Portage Public Schools Board of Education Regular Meeting - October 26, 2026

Portage Public Schools Board of Education regular meeting — October 26, 2026. The board approved a two-year contract extension with Plante Moran Realpoint, the district’s construction owner’s representative, for $589,040, with funding from the 2026 bond fund’s first series approved by voters in 2025. The contract is scheduled to run through October 31, 2028. The extension was moved to an action item and passed by vote. The board also received an update on the math curriculum adoption process: pilots and data collection are underway, with a resource selection expected in December and a presentation to the board planned for January; no curriculum vendor or purchase was approved.

District staff presented the planned Moorsbridge Elementary renovation as part of the bond program. The described scope includes building-wide heating and air conditioning, replacement of related mechanical systems, and classroom, kitchen, restroom, playground, and common-area upgrades. Construction is expected to begin in mid-June 2027, with a 12-month schedule targeting reopening for the 2028–2029 school year. No renovation contract award or project budget was presented. Many public commenters objected to the planned temporary relocation and division of students between Haverhill and Central, raising concerns about student well-being, communication, and costs to families; the board said the feedback would be considered. The monthly financial report noted timing-related revenue variations and pending grant drawdowns, but no related spending action was taken.