the select board pays regular lip service to the votes at town meeting, for some reason this particular vote did not meet their muster for affecting their decision to put this on a allot. I say this, having been part of the process where we as a committee came forward and agreed that the less bad course of action once again was probably to do this as a town override. But there is a process and the public is included in the process. There was a citizen petition, and lo and behold that citizen petition held the day on Saturday and those who chose to come to town meeting and to vote, voted for it. An appropriation that has been made, but there is no revenue to support that appropriation because the public is not being given the opportunity to vote to approve that revenue. That is the mechanics of the situation that we have right now. The situation is different from the one that existed 2 months ago, when we met with the select board. In deliberations last night, the select board ignored that reality. I think to a certain degree it serves them to make dispersion of the school committee and the school budget when frankly our budget has been scrutinized ten times more than any other department in Luneburg. There have been discussions around the forecasting and the long term projections of the costs associated with running the school department to a much greater degree than any other department in town. There is a blocking mechanism that two of the three members that voted against or spoke against this last night used a year ago in opposing the override. Here we sit, nothing has been done, one of those members is leaving and I don’t know what to make of it. I am exasperated by a board that claims to represent the will of the people of Lunenburg, but will not put it to a vote. I still believe that this is going to happen, it is just a matter of how long we are prolonging the agony. I think there is going to be a special election, the question is, how long the select board is going to prolong this agony and the longer it takes the more disruptive it will be to the school department operations over the course of the summer and fall. Ms. Brzozoski I would like to echo what Peter said. I also made a public comment not knowing that Peter was coming in hot too. What I asked for was for the select board to choose either –act immediately on bringing an override for FY26 as a compromise if they are not inclined to take action now then to start work toward an FY27 override at special town meeting in November. This way everyone knows what money is coming in when we are doing our budgets. Making 10 budgets is incredibly difficult and it wastes a lot of resources. My main reason is because of what we are doing to our staff, when we prolong this agony. June 30th we have a significant number of staff being laid off, we are going to pay out unemployment, and they are going to hopefully and very likely end up finding employment in other districts. These are quality teachers we are losing and it hurts every time we do this, it damages morale in the school system, it stresses out our staff. We are not good employers, it is very upsetting what we are doing to our staff, and this is not good stewardship. If we wait until next spring for yet another budget season like this, that will be three years in a row that we have put Lunenburg school district staff through this and this is not okay. I am having a difficult time with the fact that the select board is not understanding what this is doing ===PAGE 7=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 to our staff. I don’t know how to make them understand. I don’t know how to make them care. I am very frustrated, and then to hear them, last night disparage the school committee and our stewardship of what is happening. I need leadership and I need forward movement. This is me speaking as a citizen, I am upset that we are not being given a vote on something that we voted at a town meeting. I feel like our voice is being taken away, I understand they have the legal ability and the right to not put it on the ballot if they feel it is not appropriate, but it is frustrating to have sat through town meeting, voted, did the work and then to be told “sorry it only won by two votes that’s not good enough, that doesn’t count” But then to hear Mr. Jeffries say the town hall vote only failed by 5%, he phrased it as six votes, so if it passes at the ballot they will try again at special town meeting. So wins aren’t really wins and losses aren’t really losses, it is whatever the select board decides. I know that is inflammatory, but I am very frustrated, so I am going to be agitating for an override at special town meeting and FY27 override at November town meeting. If I have to do a citizens petition, not as a school committee member, then that is what I will do, because I can’t speak for the members of the committee, and I don’t know what the new members coming in will want, but I will keep pushing. Mr. Lehtinen I want to thank Dr. Burnham for her outstanding leadership and dedicated service to the Lunenburg public schools as she prepares for retirement this June. I am filled with admiration and gratitude for the impact she has made on our district. Dr. Burnham has led with clarity, care, and unwavering focus on what is best for students. Her steady leadership helped navigate complex challenges, supported meaningful growth, and built a foundation that will serve Lunenburg well into the future. Whether guiding instructional improvements, prioritizing students’ well-being, or strengthening our community partnerships, her legacy is one of thoughtful student centered progress. I have appreciated Dr. Burnham’s collaborative spirit and her ability to bring people together with a sense of purpose and professionalism. It has been an honor to work alongside her. Thank you Dr. Burnham for your years of service and leadership and your heart you have brought to Lunenburg. I wish you a joyful and fulfilling retirement, you have certainly earned it. 5. Chair’s Report This Friday is Are you Smarter Than a 6th Grader at the high school at 7 p. doors open at 6:30, this is a fundraiser for the club and you can come watch the school committee beat the select board. The Lunenburg Business Association is having their vendor fair on May 10th from 11- 6 at TC Passios, this is a family friendly event. The classic cruise night is at TCP on May 21st from 4-8, this is a free event, and they will have music, food, games, prizes and fun for all. The state budget process with a vote of 140 -14, the House passed H410 an act making appropriations for certain other activities and projects as part of a statewide priority for high quality education, $353 million was allocated for educational related investments and is a direct result of the work of project 211. The following provisions were included, a full 100% reimbursement for FY25 regional school transportations up from 80%, 75% reimbursement for FY25 out of district special education transportation costs through the circuit breaker program increased from 44%, 75% reimbursement for FY26 out of district special education transportation costs, a directive for the Office of Inspector General to review school transportation and provide recommendations by February 2, 2026 to reduce costs, enhance purchasing power and streamline services. There was also $483.2 million for circuit breaker special education reimbursements, there were local earmarks secured of $40,000 for security system upgrades in Lunenburg Public Schools. The budget also continues to fully fund universal free lunch meals and invests $1667 billion in early education care. The House budget passed including 150 per pupil minimum aid increase. Additional circuit breaker funding of $190 million, $120,000 in direct earmarks for Lunenburg public schools. The Senate ways and means committee has released the FY26 budget on their side, unfortunately does not include language to establish chapter 70 commission that we have been advocating for, so we can continue to push for this as an amendment. The support of the public as well is critical to our success. You can contact Senator ===PAGE 8=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 Cronin and urge him to file a budget amendment incorporating the language of Senator Lewis’s Senate bill S400 which is proposing the commission to recommend changes to the funding formula, there will be a hearing on May 9th at 2 pm. On May 12th you can testify in person or virtually on educations hearing on Senator Lewis’s bill, you can also submit written testimony. The senate will debate FY26 amendments the week of May 19, 2025, which is after the hearing. 6. Student Representative Report There is no school on 5/26/25 in honor of Memorial Day. On 5/29/25 the first graders will be going to the zoo and Primary School will hold field day on 6/12. At Turkey Hill the fourth and fifth graders will be taking the MCAS test and their field trip is on June 11th. The Middle High School, athletics are in full swing. Student council elections were last week and votes were announced on Friday. The middle school had their Glow Dance on Friday, my friend sister went and said she had a lot of fun. The sixth grade will visit the Museum of Science and 8th grade will be going to DC. The seniors are wrapping up their year, participating in motorcade, senior breakfast and graduation fast approaching. May 16th is the last day to order the high school yearbooks. The 2026 Greece trip for next April is filling up fast. May 17 -30 there will be an honors and AP art thesis show, I have a piece in that, so check it out, it will be fun. National Honor Society is offering peer tutoring on Tuesdays. The Junior Senior prom is coming up on May 17th. 7. Review & Approve Minutes- none 8. Review & Approve Warrants, Line Item Transfers & Donations a. Warrants 4/16/25 – 4/30/25 $182,608.62 b. Line Item Transfers A request to transfer $16,063.77 and $7,136.41 from the Elementary Guidance salary due to a resignation and partial unfilled maintenance to substitute lines. A request to transfer $1000 from fire safety furniture line to vehicle maintenance. A request of $12,332.80 to go to contracted services from general supply line of $6,370.01 and $5,962.79 from another general supplies. A request to rectify salary lines move $1,500 from business manager, $1,500 from human resource director, $53,493 from salary reserve line to Business Office, Assistance Secretary. Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to approve, Mr. Sculimbrene seconds the motion all approve c. Donations from the Madigan Family for $1,500 to continue the Richard Stachowicz Memorial Scholarship to be awarded to a graduating senior in the class of 2026. A donation of $35.50 from Box Tops which will be deposited into the gift account at Turkey Hill Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to accept donations with gratitude, Ms. Brzozoski seconds the motion all approve 9. Superintendents Report Upcoming Dates 5/21 School Committee meeting hybrid from LMHS 5/26 Schools and Offices Closed – Memorial Day 6/4 School Committee Meeting hybrid – prior to meeting will be a celebration for retirees, Karyn Giuliani from the Art Department at the high school, Peggy Proctor from World Language at the high school, and Bob Hill from the Science Department at the high school ===PAGE 9=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 10. Old Business Action a. Superintendent Search Deliberation and Action Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to open the discussion of superintendent candidacy, a candidate needs three affirmative votes, Ms. Archambault seconds the motion, all approve Ms. Brzozoski first choice Jodi, second choice Brent Mr. Beardmore first choice Jodi, second choice Joanne Ms. Archambault first choice Brent second choice Jodi Mr. Sculimbrene first choice Jodi second choice Brent/Joanne Mr. Lehtinen first choice Jodi second choice Joanne After a discussion amongst the committee they then choose their first choice Ms. Brzozoski – Jodi, Mr. Beardmore – Jodi, Ms. Archambault Brent, Mr. Sculimbrene – Jodi, Mr. Lehtinen With four votes for Jodi she is voted to be the next superintendent of schools pending negotiations, Mr. Lehtinen calls her and she accepts. b. Override Ballot Impact The select board has met and decided they will not be putting the override on for a special election, there was no official vote they need 2/3 of vote to get it on the ballot. c. Student Activity Fee Structure Dr. Gilson discusses some options for an increase and the committee ultimately decides for a universal increase from $55 to $70 Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to approve the increase to $70, Mr. Beardmore seconds the motion, all approve d. THES ADA Study Final Report the committee has the final report in their folder, Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to accept the report, Mr. Beardmore seconds the motion all approve e. Facility and Grounds Report the committee has a report in their folder. Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to accept the report, Mr. Beardmore seconds the report, all approve. f. Paraprofessional Contract Ratification a brief summary status is given by Mr. Beardmore, about a year ago a contract was agreed upon for one year with the Para’s. We have gone back and made some changes, a raise in pay, they will now be on a salary plan opposed to an hourly pay plan, 26 week pay period and all benefits of a contracted employee vs an hourly employee, moved away from some stipends and it will all be absorbed into the contract and all money goes toward retirement. Ms. Archambault makes a motion to accept the agreement, Ms. Brzozoski seconds the motion all approve g. Third Read Policies 3601.3 Bus Fee Policy, 1303.1 Advertising in Schools the bus policy needs to go back to the subcommittee for an adjustment in language. Mr. Beardmore reads 1303.1 advertising policy out loud Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to approve policy 1303.1 as read, Mr. Beardmore seconds the motion, all approve. 11. New Business Action a. Class of 2023 Account Ms. Walker and Mr. Koziol discussed the wishes of the class of 2023. The class has a balance of $4,644.36 and would like to donate it to the annual secretary’s gift card drive. Mr. Beardmore makes a motion to accept the donation of ===PAGE 10=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 $4,644.36 to be earmarked for the Annual Secretary’s gift card drive, Ms. Brzozoski seconds the motion all approve b. Grant Submission Approvals the committee has been provided the memo’s in their packet from Dr. Bookis and Ms. Hanscom. Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to accept the submission of grants, Mr. Beardmore seconds the motion all approve c. Budget Task Force Charge the chair of the select board wants the committee to review the budget task force charge, there is interest in the task force starting up again. Mr. Lehtinen recommends adding “develop and present at least 3 numerical scenarios” Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to table this until next meeting, Mr. Lehtinen seconds the motion all approve Discussion d. Master Planning Committee Ms. Archambault reports they met, as previously they couldn’t get a quorum. The committee decides they will go through the list and will send their priority list to Dr. Burnham and Ms. Archambault 12. Reports Ms. Brzozoski Come see me at the vendor fair Saturday I have 300th Lunenburg anniversary stickers, which will be in 2028. LEAF met and welcomed new members, they are still waiting for their 501 C3 status to be approved. The wellness committee met and will be doing survey of student behavior, and I am excited to see the results. Mr. Beardmore the High School advisory met on 4/27 had a budget discussion and the effects on the high school and how the class registration process is delayed because of this. We also discussed the student activity fee, and end of year calendar. Ms. Archambault Middle School advisory met on 4/26 and discussed MCAS schedule, handbook, approved minor changes, discussed the DC trip which will be going via bus this year. Mr. Sculimbrene The PTO met on Monday night, cruise event with Lions club, met with some of the people bringing cars. They are wondering what will happen to their room at TCP when the staff move out of the building. Dr. Burnham does not have any authority over whether any space after they move from the building. They should reach out to the town manager Mr. Lehtinen LMBDC met before town meeting, the plan did not pass, but will still be on the ballot for a town vote 13. Public Comment Dave Passios I got a chance to hear some of the members comments regarding the budget task force. Last night I made some very marked comments relative to the challenge that had tasked the select board with last year. Shortly after elections, my comment to them was, you need to get over your issues and you need to bring the town out of the hole, you need to lead this town, the executive branch is the branch that needs to deal with budgetary problems and passing it off to a committee that is then going to have to go back to paid employees and department heads to get information, digest it, and then spit it back again at the select board and executive branch is a waste of time. I told them it is their responsibility to run the town and use every resource available to them. Ms. Brzozoski I would like to welcome our incoming superintendent I am very excited and this was a big decision. Thank you for everything Dr. Burnham you have been our measuring stick, you are going to be really hard to replace. I think there are a lot of things that you do that we don’t even know about, because you make it look effortless. Mr. Beardmore I want to repeat all of the thank yous. I am so excited we are on the cusp of finishing the AC project at the Primary School, it has been a long road and we may have everything we need procedurally. I am proud of the stick-to-itiveness of our administration and this committee to make sure that project happens. Ms. Archambault Thank you PAC for everything they do and John for being everywhere when needed. The people in this community are so much better informed because of what you do. ===PAGE 11=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 Mr. Lehtinen Thank you to my wife and children, if you are up –Go to bed! 14. Topics for Future Discussion Dr. Burnham is working on the State of the Schools report 15. Adjournment Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to enter executive session and adjourn immediately after at 9:58 pm, Ms. Archambault seconds the motion, motion approved via roll call vote 16. Executive Session to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel Respectfully Submitted Courtney Fuller ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-05-15-agenda-7223.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-05-15 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-05-15-agenda-7223.