08/03/2026
Sorry this update is coming a little later than planned; summer schedules and vacation have kept me and the family busy! Here are a few highlights from the July 16 Bellingham School Committee meeting:
**Staffing / Superintendent Report**
• Dr. Marano shared an update on several new hires and staff members returning to BPS after positions were affected by budget uncertainty earlier this year. These positions do not represent net-new headcount. They fill existing vacancies or restore previously approved positions.
• Dr. Marano and the school administration continue working to ensure critical staffing needs are met while remaining mindful of budget constraints and balancing staffing with student learning needs.
A big welcome to our new BPS team members; and a very happy welcome back to those returning to the district! We’re excited to have you as part of the Bellingham school community.
**Holly’s Closet at Bellingham High School**
• A representative from Holly’s Closet joined us to share the organization’s mission and its new partnership with Bellingham High School.
• Holly’s Closet will provide students with private, anonymous access to new clothing, shoes, hygiene products, and other essential items during the school day. This partnership will help support student confidence, dignity, and success.
How great is this for our students? More information will be shared before the school year begins. For now, learn more here: https://hollyscloset.cc/donations
**Transportation Policy Discussion and Vote**
I appreciate the families who took the time to share their experiences and advocate for a change to the district’s transportation policy. As a parent, I understand how important dependable before- and after-school care is for families, and I want to provide clear context about the request and my vote.
• Under the current policy, BPS provides bus transportation between Magical Beginnings and Stall Brook Elementary for Stall Brook students who use the center for before- and after-school care. Parents or caregivers must complete the district’s transportation registration form to indicate that their child will be picked up from or dropped off at Magical Beginnings. Because the center is located within the Stall Brook district, transportation to and from DiPietro is not provided under the current policy, which does not allow cross-district transportation between the two elementary school areas.
• The request before the Committee was to change the policy so DiPietro students attending Magical Beginnings could receive district transportation across the existing elementary school boundary.
• Following discussion, the Committee voted 4–1 to maintain the current policy. Four members, including me, did not support the proposed change, while one member voted in favor.
My vote reflected the broader and longer-term implications of changing a districtwide policy; not only whether space may be available on a particular bus route today. Enrollment, ridership, bus capacity, routes, contractual costs, and transportation needs can change over time.
It is also important to note that families at both Stall Brook and DiPietro have access to on-site before- and after-school childcare through the Hockomock Area YMCA. The YMCA was selected through the district’s formal RFP process to provide a childcare option at both elementary schools.
I believe the Committee must consider consistency, operational sustainability, and the careful use of public-school resources when making decisions that may create ongoing expectations for the district.
I understand that this decision was disappointing to some families. I remain available to speak directly with residents about my vote, hear feedback, and help ensure the School Committee continues to understand a wide range of community needs and perspectives.
