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Superintendent recommends opt‑out of state 'school choice'; public hearing set
Summary
The superintendent recommended that North Andover not participate in state school choice next year, citing capacity and enrollment concerns; the committee scheduled the required public hearing for its next meeting to collect public comment before voting.
Superintendent staff recommended on May 14 that North Andover not participate in the state’s school‑choice program for the coming year, citing concerns about capacity and the district’s obligation to prioritize space for resident students.
"I recommend that we do not participate in school choice," the superintendent said, explaining that the district is ‘‘always being very careful about our enrollment, and making sure that we have enough space for the students that live in North Andover.’’ The superintendent added that accepting school‑choice students could impose an undue burden on the system.
Why it matters: State school‑choice participation can bring additional per‑pupil revenue but requires districts to absorb nonresident students and to manage enrollment levels. The superintendent’s recommendation reflects a capacity judgment by the district amid a cohort of large upcoming classes.
Process and next steps: The committee noted that a public hearing is required before a final vote. Staff said the public hearing has been posted for the committee’s next meeting; members asked that the hearing and any related materials be clearly posted for families who may wish to comment.
What’s next: The committee will take public comment at the posted hearing and then deliberate and vote at a subsequent meeting in accordance with state requirements.
