Malden School Committee hears enrollment surge, approves pay increase for retired paraprofessionals and reconvenes after executive session

The Malden School Committee on Nov. 8 heard an enrollment update showing 6,313 students districtwide and approved a 3% pay increase for six retired paraprofessionals from Unit C.

"The enrollment number was 6,313 as of last Friday," Mr. Iovino said, noting growth of 543 students since August 2021 with the largest gains in pre-kindergarten (82) and kindergarten (169). Superintendent Noriega-Murphy said the figure remains below pre-pandemic totals but is approaching prior levels.

Administrators briefed the committee on a range of district activities, including a building-capacity analysis, Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports at Salemwood, restorative-practices implementation, crisis-prevention training for staff, and steps to expand teacher dual certification (including MTEL workshops). Ms. Erin Craven said uAspire, in partnership with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), will have a staff person at Malden High School two days a week beginning next week to support college and financial-aid advising.

At 7:34 p.m. the committee voted to enter executive session (motion by Mr. Iovino, second Mr. Froio); the roll call recorded eight yes votes and one absence (Mr. Drummey). The meeting reconvened at 8:00 p.m. After reconvening, the committee voted to approve a 3% pay increase for six paraprofessionals who retired during the 2020-21 school year; Mr. Iovino made the motion, Mr. McCarthy seconded, and the roll call again recorded eight yes votes and one absence.

Ms. Spadafora moved to adjourn at 8:01 p.m.; the motion passed unanimously.