The board highlighted the urgency of submitting project applications to the New Jersey Department of Education to qualify for Debt Service Aid. This process, crucial for reducing the district’s financial burden, is anticipated to yield feedback by January 2025. The facilities projects encompass a range of renovations and expansions, with the primary goal of creating safe and modern educational environments for Westfield students.

A detailed presentation outlined the proposed updates for multiple schools. Franklin School is slated for a two-story addition, incorporating an ADD classroom and small group instruction spaces, alongside restroom renovations. Jefferson School will see a v-shaped addition, featuring new classrooms and a multipurpose room designed to enhance capacity and visibility from the main office. McKinley School’s three-story addition will include a relocated main office to improve visitor management, with ground-floor renovations for the main office, nurse’s office, and classrooms for art and music.

The focus on facility improvements extended to Tamis School, with straightforward plans for a two-story classroom wing and potential future expansions. Washington School’s addition will replace a playground area, prompting its relocation, while incorporating oversized classrooms into kindergarten spaces. Wilson School, facing site limitations, proposed relocating special education classrooms to Washington School, freeing space for kindergarten classrooms. Edison and Roosevelt Schools will undergo renovations focused on gym locker rooms and media centers.

The high school plans include an addition at the front of the building to improve accessibility, coupled with a new drop-off loop. A relocated wood shop and renovated support services area will enhance functionality for deliveries and guidance. The addition will also encompass life skills and autism classrooms, with redesigned locker rooms for better accessibility.

Financial considerations underscored the presentation, with the total facility and space needs estimated at over $225 million. The necessity for a bond referendum was emphasized, as costs exceed the district’s 2% tax levy cap. The board noted that the scale-down from initial estimates of $270 million was achieved through collaboration with principals and community input. Potential state funding could cover up to 40% of renovation and construction costs, alleviating the district’s financial load.

Community engagement emerged as a componet, with a thought exchange initiative capturing feedback on desired facilities improvements. Common themes included the need for safe, modern school environments, enhanced indoor air quality, and dedicated classrooms for music and art. The advisory committee meetings and community input sessions were instrumental in refining project proposals aligned with the district’s strategic plan.

In addition to facilities improvements, the meeting delved into the counseling program’s advancements. Fallon Bisone, director of school counseling, presented a multi-tiered system of support. Tier one services encompass school-wide programming on social-emotional wellness, drug and alcohol misuse, and college and career readiness. High school initiatives like “Thursday Table Talks” engage students during lunch, offering stress-relief activities. Tier two focuses on small group and individual counseling, addressing issues like grief and divorce, while tier three provides crisis response and referrals for intensive support.

The counseling program’s positive impact, particularly the Student Assistance counselors’ role in intermediate and high school settings, was highlighted. The board expressed appreciation for the community’s support, acknowledging the program’s evolution to meet students’ unique needs. Upcoming events include the districtwide evening program on October 8, focusing on the New Jersey Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) law, and “College and Career Finish Line” on October 9, offering insights into the college admissions process.

The meeting also covered the challenges faced by counselors, particularly their availability amidst a packed schedule. Concerns were raised about the accessibility of counselors for upperclassmen, who often struggle to connect due to tight scheduling. The open-door policy allows students to approach their counselors at any time, but many counselors are fully booked with senior meetings, complicating spontaneous consultations.

The facilities referendum was framed as a step in addressing aging infrastructure. Issues with HVAC systems, aging bathrooms, and the need for designated spaces for art, music, and small group instruction were highlighted. The board emphasized the urgency of addressing these concerns, with a speaker noting, “We are out of road and out of cans,” illustrating the need for proactive solutions.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the referendum’s financial implications. Tax implications for residents were estimated, with potential monthly impacts ranging from $76 to $83 for an average home assessed at $812,000. The importance of public engagement and transparency in the budgeting process was underscored, with assurances of ongoing evaluations to ensure the community is well-informed leading up to the vote.