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Opening and Student Spotlight (Link: 00:00:00 – 00:10:00)
The Marblehead School Committee meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM on May 15, 2025, by an unidentified committee member. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a decision to move the student spotlight to the next item on the agenda. The spotlight featured the Village School’s peer leaders, a group of sixth-grade students who exemplify leadership through various activities, including peer mentoring, community engagement, and environmental initiatives like composting. The students presented a slideshow highlighting their efforts, such as the school newspaper club, morning announcements, and the Village Organic Garden. The presentation concluded with a focus on school spirit initiatives like Duck Dollars and community celebrations.
Commendations and Letters of Appreciation (Link: 00:10:00 – 00:21:00)
The meeting proceeded with commendations, where an unidentified committee member read letters of appreciation into the record. The first letter, from Facilities Director Todd Bloodgood, praised the efforts of the facilities and IT departments for their swift action in moving the town meeting setup to Marblehead High School’s field house. The second letter, addressed to the press by Town Administrator Thatcher Keezer, Interim Superintendent John Robidoux, Finance Director Aleesha Benjamin, and Assistant Superintendent of Finance Michael Pfifferling, expressed gratitude to the custodians, IT team, and town clerks for their roles in the successful execution of the town meeting. Additionally, a letter from Michael Lander, High School Wellness Department Lead Teacher, commended the school staff for their efficient setup and breakdown of the event.
Public Comment on Curriculum and Flag Policy (Link: 00:21:00 – 00:34:00)
The public comment section began with Sarah Palladium, a community member, who expressed concerns about anti-Semitic materials allegedly associated with the Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA). She urged the committee to pass a resolution to prevent such materials from entering the school curriculum. Karen Talmokliffe, another community member, criticized the Marblehead Current for biased coverage related to the flag policy. Mary LeBlanc, an instructional coach, addressed the committee regarding the recess policy, emphasizing the importance of academic time and suggesting a more thoughtful approach to policy changes. Sally Shepherd, co-president of the Marblehead Education Association (MEA), criticized the committee’s proposed resolution against the MTA, arguing that curriculum decisions are made collaboratively and not influenced by the MTA. Jonathan Heller, a teacher and MEA co-president, echoed Shepherd’s sentiments, highlighting the thorough process of curriculum development within the district.
Continued Public Comment on Curriculum and Flag Policy (Link: 00:34:00 – 00:37:00)
Jonathan Heller, a teacher and co-president of the Marblehead Education Association (MEA), continued the discussion on the Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA) motion. Heller reiterated that the MEA had publicly denounced the MTA’s motion on December 9, 2023, and emphasized that the MEA rejects antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of intolerance. He highlighted that the MEA operates independently and makes decisions based on the will of its members, focusing on students’ needs rather than political motivations. Heller also praised committee member Al Williams for raising thoughtful questions in previous meetings and encouraged the committee to prioritize collaboration and integrity over politics.
District Updates by Interim Superintendent John Robidoux (Link: 00:37:00 – 00:42:00)
Interim Superintendent John Robidoux provided updates on various district activities. He commended the custodial and technology staff for their efforts during the town meeting and welcomed new Human Resources Manager Gloria Sen and Executive Assistant/Registrar Sayonara to the team. Robidoux shared data on Advanced Placement (AP) exams, noting a significant increase in the number of exams taken by students. He also announced that METCO Director Kia Johnson was recognized by the Massachusetts House of Representatives for her dedication to advocating for Boston-based students. Robidoux highlighted upcoming events, including the Brown School’s Fun Run, Senior Signing Day, and the Spring Choral Concert, and shared details about a recent visit to a physics class and participation in the ADL Law and Education Day.
