The Triton Regional School District held a significant meeting on March 29, 2025, addressing key updates that will impact students, staff, and the broader community. Central to the discussions was the clarification of graduation requirements and competency determinations, which have been a source of confusion due to recent changes in state assessments.
The school committee confirmed a new policy that distinguishes between competency determination (CD) and graduation requirements. Currently, students must complete two years of English, two years of math, and one science course to meet graduation standards. However, the competency determination, which is essential for graduation, has been complicated by the absence of the MCAS testing. The committee aims to align these two aspects more clearly in the future, ensuring that students who struggled with the MCAS have alternative pathways to achieve their competency determination.
In addition to academic policies, the meeting also approved the school year calendar, which will see professional development days shifted to Wednesdays. This change is intended to enhance educator engagement and effectiveness during training sessions.
The committee also made notable appointments to the Whittier School Committee, reappointing Ron Fitzgerald and appointing Cesar Pagliara, ensuring continued representation for the community.
A significant personnel update was shared regarding the Director of Finance and Operations position. Following the resignation of Brian Perry, the committee appointed David Bertolino as the interim director, bringing extensive experience in school finance. Furthermore, Richard Poore was confirmed as the permanent director, transitioning from his role as principal at Casatino Middle School. His background in school finance and operations is expected to provide stability and expertise as the district navigates upcoming challenges, including transportation issues.
Lastly, the meeting addressed the formation of a building committee for the Bicco campus project, which will include a diverse group of stakeholders to guide the development process. This committee is set to begin meetings on April 1, 2025, marking a proactive step towards enhancing school facilities.
Overall, the Triton Regional School District's meeting highlighted critical updates in educational policy, personnel changes, and community engagement, all aimed at fostering a supportive and effective learning environment for students. As these initiatives unfold, the district remains committed to addressing the needs of its students and the community at large.