Boston School Committee

November 19, 2025
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Boston School Committee Meeting Minutes

Meeting Date: November 19, 2025 Governing Body: Boston School Committee Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting Attendees: Jeri Robinson (Chairperson), Rafaela Polanco Garcia, Quoc Tran, Michael O'Neill, Stephen Alkins, Brandon Cardet-Hernandez, Rachel Skerritt, Mary Skipper (Superintendent), Del Stanislaus (Chief of Capital Planning), Frances Canty (Chief of Human Resources), Emmanuel (Data and Strategy, Capital Planning)

Executive Summary: The Boston School Committee convened to approve meeting minutes and grants, and to receive the Superintendent's report and a detailed presentation on the Long-Term Facilities Plan. Key discussions included declining student enrollment, particularly among multilingual learners, and its impact on the district's budget and facilities. The committee heard recommendations for the closure of Lee Academy Pilot School, Another Course to College (ACC), and Community Academy of Science and Health (CASH), as well as the reconfiguration of Henderson Inclusion School, Tobin Elementary, and Russell Elementary. Public comment overwhelmingly opposed the proposed school closures, emphasizing the negative impact on students, staff, and community, particularly for vulnerable populations.

I. Approval of Minutes

  • Motion: To approve the minutes of the November 5th meeting.
  • Outcome: Approved by unanimous consent.

II. Superintendent's Report

Superintendent Mary Skipper presented updates on several key areas:

  • Transportation:
    • Quarterly updates on on-time performance (OTP) are being provided to the School Committee.
    • First-quarter OTP: 66% morning, 75% afternoon on the first day of school.
    • Record highs achieved, with morning OTP reaching 95% or higher on nine different days through day 45 of the school year.
    • Averaging 94% morning OTP in November.
    • Discussion:
      • Member Cardet-Hernandez inquired about structural changes in the transportation division following recent issues with the bus fleet operator, Transdev. Superintendent Skipper stated that the new contract incorporates changes to strengthen accountability and address previous shortcomings.
      • Member Tran raised a legalistic question regarding indemnification clauses in vendor contracts, specifically concerning liability in incidents like student fatalities. Superintendent Skipper deferred to the legal office for a detailed briefing.
  • Enrollment:
    • Mid-October enrollment: 46,824 students, a decline of approximately 1,700 students compared to the previous year.
    • Decline primarily driven by a decrease in international immigration and lower birth rates in Boston and nationally.
    • This trend follows several years of enrollment leveling off due to a large influx of multilingual learners.
    • Discussion:
      • Member Alkins inquired about the financial impact of the enrollment decline.
      • Chief Financial Officer (CFO) David stated that current year revenue is minimally impacted due to appropriations being set independently of enrollment and grant funds based on prior year counts.
      • Federal funding, particularly Title I, II, and III, is expected to decrease.
      • The projected decline for FY27 is almost double the current 1,700 student drop, potentially impacting school budgets significantly (estimated at $27 million in school funding that would not flow to schools).
      • Superintendent Skipper noted that the decline is a multi-year issue rooted in the multilingual learner population and smaller cohorts, exacerbated by gentrification.
      • Member Tran asked for a breakdown of student enrollment by group, particularly bilingual students. Superintendent Skipper confirmed that while there has been an intentional effort to expand bilingual programs, some are not at full capacity due to the overall decline in multilingual learners and varying community needs.
  • Graduation Rate Data:
    • A memo was shared clarifying the difference between the annual graduate count (snapshot of diplomas awarded) and the four-year cohort graduation rate (federal and state metric).
    • The class of 2025 graduated at a rate of 85.7% by October 1st.
    • Discussion:
      • Member Skerritt inquired about the predictability of the four-year cohort rate based on the senior count rate. Superintendent Skipper noted that a decrease in dropout rates is a predictor of increased graduation.
      • Monica (staff) cautioned that the four-year cohort rate might not directly correlate with the senior count rate, as many graduates may be over-aged or from different cohorts.
      • Member Cardet-Hernandez requested data on fifth and sixth-year graduation rates and school-specific graduation trends to inform policy and budgetary decisions. Superintendent Skipper agreed to provide this data.
  • Bright Spots:
    • School on the Move 2025: East Boston's Bradley Elementary School awarded the prize for significant gains in math and ELA accountability targets (from 33rd to 84th percentile). Dante Alighieri Montessori School and UP Academy Dorchester received $20,000 each as finalists.
    • Principal Partners: 71 schools participated in a one-day event where corporate, public, and nonprofit leaders shadowed principals.
    • DLAC Elections: Annual District English Learner Advisory Committee elections held, recognizing families advocating for multilingual learners.
    • Henry L. Shattuck Awards: Mattahunt Elementary School teacher and inclusion specialist Taylor McCoy recognized as an "everyday hero of public service."
    • SPEDPAC Resource Fair: Attended by Chair Robinson and Member Skerritt, providing resources for students with disabilities and their families.
    • Showcase of Schools 2025: Scheduled for Saturday, December 13th, at the Bolling Building, marking the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year registration period.
    • Madison Park Co-op Initiative: Video highlighted a partnership with the city's Office of Workforce Development, providing hands-on employment opportunities for students in City of Boston's Parks and Recreation Department.
  • Motion: To receive the Superintendent's Report.
  • Outcome: Approved by unanimous consent.

