Ms. Giardo and Mr. Dono provided a detailed update on the relocation, explaining the “school within a school” concept and the rationale behind the move. They highlighted that the program’s core academic and therapeutic supports would remain intact and that students would still receive necessary support services, including those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The new location would offer students the chance to participate more fully in clubs, sports, and community-based funding opportunities. To ease the transition, plans for an open house and regular communication with families are in place.

Despite the board’s confidence in the program, community members voiced concerns about the stigma associated with the alternative high school and the potential loss of opportunities for extra help and study hall time. Questions were raised about the capacity of East High School, with fears of overcrowding and the impact on nursing staff and special needs students.

The community collaboration event between senior citizens and students was praised, with senior citizens expressing joy at being back in the schools and interacting with the youth.

The board members also shared their experiences at the state budget committee hearing in Trenton, advocating against a $6.9 million cut to the district’s funding. The impressive testimonies of Cherry Hill students at the hearing were commended for displaying the community’s advocacy strength.

Public comments also touched on the approval of two new job titles and the revised school calendar, with a call for transparency regarding the cost of developing Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and the impact of the alternative high school’s relocation on Cherry Hill East.

Other discussed matters included the various school events, sports achievements, and the recognition of West Junior Quinn Gibson by the Mayor. The public comments segment featured community members seeking clarification on financial matters, expressing dissatisfaction with funding cuts, and emphasizing the need for community involvement in decision-making processes.

One community member expressed the importance of maintaining the lunch and learn program, saying, “We should not get rid of lunch and learn; it is very important for so many students and their academic reassessment, learning everything.” This sentiment underscored the community’s investment in the educational experiences of their students.

The board responded to concerns about staffing changes and reorganization, assuring that any proposed positions would be budget-neutral and emphasizing the need for proper supervision and schedule alignment.