The Manchester School District's Committee on Student Conduct meeting on March 16, 2025, highlighted the pressing need for additional social services to support students and their families. Key discussions centered around the effectiveness of current social work resources and the potential for expanding services to better address barriers faced by students.

During the meeting, a committee member emphasized the importance of hiring another social worker to enhance support for students. Currently, each elementary school has a dedicated social worker, but as students transition to middle school, they rely heavily on a single social worker. This situation has raised concerns about the adequacy of support for the growing number of students.

The committee also discussed the successful initiatives already in place, such as a food pantry and clothing closet operated in collaboration with Gossler School. These services have proven vital, with over 50 families utilizing the food pantry every two weeks. The committee expressed interest in expanding these services further, particularly through renovations that would allow for more integrated family support.

Additionally, there was a conversation about the need for creative approaches to engage families. While current offerings like parent coffee hours and parenting groups have not seen high attendance, committee members are eager to explore new strategies to increase participation and provide meaningful support.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to enhancing student and family support services. The discussions will likely inform future decisions regarding staffing and resource allocation, aiming to create a more supportive environment for all students.