A significant part of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation by Mrs. Don Kazuba, who shared developments at Ocean Township High School. The school’s first esports team won a state championship in its inaugural year, and over 100 seniors participated in the Senior Sunrise Event. Additionally, Kazuba introduced the “Spartans of the Month” program to recognize outstanding students from each grade.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses were a focal point, with a reported increase in enrollment across various demographic groups. Kazuba highlighted a 70% increase in AP participation among Asian and white students and a 50% increase among Hispanic students. She stressed the importance of providing all students with access to AP courses, even if they do not achieve a score of three or higher, noting the educational value of participation itself. “Even though they may not get a three or higher just being in the class… the benefit comes from the conversations, the discussions, and the work that they’re doing on a daily basis.” The school was recognized on the AP Honor Roll for the second consecutive year, reflecting efforts to expand access and improve student performance.

Plans to implement Pre-AP courses for Algebra 1 and English 1 were discussed. Enrollment in the school’s career and technical education (CTE) program, known as Spartan schools, increased by 5%, representing 32% of the high school population. Approximately 21.8% of CTE participants were classified as concentrators, having completed two or more courses in a specific program of study. These programs offer pathways to college dual enrollment and certification, benefiting student readiness for post-secondary education.

The board also discussed future developments, including a new cyber security program within the School of Technology. Preliminary approval for grant support had been secured. The board expressed a cautious approach to developing new programs, focusing on quality and maintaining current offerings.

Dual enrollment opportunities doubled from 14 to 27 since 2022, thanks to a partnership with Fairleigh Dickinson University. The board aims to diversify these offerings further, particularly in world languages, and is exploring additional partnerships with institutions like Rutgers University and Syracuse University.

Student mental health and wellness initiatives were also on the agenda. The Smart SEL program aims to support students with resources on time management and social media use. The Spart Wellness initiative promotes physical and mental well-being through activities like yoga and meditation. Peer support training under the Spartans Offering Support (SOS) program is being developed, alongside the Anti-Defamation League’s No Place for Hate program, to address mental health and social issues.

In addition to these discussions, the board recognized staff achievements, with several educators earning tenure. National Principals Month was acknowledged, highlighting the contributions of school leaders. Public comments included praise for the high school principal’s presentation and a call for improved communication about meeting agendas.

Other topics included the nutritional quality of school food, with board members expressing a desire to evaluate and potentially improve offerings. A new program, NutriSlice, was introduced to provide nutritional information about meals. The board emphasized engaging with parents and stakeholders to understand community preferences before making changes.