III. Public Comment (First Hour)

Superintendent Skipper provided introductory remarks on the Long-Term Facilities Plan, emphasizing that recommendations are not about seats but about students, families, and staff, aiming for high-quality experiences. She noted the plan's goal to reduce BPS buildings to 95 by 2030 due to declining enrollment and deferred maintenance. The vote on recommendations is scheduled for December 17th.

  • Kuan Nguyen (Bilingual Professional, Vietnamese Dual Language Program, Mather Elementary School): Advocated for citywide enrollment for the Vietnamese Dual Language Program to benefit more Boston students, citing improved academic outcomes, cognitive development, and racial/linguistic equity.
  • Liu Nguyen (Vietnamese Youth Liaison, Boston Police Department; Member, Vietnamese Dual Language Committee): Requested expansion of the Vietnamese Dual Language Program at the Mather School, highlighting its importance for cultural preservation and student belonging. Asked the School Committee to discuss citywide enrollment for all bilingual programs.
  • Wong (5th Grader, Mather Elementary School): Spoke in favor of expanding the Vietnamese Dual Language Program, noting its help for newcomers and the benefits of bilingualism for future job opportunities and intelligence.
  • Chilo Storm Collins Walker (5th Grader, Mather Elementary School): Advocated for more bilingual schools in Boston, sharing personal experience of learning Vietnamese and the importance of bilingualism for education and future travel.
  • Nhat Minh Dinh (4th Grader, Vietnamese Dual Language Program, Mather Elementary School): Shared personal experience as a newcomer learning English while maintaining Vietnamese, emphasizing the program's value and requesting more dual language programs.
  • Min Nu Le (4th Grader, Vietnamese Dual Language Program): Spoke about the importance of the dual language program for learning English without forgetting Vietnamese and requested expansion to have more friends.
  • Thien Thuy Nguyen (4th Grader, Vietnamese Dual Language Program): Highlighted how the program helps her understand, write, and read in Vietnamese, improving communication with her parents, and requested expansion.
  • Odin Hau Nguyen (5th Grader, Mather Elementary School): Expressed pride in being Vietnamese and learning both languages, advocating for expansion of the Vietnamese Dual Language Program.
  • Nyla Hicks (Senior, CASH): Opposed the closure of CASH, describing it as a supportive community that transformed her life after negative experiences in other schools. Emphasized the importance of small school environments and dedicated leadership.
  • Marika Allwood (Junior, CASH): Opposed the closure of CASH, stating it provides a second chance for students and a supportive family-like environment. Worried about losing recognition in a larger school.
  • Marcus Brown (PE Teacher/Athletic Coordinator, ACC): Opposed the closure of ACC, citing lack of meaningful engagement and the disproportionate impact on Black and Brown students (91% high needs, 40% students with disabilities). Highlighted ACC's role as a safe and supportive environment and the negative impact of forced school transfers on student outcomes.
  • Deirdre Manning (Dorchester Resident, Parent): Raised concerns about biased testing conditions for exam schools, particularly for charter school students. Suggested using the Boston Compact to facilitate MAP testing in charter schools to increase access for Black and Brown students.
  • Dorothy Humphrey (Crossing Guard, Lee Academy Pilot School): Opposed the closure of Lee Academy, praising the teachers' interaction with students and the value of a small school setting.
  • Amanda Roberto (Hyde Park Resident, Parent): Deeply concerned about ACC closure, as it is ideal for her sons with IEPs due to proximity, size, and inclusion setting. Stressed the lack of viable inclusion options in her area and the disruption to families.
  • Megan Despond (ESL Teacher, ACC): Opposed the closure, arguing that closing schools is detrimental to kids and communities. Highlighted the emotional impact on students who have faced multiple closures and the lack of adequate notice.
