Ashburnham Westminster School Committee Rescinds Six Policies, Amends Three in Routine Vote

ASHBURNHAM — April 30, 2026 — Ashburnham Westminster School Committee cleared six outdated policies and updated three others at its April 30 meeting. The committee voted unanimously to rescind policies on meal charge collection, free and reduced-price food services, student transportation, and classroom observation confidentiality, then approved housekeeping amendments to policies covering new member orientation, building security, and transportation in private vehicles via a required roll-call, with all seven members voting yes. A Policy Committee member described the changes as largely administrative, noting language was updated "from key management to access management when it comes to doors." The committee also accepted four budget warrants and noted it is awaiting a response from AFSCME — representing clerical, custodial, and food service workers — to begin what is the district's only open contract negotiation. The SEAC subcommittee reported that lead STAR program teacher Regina Whittier is returning to the Stepping Stones program at Briggs Elementary, with hiring for a replacement to be led in partnership with Director of People Services Jen Ramsdell.