School Committee Backs Ommen For Open Seat
The Holliston School Committee debated a return to test-based honors math and science placement criteria at Thursday's meeting, with parents and board members questioning whether grades and learning differences are fairly weighed.
School Committee · Meeting of April 9, 2026
HOLLISTON — The Holliston School Committee debated a return to test-based honors math and science placement criteria at Thursday's meeting, with parents and board members questioning whether grades and learning differences are fairly weighed. RAMS Principal Carrie Bannon told the committee that of 397 families notified, about 40, or 10 percent, raised questions, consistent with past years. Resident Todd Atkins, of 663 Highland Street, said the criteria don't account for "motivation and engagement," calling them "hard things to measure." One committee member said he could not "totally reconcile" how a student with a 98 average could be denied honors placement.
Separately, the committee voted unanimously to support Jess Ommen for the seat vacated by Joe Peru's resignation, approved updated administrative assistant contract language 5-0, and authorized its budget subcommittee to finalize a solar lease at Miller and Placentino elementary schools.
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Source: the School Committee meeting of April 9, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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