Hybrid Regular Meeting Minutes of September 10, 2026

Haverhill Public Schools - School Committee
Hybrid Regular Meeting Minutes of September 10, 2026

Governor Healey has extended pandemic-related authorizations thereby allowing remote and hybrid meeting options for public bodies through June 30, 2027.

Dr. Grannemann read the following statement published for the record: those attending tonight’s meeting should be aware that the meeting is being audio and video recorded by HCTV, Eagle Tribune and WHAV. Any audience members who wish to record any part of the meeting must inform the Chairperson who will announce the recording. This is to comply with the MA wiretap statute.

Roll Call.

Vice Chairperson Grannemann called the meeting to order (7:03 pm) and requested a roll call vote:

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all in attendance.

Ms. Rivera: Introduction of Ms. Meletta Bellard, Founder of Jewel’s Butterflies, Inc.

Mayor Barrett read a brief statement from the district’s attorney regarding this presenter and presentation, specifically that there was pending litigation against both the City of Haverhill and Haverhill Public Schools. She stated the advice was the following; the inclusion of a presenter on the agenda does not constitute endorsement of the presenter's views, claims, allegations, or positions by the School Committee, the School District, or the City; the Committee will not discuss or comment upon any pending litigation. The mayor noted that the presentation was being permitted solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as the adoption of any policy position by the Committee. She added that the members should avoid questioning or discussion that touches upon matters that may be implicated in the pending lawsuit.

Superintendent Marotta introduced Ms. Bellard, who will inform the committee regarding the newly organized organization.

Ms. Bellard provided an overview of the organization, its mission and progress.

Since the committee had not received her documents, Ms. Bellard will send her presentation to the superintendent for distribution to the school committee.

Public Comment (In-person & Remote).

There was no one present either remote or in-person for public comment.

Superintendent’s Reports/Communications.

School Opening 2026-2027.

Dr. Marotta stated it was a relatively good start to the school year, followed by a video presentation.

Ms. Guerrero asked about the bus swipe process.

The superintendent responded that the system was working well and referenced a recent occurrence that led to the swift location of two students.

In response to the new scooter policy, Dr. Marotta noted there had been a few instances, but overall, a smooth process.

Career Technical Education (CTE) Admissions Policy (Vote requested).

Ms. Kelley stated there were no changes except for the dates in this year’s application materials.

A motion was made by Mr. Morrow to approve the Career Technical Education (CTE) Admissions Policy. Mr. Brown seconded the motion. The mayor requested a roll call vote with the following results:

10 members voted in the affirmative
0 members voted in the negative
0 members abstained

Red/Green Report by Mr. Clancy Main, Chief Financial Officer.

Mr. Main offered a brief overview of his report.

Mayor Barrett asked if there was a budget freeze in the school department, since she had implemented one for the city.

Mr. Main responded that there would be a freeze implemented shortly on the school side. He emphasized the district’s commitment to the wise use of taxpayers’ dollars.

School Committee Reports/Communications.

Dr. Grannemann: Discussion of Focus Areas for District Improvement.

Dr. Grannemann reviewed his presentation entitled, “Selecting Goals for District Improvement” with the members. He asked for input from his colleagues.

Mrs. Sapienza Donais thanked Dr. Grannemann for his comprehensive report. She suggested a middle school pipeline for STEM pathways in preparation for high school. Mrs. Sapienza Donais referenced some upcoming grant opportunities.

Mr. Brown believed that student engagement (STEM) would be important in decreasing absenteeism and dropouts. He recommended looking at some course offerings.

Ms. Guerrero inquired about expanding financial literacy course work at different levels. She mentioned AI and establishing what was real and what was artificial intelligence.

Dr. Grannemann questioned whether financial literacy might be a course work for all students.

Mrs. Basiliere supported focusing on preparing students for the real world.

Ms. Rivera suggested more preparation for grade 8 students.

Mrs. Sapienza Donais related that STEM career exploration offerings improved attendance and engagement.

Dr. Grannemann stated useful information was important in student engagement efforts.

Subcommittee Reports.

Mrs. Sapienza Donais: Policy Subcommittee Update, which includes a revision to Policy JLIDA Powered Micromobility Device which is presented for a second reading, which includes it as a discussion item, reading of the proposed policy or policies; response from superintendent; report from policy subcommittee; and committee discussion and directions for any redrafting.

Mrs. Sapienza Donais noted that this was a second reading and feedback would be received from principals.

School Committee Community Announcements.

Dr. Story announced her attendance at Haverhill High School’s Open House and was impressed with the high-quality teaching staff.

Mayor Barrett announced the upcoming River Ruckus this Saturday from 12:00 pm-8:00 pm finishing with fireworks.

Old Business.

Mr. Main: Facilities User Fees Recommendation along with request for vote.

Mr. Morrow asked if either option would achieve $100,000.

Mr. Main asked for the ability to negotiate with several non-profit organizations who service over 80% of Haverhill students, with a potential long-term agreement.

Mr. Main responded that the non-profit figures were break-even amounts.

Mrs. Sapienza Donais asked if Mr. Main had a preference.

Mayor Barrett noted that Mr. Michitson’s concerns were resolved after a conversation with Mr. Main.

After reflection, Mr. Main responded that Option #2 was his preference.

A motion was made by Dr. Story to approve user fees recommendation option #2 as outlined in the agenda material. Mr. Morrow seconded the motion. The mayor requested a roll call vote with the following results:

11 members voted in the affirmative
0 members voted in the negative
0 members abstained

New Business.

Superintendent’s Recommendation for approval of Warrant Number EV0260911 totaling $1,812,454.72, as indicated in the agenda material.

A motion was made by Mr. Morrow to approve Warrant Number EV0260911 totaling $1,812,454.72, as indicated in the agenda material. Mrs. Sapienza Donais seconded the motion. The mayor requested a roll call vote with the following results:

11 members voted in the affirmative
0 members voted in the negative
0 members abstained

Items by Consensus.

Superintendent’s Recommendation for approval of the Hybrid Regular Meeting Minutes of August 26, 2026, as indicated in the agenda material.

A motion was made by Mr. Morrow to approve the Hybrid Regular Meeting Minutes of August 26, 2026, as indicated in the agenda material. Mrs. Sapienza Donais seconded the motion. The mayor requested a roll call vote with the following results:

11 members voted in the affirmative
0 members voted in the negative
0 members abstained

Superintendent’s Recommendation for approval of use of facilities as indicated in the agenda material.

A motion was made by Mr. Morrow to approve use of facilities as indicated in the agenda material. Mrs. Sapienza Donais seconded the motion. The mayor requested a roll call vote with the following results:

11 members voted in the affirmative
0 members voted in the negative
0 members abstained

Superintendent’s Recommendation for approval of the field trip request(s) as indicated in the agenda material.

A motion was made by Mr. Morrow to approve the field trip request(s) as indicated in the agenda material. Ms. Rivera seconded the motion. The mayor requested a roll call vote with the following results:

11 members voted in the affirmative
0 members voted in the negative
0 members abstained

A motion was made by Mr. Morrow to adjourn the meeting (8:00 pm). Mrs. Basiliere seconded the motion. The mayor requested a roll call vote with the following results:

Documents referenced in the meeting: HSC Portfolio 09.10.26 Materials.pdf; 2Jewels_Butterflies_One_Page_Handout.pdf; Use of Fees (1).pdf

• Hybrid Regular Meeting Minutes of September 10, 2026, PDF, five pages, opens in a new tab