School committee candidates defend Westford Public Schools policy amid federal inquiry and discuss class sizes

School committee candidates addressed both policy and facilities at the League of Women Voters forum, responding to a moderator’s question about reports that the U.S. Department of Education opened an investigation into district policy on restroom and locker access for transgender students.

Valerie Young, a current member of the School Committee, said the district cannot comment on the specifics of an active federal inquiry but reiterated support for policies intended to make students "feel safe and respected and seen." Young said the policy aims to ensure student belonging and that the committee will follow appropriate processes. "As a public school, we know that best practice is for students to feel safe and respected and seen," she said.

Another committee member noted the district’s policy aligns with Massachusetts regulations and referenced state guidance and statutes: "Our policy aligns with Massachusetts regulations," the candidate stated, adding that state law and education department guidance inform district practice. (Candidates declined to comment on details of the active inquiry.)

On operational issues, candidates described increased elementary class sizes in some schools — with sections in the mid‑20s — attributing the trend in part to staffing cuts after a failed override. Proposed responses included co‑teaching models, paraprofessional support and prioritized restoration of student‑facing positions. Candidates highlighted an ongoing feasibility study for the Robinson School building and said the committee will continue to monitor bus run times and other implementation challenges from recent schedule changes.

Candidates stressed the committee’s responsibility to balance student safety, legal compliance and fiscal constraints while seeking to preserve classroom supports and maintain reasonable class sizes.