Update: Federal Department of Education Closure
Presented by OW

OW addressed concerns about the potential impact on DESE and Title I/III funding (~$450,000). Current understanding is that funding may be reallocated, but no immediate impact is expected.

VM inquired if DESE made any comments; OW noted no updates as of the previous day.
GP reminded OW to notify the Board of any forthcoming changes.

Presented by SC, RL, and Dr. Sumner

• Student Spotlight: Jhouvens Delva (Grade 9), recognized for leadership development and academic focus.
• Teacher Spotlight: Dr. Kiven Dinyuy, Grade 10 Chemistry, acknowledged for resilience and excellence in teaching.
• Staff Spotlight: Janelle Watty, Restorative Practice Coordinator, celebrated for adaptability and leadership.
• Department Spotlight: 6th Grade Team recognized for setting the tone in cultivating an early college-going culture.

MM inquired if spotlight recipients are notified; confirmation was given.
GP suggested monthly Board recognition of spotlighted individuals.

Presented by DJG

DJG provided an overview of the breach, noting potential lawsuits.

• The school is monitoring developments and may consider legal action to recoup costs.
• DJG confirmed that NHCSB has cybersecurity insurance, but it involves associated costs.

Board Questions:

• SB: Is it worth joining the lawsuit?
• WL: Do we have cybersecurity insurance?
• GCD: What’s the threshold for switching systems?
• MM: What are PowerSchool’s obligations if they dissolve?

DJG advised forming a planning committee to begin exploring new SIS options and invited board members to participate.

Presented by RL

RL presented revised graduation requirements:

• 26 units with 60% minimum passing grade
• 100 hours of community service (25 per year)

Proposal: Board adoption of this policy to certify with MA DESE.

Discussion:

• NLC asked about baseline benchmarks if NHCSB had no Early College goals.
• OW affirmed the need for high standards and mentioned testing as a possible future recommendation.

Reported by SB

No meeting held this month, but enrollment data shared:

• Current Enrollment: 733 students (Brockton 631, Randolph 32, Taunton 24, OOD 26)
• 2025–2026 Applications: Total 408 across grades 6–11

Discussion:

• OW noted we're on track but emphasized September attendance’s impact on Oct 1 numbers.
• VM asked for a Brockton enrollment update.
• OW clarified Randolph enrollment risks due to prorated tuition. NHCSB will not accept new Randolph students, while SSCS will.

GP asked if there’s a threshold for concern. OW noted that the decision preserves the fiscal budget.

Reported by NLC & SG

• Reviewed proposal to move $500,000 into a money-market account.
• Discussed the current Finance Policy and a potential update, to be presented at April’s meeting.
• Discussed a draft policy to come from Central Source.

SB inquired about the need for policy updates. NLC stated updates are a management decision.