Mr. Martin began the discussion on the proposal to apply for membership in the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Sports. The request by letter from Neil MacDonald was made at the last meeting as part of privilege of the floor for FRCS to apply for membership in time for January, 2024 participation. Although the initial cost of membership is $3K, there may be additional costs for transportation to away games and other costs. 

Discussion ensued not only on additional annual costs, but also the requirements of membership, i.e. minimum number of sports and students on a team. It was agreed that membership would be attractive for enrollment purposes especially at the high school level.

Following discussion, it was agreed that a vote would be tabled to the next meeting on December 12th in order that members have a chance to review the materials submitted on the association and its benefits. Mr. Tetreault will reach out to Mr. MacDonald with specific questions and invite him to the next meeting. 

Mr. Yezukevich reviewed the attached revised financial report including the following highlights:

• Decreases in revenue reflect fewer students enrolled than originally budgeted.
• Change in approach to transportation.
• Decreases in expenses reflect per pupil decrease of $500K and partially offset by state increase in per pupil allotment.
• Transportation revenue adjusted to reflect loss of state reimbursement. This is due to the requirement that all students must be provided transportation if requested vs. FRCS’ inability to sustain this requirement. No liability to FRCS for personal van transportation pools.
• Decrease in personnel costs reflect positions not being filled at the beginning of the academic year.  The cost will be proportionately adjusted for the remainder of the year. 
• Proposed changes will not affect level of service or quality of student life.
• All changes stay in compliance with debt covenants.