Committee approves new middle‑school "flex" club model and modest fee change

School staff proposed a revised fee structure for Norton Middle School clubs that adds a new 9‑session "flex club" option and raises the full 18‑session club fee modestly. "Tonight I'm asking school committee to approve a revised fee structure for the North Middle School clubs," Hayward (S10) told the board, describing the new $60 price for a full 18‑session club and a $30 (presented to the board as $25 in the final motion) fee for a 9‑session flex option. He framed the change as a cost‑recovery adjustment to offset adviser stipends and supplies and said it would allow staff and students more flexibility around athletic seasons and other commitments.

Members asked practical and equity questions about waiver options and baseline membership levels; Hayward said historically 12 students was a typical club minimum and that the flex stipend funds available could support additional clubs (he estimated about $22,000 could fund 11 full clubs beyond contract obligations). The committee moved and approved the fee change by voice vote; the transcript records the motion being seconded and members saying "Aye," but does not include a roll-call tally. Several members said they favored a broader review of all fees during the FY28 budget process to ensure the changes do not create barriers for students.