School Committee Meeting - December 1, 2025

Governing Body: Somerville School Committee Meeting Date: December 01, 2025 Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting (Hybrid Participation) Attendees: Laura Pitone, Emily Ackman, Andre Green, Lance Davis, Katjana Ballantyne, Ellenor Barish, Sarah Phillips, Ilana Krepchin, Rubén Carmona (Superintendent), Jocelyn Marte (Director of SCALE), Darrell Nash (Chief Communications Officer), Ruth Ronen (Communications Specialist), Angel Saavedra, Ali, Natasha Rosario, Ana Julia Portillo.

Executive Summary: The Somerville School Committee convened for a hybrid meeting on December 1, 2025. Key discussions included a report from the Student Advisory Committee highlighting successful school events and initiatives, and a comprehensive presentation on the Adult Learning Program (SCALE), showcasing its significant growth, funding, and life-changing impact on students through personal testimonies. The Chief Communications Officer presented a strategic plan for enhancing district-wide communications, focusing on social media growth, website redesign, impactful storytelling, and in-house development. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a contentious discussion and vote regarding the Community Advisory Group's (CAG) draft recommendation for a new, larger school at the Sycamore Street site, with the motion to endorse the majority CAG recommendation passing with six votes in favor and two against. The committee also approved several grants, a donation, and discussed the draft 2026-2027 school year calendar.

• The meeting was called to order.
• Roll Call:
  • Ms. Pitone: Present
  • Dr. Ackman: Present
  • Mr. Green: Present
  • President Davis: Present
  • Mayor Ballantyne: Present
  • Ms. Barish: Present
  • Dr. Phillips: Present
  • Ms. Krepchin: Present
• A quorum was established.

• A moment of silence was observed, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

• Fall Pep Rally: A successful event with high freshman turnout and increased school spirit. A raffle for Celtics tickets raised over $200 for the school food drive. The event involved the drumline, cheer team, chorus, and student volunteers.
• GBL All-Stars Recognition: Greater Boston League all-stars, MVPs, and champions across all sports were officially recognized.
• Greater Boston Regional Student Advisory Council Meeting: Representative Eva Pesico and another student attended a meeting at Roxbury Prep to discuss community dialogue in January regarding student mental health, sleep, and chronic absenteeism. The Somerville group is considering inviting employees from the CHA Teen Connections Clinic.
• Club Recognition and Funding: Discussions are ongoing regarding increasing recognition for school clubs. There are difficulties in funding club advisors, with some currently unpaid, despite high student interest in starting new clubs.
• Student Leadership: A positive shift in school culture is observed, with more students from diverse backgrounds taking on leadership roles and initiative in addressing community needs.
• Student Representative Committee Project: The committee is brainstorming a project for the year, with ideas including a more representative school curriculum with diverse electives and spotlighting clubs doing great work.
• Community Conversation: Let's Stop the Hate: The equity team will host an X-block event to discuss hate speech observed at the school.
• Clothing Swap: The community service club is hosting a clothing swap, with significant student involvement, to support the Somerville community.
• Ms. Pitone thanked the student representatives for sharing, particularly regarding the advocacy for the hate speech discussion, and offered School Committee support.
• Mr. Biton expressed interest in supporting clubs with funding gaps and appreciated the student leadership.
• Ms. Pitone requested that a date for the Student Advisory Committee meeting with the School Committee be scheduled by the next meeting, noting that state law requires meetings with five elected students every other month.

• No public comments were made.

• Student Voice: Dr. Carmona thanked the student representatives, emphasizing the importance of student power and voice.
• CLAP Stipends: A joint study to review CLAP stipends with the SEU is underway to provide more avenues for student advocacy.
• Thanksgiving Break: Dr. Carmona welcomed everyone back from Thanksgiving break and wished the community well for upcoming holiday celebrations.
• Weather Preparedness: The district is prepared for weather emergencies, with notifications for delays or cancellations sent via voicemail, email, social media, and other platforms, with efforts to notify families the evening before.
• Family Listening Sessions: Sessions will continue in January and February, covering topics like special education. Early feedback has been positive, and two evening options have been added.
• Commissioner's Visit: Dr. Pedro Martinez, State Senator Pat Gehlen, State Representative Erika Uterhoven, and SEU President Deshaun Simmons visited Somerville High School's CTE program. Students confidently showcased their coursework and future goals, engaging in a roundtable discussion about strengthening CTE options. The Commissioner will return in the spring to visit K-8 schools.

