The budget discussion was a central topic at the Somerset Hills School Board meeting. The third public presentation of the budget aimed to maintain educational standards while introducing new language disability programs and expanding advanced placement offerings. There was a special emphasis on infrastructure and operations, including transportation safety, technology, and security. Specific allocations were detailed for various educational areas, with a comparison to similar districts highlighting the district’s reliance on property taxes due to low state and federal funding. Adjustments to the budget included the utilization of the bank cap fund and the inclusion of student activities scholarships into the special revenue fund. A comprehensive overview of the 2425 budget revealed a 2% tax levy, a combination of a 2.5% increase in general funds, a decrease in debt service, and a 5% increase in the health care adjustment. The board also discussed feasibility studies for the OT field, community surveys, and a communication plan.

The math curriculum update was also significant, with a detailed presentation by Dr. Butler on student achievement and curricular needs. Concerns were raised about the drop in achievement between eighth-grade algebra and ninth-grade honors geometry, prompting recommendations for adjustments in the middle school Algebra 1 curriculum. Equity concerns due to the need for summer study and potential disparities in access to support led to recommendations for stricter guidelines for identifying candidates for the double accelerated pathway and delaying acceleration until high school in most cases. Furthermore, Dr. Butler recommended adjusting the middle school master schedule to allow for 60 minutes of continuous instructional time in math for grades 5 through 8.

The board celebrated the achievements of the Bernard’s High School STEM team, which won first place at a recent event, and the high school Garden Club’s collaboration with Bedwell to revitalize the butterfly garden. The performance and recognition of the world-famous Madrigals group from Bernard’s High School and their director, Mr. Matthew Leine, were also notable. The group was honored for becoming grand champions at a recent event, with individual students recognized for their contributions.

The meeting included discussions on a variety of other topics. Reports from student representatives covered track and field events and the activities of the culture and climate team. The high school celebrated successes in spring sports, Junior Prom, and senior class council events. The St. Baldrick’s charity event, where students cut their hair to raise funds, and the Somerset Hills Education Foundation’s announcements were also acknowledged.

The meeting addressed a proposal to eliminate the supplementary section of the board’s agenda, which led to heated exchanges among board members. Discussions took place regarding the purpose and structure of board meetings, the timing of policy changes, and the appropriate contexts for sensitive matters.

Public comments brought forth community concerns, including a parent and student addressing the handling of an incident at the high school, a company representative expressing dissatisfaction with the IT services selection process, and calls for additional board member training. The board also recognized the retirements of two long-serving staff members and celebrated their contributions.