This course, to be offered from July 7th to August 1st, aims to explore themes such as identity, immigration, and race, inspired by the Asian-American research initiative. Registration, set to open February 3rd, is encouraged given the course’s unique perspective on U.S. history and the opportunity for students to appreciate their role and agency in historical contexts. The course fee is $500, a cost considered reasonable compared to other summer educational programs.

Additionally, the board discussed dual enrollment opportunities through partnerships with the College of New Jersey and Middlesex College. This program allows students to earn college credits while completing high school courses at reduced tuition rates. These partnerships are designed to provide students with advanced learning experiences and a head start in higher education.

The meeting also reviewed the district’s graduation requirements and course selection process, crucial for parents and guardians to understand. A counselor outlined both state and district requirements that students must meet, with an emphasis on English, language arts, health, and physical education over four years. Math, science, and social studies require three years, while world language requires two, though many opt for additional study. The course selection process will activate in the Genesis scheduling portal soon, with final selections to be made through counselor meetings.

An interesting segment covered the Option Two program, which allows students to take courses outside the high school for credit. The counselor clarified that Option Two is meant for courses not available within the district, and approval is required for these to appear on transcripts. The board discouraged students from pursuing Option Two for courses already offered by the district, as colleges prefer a commitment to the high school’s curriculum.

The mathematics program was another focal point, presenting varied pathways based on students’ starting points. Most ninth graders take Algebra 1, Algebra 2, or Geometry Honors, with higher-level options like College Prep or AP Statistics available. A summer program offers courses like Introduction to Data Science, and Discrete Mathematics.

New offerings like Emerging Financial Markets, covering cryptocurrency, were introduced, fulfilling financial literacy graduation requirements. The program also offers internships for seniors in fields such as healthcare and law enforcement.

The language arts curriculum, presented by Emily K. Kling, emphasizes themes of self-discovery and critical thinking, guiding students from identity-focused studies in ninth grade to global literature in eleventh grade. Advanced Placement courses in literature and language support students aiming to refine skills, while the journalism program encourages critical analysis and world improvement.

Dr. Cindy Aini outlined the social studies program, specifying graduation requirements and introducing new courses like Advanced Placement African-American Studies, which fulfills U.S. history requirements. The course focuses on primary sources and social justice through the experiences of Black Americans. Additionally, electives like AP government classes and AP microeconomics meet financial literacy standards.