School Committee — September 16, 2026

The Fairhaven School Committee met on September 16, 2026, to address district business including school openings, facilities projects, and policy development. Assistant Superintendent Mark Balestracci announced that Elizabeth Hastings Middle School and East Fairhaven Elementary School were recognized as 2025–2026 Special Olympics Massachusetts Unified Champion Schools. The administration reported a smooth opening to the school year, noting ongoing adjustments to morning arrival supervision at the high school. The committee voted unanimously to approve the budgeted list of contractual club and advisor positions for the school year and acknowledged donations from FAME supporting marching band instructor stipends.

Facilities updates included ongoing chimney repointing at Fairhaven High School scheduled to conclude in late October, as well as plans to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for architectural services on the high school elevator project. The superintendent clarified that the Southeastern Massachusetts Educational Collaborative (SMEC) will continue operating at the Tripp School following town meeting approval for a roof replacement, highlighting that the partnership saves the district an estimated $300,000 to $400,000 annually. Committee members also discussed scheduling a joint budget process meeting with the Select Board, agreeing to hold a School Finance Subcommittee meeting first and directing Chair Nicole to communicate directly with Select Board Chair Andrew Romano regarding informational requests.

In new business, the committee voted unanimously to surplus four damaged risers from Hastings Middle School and awarded an $88,000 contract to Full Scope Contracting for the Fairhaven High School restroom facility project. Educational Technology Integration Specialist Cat Ware presented the district's draft Artificial Intelligence policy for a first read, emphasizing a human-in-the-loop framework and data privacy safeguards through Google Gemini. Finally, the committee voted to table discussions on the Acushnet tuition agreement and addressed member inquiries regarding school councils, preschool funding via Student Opportunity Act funds, and annual telephone expenses.

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