• Program Overview: Director Jocelyn Marte presented on the Somerville Center for Adult Learning Experiences (SCALE), highlighting its impact and growth.
• Program Statistics (Fiscal Year Comparison):
  • Adult Diploma: Increased from 4 graduates last year to 12 this fiscal year. Students participate in SHS graduation ceremonies.
  • Bridge Program: 21 participants this year, up from 19 last year, supporting high school equivalency graduates for college or workforce training.
  • ESOL Numbers: Increased annually.
  • Contextualized ESOL (CNA): Started with a JCRT grant, one cohort completed last year, a second recently completed with 10 out of 12 passing their certification test within two weeks.
  • ESOL with Early Childhood Education: Same number of students, some graduates now work for Somerville Public Schools.
  • High School Equivalency: Increased to 45 graduates this past year.
  • PACMAN Program: A one-time summer program funded by Mass Hire, trained 18-20 year-olds in carpentry, plumbing, and electrical.
  • Test Center: Ranked second in the state for GED testing administration, recognized for accommodating students with special needs.
  • WIOA Out-of-School Youth: Enrolled 22 students last year (18 graduated), increased to 30 this year.
• Funding Sources:
  • DESE, HCLS: Major funder, increased to $915,000.
  • WIOA Out-of-School Youth: $259,000 for 30 kids, plus an additional $26,000 for follow-up.
  • Summer PACMAN: $154,000.
  • MAS Clean Energy Center (HVAC): $789,000 awarded in collaboration with CTE and Mass Hire. A pre-vocational math program will start in February, with the first cohort for HVAC.
  • JCRT Grant (ESOL CNA): $200,000 awarded for two years.
  • JCRT Grant (Facilities Maintenance): Awarded for training Somerville residents for city jobs, first cohort starting in February.
  • CTI Planning Grant: $50,000 for automotive technology and electrician pathways, with an implementation grant application due next month.
• Student Testimonies:
  • Angel Saavedra: SHS graduate, completed PACMAN program, now employed by Maloney Properties at $25/hour. Expressed gratitude for opportunities for immigrant youth.
  • Ali: Left high school, earned high school equivalency diploma through SCALE, completed PACMAN. Currently seeking employment in electrical or HVAC.
  • Natasha Rosario: Single mother, completed paraeducator program, now works for Somerville Public Schools at the Kennedy School. Highlighted SCALE's support and life-changing impact, now joining the interpreter pool.
  • Ana Julia Portillo: Completed Spanish high school equivalency and paraeducator training, now works as a teacher assistant for Somerville Public Schools. Emphasized the support from SCALE and the ability to be a role model for her children.
• Committee Discussion:
  • Mr. Green highlighted the multi-generational impact of programs like SCALE and the importance of increased paraeducator pay, which will reach $50,000/year by 2028-2029.
  • Dr. Ackman praised SCALE's support for diverse learners and inquired about recommendations for supporting single working parents in similar programs.
  • Ms. Rosario noted the importance of spreading awareness about resources and overcoming cultural barriers to seeking help.
  • Mr. Biton thanked Ms. Rosario for reinvesting in Somerville Public Schools.
  • Ms. Pitone raised concerns about the sustainability of grant-funded programs like PACMAN and asked about self-funding options or long-term grants. Director Marte explained efforts to secure multi-year grants (JCRT, CTI) to sustain similar programs.
  • Mr. Green offered to connect SCALE with philanthropic and state funding opportunities for vocational ESOL.
  • Mr. Davis clarified ESOL enrollment numbers, which are expected to increase by year-end.
  • Dr. Phillips and Ms. Barish commended Director Marte's leadership and the collaborations with CTE.
  • Mr. Green discussed the statewide waitlist for ESOL and the economic benefits of investing in adult education.
  • Ms. Krepchin acknowledged Director Marte's appointment as Chair of the Adult Advisory Council to the Commissioner.

