Committee accepts 2025 superintendent evaluation, notes strengths and areas for growth

The Grafton School Committee moved to accept and approve the 2025 evaluation of Dr. Cummings, the district superintendent, following a review of progress on learning goals, communications and operational performance.

Committee members reported that Dr. Cummings met or made progress on the district learning goals. Committee materials showed that goal one — raising literacy proficiency rates by 10% — was judged met by four committee members and “significant progress” by one. Goal two — a 10% increase in math proficiency described as a “moonshot” during a year when the district implemented a new mathematics curriculum — was judged as progress but not meeting the 10% target. Committee members noted the math rollout made the target unlikely this year.

On professional practice, the committee recorded mixed results: communications work had specific components left incomplete because the district did not pursue a previously proposed override and corresponding communications; some members rated sections of communications as met given extenuating circumstances, while others said more progress was needed. The committee reported the emergency preparedness goal as met or exceeded and rated instructional leadership and many areas of professional culture as exemplary or proficient.

Chair Amy Ainsley thanked committee members for their timely review. Committee members thanked Dr. Cummings and district staff for meeting unexpected challenges during the year and for progress on multiple fronts. A motion to accept and approve the superintendent evaluation was moved and seconded and passed by voice vote.

Dr. Cummings thanked staff and the committee and said he would take the feedback into planning for the coming year.