Mike Jolley, a parent at John Ward Elementary and a member of the Ward After School board, urged the School Committee to reconsider a recent 25% increase in building rental fees that affects more than a dozen after-school programs. "A 25% increase in a single year creates significant challenges," Jolley said. "Programs may have to consider reducing staff, limiting services, or reducing financial aid for families already navigating economic pressures."

Jolley said program directors were not consulted before the increase and asked the committee to consider a phased implementation or other collaborative solutions to protect program quality and accessibility. He said Newton’s after-school programs are "essential partners in supporting Newton's families and enriching our children's lives."

Public-commenters also included Enrique Rosero of 19 Garland Street, who praised the district’s rollout of the Yondr pouch program for students' devices, saying it reflects extensive work by educators and administrators.

No committee action was taken in response to the public comment during this meeting; the administration did not provide a time-bound response at the meeting.