Consent Agenda and School Improvement Plans (Link: 00:42:00 – 01:05:00)
The committee moved to approve the consent agenda, which included scheduled bills totaling $397,474.30 and draft meeting minutes from March 6 and May 6, 2025. The motion was moved by committee member Sarah Fox and seconded by Vice Chair Alison Taylor. The committee then discussed school improvement plans, starting with the Brown School. An unidentified speaker presented the plan, emphasizing goals related to teaching and learning, professional culture, and accessibility for all students. The speaker highlighted the importance of multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) and professional learning communities (PLCs) in enhancing student achievement and teacher capacity. The discussion continued with the Village School’s improvement plan, presented by an unidentified speaker. The plan focused on aligning teaching and learning with MTSS, building professional culture, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. The speaker emphasized the use of data to inform instruction and the importance of creating a strong sense of belonging for students.
Veterans Middle School Improvement Plan Presentation (Link: 01:05:00 – 01:16:00)
An unidentified speaker presented the school improvement plan for Veterans Middle School, expressing gratitude to the school council, faculty, and staff for their contributions. The plan focused on three main goals, all aligned with the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). The first goal involved the implementation of a “win block” (What I Need Now block) to provide interventions and extensions for students. The speaker explained the goal of using standardized test data to drive interventions, aiming to focus on at least half of the students in the win block. The second goal centered on the Wayfinder program, which structured the advisory program and included the Waypoints assessment to support students’ social-emotional learning. The final goal emphasized Tier 1 practices, highlighting teacher-led workshops and peer observations to enhance instructional strategies. The speaker noted the success of these practices in improving student outcomes post-COVID.
Spain and Morocco Trip Proposal (Link: 01:16:00 – 01:28:00)
Leslie Richmond, a world language teacher at Marblehead High School, proposed a trip to Spain and Morocco for February 2026. Richmond explained that the trip aims to enhance the cultural and linguistic experiences of students in the world languages program. The itinerary includes visits to historical sites in southern Spain and Morocco, offering students opportunities to engage with the target languages and cultures. Richmond emphasized the importance of visiting less frequently traveled locations to provide a more immersive language experience. The trip is designed for students studying Spanish, French, and Latin, with an application process prioritizing older students and requiring a 200-word statement in the target language. Richmond assured the committee that all necessary safety and insurance measures, including medical evacuation insurance, would be in place.
Approval of School Improvement Plans and Trip Proposal (Link: 01:28:00 – 01:37:00)
The committee approved the school improvement plans for the Village School, Brown School, and Veterans Middle School. Following the approval, the committee discussed the Spain and Morocco trip proposal. Richmond addressed questions regarding the itinerary, safety measures, and student participation. The committee approved the trip for February 2026, with plans to include an administrator on the trip to ensure student safety. The meeting then moved on to discuss the donation for the Village School scoreboard replacement.
Village School Scoreboard Donation Discussion (Link: 01:37:00 – 01:56:00)
The Marblehead School Committee discussed a proposal from Marblehead Youth Football to donate a new scoreboard for the Village School’s Hopkins Field. An unidentified committee member explained that the existing scoreboard is outdated and non-functional. The proposal included two quotes and images of the potential new scoreboard. Shelly Bedrosian from Marblehead Recreation and Park provided additional context, noting that the project is part of a larger public-private collaboration involving Marblehead Electric Light and other local organizations. The committee considered the financial implications, including the possibility of using revolving funds to cover part of the costs, thereby freeing up funds for other projects, such as lighting improvements at Green Street. The discussion highlighted the importance of collaboration between town departments and local organizations to enhance community facilities.
Approval of Scoreboard Donation and Advertising Policy (Link: 01:56:00 – 02:03:00)
The committee moved to approve the donation of the scoreboard from Marblehead Youth Football, with the understanding that the scoreboard would include advertising from local sponsors like National Grand Bank. The committee discussed the existing policy on advertising in school facilities, which allows for such sponsorships under certain conditions. The committee agreed that the proposed advertising size was acceptable and consistent with previous discussions. The motion to accept the donation was passed, with the committee emphasizing the importance of being good community partners and supporting improvements to town facilities.
