Littleton School Committee Adopts Six Policy Updates, Weighs COVID Surge at Middle School

LITTLETON -- May 5, 2022, Littleton School Committee approved six updated district policies and debated a COVID-19 surge at the middle school at its May 5 meeting. The committee voted unanimously to adopt the second reading of policies BBPA, BCA, BDA, BDB, BDD, and JHA, updating gender-neutral pronoun language and aligning religious holiday policy with prior committee votes. Superintendent Kelly Clunchy presented case data showing the middle school's two-week COVID prevalence rate at approximately 8.9 percent following April break, more than double the 4 percent reference figure previously discussed with the Board of Health. Middle School Principal Jason said he observed increased physical contact among students since masks came off, calling it a form of social regression, and offered to draft a family letter encouraging masking. After extended discussion, the committee reached consensus to send an informational letter noting the prevalence rate without issuing a mandate. The committee also welcomed newly appointed one-year member Vino Patel and recognized outgoing members Matthew Hunt, who completed six years including a term as chair, and Timmalyn Racias, who served two years.