School committee approves summer program expansion and FHS program changes amid budget fight

The Framingham School Committee on Jan. 21 approved multiple non‑budget votes while deferring a final decision on the FY27 budget.

Summer programming: The committee unanimously approved the district’s summer plan, which expands Summer Scene to five weeks, introduces targeted ESL instruction for up to 40 level‑1 students, offers a Framingham Youth Theater program and a sliding‑scale pay structure (free to waived, up to $200/week, with optional extended day). The motion to approve summer programming under policy IHCA was moved by Jen Moshe and seconded by William LaBarge and passed by voice/raise of hands (9–0).

FHS Program of Studies: The Teaching & Learning Subcommittee’s recommended updates to the Framingham High School Program of Studies for 2026–27 — including new electives, expanded AP offerings, additions to the early‑college partnership, and a shift in some ESL instruction toward ELD plus co‑teaching models — were accepted in a committee vote. The subcommittee had voted unanimously to recommend the changes; the full committee accepted them by voice vote.

Other routine business: The committee approved gifts and donations to multiple departments, authorized inclusion of donor logos in marketing materials for specified projects (subject to Communications vetting), approved the open session minutes of Nov. 19, 2025, and adjourned at 11:02 p.m.

What this means: These votes move operational and instructional changes forward despite an unresolved budget process; the summer plan’s sliding‑scale approach aims to expand access while staff and finance continue to negotiate program staffing under the draft budget.