Longmeadow School Committee approves METCO program enrollment for 2025-2026

The Longmeadow School Committee convened on March 12, 2025, to discuss several key topics, including the acceptance of students into the METCO program for the upcoming school year and the future of remote participation in public meetings.

The committee unanimously approved the acceptance of three kindergarten students into the METCO program for the 2025-2026 school year. The decision was based on current enrollment patterns and the need to maintain a steady commitment to school choice and METCO. Committee members discussed the rationale behind the specific number of seats, noting that it aligns with the number of students graduating from the program.

In addition, the committee addressed the ongoing issue of remote participation in meetings. With the expiration of COVID-era remote meeting rules approaching, members reviewed a policy adopted by the select board that allows for remote participation under certain conditions. The committee decided to postpone any formal action until their next meeting on March 25, 2025, to allow time for further consideration of the select board's policy and potential updates from the state legislature.

The meeting also included discussions about appointing a new representative for the Longmeadow Public Schools Education Collaborative (LPBEC) and the formation of an ad hoc committee to review a naming application for a school facility. Three committee members volunteered to serve on the naming subcommittee.

The session concluded with a motion to enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategies, ensuring that the committee remains proactive in its negotiations with various units. Overall, the meeting highlighted the committee's commitment to maintaining educational opportunities and adapting to changing regulations regarding public participation.