The Cohasset School Committee championed experiential learning and kicked off the FY27 budget process at its November 19th meeting, approving three separate out-of-state trips for students. The agenda featured presentations for travel to Washington D.C., Quebec City, and Charleston, South Carolina, all of which received enthusiastic support from the board and community members in attendance.

Students and trip leader Alisa Gates Carl recounted their recent visit to Washington D.C., a packed tour of monuments, memorials, and historical sites focused on civil rights. Despite challenges from a nor'easter and a government shutdown, the trip was a success. "I think it really like put us in the moment of like what has kind of shaped us to be where we are," said one student presenter. The committee praised the effort involved. "I'm a huge fan of experiential learning," said Secretary Lance Dial. "Taking time to take our students on an experience like this should not go unthanked." The committee also heard from retired teacher Madam Sanchez and current teacher Bob Erinson about plans for the annual 8th-grade trip to Quebec in 2026. The immersive trip, a partnership with Scituate Public Schools, will give all 21 of Cohasset's 8th-grade French students a chance to practice their language skills. "The difference between being in a classroom answering questions and then being street level and immersed in the language is two different things," commented member Corey Evans. "I love that we're getting eighth graders that experience." The committee made a motion to approve the Cohasset Middle School Quebec trip as presented. Motion Passed 5-0.

A new proposal for the Girls Lacrosse team to travel to Charleston, South Carolina, over April vacation was presented by Athletic Director Steve Tundy and Coach Cara Cony. The trip would combine team bonding with scrimmages against two competitive local high schools. "I thought this would be just such a great opportunity for the girls. It's terrific competition, but beyond that, it's a chance of team bonding," said Coach Cony. Members voiced their support for the novel sports-focused travel. "I think it's a great idea," said member Jacob Squatrito. "I did one in high school and these are things I remember." Following a brief discussion on logistics and safety, the committee made a motion to approve the Cohasset High School South Carolina Girls Lacrosse Trip as presented. Motion Passed 5-0.

Pivoting to finances, Superintendent Dr. Sarah Shannon presented the finalized FY27 budget priorities, emphasizing the primary goal is to maintain "at least level service for our students," which she clarified means retaining all current staff and programs, a goal that requires a budget increase over simple level funding. Vice Chair Craig MacLellan introduced an idea from parents to have committee members hold regular "office hours" at a public location like the library to foster more informal communication. "They felt that it might be nice for people to be able to talk to their school committee members in a more informal setting," MacLellan explained. Chair Jennifer Lesky supported exploring the concept, suggesting alternatives like having a presence at community events. "I think there may be opportunities for us to be available, and be in public places," she said. The committee agreed to continue the discussion at its next meeting.

The committee also formally approved its FY27 budget development calendar and reviewed a prioritized list of capital requests, which includes final funding for interactive classroom boards and security enhancements. The meeting concluded after accepting a donation and hearing department updates. A motion was made by Jennifer Lesky to accept a gift from Megan Elder to support the classic middle school student council in the amount of $40. Motion Passed 5-0.

The meeting was adjourned.