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05152025-7223 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== REVISED MEETING NOTICE SPECIAL SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING Thursday, May 15, 2025 6:30 pm, LMS Collaborative Room #D132 HYBRID MEETING AGENDA School Committee Superintendent Brian Lehtinen, Chair Dr. Kate Burnham Anthony Sculimbrene, Vice Chair Carol Archambault-Secretary Laura Brzozoski Recording Secretary Peter Beardmore Courtney Fuller Guests: In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being broadcast at a later date over the Lunenburg Public Access channel. Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607?omn=861321 47451 Meeting ID: 766 316 7607 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US+13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 This meeting will be broadcast at a later date through the local access cable channel and on the Public Access Facebook page(h ttps://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order 2. Public Comment 3. Executive Session: to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel. 4. New Business Action a. Superintendent Contract 5. Old Business Action a. First Read 3601.1 Bus Fee Policy 6. Public Comment 7. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-05-15-minutes-7223.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-05-15 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-05-15-minutes-7223.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05152025-7223 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 MEETING MINUTES SPECIAL SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING Thursday, May 15, 2025 LHMS Collaborative Room #D132 6:30 – Hybrid School Committee Superintendent Brian Lehtinen, Chair - Present Dr. Kate Burnham Anthony Sculimbrene, Vice Chair - Present Carol Archambault, Secretary - Present Peter Beardmore, Member - Present Laura Brzozoski, Member - Present Recording Secretary Courtney Fuller Guests: In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadc ast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page. (http://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law 1. Call to Order by Mr. Lehtinen at 6:30 pm 2. Public Comment Mr. Lehtinen reads aloud a welcome letter to the new superintendent Dr. Jodi Fortuna. Dear Lunenburg family, staff, and community members we are excited to share that Lunenburg School Committee has voted to appoint Dr. Jodi Fortuna as the next superintendent of Lunenburg Public Schools beginning July 1 2025. Dr. Fortuna comes to us with over 20 years of experience in educational leadership and a deep commitment to student achievement, inclusive practices, and a strong school community. She currently serves as the Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning in the Brookline Public Schools where she has led important district-wide instructional initiatives and worked closely with educators’ families and community partners. Her professional background also includes numerous leadership roles including Assistant Superintendent in Boston Public Schools, Principal Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent of Hudson Public Schools, Principal at Narragansett Regional School, and Assistant Principal at Northridge Public Schools. She began her career as a Special Education Teacher in the Dudley - Charlton Regional School District. She has continued to center her work on supporting all learners and empowering staff. Dr Fortuna holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Boston College and she brings a collaborative of out outcomes driven approach to school leadership. Throughout the search process Dr Fortuna impressed us with her thoughtful vision, her understanding of district systems, and her ability to bring people together. She is dedicated to listening, learning, and working in partnership with students’ educators, families, and the entire Luneburg community. This appointment follows a rigorous and inclusive search process that included public finalist interviews as well as a screening subcommittee made up of school staff, union representatives, town officials, parents, and Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Kate Burnham, Superintendent of Schools ===PAGE 2=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 community members. We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed time, insights and feedback throughout the process we look forward to welcoming Dr Fortuna to Lunenburg and beginning a new chapter together. She will be working closely with the school committee and current leadership to ensure a smooth transition in the months ahead. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our schools 3. Executive Session: to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to enter executive session at 6:33 Mr. Beardmore seconds the motion, all approve via roll call. Committee returns at 6:43 4. New Business Action a. Superintendent Contract Mr. Sculimbrene and Ms. Archambault met with Dr. Fortuna on Tuesday. The contract includes an annual salary of $174,000, we accepted the request to reimburse her for the membership fee of American Association of Superintendent which is $485 per year. This is a 3 year contract with a 2 ½% raise each year. Ms. Archambault makes a motion to accept the contract, Mr. Beardmore seconds the motion all approve via roll call vote. 5. Old Business a. First Read 3601.1 Bus Fee Policy Ms. Brzozoski reads the policy out loud. 6. Public Comment 7. Adjournment Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to adjourn at 6:52, Mr. Beardmore seconds the motion, all approve via roll call vote Respectfully Submitted Courtney Fuller ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-05-20-agenda-7232.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-05-20 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-05-20-agenda-7232.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05202025-7232 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== MEETING NOTICE SPECIAL SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING Tuesday, May 20, 2025 4:00 pm REMOTE MEETING AGENDA School Committee Superintendent Brian Lehtinen, Chair Dr. Kate Burnham Anthony Sculimbrene, Vice Chair Laura Brzozoski Recording Secretary Carol Archambault Peter Beardmore Courtney Fuller Guests: In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being broadcast at a later date over the Lunenburg Public Access channel. Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607?omn=894 16878777 Meeting ID: 766 316 7607 One tap mobile +19292056099,,7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD 5 This meeting will be broadcast at a later date through the local access cable channel and on the Public Access Facebook page(h ttps://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order 2. Public Comment 4. Old Business Action a. Second Read 3601.1 Bus Fee Policy 5. Public Comment 6. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-05-20-minutes-7232.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-05-20 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-05-20-minutes-7232.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05202025-7232 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 MEETING MINUTES SPECIAL SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING Tuesday, May 20, 2025 REMOTE MEETING – 4:00 School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene, Vice Chair - Present Dr. Kate Burnham Laura Brzozoski - Present Mandy Gilman - Present Recording Secretary Courtney Fuller Guests: In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page. (http://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law 1. Call to Order by Mr. Sculimbrene at 4:00 pm 2. Public Comment None 3. Old Business a. Second Read 3601.1 Bus Fee Policy Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to waive second reading, Ms. Gilman seconds the motion all approve via roll call 4. Public Comment None 5. Adjournment Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to adjourn at 4:07, Ms Gilman seconds the motion, all approve via roll call vote Respectfully Submitted Courtney Fuller Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Kate Burnham, Superintendent of Schools ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-05-21-agenda-7235.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-05-21 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-05-21-agenda-7235.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05212025-7235 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== REVISED MEETING NOTICE SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING Wednesday, May 21, 2025 6:30 pm, LMS Collaborative Room #D132 HYBRID MEETING AGENDA School Committee Superintendent Chair, TBD Dr. Kate Burnham Anthony Sculimbrene, Vice Chair Secretary, TBD Laura Brzozoski Recording Secretary Member, TBD Courtney Fuller Guests: In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being broadcast at a later date over the Lunenburg Public Access channel. Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85906741187 Meeting ID: 859 0674 1187 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 85906741187# US +13092053325,,85906741187# US This meeting will be broadcast at a later date through the local access cable channel and on the Public Access Facebook page (h ttps://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order 11. Reports 2. Pledge of Allegiance 12. Public Comment 3. Public Comment 13. Topics for Future Discussion 4. Chair’s Report 14. Adjournment 5. Student Representative’s Report 6. Review & Approve Minutes a. Regular Session 3/5/25 & 3/12/25 7. Review & Approve Line Item Transfers, Warrants & Donations a. Warrants 5/6/25 to 5/16/25 $130,589.17 8. Superintendent’s Report 9. New Business Action a. Committee Reorganization  Election of Officers & Appointment of Sub-Committee Members  Authorize Policies & Procedures to Remain in Force  Annual Student Activity Accounts Authorization  Annual Town Meeting-Auditorium Waiver b. Letter to Legislature-Funding Reform Commission c. Review of Operating Protocols d. SC Draft Meeting Calendar 2025-2026 10. Old Business Action a. Evaluation/Audit Reports b. 3601.01 Third Read Bus Fee Policy c. Finalized Superintendent Contract Discussion c. Curriculum Office Updates d. Strategy Action Plan Update-Core Values e. Budget Task Force Charge ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-05-21-minutes-7235.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-05-21 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-05-21-minutes-7235.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05212025-7235 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 MEETING MINUTES SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING Wednesday, May 21, 2025 LHMS Collaborative Room #D132 6:30 – Hybrid School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene Chair - Present Dr. Kate Burnham Laura Brzozoski, Vice Chair - Present Mandy Gilman Secretary - Present Emily Young, Member - Present George Yapp, Member - Present Recording Secretary Courtney Fuller Guests: In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page. ( http://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public- Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law 1) Call to Order by Mr. Sculimbrene at 6:37 2) Pledge of Allegiance 3) Public Comment –Ms. Brzozoski would like to welcome the three new members and thank you for stepping up and volunteering. 4) Chair’s Report Mr. Sculimbrene (after elected) I am super glad that everybody who is here tonight is here. One of the things that I have learned on school committee is everybody brings something different to the table and everybody brings something that matters. When Peter joined and then Laura joined they brought real and different skill sets to the job. It made us better and I think that one of the things that we do that maybe not every committee does in town is we work with comedy and respectfulness. I think we are going to do that going forward and as I have said to many people, it is not what you believe, it is how you believe it. If we are going to be respectful then I think this going to work, so thank you for coming. 5) Student Representative Report None 6) Review & Approve Minutes a) Regular Session 3/5/25 & 3/12/25 Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to approve, Mr. Sculimbrene seconds the motion, the motion passes with two yes’s and 3 abstain 7) Review & Approve Warrants, Line Item Transfers & Donations a) Warrants 5/6/25 – 5/16/25 $130,589.17 Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Kate Burnham, Superintendent of Schools ===PAGE 2=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 8) Superintendents Report Welcome to the new members of the committee. Cruise night has been rescheduled to 5/28. We have received 1006 transportation forms so far, which is down from 1450 last year. Kindergarten screening is June 2, the Middle High School concert is on May 29th, chorus at 5:30 and band at 7 pm. Eighth grade is currently out on their annual Washington DC trip. There was a bus accident today, and a special thanks to everyone who coordinated around it. I was not in as I was out on bereavement. Thank you Dr. Gilson, Juliana Hanscom, our SRO Brad McNamara, Chief Sullivan from the fire department, Sandra Martin from Dee Bus, and Liz Peterson. There was a lot of outgoing communication and coordination back and forth. Congratulations to the bus driver for handling the bus in a way that kept all the kids safe. Upcoming Dates 5/26/25 All schools and offices are closed for Memorial Day 6/4/25 School Committee Meeting 6:30 and Annual Retiree Celebration 6:00 6/4/25 Last day of school for seniors and motorcade in the morning 6/5/25 Senior Awards 6/7/25 Graduation 6/18/25 Last School Committee meeting for the school year 9) New Business Action a) Committee Reorganization i) Election of Offices & Appointment of Sub-Committee Members Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to nominate Mr. Sculimbrene as Chair Ms. Gilman seconds the motion all approve via roll call vote. Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to nominate Ms Brzozoski as Vice Chair, Ms. Young seconds the motion all approve via roll call vote. Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to nominate Mandy Gilman as Secretary, Mr. Yapp seconds the motion, all approve via roll call vote. The committee goes through all sub committees and assign a member to each one Ms. Gilman makes a motion to accept all appointment of subcommittee, Mr. Yapp seconds the motion, all approve ii) Authorize Policies & Procedures to Remain in Force Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to continue as is Ms. Gilman seconds the motion all approve iii) Annual Student Activity Accounts Authorization Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to authorize annual student activity accounts, Ms. Gilman seconds the motion all approve iv) Annual Town Meeting – Auditorium Waiver Ms. Gilman makes a motion to continue waiver, Mr. Yapp seconds the motion, all approve v) Grant Approval – Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion for the school committee to authorize the superintendent and those delegated by the superintendent to pursue all grants for the next 12 months that promote Lunenburg School Districts strategy for continuous improvement, Ms. Gilman makes a motion to approve, Ms. Brzozoski seconds the motion all approve b) Letter to Legislature – Funding Reform Commission Ms. Gilman has drafted a letter in regards to Chapter 70 funds. She can forward the letter to Liz Peterson to be sent out to delegates. Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to accept the letter with revisions as stated, Mr. Sculimbrene seconds the motion all approve ===PAGE 3=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 c) Review of Operating Protocols discussion over present protocols and possibilities to streamline meetings and try to get more public attendance and participation Ms, Brzozoski makes a motion to accept protocols as is and bring back for review at next meeting, Mr. Yapp seconds the motion all approve d) SC Draft Meeting Calendar 2025-2026 discussion about adding a meeting in August for budget discussion, email sent to Town Manager for ideas. 10) Old Business Action a) Evaluation/Audit Reports a report in in the committee’s packet b) 3601.01 Third Read Bus Fee Policy Mr. Sculimbrene reads the policy aloud Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to approve the Bus Fee Policy 3601.01 as written, Ms. Gilman seconds the motion all approve Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to allow a public comment, Ms. Brzozoski seconds the motion all approve Justin Reppuci, 1147 Mass Ave I have put in a waiver for fees, due to unsafe sidewalk, when will I know if it is approved Committee responds the waiver needs to go to superintendent’s office and will be notified of a decision, and if you are unsatisfied you can appeal c) Finalized Superintendent Contract The contract has been signed, our lawyer came to us after the fact with multiple changes to the contract. The committee agrees to allow the contract that was ratified to be the final contract Discussion d) Curriculum Office Update there is a link to a video in the committees folder any questions can be referred to Dr. Bookis e) Strategy Action Plan Update- Core Values Members will review the information and if there is any feedback with send to superintendent f) Budget Task Force Charge uncertain if the task force will be starting up again 11) Reports None 12) Public Comment Mandy Gilman In regards to the state budget, there are two areas I would like to talk about. There may be some money coming through Special Ed Circuit Breaker for the current fiscal year. There is also a one-time millionaire’s tax, it could mean some money for Lunenburg. When the final budget is signed, if we have more money than we are currently expecting, we as committee should have a plan of spending. I’d like to know when we get this money, what it will be used for. 13) Topics for Future Discussion Possible increase in funding for Lunenburg and a plan of how it will be spent 14) Adjournment Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to adjourn at 9:08 pm Mr. Sculimbrene seconds the motion, all approved Respectfully Submitted Courtney Fuller ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-06-04-agenda-7251.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-06-04 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-06-04-agenda-7251.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06042025-7251 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== MEETING NOTICE SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING Wednesday, June 4, 2025 6:30 pm, Town Hall HYBRID MEETING AGENDA School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene, TBD Dr. Kate Burnham Laura Brzozoski, Vice Chair Mandy Gilman, Secretary Recording Secretary George Yapp, Member Emily Young, Member Courtney Fuller Guests: Dr. Susan Gilson-Director of Administration & Finance, Tim Santry-LMHS Principal, Norm Yvon-THES Principal, Carla Squier-Primary School Principal In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel. Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85906741187 Meeting ID: 859 0674 1187 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 85906741187# US +13092053325,,85906741187# US This meeting will be broadcast live through the local access cable channel and on the Public Access Facebook page (h ttps://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Retiree Recognition 4. Public Comment 5. Chair’s Report 6. Student Representative’s Report 7. Review & Approve Minutes a. Regular Session 3/19, 4/7, 4/16. 4/30, 5/1, 5/5, 5/6, 6/7, 5/15. 5/20/25 8. Review & Approve Line Item Transfers, Warrants & Donations a. Warrants 5/19/25 to 5/29/25 $598,262.60 9. Superintendent’s Report 10. New Business Action a. FY26 School Handbook 11. Old Business Action a. 2024-2025 SIP Progress Reports b. Facilities & Grounds Report c. Review of Operating Protocols 12. Reports 13. Public Comment 14. Topics for Future Discussion 15. Executive Session: to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel Or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel. 16. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-06-04-minutes-7251.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-06-04 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-06-04-minutes-7251.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06042025-7251 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 MEETING MINUTES SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING Wednesday, June 4, 2025 TOWN HALL 6:30 – Hybrid School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene Chair - Present Dr. Kate Burnham Laura Brzozoski, Vice Chair - Present Emily Young Secretary - Present Mandy Gilman, Member - Present George Yapp, Member - Present Recording Secretary Courtney Fuller Guests: Dr. Susan Gilson – Director of Administration and Finance, Tim Santry – LMHS Principal, Norm Yvon -THES Principal, Carla Squier – Primary School Principal In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page. (http://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law 1. Call to Order by Ms. Brzozoski at 6:30 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Retiree Recognition Dr. Burnham reports Ms. Karyn Giuliani is retiring from the High School and has been with Lunenburg for 24 years, she has done a phenomenal job with the art department. Ms. Peggy Proctor is a World Language teacher working with grades 8 through 12, we thank her for her 26 years of service. Mr. Robert Hill is a Science teacher at the high school and has been with us for 26 years. He and his wife will be working at the family business at the apple orchard. We wish them all well and good health, happiness and lots of relaxation. 4. Public Comment Ms. Gilman – I am sorry Mr. Hill isn’t here, he was my geology teacher when I was a freshmen in high school. He was everyone’s favorite teacher, I am sure he still is. I am happy for him but sad he is retiring, he was such a great person, in the early 2000 he always hosted the rallies and always had some creative funny performance Liz Peterson – reads a letter in honor of Dr. Burnham retirement. Ms. Peterson presents Dr. Burnham with a plaque in honor of her 7 years and a bouquet of flowers. Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Kate Burnham, Superintendent of Schools ===PAGE 2=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 Carol Archambault – Thanks three retirees for all of their service. Ms. Archambault reads her letter in honor of Dr. Burnham’s retirement. Ms. Brzozoski – I would like to honor our retirees and the length of time they have been part of our community and congratulations to our seniors that will be graduating in a few days. 5. Chair’s Report Isaac had Mr. Hill this year and he was one of the most engaging educators that he has had in his entire academic career. The only think I regret is that Isaac will not have the opportunity to have the other retiring teachers and my other son Ethan will not have the opportunity to have any of them. They were all extraordinarily gifted, they all reached students in a way that made them feel special and brought subjects alive. I am grateful that these people are working in the cradle of democracy, teaching our kids, not only how to be smart people, but also how to be good people. 6. Student Representative Report None 7. Review & Approve Minutes a. Regular Session 3/19, 4/7, 4/16, 4/30, 5/1, 5/5, 5/6, 6/7, 5/15, 5/20 Mr, Sculimbrene makes a motion to approve all the minutes, allowing the new members to abstain to the ones they were not part of, Mr. Yapp seconds the vote, all approve via roll call vote 8. Review & Approve Warrants, Line Item Transfers & Donations a. Warrants 5/19/25-5/29/25 $598,262.6 b. Donations Lauren Perilla donated $800 to the Primary School for the purchase of STEM supplies for the next school year. Box top donation of $31.70 to be deposited in the gift account for future field trips and presentations. A donation of $2381.08 from the Scholastic Book fair also to be deposited into the gift account at the Primary School Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to approve all donations with gratitude, Mr. Yapp seconds the motion, all approve via roll call vote. c. Line Item Transfer $231,912.49 transferred from multiple lines to cover expenses, unemployment, student activities and spring athletics. Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to approve line item transfers, Ms. Gilman seconds the motion all approve via roll call. 9. Superintendents Report We have received 1,074 bus requests, and have 494 unpaid at this time. We will send a list to Dee bus, so they can designate bus routes, names will not be forwarded to Dee Bus unless or until the fee is paid. Today was the last day for seniors and was also the senior motorcade was this morning, senior awards will be held tomorrow and graduation will be on Saturday, there is a possibility due to weather the graduation will be indoors. Yanina Burns will be the part time Assistant Principal and part time Athletic Director for the next school year. There have been two finalists for the Finance Director position, however, both declined due to the salary. The move for TCP to Turkey Hill will be happening sooner than expected. A new program will be using our classrooms and we have to be completely vacated by 6/30 instead of 7/15. There has been some communication with the town manager for chairs of three major boards to meet rather than reconvene the budget task force. The plan at this time is to schedule a tri-board meeting once a month and that is the full membership of the school committee, the select board, and the finance committee. A list of dates for the meetings are supplied to the committee. All of these dates are on Tuesdays. Mr. Sculimbrene asks if we can go back to the town manager to adjust dates to be on dates that some of the meetings are already scheduled versus adding seven meetings for the School Committee. ===PAGE 3=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 Upcoming Dates 6/16 Last day of school ½ day 6/18 Next School Committee Meeting 6/19 All Schools and offices are closed 7/7 ESY Special Education Program starts 7/14 Extended day summer program – located at the Primary School 10. New Business Action a. FY26 School Handbook the committee has been supplied with the handbook in their folder, any changes are in yellow. Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to accept the handbook as proposed, Ms. Gilman seconds the motion, all approve via roll call vote 11. Old Business a. 2024-2025 SIP Progress Reports committee has been provided a School Improvement Plan for each school with notes on all updates that have happened. Mr. Sculimbrene makes a motion to approve SIP plans as included in the folder. Ms. Young seconds the motion all approve via roll call vote b. Facilities and Grounds Report a comprehensive summary of all projects that have gone on this year and their status, along with all capital projects that will be underway for the summer. Ms. Gilman makes a motion to accept the report, Ms. Young seconds the motion, all approve via roll call vote c. Review of Operating Protocols Ms. Brzozoski provided a version of the proposed operating protocols. Mr. Sculimbrene wants thing set as rules versus guidelines, we will always be able to vote to extend any section of the protocol. Ms. Brzozoski would like to keep them as a guideline. Ms. Gilman shares her experiences with testifying at the State House and having 2 minute time limit for comments. Ms. Gilman makes a motion to accept the proposals with the removal of meetings being at one location and ban on PowerPoint and that these are rules and not guidelines as an amendment to the current protocols. Mr. Yapp seconds the motion, Motion passes with 4 approvals and 1 no. 12. Reports Mr. Sculimbrene I was unable to make the PTO meeting. The policy subcommittee will be meeting on Friday. Ms. Gilman reports the PTO had a great car show last week with the Lions Club, Teen Center, and Community Food Pantry. It was a wonderful day and I want to thank the schools for all their help getting the information out to students and thank you to the administrators who’ve offered great prizes, including Dr. Burnham who hosts kids for lunch and I have principals for the day both at Turkey Hill and the Primary School. Thank you to the fire department, library, and police department, the library is dong a slime party for a student, the fire department is doing a ride to school, and the police department is doing a ride to school also. It is a great community event across generations, we are hopeful to continue this. 13. Public Comment Ms., Gilman on our agenda for next meeting can we put some discussion on the budget task force. 