HULL - February 9, 2026 - The Hull School Committee moved forward with a vision for the 2026-2027 school year, reviewing a comprehensive needs-based budget and approving a revamped Program of Studies. The meeting highlighted a strategic shift toward career-readiness, including the expansion of business and finance pathways, a burgeoning robotics program, and a commitment to maintaining unique extracurriculars like boat building. Despite declining enrollment trends seen across the region, officials emphasized that the district is doubling down on high-quality, diverse experiences to ensure student success.
The Full Story
School Business Administrator Diane Saniuk presented the district’s budget request, framing it not as a “level service” or “level funded” document, but as a “needs-based” plan designed to align directly with district priorities. Salaries remain the primary driver, accounting for over 78% of the total request, followed by special education expenses and rising utility costs. Saniuk noted that the district is strategically managing staffing through retirements, such as an upcoming fifth-grade teacher vacancy that will be filled by redeploying existing personnel rather than new hiring.
A significant portion of the evening focused on the 2026-2027 Program of Studies, presented by Principal Shaw. The committee unanimously approved several curriculum changes intended to make coursework more relevant to life after graduation. A notable revision includes transforming “Advanced Algebra with Trigonometry” into “Advanced Algebra with Financial Applications” to better address state financial literacy requirements.
The high school is also pursuing state designation for an Innovation Career Pathway in business and finance. This initiative will introduce new courses like Digital Literacy and Communication and Financial Literacy and Economics. Furthermore, the district is expanding its dual enrollment agreement with Quincy College, allowing students to earn college credits in subjects like Calculus and Forensic Science while remaining in the Hull High School building.
“For such a small school, we continue to offer so many different experiences for our students... I continue to say loudly, we offer so many different experiences.” — Chair Kyle Conley
The meeting also celebrated local partnerships, specifically the collaboration between the schools and the Hull Lifesaving Museum. Executive Director Mike McGurl and teacher Matthew Tanner provided an update on the boat building program, where students are currently constructing a dory and a custom surfboard. The committee discussed expanding this into a formal “Advanced Manufacturing” pathway that could eventually include computer-aided design (CAD) and robotics.
Why It Matters
For Hull residents and taxpayers, this meeting signals a “quality over quantity” approach. By focusing on “needs-based” budgeting and specialized career pathways, the district is attempting to remain competitive and provide high-value education despite a smaller student body. The expansion of college-credit courses and vocational skills like boat building and robotics offers students a head start on careers and higher education, potentially saving families significant future tuition costs.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: To approve the January 12th regular meeting minutes.
Vote: Unanimous (4-0, Liliana Hedrick absent) ([00:07:06])
Motion: To approve the 2026-2027 Program of Studies as presented.
Vote: Unanimous ([01:00:41])
Motion: To adopt Policy JEB, establishing a hard date of September 1st for kindergarten entrance age.
Vote: Unanimous ([01:58:12])
Motion: To accept a $3,600 anonymous donation for Nature’s Classroom.
Vote: Unanimous ([01:59:16])
Public Comment
No input from the public was provided on agenda items during the designated portion of the meeting.
What’s Next
The School Committee will hold a workshop on February 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM at the Jacobs School library to discuss strategic planning with a representative from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC). A public hearing on the final budget is expected in April.
Source Video: Hull School Committee Meeting - February 9, 2026