The September 23, 2024, meeting of the school committee commenced with a ceremonial pledge of allegiance, followed by a significant introduction of a land acknowledgment. This marks the first time the committee has formally recognized the unceded ancestral homeland of indigenous peoples during its meetings. The acknowledgment honors the Wampanoag people as the original stewards of the land and the Herring Pond Wampanoags as the surviving tribe. The committee expressed its commitment to lifelong learning and education regarding the historical injustices faced by native peoples, emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture of respect, truth, and accountability within the community.

Following the land acknowledgment, the committee moved into an executive session to discuss collective bargaining. A motion was made and seconded, with a roll call vote confirming the decision to enter the session. The committee anticipates reconvening after approximately thirty minutes to continue with the public agenda.