  • Julie Tran (Teacher, ACC): Opposed the closure, emphasizing the value of ACC's small size for building strong relationships between staff and students, fostering community, and providing unique experiences.
  • Naomi Pillay (Visual Arts Teacher, ACC): Opposed the closure, highlighting ACC's role in providing hope and a supportive community for students, many of whom have been failed by other systems or are newcomers.
  • Christopher Ming (Teacher, ACC): Opposed the closure, showcasing ACC's 15-year partnership with Build Greater Boston, an entrepreneurship program, and the school's commitment to rigor and support without barriers to acceptance.
  • Johanna Waldman (Biology and Special Education Teacher, ACC): Opposed the closure, emphasizing the strong community and individualized support at ACC, despite its small size. Urged reconsideration and exploration of alternatives to closure.
  • Kamalampata Dibinga (English Teacher, ACC): Opposed the closure, sharing student testimonials about the fear and anxiety of returning to larger schools and the importance of ACC's supportive environment and strong relationships.
  • Jacob Wathen (Teacher, ACC): Opposed the closure, highlighting the strong sense of community at ACC and the potential "cataclysmic" impact of increased commute times on student learning and engagement.
  • Sadie Jasmine (Bus Monitor, President, Local 2936): Raised serious safety concerns regarding bus monitors being held accountable for incidents without adequate support, particularly for students requiring one-to-one assistance. Criticized management for not assigning sufficient staff and for low wages.
  • Giovanni Burgos (Bus Monitor): Echoed concerns about bus monitor mistreatment and understaffing, citing specific examples of buses with multiple students requiring one-to-one support but only one monitor assigned.
  • Phyllis Leslie (Social Worker, Henderson School, Mattapan Resident): Expressed concern about the elimination of grades 9 and above at Henderson, citing its history as a nationally recognized inclusion model. Questioned the data supporting the decline and the district's plan for the K-8 model.
  • Esther Jean (Parent, Staff Member, Lee Academy): Opposed the closure of Lee Academy, describing it as a "hidden treasure" that provides a safe, personalized, and supportive environment. Questioned the short notice and urged consideration of alternatives like rebuilding, renovation, or merging.
  • Ana Paula Morgado (ESL Teacher, Lee Academy, Hyde Park Resident, BPS Parent): Opposed the closure of Lee Academy, emphasizing its importance for multilingual families and its commitment to making every family feel welcome. Argued that closing it is not an equitable choice and urged a postponement of the vote.
  • Andrew McDonnell (Dorchester Resident, Parent): Opposed the closure of Lee Academy, highlighting its close-knit community and focus on social-emotional growth. Expressed concern about the impact on students and staff, and requested a clear plan for accountability and support during the transition.
  • Rocco Serro (Student, ACC, Hyde Park Resident): Opposed the closure of ACC, noting that the school was moved to its current building nine years ago and is now deemed "inequitable." Emphasized the meaningful opportunities and supportive environment at ACC, particularly for students in emotional impairment classes.

IV. Grants for Approval

  • Total Grants: $18,775,752
  • Individual Grants:
    • IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) Entitlement Grant: $18.2 million (continuing), serving approximately 12,000 students and 100 staff district-wide.
    • Special Education Early Childhood Entitlement Grant: $513,000 (continuing), serving approximately 1,000 students district-wide.
    • Civics Teaching and Learning Grant: $40,160 (continuing competitive), serving 46,000 students and 300 teachers district-wide.
    • Early College Planning Grant: $25,000 (continuing competitive), serving approximately 100 students at Boston International Newcomers Academy (BINCA), Madison Park Technical Vocational High School, and Margarita Meniz Academy.
    • Campus Without Walls (CWW) Planning Grant: $15,000 (new), for Dr. Albert D. Holland High School of Technology, serving 28 students and two teachers.
  • Motion: To approve the grants as presented.
  • Outcome: Approved by unanimous consent.

