Students tell committee lack of late buses and directed-study scheduling limit participation

Members of the school committee on Dec. 18 summarized a recent community chat with high‑school students, who said after‑school activities — especially choir, band and drama — are important for social engagement and college portfolios but that limited late/activity buses keep some students from participating.

Committee members reported approximately 13 engaged students attended the session and said transportation — specifically the lack of late buses — was a recurring barrier. "They said it did" affect participation, a committee member reported, describing a near‑unanimous student view that limited bus service prevents some students from attending practices and trips.

Students also raised questions about transparency in funding for clubs and athletics, and some said they encounter too many directed‑study periods and would prefer more elective opportunities. Committee members encouraged students to pursue clarifying questions through the appropriate channels (directors and building principals) when they have concerns about play restrictions or curricular matters.

The committee scheduled community chats during budget season so more adults can weigh in: an evening session on Jan. 12 and a Saturday afternoon session on Jan. 17 are planned. Committee members said these forums inform budget priorities such as late‑bus funding and support for after‑school programming.