In a charged atmosphere at the Holliston Public Schools School Committee meeting on March 27, 2025, students and teachers voiced their deep concerns over proposed changes to the school schedule, highlighting a growing rift between the committee and the community it serves.

As the meeting unfolded, students took center stage, articulating their frustrations through heartfelt testimonies. Jordan Kiley, a student who expressed his anxiety through poetry, painted a vivid picture of the pressures faced by students today. “School is already tough for a kid like me,” he lamented, emphasizing the added stress of potentially increasing class loads from four to eight. His words resonated with many, as he called for the committee to truly listen to the voices of those most affected by these changes.

Oliver, another student, echoed this sentiment, criticizing the committee for its lack of communication regarding the scheduling decisions. He expressed his disappointment that students were not consulted about their preferences, stating, “Your ignorance of our voices is unacceptable.” His passionate plea underscored a broader concern among students that their perspectives were being overlooked in critical discussions about their education.

Teachers also joined the chorus of discontent, with Caroline Roy, a chemistry and physics instructor, urging the committee to consider the input of educators who are on the front lines of student learning. “The narrative that is being perpetuated about the high school teachers regarding the schedule change is disingenuous,” she asserted, calling for a collaborative approach that includes the insights of those who understand the daily realities of the classroom.

Amanda Rivera, another teacher, reinforced this message, arguing that the committee's recent communications failed to capture the context of the teachers' positions. She criticized the committee for pushing forward with an AB schedule that many believe is not in the best interest of students, likening the situation to a train barreling down a track without regard for the consequences.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the proposed changes to the school schedule have sparked a significant backlash from both students and teachers. The committee's decision to implement an AB schedule for the 2025-2026 school year has been met with calls for reconsideration and a plea for more inclusive dialogue.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a critical moment for Holliston Public Schools, as the community grapples with the implications of these changes. With students and teachers united in their concerns, the committee faces mounting pressure to reassess its approach and prioritize the voices of those it represents. As the school year approaches, the path forward remains uncertain, but the call for collaboration and understanding is louder than ever.