Marion School Committee — September 17, 2026

The Marion School Committee met on September 17, 2026, opening with condolences for the unexpected loss of Chris Smith, husband of committee colleague Michelle Ouellette-Smith, followed by a facility tour of Sippecan School led by Facilities Director Gene Jones. Following the tour, the committee honored long-time special education educator Denise on her retirement. The committee approved regular session minutes from June 2 and July 8, 2026, as well as multiple executive session and negotiations subcommittee meeting minutes.

Superintendent Mike Nelson and administrative leaders presented comprehensive updates on the start of the 2026-2027 school year, including the district-wide opening day ceremony, introducing new faculty and staff, and recognizing staff service milestones ranging up to 30 years. Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Marie Grable reported on ALICE safety drills, multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) consultation with Carrie Thurston, collaborative problem-solving training, and upcoming Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) meetings. Sippecan School Principal Linda Dessert shared back-to-school highlights, including the implementation of the new math interventionist role filled by Leanne Dineen, reading and math curricula, and the rollout of the District Curriculum Accommodation Plan (DCAP).

The committee unanimously voted to accept two donations: a $96.05 customer point rebate from Stop & Shop and five library books donated in honor of Denise's retirement. Committee member reports included an update on the Policy Subcommittee's review of the state Protect Act regarding immigration enforcement on school grounds, reminders about the Tri-Town Education Foundation's inaugural fall gala scheduled for October 8, and a summary of the READS Collaborative meeting. With no participants offering public comment, the meeting adjourned.

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