Mattapoisett School Committee — May 27, 2026

The Mattapoisett School Committee met on May 27, 2026, in a hybrid session held at Center School. The committee opened the meeting by honoring retiring staff members: Center School Principal Dr. Linda Ashley, special education teacher Claudia Duke (25 years of service), and Old Hammondtown math interventionist Linda O'Rourke (15 years of service). Incoming Center School Principal Charlie West was introduced via Zoom ahead of his official start on July 1. Superintendent Mike Nelson also acknowledged departing administrators Stephanie Wells, Principal of Old Hammondtown School, and Dr. Jamie Curley, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, who attended their final committee meeting.

The committee conducted regular annual business, including approving minutes, reviewing the two-year School Improvement Plan aligned with the Vision 2028 strategic plan, and approving the 2026–2027 Student Handbook with amendments regarding electronic devices and administrative discretion on report card dates. The committee unanimously approved lease renewals for the Southeastern Massachusetts Educational Collaborative (SMEC) and Countryside Care, authorized the weeding of obsolete library books, approved the 2026–2027 school committee meeting calendar, and accepted donations totaling over $3,250 from Shutterfly, the Mattapoisett PTA, and Box Tops.

During annual reorganization proceedings led temporarily by Superintendent Nelson, Jim Muse was unanimously elected Chairperson and Kristen Coles was elected Vice Chair for the 2026–2027 school year, followed by the approval of subcommittee appointments. Administrative updates covered professional development, facility projects, an audit with zero findings presented by Assistant Superintendent Howie Barber, and various spring events across the elementary schools. Following administrative and committee reports, the committee voted by roll call to enter into executive session regarding collective bargaining strategy and compliance with general laws.

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