Gill-Montague School Committee Delays Mask Decision to March, Approves $95,000 in Warrants

GILL -- February 15, 2022, Gill-Montague School Committee delays mask-mandate decision to March 8, citing post-vacation spike risk. Superintendent Brian Botsford recommended against immediately following the state's February 28 mask removal date, telling the board the district consistently sees case increases after extended breaks and that nine days of post-vacation data will allow a more informed decision; Nurse Leader Melissa Bednarski confirmed pool testing positivity is declining but noted federal masking requirements remain in place on school transportation. Director of Teaching and Learning Gene Powers presented the first-ever K-12 i-Ready diagnostic comparison, showing seventh grade math as a bright spot with 60 percent of students improving placement, while flagging 22 eighth graders reading three or more grade levels below benchmark as a priority intervention target. The committee also approved two warrants totaling $95,146.84 and learned that retired principal Joanne Jager, who has 27 years of regional elementary leadership experience, will serve as interim principal at Sheffield Elementary following the departure of Principal Melissa Pitrof.