Westwood School Committee reviews cybersecurity measures and addresses bus service issues

The Westwood School Committee convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss various topics, including student achievements, cybersecurity initiatives, and ongoing concerns regarding school transportation.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a brief superintendent's report. Superintendent Tim explained that the report would be concise due to the proximity of the last meeting. He highlighted notable achievements, including a successful presentation by Dr. Arkin to sixth-grade students at Thurston, who learned about cardiovascular health. Additionally, Westwood High School's film program received accolades at the Salem Film Festival, with senior Terrace Jones winning for his documentary "A Celebration of Life."

Superintendent Tim also shared updates on the strategic planning process, which involves a diverse team of 22 members, including students, parents, and staff. The group will meet bi-weekly to develop a comprehensive plan for the district.

The meeting then shifted focus to cybersecurity, with Director of Technology Steve Ouellette presenting updates on the district's initiatives. He announced a nearly $22,000 grant aimed at enhancing data security through new hardware. Ouellette emphasized the importance of cybersecurity training for staff, noting that human error accounts for a significant portion of cyber incidents. He also mentioned plans to communicate with families about a condensed version of the training available for them.

Public participation followed, where community member Stacy Theophilu raised concerns about ongoing issues with school bus delays. She reported that many students have been arriving late to school due to a shortage of drivers from Connelly Bus Company, which has not been adequately addressed by the administration. Theophilu urged the committee to take action and suggested that funds refunded from the bus company be redirected to support educational programs.

The committee also discussed the recent office hours held by the superintendent, which provided an opportunity for community engagement. The meeting concluded with a transition to the Westwood Public Schools Facilities Master Plan, with representatives from Doran Whittier present to discuss the project's progress.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the district's commitment to student success, proactive cybersecurity measures, and the need for continued dialogue with the community regarding transportation issues. The committee plans to address these concerns in future meetings, ensuring that all voices are heard in the decision-making process.