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Wachusett hires MTSS interventionists and STEAM teachers; district begins licensure audit and DCF background checks
Summary
Superintendent and HR staff reported hiring seven MTSS interventionists and eight STEAM teachers, expanding team‑chair positions, launching a multi‑phase teacher licensure audit and rolling out DCF background checks for new hires; committee members requested an October class‑size report.
District leaders told the School Committee on Sept. 8 that several positions funded in the FY26 budget have been filled and that the district is working to tighten certification and background‑check processes.
Director Biondo reported the district "hired 7" MTSS interventionists for grades 1–2 classrooms who will push into mainstream classrooms to support reading and math, and eight STEAM teachers for K–5 schools. "The majority of the folks that we hired were existing Wachusett teachers," he said of the MTSS hires and noted STEAM hires were mostly from outside the district.
Biondo also described team chairs — positions that will run IEP meetings, advise staff and families, and serve as thought partners for principals — and said the district is still completing hires for some part‑time roles. He outlined a three‑pronged licensure plan: a fall audit to capture current lapses, a winter follow‑up to find those whose certification will lapse, and a decision about annual or biennial audits thereafter. Where new hires lack full certification, the district is applying for waivers and offering mentoring and coursework supports.
Dr. Riley praised the work and the partnership with employee unions to implement DCF background checks. "Bill had several meetings with them over the summer, and we ultimately got to a point where we are more able to proceed," Dr. Riley said, thanking staff for cooperation in beginning DCF checks for newly hired employees and a phased plan for existing staff to undergo DCF checks as their CORI/clearance cycles expire.
Committee follow up: Members asked for detail on class‑size impacts tied to new hires and budgeted reductions; Dr. Riley said staff will present class‑size and caseload adjustments in October and provide more granular data to the committee.
