Development News for Winchendon, Massachusetts

Robinson Broadhurst Foundation Awards $225,000 Grant for School Programs

The Robinson Broadhurst Foundation has approved a grant request for the 26-27 school year in the amount of $225,000. While this is less than the total requested, the foundation's continued investment is appreciated. Adjustments will be made to the original proposal to preserve student opportunities. The original application included dual enrollment at Murdoch High School, large screen displays for daily announcements at middle and high schools, field trips for grades K-8, funding for the Toy Town Elementary after-school program, a sensory outdoor space at Toy Town, and updated playground equipment for Memorial Elementary. The committee approved the acceptance of these funds.

School Committee Approves Subcommittee Assignments for Upcoming Year

The School Committee discussed and approved subcommittee assignments for the upcoming year. Key assignments included policy subcommittee (Greg and Yvonne), collective bargaining contracts for teachers (Greg and David) and para-professionals (Yvonne), capital plan (stepped down by current member, likely taken by Alice), finance (Mike and Yvonne), wellness subcommittee (Alice and Yvonne), calendar subcommittee (individual to be assigned), sick bank subcommittee (current member to continue), townwide audit (individual to be assigned), CAPS Collaborative and Keystone (Superintendent), Curriculum subcommittee (individual to be assigned), and communication subcommittee (Greg and Yvonne). The committee also discussed the upcoming high school update and planning for a summer retreat.

New Agreement Modernizes Shared Services and Cost Allocation Between Town and Schools

The School Committee reviewed and approved a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Town of Winchington and Winchington Public Schools concerning shared municipal services and indirect cost allocation for fiscal years 2027 through 2029. This new agreement modernizes and clarifies the methodology for determining municipal costs charged to the district, replacing an outdated agreement from 2005. It includes detailed provisions for services such as accounting, insurance, retirement assessments, and shared services, ensuring costs are based on documented expenses and DESE guidelines. This agreement provides transparency for the community regarding shared costs and services, and helps the town meet its net school spending requirements. The MOA requires approval from the Commissioner of Education.

Seniors Prepare for Graduation with Variety of Events; School Embarks on Gardening Project

The School Committee discussed the upcoming graduation and post-graduation events for seniors. These include class day ceremonies, a senior class trip to Six Flags New England, the alumni banquet at the American Legion, and the official graduation ceremony in the gym. Additionally, a step-up day for incoming freshmen is scheduled, and the Special Olympic School Day Games have been rescheduled. The superintendent also highlighted a gardening project by the post-grad program at the high school, which received donations from Powell, Gravel, and Beltates for supplies.