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Superintendent John Robidoux acknowledged limited progress on a key objective during the Marblehead School Committee’s Oct. 15 meeting, saying that staffing analysis efforts have lagged and will need sharper focus as budget planning approaches.
“I’ll be honest — we have not made as much progress on the staffing pattern review as I would have liked,” Robidoux said during his evaluation update. “We’re starting to have those conversations, but it’s not at a place where we can say we’ve really dug in.”
The staffing goal is one of three committee-approved targets for Robidoux’s first full year as superintendent. The other goals include developing a multi-year district improvement plan and expanding student voice in decision-making.
Robidoux said central office staff and principals have begun meeting regularly to review enrollment trends, class sizes and how special education and English learner resources are allocated. He described the work as still in early stages.
Committee members pressed him on the issue, citing expected fiscal constraints in fiscal 2026.
“We need to look at this structurally, and we need you to lead it,” said member Jenn Schaeffner. “If you’re saying it was too broad, then bring it back to us with a sharper focus.”
Chair Al Williams shared that concern.
“The budget’s coming. And this is one of those areas where we need clear data and clear thinking.”
On the second goal — crafting a district improvement plan — Robidoux reported stronger progress. He said a six-part strategic framework is in development, focusing on curriculum, professional development, human resources, student services, governance and financial operations.
Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Julia Ferreira said leadership teams have worked with the draft since summer, incorporating feedback from staff and administrators. A public draft is expected this winter.
Still, some committee members voiced concern that they had not been part of the planning process.
“I’d like us to be able to shape it before it’s in final form,” said member Melissa Clucas. “If we’re expected to adopt it, our fingerprints should be on it.”
Robidoux agreed to provide a timeline for public and committee input.
The third goal — strengthening student voice — drew praise. Robidoux said the initiative has been embraced across schools, with more structured opportunities for student input, such as surveys, forums and curriculum discussions.
“We’re seeing real buy-in here,” said Village School Principal Scott Williams. “Our students are offering feedback on assemblies, on lunch, on learning — and they’re being heard.”
Schaeffner suggested Marblehead High School consider forming a representative student council.
The committee expects to complete Robidoux’s formal evaluation later this month. Members will submit written assessments by Oct. 30 and compile a composite evaluation in open session.
Policy votes, proclamation and committee goals
The committee unanimously approved four policy revisions recommended by the Massachusetts Association of School Committees:
• Public comment: Removed “obscenities” as grounds to end public remarks, in line with state guidance barring disruptions but not specific language.
• Electronic communications: Clarified that School Committee messages must be sent through archived, district-managed accounts.
• Employment restrictions: Updated to reflect that members may not be employed by the district in any role.
• Memberships: Removed outdated language allowing committee membership in outside associations.
A second reading was held on a proposed policy to guide how students are informed about vocational and technical education opportunities, including Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School. Robidoux said the policy formalizes current practice and meets state requirements.
The committee also voted to proclaim October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Marblehead Public Schools. Schaeffner read the proclamation, noting that one in three women and one in 10 men will experience domestic violence.
The proclamation encourages community prevention efforts and affirms the district’s commitment to safe spaces. A revised version will be signed at the next meeting.
Student report and superintendent update
Student representative Will Cruikshank opened the meeting with an update from Marblehead High School. He noted the girls cross country team remains undefeated and invited families to attend Rock the Arts Night on Nov. 6 at the Hooper Mansion.
Cruikshank also said National Honor Society tutoring has resumed and seniors are preparing for the PSATs and a college visit day later this month.
Robidoux used his superintendent’s report to denounce recent hate-based incidents in the district.
“There is no place for hate in our schools or our community,” he said.
He said the district’s anti-discrimination committee met last week to coordinate a response and review prevention strategies.
Robidoux also urged residents over 18 to complete the town’s health survey, conducted by the Board of Health and University of Massachusetts Boston. He said the results will help shape local mental health services, including those in schools.
The meeting concluded with a discussion of the committee’s own goals, which remain unfinished. Williams said members are close to agreement and may not need outside facilitation. Several members said goals should focus on policy, budget and oversight while keeping student success at the center.
The committee aims to finalize both its goals and Robidoux’s revised objectives before budget season begins in November.
