COHASSET - January 7, 2026 - The Cohasset School Committee voted unanimously January 7 to support the establishment of a capital reserve fund for the South Shore Educational Collaborative (SSEC), a move designed to stabilize long-term costs for special education services without requiring additional taxpayer contributions.
The Full Story
In a pivotal governance vote, the Committee approved a request from SSEC Executive Director Michael Losche to establish a capital reserve fund. The collaborative, which provides specialized education services to Cohasset and neighboring districts, requires approval from two-thirds of its member school committees to create the fund.
Losche explained that the fund would be supported solely by surplus tuition revenue approved by the SSEC board, rather than new assessments on member towns. The reserve is intended to fund major facility repairs or potential property acquisitions, particularly as the collaborative approaches the end of its lease in Hingham.
“The sole purpose is so that we don’t have these funds sitting in our general account... [but] can gain interest and accrue additional funds over time,” Losche told the committee.
“Unplugging” Policy Sparks Debate Superintendent Sarah Shannon reported on the district’s recent “unplugging” initiative during the winter break, which discouraged non-emergency communication between staff and families. While intended to promote wellness and rest for educators, the policy received mixed reviews.
Member Lance Dial noted he received “a reasonable amount of negative feedback” from residents who felt the policy was restrictive or confusing. Dr. Shannon acknowledged the response, stating, “Change always evokes responses of all kinds... and I think that that’s totally normal.” She indicated the district would refine its communication about the initiative next year.
Donations & Student Services The Committee accepted nearly $100,000 in grants from two major community partners. The Cohasset Education Foundation (CEF) donated $89,825 for initiatives including a “reboxed cardboard” art project, outdoor seating at Osgood, and bike racks at elementary schools. The Parent School Organization (PSO) contributed $8,143 for items such as a climbing wall frame and sensory tools.
Director of Student Services Michael Stapleton announced that registration for the Integrated Preschool is now open through January 31, 2026. He noted the program continues to be a “gem” for the district, with open spots allocated via lottery if necessary.
“I think part of the reason to take a vacation as an adult is to take a break from work... there’s just so much research out there that says if you aren’t fully disconnected you’re not truly recharging.” — Dr. Sarah Shannon, Superintendent, discussing the winter break policy
Why It Matters
The SSEC vote is a strategic financial safeguard. By allowing the collaborative to save its own surplus for capital needs, Cohasset avoids potential “sticker shock” from special assessments if the collaborative faces a sudden building repair or needs to move. Meanwhile, the acceptance of nearly $100,000 in private grants allows the district to fund enrichment programs and equipment—like fitness center supervision and classroom technology—outside of the operating budget, which the Budget Subcommittee warned is facing “tight” times ahead.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: To support the establishment of a capital reserve fund at the South Shore Educational Collaborative.
Vote: 4-0 (Dial, Evans, Squatrito, Lesky in favor) [09:21]
Motion: To allow the annual town election on Saturday, May 9, 2026, to occur in the Deer Hill School gymnasium.
Vote: 4-0 [15:12]
Motion: To accept the donation of $89,825 from the Cohasset Education Foundation.
Vote: 4-0 [34:19]
Motion: To accept the donation of $8,143 from the Parent School Organization.
Vote: 4-0 [38:43]
Motion: To enter executive session for collective bargaining regarding teachers.
Vote: 4-0 [42:35]
Public Comment
No members of the public offered comment during the open session.
What’s Next
Preschool Registration: Open until January 31, 2026.
Budget: The Budget Subcommittee will present a detailed report at an upcoming meeting.
Election: Town elections confirmed for May 9, 2026, at Deer Hill.
Source Video: Town of Cohasset
Smart governance move here. Using surplus revenue to build reserves instead of waiting for a crisis is exactly how municipalities should plan longterm. The SSEC lease situation in Hingham makes this even more timely since relocations are expensive and unpredictable. Had a similar situation in my district where we got hit with unexpected facility costs becausethere was no buffer.