Students, JROTC cadets and new food services director highlighted at Barnstable meeting

The Jan. 7 school committee meeting featured student envoys and two program highlights: the Coast Guard Junior ROTC maritime science program and the district’s new food services director.

West Village third‑graders Maya Find, Azira Lewis and Luca Pachico described classroom projects (ancient Rome), a community care tree, leadership work and school traditions. Committee members praised the students’ public speaking and encouraged continued student involvement.

Barnstable High’s Coast Guard JROTC program lead briefed the committee on program growth since its October 2024 launch and on activities including color-guard presentations (25–27 events last year, 27 so far this year), a newly initiated archery program and outreach about summer leadership academies. Cadet Nolan Payne said the program improved his grades after transferring in: "It has also shown me discipline and what to do and what not to do." Cadet Sofia noted leadership and community-service opportunities.

Separately, the committee introduced Maddie Campagna as the district’s new food services director (joined Dec. 1). Campagna said she previously oversaw USDA child nutrition programs and will prioritize access, culturally responsive meals and partnership with community organizations to expand meal access.

Committee members urged outreach about JROTC and food‑service initiatives and encouraged sharing newsletters and social media posts to boost parent and community awareness.