V. Long-Term Facilities Plan Report

Superintendent Skipper and Chief of Capital Planning Del Stanislaus presented the latest recommendations for the Long-Term Facilities Plan.

  • Vision and Progress:
    • The plan aims to reduce the number of schools to 95 by 2030, aligning with enrollment demands and student needs.
    • Significant capital and infrastructure projects completed or in progress, including new Carter School, Sarah Roberts Elementary, and renovated P.J. Kennedy School.
    • Expansion of academic programs, including early college and career pathways, continuum of services for special education and multilingual learners, and new bilingual education programs.
    • Structural changes to minimize transitions and create predictable pathways (Pre-K to 6 and 7-12 alignment).
    • Timeline for vote: December 17th, 2025, to inform families before the January 5th, 2026, registration period.
  • Enrollment Data and Future Planning:
    • Current enrollment decline of 1,700 students, driven by decreased international immigration and lower birth rates.
    • Increased percentage of students with disabilities and multilingual learners.
    • Planning for a district portfolio of approximately 95 schools by 2030 to ensure high-quality seats and efficient resource allocation.
  • Metrics for Decision-Making:
    • Building Experience Scores: Assesses quality of spaces (score of 2 or below indicates inadequate spaces).
    • Continuum of Services: Ability to provide multiple strands per grade and support for students with disabilities and multilingual learners.
    • Utilization Rate: Healthy range is 84-115%; anything outside suggests inefficient space use.
    • Other metrics include building condition, program offerings, and proximity to other schools.
  • Cycle 3 Recommendations (Effective end of 2026-2027 school year, unless noted):
    • Closure of Lee Academy Pilot School (Pre-K-3):
      • Building cannot accommodate expansion, lacks dedicated gym/auditorium/collaboration spaces, not ADA compliant, requires HVAC upgrades.
      • Will not enroll new K-0, K-1 students for next school year.
      • Remaining students will have priority in BPS assignment.
    • Closure of Another Course to College (ACC) (9-12):
      • Facility designed for elementary school, lacks essential high school spaces.
      • 63% utilization rate (capacity 392 students).
      • High churn rate of 35%.
      • Will not enroll new 9th grade class for 2026-2027.
      • Eligible 11th and 12th graders will graduate as planned.
      • Students will have priority in BPS assignment; IEP students will receive individualized counseling.
    • Closure of Community Academy of Science and Health (CASH) (9-12):
      • 20% decline in general education enrollment.
      • High concentration of specialized programming, making stable programming difficult.
      • 53% utilization rate (capacity 700 students).
      • High churn rate of 38%.
      • Will not enroll new 9th grade class for 2026-2027.
      • Eligible 11th and 12th graders will graduate as planned.
      • Students will have priority in BPS assignment; IEP students will receive individualized counseling.
    • Reconfiguration of Henderson Inclusion School (Pre-K-12 and Transition Program to K-0-8):
      • Merger of upper and lower schools.
      • Elimination of grades 9-12 and transition program.
      • Upper campus will serve grades 1-8 starting 2027-2028.
      • Building limits high school programming; 45% of 8th graders choose not to return for high school.
      • Will not enroll new 9th grade class for 2026-2027.
      • Eligible 11th and 12th graders will graduate as planned.
      • Current 8th graders receive priority for school choice; 9th and 10th graders receive priority for 2027-2028.
    • Reconfiguration of Tobin Elementary (K-0-8 to K-6):
      • Elimination of grades 7 and 8 at the end of 2026-2027.
      • Rising 7th graders will receive enrollment priority and support for other schools.
    • Reconfiguration of Russell Elementary School (Pre-K-5 to Pre-K-6):
      • Adding a 6th grade for 2026-2027.
      • Current 5th graders have choice to stay as 6th graders.
  • Potential Use of Impacted Buildings: BPS use will be prioritized, including assessing the CASH building for potential expansion of Boston International Newcomers Academy (BINCA).
  • Support for Students, Families, and Staff:
    • High number of students in specialized programs impacted; programs will be moved as cohorts where possible.
    • Individualized counseling for IEP students.
    • Full year for planning and collaboration with welcoming schools.
    • Priority in BPS assignment process for impacted students.
    • Limiting new enrollment in entry grades of closing/reconfiguring schools.
    • Dedicated transition teams (senior project manager and school-based coordinator).
    • HR support for staff retention, career needs, and licensure guidance.
    • Comprehensive transition guides for families and staff.
  • Next Steps:
    • Community engagement through surveys, email, public comment, and community meetings before the December 17th vote.
