One of the most discussions centered on the importance of inclusive language in school policies. A board member emphasized that revising the language in existing policies could foster a more inclusive environment without altering their core content. The board acknowledged that many districts have begun to adopt similar practices and that Ocean County should prioritize updating its policies to reflect inclusivity and acceptance. The conversation also touched on supporting the administration’s initiatives, such as the “No Place for Hate” program and the role of a multilingual parent outreach coordinator.

The board also debated how to refine their strategic goals to ensure they align with their oversight responsibilities rather than delve into operational aspects. One member suggested that the goals should reflect broader cultural sensitivity and inclusion, promoting inclusivity might be a pertinent macro-level goal. There was a consensus that the board’s goals should remain macro-level objectives, focusing on inclusivity, security, mental health, and overall well-being of the school community. A proposal was made to review and adjust the proposed goals in an upcoming meeting to ensure clarity and focus.

The success of the new cell phone policy in schools was another key topic. Teachers reported fewer students in the hallways and increased focus during class. One board member shared that their son initially reacted negatively to the policy but later found it beneficial for communication among students. The effectiveness of the policy was underscored by positive reactions from both teachers and students, illustrating its impact on the school environment.

The board then moved into the public comment segment, where community member Alex Hayes expressed appreciation for the board’s acknowledgment of public comment rules. Hayes pointed out the irony in the board discussing tolerance while having previously refused to pass resolutions condemning racism or supporting LGBTQ students during significant events. He urged the board to take more decisive action regarding the future of a specific property, 163 Monmouth Road, criticizing the lack of concrete plans.

Following the public comment session, the president welcomed new student representatives who provided updates on various school activities. They reported on the first meetings of several clubs, including DECA and Key Club, noting that DECA had 56 members at its first meeting and that Key Club was planning a beach cleanup and a food drive. The No Place for Hate initiative continued from the previous year, with a successful initial meeting. The student representatives also discussed sports, highlighting the boys’ soccer team’s strong performance and other athletic endeavors.

Superintendent Kelly Weldon recognized the hard work of the administrators for the successful back-to-school nights across the district, noting the positive feedback from parents and staff regarding the new cell phone policy. She mentioned a scheduled parent information session on internet safety and child exploitation, encouraging parents from all grade levels to attend.

Further discussions included updates on capital projects by the business administrator, Mr. Hastings. He provided an update on the replacement of two aging boilers at the Intermediate School and highlighted the completion of the stadium lighting project. Additionally, preparations for the pre-kindergarten playground at the Wanasa School were underway, pending finalization with the contractor and weather conditions.

The board addressed action items, with one member discussing the financial management and resource services, thanking community groups for their donations to the district. He clarified that the grants being discussed were annual grants related to the old NCLB funds, which vary slightly based on demographic information. In the instructional education and student activities segment, another member presented several items for discussion, including a revised work calendar and a delayed opening schedule for state assessments.

Towards the end of the meeting, the board conducted a second reading of revised policies, where questions arose regarding the health curriculum and parents opting out of certain lessons. It was clarified that parents could opt out of specific topics, with alternative plans in place for students who choose not to participate.