The decision to exclude the multiport dome, which had garnered community interest for its potential educational and recreational benefits, was a central topic. After an executive session, the board concluded that their primary focus should remain on addressing the critical closure of the Samuel R. Donald School and the construction of a new elementary wing at Walter T. Bergen School. Public comment was invited on the decision to forgo the dome, but no members of the community came forward to speak. The board confirmed the cancellation of a previously planned feedback session regarding the dome, with a commitment to communicate this resolution to residents.

In a detailed exploration of student academic performance, the board examined results from the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments (NJSLA). The analysis highlighted both improvements and challenges, particularly noting a slight increase in ELA scores for grade three students but a concerning dip in grade four. Grade five students showed significant improvements in both ELA and mathematics, while eighth-grade mathematics proficiency rose to over 70%. These fluctuations prompted a deeper investigation into the reasons behind the performance trends, with a focus on cohort data to understand student progress over time.

The board also examined subgroup performance, particularly among multilingual learners, students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and economically disadvantaged students. Encouraging trends were noted among multilingual learners in subsequent years despite initial data scarcity. Students with IEPs showed a marked improvement from 7% passing in 2022 to 19.6% in 2024. However, economically disadvantaged students experienced a proficiency decline from 48% to 41% last year, with a slight rebound to 43% this year in language arts. These insights are intended to guide targeted support for students requiring additional assistance.

In addressing these academic challenges, the district plans to adapt instructional practices informed by assessment data. Emphasis was placed on analyzing performance relative to state averages and implementing new curricula and assessment tools, such as the Amplify program in ELA, to fill gaps in literacy instruction. Professional development initiatives, including coaching and seminars for teachers, were discussed to align with the new program’s rigorous content. Transitioning from the I-Ready assessment to the Dibbles assessment tool is also underway to enhance early childhood literacy readiness.

During the public comment segment, residents voiced concerns and suggestions. One resident expressed concern about the lack of standalone typing instruction, which was clarified as being integrated into language arts programs. Another resident advocated for a trophy case at Walter T. Bergen School to celebrate the girls’ cross-country team’s achievements, emphasizing the importance of recognizing student successes.

Significant financial developments were also discussed, including a $550,000 grant for the HVAC project at Martha Day School, with the district covering 40% of the costs. Rising health and prescription costs projected for 2025 were noted, with an anticipated increase of 15%. Additionally, a risk assessment will be conducted at no cost to the district. The district also secured a $45,000 grant from the National School Lunch Program to update cafeteria equipment.

The total number of AP students rose from 70 to 81, and the number of AP exams taken reached 142. Construction updates at the high school included progress on the steel footings for an addition, media center renovations, and nearly completed gym upgrades, pending ADA-compliant bleacher installation.