A point of discussion was the misinformation circulating on social media about the district’s math curriculum. A video depicting a math teaching method not used by Fort Lee schools was shared, creating confusion among parents. The board clarified that the district had transitioned to the Savvy Realized Math program for grades K to 4 in June 2024, aligning with state standards. The board urged parents to seek accurate information directly from district staff to prevent the spread of false narratives. One member voiced discomfort with the math teaching approach presented in the video, advocating for traditional methodologies. This spurred a broader conversation about how the district can address concerns regarding teaching methods while maintaining educational standards.

In a bid to promote inclusivity, a member of the public highlighted the need for the school calendar to acknowledge Eid al-Fitr, similar to other holidays like Lunar New Year and Christmas, which result in school closures. The individual argued that not closing schools for Eid al-Fitr isolates Muslim students, affecting their self-esteem. The board was urged to consider closing schools for this holiday to support fairness and inclusivity, acknowledging the constraints of required school days under state regulations.

Staffing challenges also took center stage, as the board explored options for hiring State Certified teachers in subjects like chemistry, physics, and biology. The district is facing a shortage of qualified teachers for leave replacements, including a Spanish teacher currently on leave. The board considered hiring certified teachers as a temporary solution to address these shortages.

The meeting further delved into the specifics of the Perkins Grant, which provides approximately $23,000 in federal funding earmarked for the Academy of Finance (AOF). Board members questioned why other Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs were not included in the public notice. It was clarified that the grant’s restrictions limit its application to the AOF. The board discussed the importance of fiscal management, emphasizing the need to avoid relying on fluctuating grant allocations for budgeting salaries.

Public comments revealed frustrations with school policies and communication. One parent, dealing with a child’s cancer diagnosis, expressed difficulties in having absences marked as excused and a lack of clear attendance policies on the district’s website. The board pointed to the online availability of the attendance policy and recommended direct communication with teachers or case managers, especially when an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is involved. Another parent highlighted the Special Education Parents Advisory Council’s (SEPAC) efforts, advocating for increased community participation and announcing an upcoming in-person meeting.

Concerns about autism awareness were also voiced, with suggestions for the school to engage in initiatives that foster empathy and understanding among students. A parent shared a personal experience of their child being mocked at an event, urging the board to promote kindness and acceptance from a young age.

The implementation of a bus tracking system was another topic of concern. The board discussed the challenges of deploying the Transfinder program, which tracks bus locations and mileage, particularly for special education students transported out of district. Parents expressed frustration over the lack of timely information when buses are delayed, prompting calls for improved communication.

The meeting also touched on the school calendar timeline and the inclusion of diverse community needs in scheduling decisions. The board highlighted ongoing consultations with the union and efforts to align the calendar with nearby districts while adhering to state regulations.

Lastly, the board addressed the need for policy clarity, particularly regarding the cell phone policy and attendance requirements. A recent policy requiring a doctor’s note after two days of absence faced scrutiny, with suggestions to extend the required period to three or four days to accommodate families with limited healthcare access.