The Lowell Public Schools policy subcommittee approved proposed changes to the district’s preschool assignment policy, including a shortened response window for offered seats and stricter attendance-notice requirements.

Under the approved changes, families will have seven calendar days to accept a preschool placement by email or phone. Staff said the shorter timeframe replaces a previous 15-business-day window, chosen when the district relied on postal mail; district staff told the subcommittee they now communicate primarily by email and phone and have shortened the response window to speed placements.

The policy also tightens attendance expectations for preschool. The draft language says children with unexcused absences exceeding 10% of total days will be provided written notice; subcommittee members discussed the district’s interest in encouraging consistent attendance for pre-K seats and noted a consequence that chronic unexcused absences could result in loss of a seat if another child is available to take it.

Motion and vote: Michelle Rossi moved to approve the changes; Mr. Conway seconded. During the roll call Chairperson Daugherty recorded “yes,” Mr. Conway and Mr. Rush were recorded as voting “yes,” and the subcommittee chair announced the motion carried.

Why it matters: Preschool is not a state requirement in Massachusetts; local districts set eligibility, assignment, and attendance rules. The changes aim to streamline placements and reduce delays caused by mailed notifications.

Operational details discussed: Staff described current registration mechanics: the early childhood office handles placements and outreach by email and phone, while the Family Resource Center (FRC) verifies residency and required documents (birth certificate, immunization records, lease or mortgage with matching name and photo ID). Staff said residency is checked at registration and that schools can pursue residency checks later if mail is returned or concerns arise.

Ending: The subcommittee approved the revised preschool assignment policy and will forward the change to the full committee as part of the policy review package.