Superintendent’s Mid-Cycle Evaluation (Link: 02:03:00 – 02:06:00)
The committee conducted a mid-cycle formative evaluation of Interim Superintendent John Robidoux. The evaluation assessed progress towards goals in three areas: professional practice, student learning, and district improvement. Robidoux received feedback on his efforts to establish a consistent district-wide culture, enhance student voice in teaching and learning, and develop a district improvement plan. The committee acknowledged the challenges Robidoux faced in his first 10 months. Robidoux expressed appreciation for the feedback, noting its importance for his growth as a leader.
Superintendent’s Evaluation and Contract Discussion (Link: 02:06:00 – 02:12:00)
Interim Superintendent John Robidoux expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the Marblehead School Committee and his administrative team, including Julia Ferreira and Michael Pfifferling. Robidoux highlighted the importance of collaboration and support from the committee in his role. The committee conducted a mid-cycle evaluation, using a rubric designed for a full-year review. An unidentified committee member clarified that the evaluation was intended to assess progress towards goals set for the entire year, not to have them fully met at this midpoint. The committee expressed confidence that they are on track to meet their goals by the end of the year. A motion was made and approved to enter into contract negotiations with Robidoux to transition from his interim position to a permanent role.
Recess Policy Discussion (Link: 02:21:00 – 02:35:00)
The committee revisited the recess policy for elementary schools, with a proposal presented by the superintendent and assistant superintendent. The proposal included scheduled recess periods for students in grades K through 5 and one afternoon recess for grade 6. The policy emphasized equitable access to recess and supervision by school staff. The discussion included input from various stakeholders, including committee member Sarah Fox, who clarified the history of the recess policy and the formation of a task force to evaluate it. The task force, which included parents, teachers, and administrators, supported two recess periods for students. The committee acknowledged the contractual obligation for a second recess and discussed the need for the policy to align with existing contractual language. Robidoux indicated plans to revise the draft policy based on feedback and further data collection, with the aim of presenting a revised version at a future meeting.
Discussion on MTA Curriculum Materials Resolution (Link: 02:35:00 – 03:03:00)
The Marblehead School Committee engaged in a detailed discussion regarding a proposed resolution concerning curriculum materials from the Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA) related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Jenn Schaeffner introduced the resolution, explaining its purpose to support teachers, administration, and the district community by expressing concern over the MTA’s resources, which were criticized for being one-sided and potentially anti-Semitic. The resolution was inspired by a similar one adopted by the Brookline School Committee. Schaeffner emphasized that the resolution was not intended to distrust the district’s educators or leadership but to reaffirm the district’s stance against anti-Semitic materials. Committee member Sarah Fox provided context on the process of proclamations, noting that they are standard practice across Massachusetts districts and are often shared with the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) for broader dissemination. Fox highlighted the importance of the resolution in light of previous investigations into anti-Semitism within the district. Interim Superintendent John Robidoux and Assistant Superintendent Julia Ferreira expressed confidence in the district’s curriculum review process, affirming that the MTA materials in question were not part of the district’s curriculum. The committee ultimately voted on the resolution, resulting in a 3-2 vote , with Al Williams and Brian Ota voting against it, and Sarah Fox, Alison Taylor, and Jenn Schaeffner in favor.
School Committee Operating Protocols and Ethics (Link: 03:03:00 – 03:06:00)
Following the resolution discussion, the committee moved on to review the school committee’s operating protocols and ethics. An unidentified committee member introduced the draft protocols, which were developed by the policy subcommittee, including Alison Taylor. The protocols were divided into four categories: governance, operations, communications, and professional development. The committee discussed the protocols in guiding the committee’s work and governance. The draft included input from the MASC, and the committee considered the recommendation to have all members and the superintendent sign the finalized document. The discussion was part of the committee’s efforts to review and update its operating procedures to align with best practices.
