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Maynard School Committee unanimously approves four federal entitlement grants totaling $222,799
Summary
The Maynard School Committee voted unanimously to accept four federal entitlement grants — Title I ($178,600), Title II-A ($28,029), Title III ($14,181) and Title IV ($1,989) — to support literacy, professional development and English-learner services.
The Maynard School Committee on Sept. 5 voted to accept four federal entitlement grants that will channel $222,799 into classroom supports and staff professional development.
Charles, speaking for the district's finance team, reviewed the grants and how the money will be used. "With your approval of the school committee we're set to spend the money," he said, describing the Title I award of $178,600 as the largest portion, "$160,000 goes to salaries," with a $14,400 state retirement (MTRS) grant fee and modest set-asides for supplies and support for students experiencing housing instability.
The other awards are targeted: Title II-A ($28,029) will fund professional development and instructional coaching; Title III ($14,181) will support English-learner programming and staffing; and Title IV ($1,989) is being used flexibly for assessment and data-informed instruction. Charles said the Title I grant was expanded this year to serve students through eighth grade, increasing literacy and math supports previously focused on narrower grades.
Committee members pressed for details about eligibility and use. Alexis Fishburn asked whether the $2,000 set-aside for students without stable housing was sufficient. Charles explained that the Title I homeless set-aside can be used for clothing, technical supplies or transportation as needed, and that the district supplements entitlement dollars with competitive grants when available.
Superintendent Ryan and staff described how the district identifies students in need and how services are delivered: "At the school level they decide sort order and who needs the most support," Ryan said, noting services are provided during the school day and can include in-class support and targeted pull-out instruction.
A motion to accept the grants (Title I fund 305 $178,600; Title II-A fund 140 $28,029; Title III fund 180 $14,181; Title IV fund 309 $1,989) and allocate funds to instructional cost centers was moved and approved by roll call, with Mary Branley, Maro Hogan, Alexis Fishburn, Hillary Griffiths and Natasha Rivera all voting yes.
The funds will now be coded into the district's financial system and expended consistent with each grant's allowable activities; staff said they will return with further details when specific spending plans are finalized.
