32:36The meeting commenced with a moment of silence for Charles C. Gordon, who served the Old Bridge school system for over three decades. A speaker shared touching memories of Mr. Gordon, depicting him as a compassionate educator who profoundly impacted students, especially those facing personal hardships. He was credited with initiating programs like Outward Bound and Project Respect, aimed at fostering student development. The speaker conveyed the emotional weight of Mr. Gordon’s mentorship, encapsulating his influence with the notable lesson, “never be afraid to tell someone you love them.”

0:28Following the tribute, the board turned its attention to the New Jersey Quality Single Accountability Continuum (NJQSAC) review, where the district achieved high scores in fiscal management, governance, and personnel. However, the educational instruction score was a concern at 78%, necessitating a District Improvement Plan. The board discussed the implications of this score, particularly how it could lead to state intervention if it remains below 80 for consecutive years. There was a noted need to address the health curriculum, a key area impacting the overall educational instruction score.

32:36In this context, the board examined the subjective nature of educational assessments and the potential for point deductions due to curriculum adoption challenges. There was an ongoing discussion on whether to pursue a District Improvement Plan, contingent on an appeal related to student assessment scores and the anticipated improvements in spring results.

Committee assignments were confirmed, with key positions allocated to board members to cover areas such as personnel, curriculum, operations, student life, and food service. Notably, the Personnel Committee, chaired by Elena Francisco, included Christina Mone, Matt Sulikowski, and Jennifer D’Antuono as members. Other committee chairs were designated.

50:43The board addressed financial resolutions and curriculum-related policies, which were passed without opposition. During this segment, there was a clarification regarding the use of communication platforms for meetings, favoring Zoom for external interactions. The board also tackled logistics around committee processes, including the creation of a shared drive for board members, which was still under development.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the challenges of organizing field trips, especially in light of a nursing shortage within the district. Members expressed the importance of these trips for student engagement, while acknowledging logistical barriers such as transportation costs and the availability of nursing staff. There was a reflection on recent student experiences, including a field trip to the Old Bridge Library, which underscored the educational value of such activities.

The board also celebrated a notable achievement for the district, with SEPTA being awarded the national Jan Harp Domian Diversity and Inclusion Award for 2025.

In other business, the board approved resolutions for both certificated and non-certificated personnel, seamlessly transitioning through various agenda items. A new physical education teacher was welcomed, adding to the district’s teaching staff. Clarifications were made on transportation resolutions and the handling of supplies, equipment, and services.

As the meeting drew to a close, a date correction was announced for the Arts Festival, now set for January 28, and discussions on the timeline for the Food Service contract renewal were initiated. The board concluded with a motion to enter into executive session to address personnel matters, signaling the end of a comprehensive meeting agenda.