14. Topics for Future Discussion A statement from the committee to guide our discussions going forward Budget ===PAGE 4=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 Tri-Board Meetings Information from the Town Manager and if she can attend or a formal response on her timing Budget projections from the Superintendent Potential for meeting the new superintendent via zoom prior to a meeting in July MASC workshop on superintendent evaluations and school committee roles and responsibilities 15. Executive Session ( to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel 16. Adjournment Ms. Gilman makes a motion to enter executive session and adjourn immediately after at 7:53, Mr. Yapp seconds the motion, all approve Respectfully Submitted Courtney Fuller ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-06-18-agenda-7280.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-06-18 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-06-18-agenda-7280.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06182025-7280 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== REVISED SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING NOTICE Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2025 Time: 7:00 PM Location: LMS Collaborative Room #D132 Broadcast Status: HYBRID MEETING (in person and on Zoom) AGENDA School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene, TBD Dr. Kate Burnham Laura Brzozoski, Vice Chair Mandy Gilman, Secretary Recording Secretary George Yapp, Member Emily Young, Member Courtney Fuller Guests: Dr. Susan Gilson-Director of Administration & Finance, Julianna Hanscom-Director of special Services, Dr. Deborah Bookis-Director of Teaching & Learning, Chris Stevens-Director of Facilities, Nadine Lorenzen-Food Service Director In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being broadcast at a later date over the Lunenburg Public Access channel. Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85906741187 Meeting ID: 859 0674 1187 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 85906741187# US +13092053325,,85906741187# US This meeting will be broadcast at a later date through the local access cable channel and on the Public Access Facebook page (h ttps://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order (3 min) 11. Subcommittee Reports (15 min) 2. Pledge of Allegiance (3 min) 12. Public Comment for Issues Discussed Tonight 3. Public Comment for Prior Issues (3 min) 13.Topics for Future Discussion (3 min) 4. Chair’s Report (3 min) 14.Adjournment 6. Review & Approve Minutes a. Regular Session 5/21/25 & 6/4/25 7. Review & Approve Line Item Transfers, Warrants & Donations (3 min) a. Warrants 6/2/25 to 6/12/25 $350,385.98 8. Superintendent’s Report (3 min) 9. New Business Action a. DESE TFM Audit with Preschool Proposal (5 min) b. FY25 Budget Carryover Open PO’s (5 min) c. Geoffrey R. Lucier Scholarship Donation (5 min) d. Declare Surplus Equipment (5 min) e. Field Trip Guidelines (10 min) f. Forecasted Budgets FY27 & FY28 (15 min) g.Tri-board School Committee Statement (5 min) h. Community Eligibility Provision Approval (5 min) i. Curriculum End of Year Report & Update(5 min) 10. Old Business Action a. Paraprofessional Contract (5 min) b. FY25 Quarterly Budget Report (5 min) c. FY25 Quarterly Personnel Report (3 min) d. Keystone Report (3 min) ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-07-08-agenda-7301.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-07-08 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-07-08-agenda-7301.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07082025-7301 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING NOTICE TRI-BOARD MEETING Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025 Time: 7:00 PM Location: Eagle House, 25 Memorial Drive, Lunenburg, MA 01462 Broadcast Status: In Person Only AGENDA School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene, TBD Dr. Jodi Fortuna Laura Brzozoski, Vice Chair Mandy Gilman, Secretary Recording Secretary George Yapp, Member Emily Young, Member Courtney Fuller Guests: In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel. This meeting will be broadcast live local access cable channel and on the Public Access Facebook page (h ttps://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. 1. Tri-Board Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. New Business a. Tri-Board Ground Rules Adoption b. Discussions on consolidations, efficiencies, and timeline c. Discussions on Departmental Growth d. Specific Requests from Tri-Board e. Financial Management / Best Practices 4. Important Dates & Upcoming Meetings a. Tri-Board Meetings - August 26, September 30, October 14, November 12, December 9, January 13 b. Finance Committee – July 10 5. Adjourn Note: a) References to the Tri-Board and Tri-Chair in the context of this meeting refer to Finance Committee, School Committ ee, and Select Board b) Material discussed in the Tri-Board meetings may be further deliberated in future individual committee meetings c) The agenda has a lot of material so Public Comment periods have not been included. Please feel free to reach out with comments to members of Finance Committee or make Public Comments at future Finance Committee Meetings. Email addresses for Finance Committee members may be found at the following link: https://lunenburgma.gov/252/FinanceCommittee Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Jodi Fortuna, Superintendent of Schools ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-08-06-agenda-7334.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-08-06 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-08-06-agenda-7334.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08062025-7334 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 129 Northfield Rd, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 REVISED SCHOOL COMMITTEE WORKSHOP MEETING NOTICE Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 Time: 4:00 PM Location: LMS Collaborative Room #D132 Broadcast Status: HYBRID MEETING (in person and on Zoom) AGENDA School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene, Chair Dr. Jodi Fortuna Laura Brzozoski, Vice Chair Mandy Gilman, Secretary Recording Secretary George Yapp, Member Emily Young, Member Courtney Fuller Guests: Tracy O’Connell Novick-MASC Field Director In accordance with the requir ements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being broadcast at a later date over the Lunenburg Public Access channel. Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607?omn=854575196 62 Meeting ID: 766 316 7607 One tap mobile +19292056099, 7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 This meeting will be broadcast at a later date through the local access cable channel and on the Public Access Facebook page (h ttps://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be found on the Lunenbu rg Access YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order (3 min) 2. Pledge of Allegiance (3 min) 3. Executive Session: to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel. 4. New Business Action a. Donations (2 min) b. Business Administrator Contract Approval b. Workshop-Roles & Responsibilities of the School Committee and Superintendent Evaluation Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Jodi Fortuna, Superintendent of Schools ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-08-06-agenda-7336.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-08-06 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-08-06-agenda-7336.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08062025-7336 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 129 Northfield Rd, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 REVISED SCHOOL COMMITTEE WORKSHOP MEETING NOTICE Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 Time: 4:00 PM Location: LMS Collaborative Room #D132 Broadcast Status: HYBRID MEETING (in person and on Zoom) AGENDA School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene, Chair Dr. Jodi Fortuna Laura Brzozoski, Vice Chair Mandy Gilman, Secretary Recording Secretary George Yapp, Member Emily Young, Member Courtney Fuller Guests: Tracy O’Connell Novick-MASC Field Director In accordance with the requir ements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being broadcast at a later date over the Lunenburg Public Access channel. Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7663167607?omn=854575196 62 Meeting ID: 766 316 7607 One tap mobile +19292056099, 7663167607# US (New York) +13017158592,,7663167607# US (Washington DC) Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keEQiMHAD5 This meeting will be broadcast at a later date through the local access cable channel and on the Public Access Facebook page (h ttps://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be found on the Lunenbu rg Access YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. 1. Call to Order (3 min) 2. Pledge of Allegiance (3 min) 3. Executive Session: to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel. 4. New Business Action a. Donations (2 min) b. Workshop-Roles & Responsibilities of the School Committee and Superintendent Evaluation Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Jodi Fortuna, Superintendent of Schools ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-08-06-minutes-7334.