• Introduction: Darrell Nash presented a year-one plan for enhancing district-wide communications, acknowledging Ruth Ronen's contributions.
• Department Responsibilities: Oversees digital platforms (social media, website), direct communications, collateral development, and brand management.
• Four Main Goals:
  1. Social Media Growth: Increase following and interaction on platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook) to engage contemporary audiences and reach non-followers. Data tracked includes following, interactions, and paid performance. Example: Brunt Workwear donation post reached many non-followers.
  2. Website Rebuild: A lengthy process to create a modern, streamlined, ADA-compliant site with effective landing pages for each school. Analytics will track traffic and user journeys. Top visits currently are calendar and food services. Security is a priority due to international traffic.
  3. Impactful Storytelling: Highlight positive stories within schools (mentorship, teacher initiatives, student programs, curriculum enhancements, staff achievements) to engage the community and encourage investment. Data will track resonance of stories.
  4. In-House Development: Provide guidance and leadership on best practices, brand management, and departmental support, trickling down to school buildings.
• Highlights from Strategic Planning:
  • New Podcast: Launching in January, featuring teachers and learning.
  • SPS in Print: Launching in January, a newspaper-style publication to reach a mass audience beyond current contacts, distributed in cafes, libraries, and community spaces.
  • Communication Technology: Exploring SMS texting for on-the-go information and developing a crisis communications plan with city colleagues.
  • Ease of Access Portals: Utilizing platforms like Arbiter for out-of-school programs, clubs, and athletics.
• Committee Discussion:
  • Mr. Green praised the ambitious plan and asked about resources needed for sustainability, emphasizing the importance of reaching non-school-involved residents.
  • Mr. Davis supported the plan, especially the print newspaper, noting its importance for upcoming MSBA processes and a potential Proposition 2 1/2 override vote. Suggested distributing the print publication to places like assisted living facilities.
  • Mr. Davis inquired about student involvement in the SPS in Print publication and social media integration. Mr. Nash confirmed cross-pollination and potential for student content creation.
  • Dr. Ackman suggested celebrating community ties and encouraging residents to utilize school facilities like the Fab Lab.
  • Ms. Pitone highlighted the importance of in-house communication development and the potential of SMS texting for families not on email or social media. She also asked about the strategy for two-way dialogue and community engagement. Mr. Nash explained collaboration with the SFLC for listening sessions and multilingual events.
  • Dr. Phillips requested an easier way to find teacher contact information on the website. Mr. Nash confirmed this is a priority for the new website design.
  • Dr. Ackman advocated for a consistent parent communication access portal across the district, noting the current fragmentation. Mr. Nash stated they are exploring platform providers.
  • Mr. Green suggested considering platforms popular in immigrant communities, like WhatsApp, to meet families where they are.
  • Mr. Green commended Superintendent Carmona's leadership in advocating for Somerville schools to the Commissioner and at the State House.

• Presentation: Dr. Jessica Boston-Davis presented the first draft of the 2026-2027 school year calendar, including state guidance on scheduling.
• Key Points:
  • Required to schedule up to 185 days, with 180 operating days.
  • First day of school is before Labor Day, allowing for a "soft start" for teachers and students, and providing buffer for snow days. This is also contractually scheduled.
  • February and April breaks are contractually set.
  • Tentative School Committee meeting dates were included.
  • Correction: The last day of school was incorrectly listed as June 12th; it is tentatively June 21st.
• Committee Discussion:
  • Dr. Ackman praised the calendar's transparency and asked if the last day of school could be moved earlier, considering the federal Juneteenth holiday. Dr. Boston-Davis will investigate the legal permissibility of observing the holiday on a different day.
  • Ms. Pitone suggested discussing the Juneteenth observation with the SEU and flagged the proposed School Committee meeting dates for potential adjustment.
  • Mr. Green commended the early release of the calendar and suggested collaborative discussions with the SEU regarding holiday scheduling.
  • Dr. Phillips noted that Diwali and Eid al-Adha should be underlined on the calendar.
• The calendar will be on the agenda for the next meeting.

• Motion: Ms. Barish moved to accept the report of the Rules Management Subcommittee meeting for November 20, 2025.
• Second: Mr. Biton.
• Vote: All in favor. Motion carries.

