The meeting commenced with an informative presentation on the labor relations negotiation cycle by Kathleen Asher, addressing the board’s upcoming challenge of negotiating a new teacher contract. Asher, though an attorney, clarified that her presentation did not constitute legal advice and emphasized the necessity for the board to consult their legal counsel. She elaborated on the negotiation process, beginning with face-to-face interactions between union representatives and management to discuss contract terms. Asher highlighted the return to in-person meetings post-pandemic.

Asher explained that negotiations typically start when one party, often the union, proposes discussions on an expiring contract. She illuminated the logistical aspects of these negotiations, recommending that both parties schedule multiple meetings in advance to ensure availability and agree on ground rules, such as time limits and guidelines for introducing new participants. Confidentiality during negotiations was stressed as vital, with procedural updates being the only details shared publicly.

In cases where negotiations reach an impasse, Asher outlined the available procedures: mediation, fact-finding, and super conciliation. These non-binding processes aim to assist and recommend settlements but do not force agreements. Asher emphasized the importance of the decision-making roles held by the union and the board’s negotiations committee. She warned against reaching a settlement unsupported by the constituency, stating, “You don’t want to get to a point where they go back and think everyone has a settlement and then their constituency isn’t able to vote in favor of it.”

The presentation also delved into the financial implications of negotiations, with Asher noting that approximately 80% of the district’s budget is allocated to contracts. She advised board members to prepare by analyzing existing contracts, grievance histories, and salary guides, and to collaborate with the administration to understand the costs associated with various contract elements, including non-monetary costs such as paid time off.

Following Asher’s presentation, the focus shifted to the unveiling of a new district website, expected to go live in January. The representative, Mr. Herner, detailed the smooth migration process due to the current website’s organization. The new site will feature a full-screen layout, updated administration and employment sections, and a streamlined department structure. A quick link bar at the top of the page will provide easy access to important resources like the parent portal and staff directories.

Mr. Herner assured that the staff directory would be accessible and that teacher websites would be integrated into the Canvas platform. The new system will also include an events portlet connecting to a Google Calendar for efficient event management. Questions regarding the integration of emergency notifications into the new system were addressed, with a transition from the current School Messenger system to a new protocol planned.

The meeting proceeded with administrative reports, revealing that Rockway Valley School currently enrolls 394 students. The 8th-grade class comprises 38 students, with expectations of a larger incoming kindergarten class. The facilities committee had reviewed a summer roof project that was on the agenda for approval, covering a portion of the school’s infrastructure.

Community engagement was highlighted, with a commendation directed at students Zoe Fate, Nan Ja, and Marco Sarah for their successful auditions for the North Jersey Area Band. The Home and School Association’s Holiday Shop Boutique was acknowledged for its success in providing students with independent shopping opportunities for gifts.

The board addressed correspondence and opened the floor for public commentary, although no members of the public chose to speak on agenda items during the first session. Reports from neighboring educational boards were shared, including Mountain Lakes Board of Education’s acknowledgment of outgoing board members and celebration of athletic achievements.

Committee reports included the Facilities Committee’s motions related to the summer roof project and the Personnel Committee’s approval of a resignation and appointment of new staff positions, including an interim director of special education. The Policy Committee prepared for the first reading of new policies, focusing on updates discussed in their last meeting.

The governance committee meeting on December 9 was highlighted, covering topics such as the evaluation process for the superintendent and board self-evaluations. Discussions on professional development and a review of an annual Board calendar sample were noted, along with a revisit of the board’s goals for the year.

In the open session for public comments, a member of the public expressed gratitude towards the board and recognized a board member for exemplary representation. The board expressed appreciation for the acknowledgment and reiterated their commitment to maintaining strong district relationships.