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Pembroke School Committee freezes several positions amid collective bargaining uncertainty and moves into executive session
Summary
Superintendent and administrators told the committee that several positions have been frozen for fiscal year 2026 because the district is awaiting the outcome of collective bargaining. The committee approved the minutes, discussed class-size implications and then voted to enter executive session under Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(3) to discuss the
The Pembroke School Committee on Aug. 19 was told that the district has frozen several positions for fiscal year 2026 while collective bargaining continues, and the committee subsequently voted to go into executive session to discuss bargaining strategy.
Superintendent-level staff reported that the district previously identified a list of open or partially funded positions to freeze pending clarity on the financial obligations that could result from contract negotiations. The positions discussed included a high-school science teacher; a long-term substitute in the English department; a fractional business-teacher position; a 0.6 Latin position; the Kâ12 counseling coordinator role (director/coordinator of counseling); a math interventionist at the elementary level; the behavioral program discussed in spring; and reduced library paraprofessional hours at elementary and high-school levels.
Administrators said that adding those positions back would reduce some class sizes by two to three students in certain courses but that the district is not yet in a financial position to unfreeze them. They said some positions (for example, clerical or paraprofessional roles) could be restored during the school year if finances allow.
The committee then discussed broader budget planning: the budget subcommittee will meet to develop a priorities list in the event the town seeks an operational override; administrators plan public information sessions and a Chamber workforce forum to discuss vocational-planning and budget priorities.
Finally, the chair moved to enter executive session under Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(3) (collective bargaining strategy). The motion to enter executive session was moved, seconded and the committee took a roll call before exiting the public meeting and proceeding into the executive session.
What this means: District leaders are attempting to limit immediate fiscal risk while bargaining proceeds. Committee members were told class-size increases are possible in some electives and core classes if frozen positions remain vacant; some positions could be restored later in the year depending on financial developments.