    • Survey feedback will be summarized and shared publicly.
  • Discussion:
    • Student Representative: Inquired about the transition process for IEP students, emphasizing the need for familiar environments and consistent staff. Superintendent Skipper and Chief Stanislaus explained the individualized support through the IEP process and the goal of placing students in their top choices, citing success with Excel and Lyons.
    • Student Representative: Asked about the process for teachers, expressing concern about job security and alignment with their specializations. Chief of Human Resources Frances Canty detailed curated support, including drop-in sessions, individual meetings, and assistance with applications, licensure, and interviews.
    • Student Representative: Inquired about honoring the legacy of closing schools. Chief Stanislaus described documentation efforts, partnerships with Boston University for student photographers, and exhibitions. Superintendent Skipper invited BSAC for concrete ideas.
    • Student Representative: Requested additional scholarships/financial aid for juniors and seniors and special field trips for closing school communities.
    • Member Polanco Garcia: Expressed concern about the emotional impact of school closures on families and staff, particularly regarding mental health. Inquired about the number and process of community meetings. Chief Stanislaus acknowledged the difficulty and outlined the hands-on, all-hands-on-deck approach to transition, including one-on-one support and community-based services.
    • Member Cardet-Hernandez: Emphasized the need for data on how families fare after transitions. Inquired about the timing of notifications to school communities and the involvement of family liaisons and school leaders. Chief Stanislaus explained the earlier timeline to align with school choice season and the role of transition coordinators and engagement teams.
    • Member Cardet-Hernandez: Questioned the list of welcoming schools for students with mild intellectual impairment, noting the long commute times. Chief Stanislaus explained that the list represents current programs, but the district is working to stand up new programs in other high schools to expand options.
    • Member Cardet-Hernandez: Asked about the definition of a "high quality student experience" and how it relates to the 60-40 split of buildings. Superintendent Skipper clarified that the goal is to expand high-quality experiences by investing in buildings and programs, and that the 40% represents buildings needing significant investment or closure.
    • Member Cardet-Hernandez: Inquired about data collection on student outcomes specifically impacted by grade configurations and closures. Emmanuel (Data and Strategy, Capital Planning) confirmed ongoing work with Harvard Kennedy School students to track academic data, climate survey data, and conduct interviews with students, staff, and families.
    • Member Cardet-Hernandez: Asked about the risk of creating "tipping points" by concentrating vulnerable students in receiving schools. Superintendent Skipper emphasized the need to create new programs and capacity to avoid this.
    • Member Cardet-Hernandez: Questioned the expansion of Russell Elementary (building score of 1/4) while other schools with higher scores are closing. Chief Stanislaus explained Russell's location as the only elementary school in North Dorchester and the district's commitment to investment and grade expansion to meet community needs.
    • Member O'Neill: Thanked the team for their work and acknowledged the improved communication and timeline. Highlighted the potential impact of MSBA's decision on Madison Park. Inquired about open enrollment choices for ACC students. Superintendent Skipper expressed faith in secondary school leaders to welcome students.
    • Member O'Neill: Asked why Henderson is reconfigured to K-8, not K-6. Chief Stanislaus explained that Henderson experiences a significant drop in enrollment at 8th grade (45%) rather than 6th grade, unlike other schools.
    • Member Skerritt: Acknowledged the difficulty of the decisions and the financial challenges. Inquired about how the district is communicating the rationale for these changes to the broader community and balancing the desire for small school experiences with the need for comprehensive programs. Superintendent Skipper emphasized the complexity of balancing budget, capital, and community vision.
    • Member Skerritt: Asked about moving programs as a cohort, particularly for vulnerable students, referencing past issues with West Roxbury closure. Superintendent Skipper noted the challenge of student choice at the high school level but emphasized the goal of creating more options across schools.
    • Member Skerritt: Acknowledged the leadership of Henderson and Lyons in special needs education.

VI. New Business

  • No new business was discussed.

VII. Adjournment

  • Next Meeting: Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025, at 6 p.m.
  • Motion: To adjourn the meeting.
  • Outcome: Approved by unanimous consent.

Last updated: Nov 25, 2025

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