Littleton School Committee Hears Shaker Lane Conditions, Approves Policy AC First Reading

LITTLETON -- October 24, 2024, Littleton School Committee heard a Shaker Lane building conditions update and accepted a first reading of its revised non-discrimination policy at its October 24 meeting. Business Manager Steve Mark, sitting in for an absent superintendent, told the committee the district's finances are tracking to budget despite roughly $70,000 to $80,000 in unanticipated expenses, including a fire panel repair at Russell Street School and temporary central office staffing for maternity leave coverage, that he said savings elsewhere can absorb. Director of Teaching and Learning Elizabeth Stones presented the 2024-25 professional development plan, highlighting a new PD playlist choice-board model, a November 5 tri-district day hosted by Ayer Shirley, and a Wit and Wisdom literacy implementation team drawing on publisher Great Minds, a neighboring-district coach, and internal teacher leaders. On the Shaker Lane building project, committee members who had toured the school described staff working in converted closets and students receiving services in hallways, urging residents to attend community tours on November 13 and November 19, and noting a 10-minute project presentation is scheduled at town meeting on October 29. The committee voted unanimously to accept the first reading of Policy AC, the district's non-discrimination policy, with a correction to restore veteran status as a protected category before the second reading vote on November 14.