School Committee member Maxwell proposes scholarship night for donors and students

The Methuen School Committee convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss various topics concerning the district's educational initiatives and community engagement. The meeting featured member Maxwell, who raised two significant points for future consideration.

Firstly, Maxwell proposed the idea of organizing a scholarship night, where donors could present their scholarships directly to students. He emphasized that such an event would create a meaningful opportunity for families and donors to connect, enhancing the community's involvement in student achievements.

Secondly, Maxwell addressed the ongoing discussions surrounding reading scores and the superintendent's performance. He clarified that his inquiries regarding the accuracy of the literacy data were not intended to criticize teachers or students but were based on public records available on the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) website. Maxwell expressed his commitment to transparency and encouraged open dialogue among committee members, urging them to support one another in their discussions.

He also highlighted the importance of civic engagement, reminding attendees of the upcoming elections in November and the significance of community voices in shaping educational policies. Maxwell concluded by acknowledging the contributions of fellow committee member Tayab, who had volunteered at Methuen High School and participated in a state council advisory group, furthering the district's connection with the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The meeting underscored the committee's focus on fostering collaboration and understanding within the school community while addressing critical educational metrics and community involvement.