The School Committee plans to meet this Thursday, May 1, at 6 p.m. and may vote on a controversial flag policy that has roiled the community for 18 months.
The most recent version of the policy would allow by right U.S., Massachusetts, POW/MIA and temporary “heritage flags” affixed to school property. The heritage flags would be displayed during appropriate months. For example, a Black History Month flag could fly in February and an LGBTQ+ flag in June.
The policy also gives the superintendent power to make recommendations to the School Committee for additional flags and banners. The School Committee would not be required to agree.
Interim Superintendent John Robidoux has said that he will listen to students, teachers and the community regarding flag requests.
Committee members emphasized that the policy does not cover student artwork on display, or personal items like T-shirts and bumper stickers.
There has been widespread public uproar — from many students and community members — over the policy, which, if approved, would likely lead to the removal of Black Lives Matter and Pride flags currently hanging in schools.
The public is invited to speak at Thursday night’s meeting.
More recess?
The School Committee will hear another policy proposal Thursday night, this one mandating more recess for students in grades K-6.
Member Alison Taylor has suggested that, effective in the 2025-26 school year, all elementary students should have no fewer than two scheduled recesses totaling at least 35 minutes. Those recesses should be held outdoors, weather permitting. The proposal also prevents school officials from taking recess away from kids as a punishment or for “academic reasons.”
According to Taylor, the district has had two recesses in the recent past, but one was eliminated during COVID to help meet time-on-learning requirements set by the state. The Department of Early and Secondary Education requires 900 hours of learning time each school year, according to Robidoux.
Marblehead has one of the shortest school days in the state, said School Committee Chair Jenn Schaeffner, so finding more time for recess can be challenging. Schaeffner supports the proposal “100%,” she said.
Taylor is a longtime advocate for more recess, saying it’s critically important for elementary school kids to have time to “get their wiggles out.” She says the new policy will improve behavior and academic outcomes.
Like all new policies, the recess plan requires three readings (or hearings) by the School Committee before it can be voted on.
The School Committee meets at Marblehead High School. The meeting can also be accessed remotely HERE.
