The standout announcement from Superintendent Dr. Justin Smith was the approval of the preschool expansion application. The district received $3.2 million, the highest amount awarded to any district this fall. This funding aims to enhance early childhood education by expanding preschool facilities and recruiting new teachers.

In academic matters, the board received an in-depth presentation on the State of the Schools, focusing on student assessments and growth metrics. The district employs various assessments to evaluate student performance, with particular emphasis on literacy and mathematics.

The presentation also highlighted the district’s performance on the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments (NJSLA). Notably, in English language arts, students in grades four and six outperformed state averages. Conversely, performance in grades three, five, seven, and eight lagged in language arts compared to state averages, prompting discussions on targeted interventions.

Math performance was a strong point for the district, with students across all grades surpassing state averages. Particularly impressive were the eighth graders’ Algebra 1 results, with a proficiency rate of 97.9%, higher than the state’s 39.5%. This achievement was attributed to a focus on high-achieving students in the district, contrasting with broader state metrics.

The board also examined subgroup performances, including special education and economically disadvantaged students. While general education students showed strong proficiency levels, special education students faced challenges due to testing aligned with grade-level content. Economically disadvantaged students recorded a proficiency rate of 34.8%, highlighting the ongoing need for support in these areas.

A key topic of discussion was the District Improvement Plan (DIP), necessitated by the district achieving 75% of state targets in instruction and program, falling short of the 80% requirement. This plan focuses on strategies to enhance instructional quality and student outcomes, drawing on test score data to identify areas for growth.

The meeting also introduced various educational initiatives aimed at fostering student development. In language arts, there is a renewed focus on using text-based evidence in reading and writing, complemented by a revamped word study program. Math instruction emphasizes differentiation and concept understanding, with students encouraged to critique reasoning and apply knowledge across scenarios. Science education is moving towards deeper interdisciplinary connections, with a noted need for increased instructional time.

In addition to academic discussions, Superintendent Dr. Smith reported on the district’s participation in Red Ribbon Week, promoting drug-free lifestyles, and ongoing fire safety presentations in elementary schools by local fire department representatives. The board approved all administrative, curricular, and financial motions without dissent, including a special education settlement discussed in executive session.