Dartmouth School Committee Meeting, August 31, 2026

The Dartmouth School Committee meeting held on August 31, 2026, focused primarily on policy updates, staffing, and preparations for the upcoming school year. The committee reviewed and approved several policy changes, including the adoption of a new policy on timeout, seclusion, and physical restraint of students, aligning with state requirements. There was also discussion about the elimination of a face covering policy and updates to transportation and safety policies. The meeting included updates on staffing, with approximately 48 new hires across various roles, and the onboarding process. Technology upgrades were reported, including server enhancements and new Chromebooks for students. Significant attention was given to facilities and capital improvement projects, notably the high school roof replacement and HVAC upgrades, with a timeline involving schematic design completion by November 2026 and potential construction in summer 2028 pending MSBA approval and town votes. The committee also discussed transportation challenges, including the procurement of a new school bus funded through a state earmark, with plans to order once funding is confirmed. No formal votes on procurement contracts were taken during this meeting, but several capital projects and purchasing plans were outlined for future action.