The Chairperson recognized Jeff Charnel on his recent election as Councilor-at-Large. Judge Phillips commemorated the victory and invited Mr. Charnel to address the Board. 

Mr. Charnel thanked Board members, supporters, and the school community, and expressed his appreciation for remaining a member of the New Heights community and his commitment to continuing the work in support of students. Vinnie further acknowledged Mr. Charnel’s recognition as one of Boston’s 40 Under 40.

Mr. Charnel commented on the recent school parade, noting the strong performance of New Heights students. He thanked Dr. Jones, her staff, and all involved for ensuring the students’ success and representation.

Dr. Jones provided an overview of recent and upcoming community events. In response to the government shutdown, the school organized two food drives, followed by a Thanksgiving Drive that distributed approximately 350 turkeys with sides to families and community members. Dr. Jones also reported on the school’s participation in the Brockton Parade on November 30, featuring a Mardi Gras–themed school bus.

Additional activities included Community Days, College Night, and the upcoming participation of the football team in the MIAA Tournament at Gillette Stadium on Saturday, December 6.

Dr. Jones presented the Board Spotlights, the first of the 2025–2026 school year:

Student Spotlight: Jordan Dunn, 11th grade, a Dual Enrollment student who has attended New Heights since 6th grade and is currently taking courses at Massasoit Community College. 

Teacher Spotlight: Rebecca Whitaker, a new teacher at New Heights, recognized for her compassion and strong connections with students and families.

Staff Spotlight: Alexandra Harvey, recognized for her leadership, consistency, and ability to uphold expectations.

Department Spotlight: Operations Department, led by Dr. Dennis and Mr. Gilbert, recognized for effective execution of building operations.

Judge Phillips, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, expressed appreciation to the spotlight recipients for their service and contributions to New Heights.

Dr. Jess Geier presented proposed updates to the Expulsion Policy to align with DESE requirements. The revisions included updated language identifying the Principal as Head of School and the addition of a grievance process allowing families to appeal an expulsion decision to the Executive Director.

W. Lyttle inquired about the number of expulsions during the current school year. Dr. Geier reported that there have been none.

Dr. Geier presented updates to the Competency Determination Policy, including the addition of a senior capstone project. The project would allow students to present their academic progress, early college experiences, and volunteer service.

W. Lyttle asked about a forthcoming state exam under consideration by legislators and whether charter schools would need to adapt. 

Dr. Geier confirmed that charter schools would be required to comply. 

Jeff Charnel asked about the anticipated implementation timeline, which remains unknown.

Mr. Walker and Dr. Dennis provided an update on snow removal services for the campus. Dr. Dennis reported that the school has contracted with a snow removal company to provide plowing, melting services, forecast monitoring, and on-site leadership before, during, and after school hours. The seasonal contract includes a $6,000 rebate and falls within the approved budget.

Judge Phillips expressed appreciation, on behalf of the Board, for the quality of operational services provided.

The Finance Committee reported that finances remain in line with expectations. The per-pupil allotment is expected to change in January. The annual audit has been finalized, and the committee is reviewing cash position strategies.

Current enrollment is 733 students, below the maximum enrollment of 735. Omari explained that smaller class sizes in upper grades have resulted in uneven enrollment distribution. The committee agreed to allow enrollment to remain below the cap for several months to allow younger grades to adjust before adding additional students.

Lourdes Pires presented the Enrollment Report, noting a total enrollment of 733 students, broken down by grade level, gender, and sending district.

The Committee reviewed MCAS data comparing New Heights students to sending districts. Kaitlin Kendrick presented outcomes in ELA, math, and 8th grade science. The data showed strong overall performance, with areas identified for continued growth, particularly among English Language Learners and special education students.

Board members discussed how percentages may represent small numbers of students and emphasized the importance of protecting student privacy. Dr. Jones explained that the school analyzes data to tailor instructional strategies to specific student needs.

The Committee agreed that the data provides valuable insight and supports ongoing efforts to improve student outcomes.

Discussion also included potential school expansion. Omari reported that Brockton Public Schools has returned to the 9% accountability category, which may present an opportunity for New Heights to explore expansion options. Paper Crane is reviewing this possibility for future discussion.

The final 3 parts of the documentary were supposed to be shown but it was later decided members would receive a link to the video to watch on their own. 

Steve Bernard provided an update on the Prostate Cancer Awareness Webinar Fundraiser held on November 6 and thanked New Heights families for their participation and support.