The Pembroke School Committee opened 2026 by reviewing a transformative shift in elementary education and the findings of a massive community outreach effort that will define the district’s path through 2031. PreK-6 Content Coordinator Melinda Solapoda presented the results of ongoing curriculum pilots, focusing on the "FOSS" science program and "Simplify Writing" software. Solapoda described a classroom environment where students are no longer just watching videos but are actively engaging in scientific inquiry. She recounted seeing a first-grade class use rice and plastic beads on radio speakers to visualize sound vibrations, noting that the buzz was amazing. The FOSS kits, which teachers selected for their hands-on components, are described as nearly indestructible, requiring only minimal replenishment for living materials like butterflies or ladybugs.

Vice Chair Allison Glennon questioned the alignment of these new materials with state expectations, asking how these connect to state standards and how that gets kids ready? Solapoda explained that the program utilizes a standards map to ensure cross-cutting concepts are met, moving away from rote memorization toward inquiry-based learning. Member Katrina Scarsciotti sought clarity on the long-term impact, asking if the district has a way to test knowledge retained. While Solapoda pointed to student journals and improved scientific discourse as evidence, Superintendent Erin Obey noted that traditional testing like the MCAS might not fully capture this level of engagement. Even if they just have the vocabulary and the practice of investigating, we are light years ahead, Obey said. You'll see the payoff when they reach MCAS testing grades. Our win is having engaged learners.

The committee also reviewed the "Simplify Writing" pilot, which currently involves 37 teachers. While the program has shown success in helping kindergarteners identify subjects and predicates, Solapoda recommended prioritizing the science rollout because teachers already possess more tools for writing instruction than for hands-on science. Member Katrina Delaney inquired about the broader academic effects, asking if teachers have seen improvement in pilot groups of ELA skills. Solapoda noted that while definitive data is still being collected, the daily collaboration required by the programs is significantly boosting speaking and listening skills. During the routine portion of the meeting, Motion Made by K. Scarsciotti to accept the school committee meeting minutes for December 2, 2025. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

Superintendent Obey provided an update on the 2026-2031 Strategic Plan, which has been informed by over 1,000 survey respondents—the vast majority of whom were students. The plan, which is organized into "buckets" covering teaching and learning, community partnerships, finance, and communications, is currently being reviewed by 22 administrators to assign specific timelines. Obey emphasized that the document is intended to be living and breathing, with quarterly scorecards to track progress. Member Susan Bollinger, who recently met with the student advisory group, brought forward specific requests from the high school body. They want a common platform that all teachers use for homework assignments because right now everyone does it differently, Bollinger reported, adding that students also requested morning announcements follow the pledge of allegiance so they can better plan for after-school clubs.

Financial discussions centered on the upcoming budget cycle and the district's move toward regional vocational education. Following the town’s overwhelming vote in October 2025 to join the South Shore Regional Vocational School District, Superintendent Obey noted that financing numbers from South Shore Tech are expected in mid-February. These figures will be critical for the Town Meeting warrant, as the district may need to consider a capital ask or an override to cover the transition. On the labor front, Obey reported that the negotiations subcommittee has reached tentative agreements with all units after meeting more than 20 times. Ratification of these contracts is expected at the next meeting.

The meeting concluded with a pointed public comment from resident Chrissy Nelson regarding gender identity in athletics. Nelson raised concerns about biological male athletes competing in female track and field divisions, citing a Spring 2025 instance where she claimed a Pembroke athlete lost a recruitment-critical eighth-place spot to a biological male. The science shows that boys have significant competitive advantages over girls, Nelson stated, arguing that biological sex should be used as the standard for competition rather than gender identity to ensure fairness for female athletes. Chair David Boyle thanked Nelson for her comments before the committee moved to close the public session. Motion Made by S. Bollinger to enter Executive Session to discuss personal service contracts and collective bargaining strategy, not to return to open session. Motion Passed (5-0-0).