• Update: Mr. Green reported that final recommendations from the Community Advisory Group (CAG) are not yet complete, with a goal for completion by Christmas.
• Areas of Consensus:
  • Unanimous recommendation to rebuild at Sycamore.
  • Overwhelming, but not unanimous, recommendation to build as large as possible (around 925 seats) to maximize MSBA funding. Councilor Strezo dissented, citing concerns about managing a school of that size.
  • No consensus on the future of the Brown School, but a strong sense that the School Committee should address it.
• Clarifying Question (Ms. Krepchin): Does building the largest possible school at Sycamore require closing the Brown School? Mr. Green stated there is no definitive answer, but the sense is that MSBA funding for Brown School renovation would be unlikely if a large Sycamore school is built.
• Timing of Debt Exclusion: Conflicting information, with some discussion of moving the vote to 2026.
• Motion: Ms. Barish moved to endorse the majority CAG recommendation as expressed in the draft from November 2025, specifically for a school built at maximum MSBA capacity at the Sycamore Street site (around 925 seats).
• Second: Dr. Ackman.
• Discussion:
  • Mr. Davis strongly disagreed with the approach, advocating for smaller schools and expressing concern about educational variety and leaving Ward 6 without schools. He criticized the process as being sidetracked by the "mega school" concept and believed it would jeopardize the Winter Hill project. He also questioned the lack of clarity regarding the Brown School's future.
  • Dr. Phillips countered that a large building could house multiple small schools and that Ward 3 currently lacks a K-8 school. She emphasized the need for a solution for Brown School students who currently lack capacity at other schools.
  • Ms. Pitone acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but emphasized the need for equity and access. She cited the estimated $55-65 million cost to repair the Brown School and the suboptimal learning conditions for special education students. She supported moving forward with a plan that ensures sustainability and meets the district's vision.
  • Mr. Green argued that taking more seats from MSBA offers flexibility for the future. He challenged the notion that small schools are inherently better, suggesting that correlations between school size and academic output are often tied to demographics (race and class). He found it difficult to justify preserving a "racially imbalanced" school like Brown without a sustainable plan for modernization.
  • Mr. Biton acknowledged the CAG's hard work and the strain on Winter Hill families. He emphasized the importance of school identity and the educational evidence suggesting less favorable outcomes for schools over 700 students. He advocated for a Winter Hill redevelopment that is flexible and sized for its community, without merging distinct school communities. He also questioned the cost estimates for Brown School renovation and the impact of building a larger school.
  • Ms. Krepchin clarified that the motion is not about combining Winter Hill and Brown schools but building a large school at Sycamore, with district-wide redistricting to follow. She noted that the School Committee's role is to approve the educational vision, which will be developed by the administration and educators. She also highlighted that three schools in the district are majority white, including Brown. She emphasized that there is no perfect solution and that a larger school could benefit programming.
  • Ms. Pitone reiterated that the CAG's recommendation was a result of complex systemic work and that disregarding it would ignore systemic inequities. She shared an anecdote about a parent who would send a child with special needs to Brown because there were fewer such students there, highlighting a systemic inequity.
  • Ms. Barish stated that there is no time to come up with a "better plan" and that further delays would be detrimental.
  • Mr. Davis clarified that his opposition was not based on a love for a specific school but on the principle of small schools and the impact on Ward 6. He suggested alternative plans for the Brown School site, such as rebuilding or incorporating the Matt Rice plan, rather than closing it.
  • Mr. Biton expressed discomfort with the idea that voting against the majority CAG recommendation would disregard their work or support systemic inequities, arguing that the CAG's work encompassed all views, including dissenting ones. He also questioned the cost figures for Brown School renovation and the trade-offs involved in building a larger school.
• Vote:
  • Ms. Pitone: Yes
  • Dr. Ackman: Yes
  • Mr. Green: Yes
  • Mr. Biton: No
  • President Davis: No
  • Mayor Ballantyne: Yes
  • Ms. Barish: Yes
  • Dr. Phillips: Yes
  • Chair Krepchin: Yes
• Outcome: The motion carries with 6 votes in favor and 2 votes against.

• This item was tabled as the policy manual is not yet available.

• Motion: Dr. Ackman moved to approve a January 4th field trip for 25 eighth-grade chorus students to travel to the Dunkin' Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island, to perform at the Providence Bruins game. Travel is via bus, and student cost is $25.
• Second: Mr. Pitone.
• Vote: All in favor. Motion carries.

• Motion: Dr. Ackman moved to accept with gratitude the following grants:
  • Mass Clean Energy HVAC Electrical HVAC Training Program for CTE and SCALE: $789,870.90
  • Partnership for Reading Success Part Two District-Wide for Professional Development: $166,500
  • MyCap, CTE for Professional Development: $7,000
  • Adult Education and Family Literacy Grant Increase for the SCALE Department: $36,626
• Second: Ms. Pitone.
• Vote: All in favor. Motion carries.

• Motion: Ms. Pitone moved to accept with gratitude the donation of equipment from Alice Grossman for the value of $2,520 to the Art Department.
• Second: Dr. Ackman.
• Discussion: Mr. Biton acknowledged the donation of photography and darkroom equipment.
• Vote: All in favor. Motion carries.

• Ms. Pitone: Announced an important opportunity to help shape the Kennedy School Playground Renovations Project, funded by the Community Preservation Act. The first public community meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 2nd, at 6:30 p.m. on Zoom.
• Ms. Krepchin: Requested input from committee members for an interview regarding the library's strategic plan, to be held tomorrow before 1:00 p.m.

• No condolences were noted.

• The meeting was adjourned.