The Cohasset School Committee awarded Superintendent Sarah Shannon a $10,000 performance bonus Wednesday night, following an annual evaluation that saw her receive the highest possible marks across all categories. The committee praised Shannon’s leadership during a particularly difficult fiscal cycle, which included navigating a $1.3 million funding gap and a town-wide structural deficit that has dominated local discourse throughout the spring. Chair Jennifer Lesky noted that Shannon earned an Exemplary rating in Instructional Leadership, Management, Family Engagement, and Professional Culture, stating that the Superintendent masterfully navigated the FY27 budget with transparency and finesse while moving the strategic plan forward.

The bonus, which represents the maximum discretionary amount allowed under Shannon’s contract, was met with strong support from the board. Secretary Lance Dial argued the incentive was well-deserved, noting that this was an exceptional year with the budget, and she performed exceptionally. I support the maximum amount. Vice Chair Craig MacLellan echoed those sentiments, adding that most superintendents are satisfied with a Proficient rating and that I fail to see what else she could have done to earn the bonus. Member Corey Evans emphasized that the move was necessary to retain a phenomenal superintendent. Motion Made by L. Dial to award Superintendent Sarah Shannon the maximum amount of the discretionary bonus ($10,000) permitted under Section 8 of her contract. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

The committee also took a formal stance on the state’s School Choice program, voting unanimously to opt out for the 2026-2027 school year. During a public hearing, Superintendent Shannon explained the significant financial disparity that makes participation untenable for the district. While the state provides a flat reimbursement of approximately $5,000 per student, Cohasset’s actual per-pupil expenditure sits near $22,000. There is a massive gap, Shannon said. Furthermore, we don't have much wiggle room in our grade levels to allow for additional seats. Given the financial gap and our current capacity, I don't believe it makes sense for us to participate.

Board members raised concerns about the lack of local control inherent in the program. Member Corey Evans questioned the variable costs of adding even a single student, suggesting that basic resources would quickly exceed the $5,000 reimbursement. Member Jacob Squatrito inquired if the district could use the program to fix gender imbalances in specific grades, but Shannon clarified that the state mandates a blind lottery. We cannot look at attendance, discipline, or 504 plans, Shannon warned, noting that the district could face significant unforeseen service costs. Chair Lesky concluded that the district does not want to take risks with the budget right now, especially given the ongoing funding chasm identified in previous town-wide fiscal summits. Motion Made by C. Evans that for the 2026-2027 school year, Cohasset does not move forward as a school choice district. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

Turning to student achievement, the committee reviewed a progress report on the 2025-2026 Strategic Plan goals. Director of Student Services Michael Stapleton highlighted the success of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), noting that 90% of internal referrals for special education evaluations resulted in eligibility findings. The MTSS ‘hit rate’ shows the system is identifying the right students, Stapleton said. Member Evans praised the department’s approach, telling Stapleton, The tone you bring to an uncertain process makes all the difference. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Leslie Scollins also informed the board that public curriculum maps for the middle and high schools would be available on the district website this month, with elementary maps following this summer.

The meeting featured a presentation from the Model UN program, which recently returned from a diplomatic simulation in New York City. Advisors Mr. Turner and Mr. Sears accompanied 50 students to the National High School Model UN conference. Student Fasil, who represented the Republic of Korea, said the trip provided great experience in public speaking and geopolitical knowledge. Student Tanner described the challenge of putting yourself in the shoes of another country and figuring out what they need versus what they can contribute. Vice Chair MacLellan, a former participant himself, told the students that Model UN changed the trajectory of my life; I went to law school because of it. Motion Made by C. MacLellan to approve the National High School Model United Nations trip to New York City for March 2027. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

In other arts-related news, teacher Nina Bitbach presented a multi-age art collaboration involving students from Osgood, Deer Hill, and the High School. Bitbach noted that double the expected number of students applied for the project, which focused on themes of learning and growing together. Second-grader Rose told the committee, I worked with the older kids and there were so many scraps and materials to use. Fourth-grader Callie added that she enjoyed growing together through art. To support such initiatives, the board accepted a donation for the annual Mosaic Night. Motion Made by L. Dial to accept the donation with great thanks from the PSO for Mosaic Night. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

The evening also marked a transition for the committee as members bid farewell to Jacob Squatrito, who filled a vacancy as a student voice on the board. Chair Lesky described Squatrito as an analytical, fair-minded, independent thinker and a model civic volunteer. Squatrito admitted he initially applied because he didn't think anyone else would, but said I've really fallen in love with this. I'm thankful for the opportunity to see the work that goes on behind the scenes.