The Beverly School Committee on Dec. 17 approved several personnel and policy items as it wrapped up the outgoing term.

Superintendent Dr. Cushing asked the committee to approve four paraprofessional hires to address shifts in student enrollment and higher special‑education needs: one for North Beverly Cove, a float paraprofessional for the AIM program, and two for Beverly Middle School (SSP and the learning center). Finance director Emma Pugliese said funding will come from a combination of sources, notably stronger‑than‑expected E‑rate reimbursements and savings in the health insurance budget; she estimated salary costs at about $69,521 and benefit costs that might range around $30,000–$40,000. The committee approved the staffing recommendations on a roll call vote (7 to 0).

On policy, the committee completed second readings and adopted edits to BDE/BDEA (standing and subcommittees) to clarify the number of subcommittee members and quorum language; the measure passed 6 to 1. The committee also adopted policy GBEBC (gifts to and solicitations by staff), adding a paragraph about raffles and games of chance tied to Massachusetts law (vote 7 to 0), and approved a scoped edit to policy FFA on memorials (vote 6 to 1).

The committee adopted a revised transportation rental fee schedule designed to better align charges to actual trip durations, replacing a near‑universal four‑hour flat fee. Members discussed eligibility criteria for use of school buses by outside groups and asked the Finance & Facilities subcommittee to prepare guidance in the new term.

Finally, after a brief executive session, the committee ratified two collective bargaining agreements with an AFSCME unit that represents lunch monitors: a short interim contract covering 12/1/2025–6/30/2026 and a three‑year agreement effective 7/1/2026–6/30/2029. The committee voted to ratify both CBAs by roll call; staff will circulate the agreement copies for electronic signature.