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-08-06 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-08-06-minutes-7334.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_08062025-7334 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Jodi Fortuna , Superintendent of Schools MEETING MINUTES SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING Wednesday, August 6, 2025 LMHS – D132 4 :00 – Hybrid School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene Chair - Present Dr. Jodi Fortuna Laura Brzozoski , Vice Chair - Present Emily Young Secretary - Present Mandy Gilman , Member - Present George Yapp , Member - Absent Recording Secretary Courtney Fuller Guests : Tracey O ’Connell Novick – MASC Field Director In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page. (http://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/ ) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law 1. Call to Order 2. Executive Session to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel - Returned to regular session at 6:11 3. Pledge of Allegiance 4. New Business Ms. Brzozoski announces that Chris McNamara has been hired as our Business Administrator Action a. Donations i. Kevin T Szocik foundation donated a check in the amount of $895 to Lunenburg Middle High School Athletics Program Ms. Gilman makes a motion to accept the motion, Ms. Young seconds the motion all approve b. Business Administrator Contract Approval – Ms. Gilman makes a motion to accept the contract, Mr. Sculimbrene seconds the motion, all approve c. Workshop- Roles & Responsibilities of the School Committee and Superintendent Evaluation Ms. Tracey Novick discusses roles of the school committee along with the process of superintendent evaluations. Ms. Novick shares some worksheet presentations. 5. Adjournment Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to adjourn at 5:41 Ms. Gilman seconds the motion all approve Respectfully Submitted Courtney Fuller ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-08-06-minutes-7336.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-08-06 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-08-06-minutes-7336.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_08062025-7336 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 MEETING MINUTES SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING Wednesday, August 6, 2025 LMHS – D132 4 :00 – Hybrid School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene Chair - Present Dr. Jodi Fortuna Laura Brzozoski, Vice Chair - Present Emily Young Secretary - Present Mandy Gilman, Member - Present George Yapp, Member - Absent Recording Secretary Courtney Fuller Guests: Tracey O’Connell Novick – MASC Field Director In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadc ast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, on Facebook Live on the Public Access Facebook page. (http://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may be broug ht up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law 1. Call to Order 2. Executive Session to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel - Returned to regular session at 6:11 3. Pledge of Allegiance 4. New Business Ms. Brzozoski announces that Chris McNamara has been hired as our Business Administrator Action a. Donations i. Kevin T Szocik foundation donated a check in the amount of $895 to Lunenburg Middle High School Athletics Program Ms. Gilman makes a motion to accept the motion, Ms. Young seconds the motion all approve b. Business Administrator Contract Approval – Ms. Gilman makes a motion to accept the contract, Mr. Sculimbrene seconds the motion, all approve c. Workshop- Roles & Responsibilities of the School Committee and Superintendent Evaluation Ms. Tracey Novick discusses roles of the school committee along with the process of superintendent evaluations. Ms. Novick shares some worksheet presentations. 5. Adjournment Ms. Brzozoski makes a motion to adjourn at 5:41 Ms. Gilman seconds the motion al l approve Respectfully Submitted Courtney Fuller Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Jodi Fortuna, Superintendent of Schools ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-08-26-agenda-7364.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-08-26 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-08-26-agenda-7364.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08262025-7364 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== 1025 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts 01462 978 582-4100 ~ fax 978 582-4103 SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING NOTICE TRI-BOARD MEETING Date: Tuesday, August 26, 2025 Time: 7:00 PM Location: Bilotta Meeting Room Town Hall Broadcast Status: In Person/Remote AGENDA School Committee Superintendent Anthony Sculimbrene, TBD Dr. Jodi Fortuna Laura Brzozoski, Vice Chair Mandy Gilman, Secretary Recording Secretary George Yapp, Member Emily Young, Member Courtney Fuller Guests: In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel. This meeting will be broadcast live local access cable channel and on the Public Access Facebook page (h ttps://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be found on the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The agenda lists all the topics which may be discussed at the meeting and are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair. Votes may be taken as a result of these discussions. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by Open Meeting Law. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://zoom.us/j/9091740347 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 909- 174- 0347 # If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. I. TRI-BOARD CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE II. NEW BUSINESS a. Preliminary Budget Presentation Under the Following Categories: Human Services (Health Services, COA, Veterans) Culture and Recreation (Band Concerts, Library, and Historical Commission) Health Insurance b. Review and Approve Minutes of July 8, 2025 III.IMPORTANT DATES & UPCOMING MEETINGS a. Tri-Board Meetings - September 30, October 14, November TBD, December 9, January 13 ADJOURN Note: a) References to the Tri-Board and Tri-Chair in the context of this meeting refer to Finance Committee, School Committee and Select Board b) Material discussed in the Tri-Board Meetings may be further deliberated in future, individual Committee meetings Lunenburg Public Schools Dr. Jodi Fortuna, Superintendent of Schools ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2025-08-26-minutes-7364.txt BOARD : school-committee DATE : 2025-08-26 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/school-committee/2025-08-26-minutes-7364.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_08262025-7364 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Select Board Meeting Minutes Finance Committee Meeting Minutes School Committee Meeting Minutes Meeting of the Tri-Board, August 26, 2025 Town Hall, 17 Main Street and Zoom Note: References to the Tri-Board in the context of this meeting refer to Finance Committee, School Committee and Select Board Select Board Members Present: Chair Caesar Nuzzolo, Clerk Renee Emkey (via Zoom), Member Brian Lehtinen, Member Glenn McLeod (Absent- Vice Chair Amada Moore) School Committee Members Present: Chairperson Anthony Sculimbrene, Vice Chairperson Laura Brzozoski (left meeting at 8:29 p.m.), Secretary Mandy Gilman (left meeting at 9:02 p.m.), Member George Yapp (Absent- Member Emily Young) Finance Committee Members Present: Chair Chris Menard, Clerk Tom Gray, Member Tanya Dall, Member Ana Lockwood (Absent- Vice Chair Jean Russell, Member Jay Simeone, and Member Mike Rupp) Tri-Board Moderator: Tim Murphy, Town Moderator Also Present: Town Manager Jennifer Warren-Dyment, Superintendent Dr. Jodi Fortuna, Finance Director Ezequiel Ayala, and School Business Manager Christopher McNamara TRI-BOARD CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Tim Murphy, who served as Moderator. He asked everyone to stand and address the flag for the Pledge of Allegiance. Mr. Murphy provided an overview of the open meeting law requirements, noting that the meeting was being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel, Facebook Live, and would be uploaded to the Lunenburg Access YouTube channel after the meeting. After the Pledge, Mr. Murphy invited each Chair to officially open their respective meetings and introduce their members. School Committee Chair Anthony Sculimbrene called the meeting of the School Committee to order and announced that Member Emily Young would be absent. Caesar Nuzzolo, chair of the Select Board, called their meeting to order at 7:04 PM with Renee Emkey (via Zoom), Glenn McLeod and Brian Lehtinen also present. Chris Menard, Chair of the Finance Committee, called the meeting of the Finance Committee to order with Tom Gray, Ana Lockwood, and Tanya Dall present. I. NEW BUSINESS a. Preliminary Budget Presentation Under the Following Categories Human Services, COA Debra Goodsell, Adult Activity Center Director, presented the preliminary budget for the Lunenburg Adult Activity Center. She outlined the COA's mission, FY25 statistics, recent ===PAGE 2=== kitchen renovations, program breakdowns, sources of outside funds, budget numbers, organizational chart, FY27 goals, and budget requests. Ms. Goodsell reported that in FY25, there were 13,931 check-ins at the center, with 1,185 unduplicated individuals and the center averaged 47-51 visitors per day. She highlighted the recent kitchen renovation, which was