The Freetown-Lakeville Regional School Committee meeting on March 12, 2025, focused on several key updates regarding school projects, student performance, and upcoming educational requirements.

One of the primary discussions centered on the HVAC controls and campus deficiencies project at Freetown Elementary School (FES). The project, which began at the start of the school year, is nearing completion and aims to enhance energy efficiency. The new control system will allow for better management of heating, similar to a smart thermostat, which is expected to lead to significant energy savings.

In addition to infrastructure updates, the meeting highlighted impressive academic progress at FES. Data from the middle of the year assessments showed a notable increase in student performance. In English Language Arts (ELA), the percentage of students performing at or above grade level rose from 32% to 62%. In math, the percentage increased from 17% to 51%. These improvements reflect effective teaching strategies and interventions in place.

The committee also discussed the implementation of a new dyslexia screening program called Early Bird Literacy. This program aims to provide detailed insights into students' phonics and reading skills, although educators are currently navigating how to best utilize the data collected.

On a broader scale, the committee addressed the upcoming changes in competency determination requirements set by the state. Starting with the 2026 graduating class, districts will need to demonstrate not only satisfactory completion of coursework but also mastery through various assessments, such as portfolios or capstone projects. This shift aims to enhance accountability in student learning outcomes.

Furthermore, the meeting touched on new restrictions from Google regarding the use of additional educational services. Teachers must now obtain parental consent for certain applications, prompting discussions on how to effectively communicate these changes to families.

As the meeting concluded, the committee emphasized the importance of the upcoming MCAS assessments, encouraging students to perform their best, as these evaluations play a crucial role in shaping educational strategies and interventions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to improving educational outcomes and adapting to new state requirements while fostering a supportive learning environment for students.