Overview
The Pentucket Regional School District, located in northern Essex County, comprises the three towns of Merrimac, Groveland and West Newbury. The School Committee oversees the schools in these towns. The district’s schools include four elementary schools (grades pre-K through 6), a middle school (grades 7 and 8), and a high school (grades 9-12).
The committee consists of nine members, three from each town. They are elected within the towns for staggered 3-year terms. In addition and in accordance with Massachusetts law, a high school student advisory member is an ex officio, non-voting member of the committee.
Goals
Budget/Fiscal Responsibility
The School Committee will request regular updates from the Finance Subcommittee and/or Business Manager throughout the year in order to develop a successful FY 23-24 budget. The School Committee will seek to engage stakeholders holistically throughout the year to develop a budget in collaboration with our three member communities that meets the needs of all students. This may include members and administrators attending their respective community Finance Committee and Selectboard meetings throughout the year, and requires a Committee-wide commitment to communicating with families, students, staff, and community members.
Professional Development/Curriculum
The School Committee will continue to support the implementation and expansion of the district literacy plan by adopting the necessary recommended curriculum and tools, and providing professional development resources for staff and administration. This will include updates on professional development, curriculum implementation and student performance data.
Governance/Professional Practice
The School Committee members will all participate in at least one annual retreat and one MASC training per year. Topics may include communication, open meeting laws, Committee procedures and expectations, and collaborative practices. Members from each town will reach out to PTOs/PTAs/School Councils (as applicable) to facilitate communication and encourage collaboration between the district schools and the School Committee.
New Building Transition and Project Completion
The School Committee will continue to support the district through the 2022-23 opening of the new Pentucket Regional Middle High School and simultaneous completion of the project. The Committee will prioritize remaining up-to-date on the middle and high school transitions to the new shared facility, and be prepared to provide support for ongoing administrative assessment and decision-making regarding policies and practices.
Health and Safety
The School Committee will continue to work with the Superintendent to address and manage the long-term educational, behavioral and social emotional impacts of the pandemic, while remaining prepared to respond to future recurrences or concerns. The School Committee will support district leadership in maintaining strong working relationships with local public health and safety officials to ensure the safest environment for staff and students.