completed on budget in two months and now includes a commercial-grade setup that passed inspection. Ms. Goodsell detailed the wide range of programs offered at the Center including regular programming and special holiday events. Transportation services through MART served 42 individuals, while outreach services helped 396 individuals with various needs. The center also delivered 4,748 Meals on Wheels to 41 individuals and served 2,417 on-site meals to 268 individuals. Ms. Goodsell discussed outside funding sources, including donations through the Select Board, $10,000 annually from the Eagle House supporters, and a state formula grant of $46,800 based on the senior population. For the FY27 budget, Ms. Goodsell proposed staffing changes, including creating a new Program Coordinator position and changing the Outreach Worker role to an Assistant Director position. She estimated a total budgetary increase of $8,000, which includes these changes. During the discussion, committee members raised questions about the proposed staffing changes, the process for implementing them, and the potential impact on current staff. Ms. Goodsell clarified that the changes would not take effect until July 1st of the next fiscal year and that the Outreach Position would be absorbed into the new Assistant Director role. Culture and Recreation, Library Muir Haman, Director of the Lunenburg Public Library, presented the preliminary budget for the Library. He provided an overview of the library's mission, usage statistics, anticipated budget for FY27, outside funding sources, and state certification requirements. Mr. Haman reported that in FY25, the library had 68,000 visitors, a 4% increase from the previous year. The library offered 410 programs with 6,700 attendees. Physical item circulation was 77,543, while electronic resource circulation jumped to 34,363 items. The library's FY27 budget request was $671,142, which includes salaries, materials, utilities, and other core services. Mr. Haman explained the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) certification requirements, including the municipal appropriation requirement and materials expenditure requirement. Mr. Haman also addressed potential staffing changes, including the upcoming retirement of the children's librarian and the need for additional support in various areas. He presented a three-year staffing growth plan, which includes adding a specialized programming services librarian and increasing hours for existing positions. He discussed the library's membership in the Central and Western Massachusetts Automated Resource Sharing (CWMARS) network, which allows resource sharing among 150+ ===PAGE 3=== libraries. The annual assessment for this membership is expected to increase to the full membership fee of $8,000 in FY27. The presentation concluded with a discussion of federal funding uncertainties and their potential impact on library services. Mr. Haman noted that some databases previously provided by the state had been discontinued, requiring the library to purchase them directly. Committee members asked questions about the library's trust funds and database usage tracking. Health Insurance Town Manager Jennifer Warren-Dyment presented an overview of the town's health insurance costs. She explained that the FY26 health insurance budget is $3,298,520, which represents 7% of the total budget. This figure does not include school active employees but does cover town active employees and all retirees. Ms. Warren-Dyment explained that Town Meeting had accepted MGL Chapter 32B, Section 19 in 2008 which requires a written agreement between the Town and the Public Employee Committee (PEC) which requires the Town to have contracts with health insurance carrier(s) in accordance with the Agreement. She also discussed the structure of the Public Employee Committee (PEC) and its role in negotiating health insurance plans. Mary Foyle, Chair of the PEC, stated that it been four years since there had been negotiations and discussed some of the prior areas that have been explored for const containment. Ms. Warren-Dyment detailed the current health insurance plans being offered, the enrollment figures, and cost history. The town participates in a health insurance trust through the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Agency (MIIA), which includes over 160 cities and towns. She explained that recent years have seen significant increases in premiums, with FY26 seeing a 14.8% increase. Ms. Warren-Dyment discussed potential alternatives such as exploring alternative providers like the Group Insurance Commission (GIC) and enhancing the current opt-out program and potential changes to make it more attractive. School Committee Secretary Mandy Gilman announced she needed to leave the meeting due to family obligations during the discussion. With lack of quorum, Chair Sculimbrene moved to adjourn the meeting of the School Committee. Seconded by Clerk Gilman. The motion passed unanimously at 9:02 p.m. Mr. Sculimbrene and Mr. Yapp remained for the remainder of the meeting. citing family obligations). Ms. Warren-Dyment projected a potential over a million-dollar increase in health insurance costs over the next three fiscal years if current trends continue. Committee members engaged in a discussion about potential strategies to manage these increasing costs. They discussed revisiting the opt-out program to make it more financially appealing. They also discussed considering changes to plan designs, such as increasing deductibles. Ms. Warren-Dyment emphasized that any significant changes would require careful consideration and negotiation with the PEC and various stakeholders. ===PAGE 4=== Human Services, Health Services Ms. Warren-Dyment presented the preliminary budget for Health Services (Board of Health). The total human services budget, which includes the Council on Aging and Veterans Services, is under half a million dollars, with the Health Services budget at $126,000 for FY26. Ms. Warren-Dyment explained that the Board of Health consists of five elected members responsible for formulating and enforcing local rules and regulations affecting public health. They are supported by a 32-hour per week administrative assistant and receive services from the Nashoba Associated Boards of Health, which serves 15 other local communities. The preliminary budget projections show a relatively level budget with a 6.51% increase or $8,200. This includes contractual increases for staff and assumes a 10% increase for Nashoba Boards of Health and Nashoba Nursing services. Ms. Warren-Dyment noted that Nashoba has experienced recent staffing difficulties, which may impact future budgets. She also mentioned a potential staff retirement in the next 0-5 years and upcoming collective bargaining agreement negotiations for FY27. Human Services, Veterans Ms. Warren-Dyment presented the Veterans Services budget, explaining that Massachusetts state law requires all municipalities to administer Chapter 115 benefits to qualifying veterans. The Town must appoint a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) to manage this program. Currently, Lunenburg has seven individuals receiving Chapter 115 benefits, ranging from under $100 to over $1,000 per month. The town pays out all benefits first and is then reimbursed 75% by the state. The VSO, Michelle Durkey, serves Lunenburg and three other communities, receiving a stipend of $11,000 per year. Ms. Warren-Dyment proposed keeping the overall budget flat at $77,000 for the foreseeable future unless there are changes in the veteran population. Committee members discussed the reimbursement process and explored the possibility of creating a revolving fund for veterans' services to better reflect actual town expenditures. Culture and Recreation, Band Concerts Ms. Warren-Dyment briefly presented on the town band concerts which have been level- funded at $6,000 for several years, with band members paid $40 per performance. There are currently 35 members in the town band. Committee members raised questions about the oversight and organization of the town band, including how to join and how sponsorships work. Ms. Warren-Dyment acknowledged that more information was needed and agreed to follow up with the Band Director, Steve Archambault. Culture and Recreation, Historical Commission Ms. Warren-Dyment stated that the budget had been reduced from $3,000 to $1,000 this fiscal year and she does not intend to change this appropriation. ===PAGE 5=== b. Review and Approve Minutes of July 8, 2025 The committee decided to table the review and approval of the July 8, 2025 minutes. It was agreed that each board or committee would review and approve these minutes at their respective upcoming meetings when they had full attendance. IMPORTANT DATES & UPCOMING MEETINGS The upcoming Tri-Board meeting dates were noted as listed in the agenda. No further discussion took place regarding these dates. ADJOURN At 9:46 PM, the chairs of each board moved to adjourn their respective meetings. Motion to adjourn the Finance Committee meeting. Moved by: Member Lockwood. Seconded by: Member Dall. The motion passed unanimously. Motion to adjourn the Select Board meeting. Moved by: Member Lehtinen. Seconded by: Member McLeod. Roll-Call Vote: Clerk Emkey- aye; Chair Nuzzolo- aye; Member McLeod- aye; and Member Lehtinen- aye. Minute Approval Select Board Minutes approved at the meeting of October 7, 2025 Select Board Motion to approve the meeting minutes of August 26, 2025. Moved by: Clerk Emkey Seconded by: Member Lehtinen. The motion passed unanimously.