School Committee Operating Protocols Discussion (Link: 03:06:00 – 03:20:00)
The Marblehead School Committee continued its discussion on the operating protocols, focusing on the language and intent behind certain sections. An unidentified committee member questioned the necessity of a particular phrase, suggesting that the protocols should emphasize prioritizing student needs. The committee debated whether to include language about prioritizing certain needs over others, using examples such as union bargaining sessions that required focused attention. The discussion highlighted the importance of making decisions based on what is best for students, with a consensus to simplify the language to reflect this priority. The committee also examined the section on public comment, ensuring clarity on individual time limits and the total duration allowed for public input. The conversation shifted to the representation of community viewpoints, with members agreeing that while individual viewpoints are important, they must also represent the community’s perspectives. The committee considered the ethics component, which states that members represent the entire community, and discussed the need for accountability if protocols are violated. The discussion concluded with a plan to revise the document, incorporating feedback and simplifying language where possible.
MEA’s Administration Safety Committee Update (Link: 03:20:00 – 03:31:00)
The meeting proceeded with an update from the Marblehead Education Association’s (MEA) Administration Safety Committee. An unidentified speaker explained that the committee was formed during bargaining sessions to address safety concerns within schools. The committee, consisting of up to 10 MEA members and 10 administrative members, met four times to discuss various safety issues. The presentation outlined the committee’s mission to collaboratively develop solutions for a safe environment for staff, students, caretakers, and community partners. The committee’s work was categorized into three main areas: student safety, mental health, and staff safety. Discussions included the need for consistent forms and de-escalation training across the district, with ongoing efforts to streamline processes and ensure all schools use the same resources. The committee emphasized the importance of having a unified approach to safety protocols, including bullying prevention and the 504 process checklist. The update described efforts to create a centralized resource for safety-related information, ensuring that all stakeholders have access to necessary tools and training.
Safety and Security Measures Update (Link: 03:31:00 – 03:38:00)
An unidentified speaker provided an update on the district’s safety and security measures, emphasizing the importance of building and bus safety training. The speaker highlighted the implementation of ALICE training and the directive to conduct full evacuation drills to designated sites, a first for the district. These drills were conducted with law enforcement collaboration, despite initial pushback. The speaker also discussed improvements to the loudspeaker system, inspired by an incident at the high school where students could not hear announcements due to noise. Plans include installing flashing lights to accompany announcements in noisy areas. The speaker mentioned ongoing efforts to optimize security camera placement and ensure exterior doors remain secured. The collaboration with police and fire departments was emphasized, with regular safety meetings held to refine processes. The update concluded with a focus on health and wellness initiatives, including the Wayfinder curriculum and SEL-focused training, aimed at enhancing student well-being.
Comprehensive Safety Protocols and Communication (Link: 03:38:00 – 03:44:00)
The discussion continued with a focus on the development of comprehensive safety protocols. An unidentified speaker explained the importance of having a centralized repository for safety forms and procedures, which will be housed in a Google shared drive. This initiative aims to ensure all staff are informed about their responsibilities during incidents. The speaker noted that the district’s Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) are involved in defining requirements for incident reports, contributing to a comprehensive tool for safety management. The committee discussed the digitization of the “red book,” a crisis manual, to make it more accessible during emergencies. The speaker emphasized the importance of having both digital and hard copies available to ensure preparedness in case of technical failures. The committee expressed satisfaction with the progress made in safety protocols and the collaborative efforts involved.
Tomo’s Tackle Donation for Borndale Trip (Link: 03:44:00 – 03:51:00)
The committee reviewed a donation proposal from Tomo’s Tackle, a local business in Salem, offering gift cards valued at approximately $200 for students participating in the upcoming Borndale trip. The donation aims to support students in fishing activities during the trip. The committee unanimously approved the donation, with committee member Alison Taylor moving the motion and Sarah Fox seconding it. The discussion highlighted the positive impact of the donation, allowing more students to engage in fishing activities and fostering a sense of community and skill development. An unidentified speaker shared plans to train students in fishing techniques and organize a derby-style competition with prizes for the largest fish and other achievements. The initiative aligns with the district’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework, encouraging teamwork and positive behavior among students.
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