A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the proposed opening of a new middle school at the site of the former Pope Paul VI school. The plan, presented by Dr. Robert Toy, aims to alleviate overcrowding by gradually introducing a sixth-grade class in the first year and expanding to include seventh and eighth grades over subsequent years. The decision to pursue this third middle school is backed by a demographic study and community surveys indicating strong support, with 38% of respondents favoring the proposal. The school board is currently obtaining approval from the New Jersey Department of Education for leasing the building and is in the process of appointing a principal. A committee comprising middle school administrators and teaching staff will be formed to address the operational details of opening the new school.

Concerns were raised about the associated redistricting process, which will determine which elementary schools will feed into the new middle school. The board emphasized that decisions would be guided by an ongoing demographic report to ensure equitable distribution of students while addressing current overcrowding. The report’s findings will shape the redistricting efforts, considering socio-economic factors and aiming for a balanced approach to integrating students from various neighborhoods.

The community’s role in naming the new school was also discussed. A new naming policy allows for community submissions with at least 25 signatures for validation. This initiative encourages student involvement, potentially incorporating the naming process as part of an academic assignment. There were also discussions about the integration of special education programs within the new facility, moving most middle school special education programs from Woodrow to the new site to better balance resources.

Simultaneously, the board deliberated over the preliminary budget for the 2025-26 school year, with a proposed 2% increase. Members expressed differing opinions, with some advocating for a reduced percentage to ease the financial burden on taxpayers. The motion for a 2% increase did not pass, leading to discussions on a 1% increase and calls for clarity regarding the implications of such decisions. The administration highlighted the need for a comprehensive understanding of budget cuts and their potential impact on programs and staffing.

The board recognized the importance of community engagement in budget discussions, planning a special budget meeting to address concerns and gather public input. This session aims to ensure transparency and thorough discussion of the budget before finalizing it for submission.

During the meeting, the board also approved several policy revisions, including updates on electronic device usage, academic integrity, and a new spectator code of conduct for interscholastic events. The revised policy on electronic devices defines the scope broadly, covering items such as cell phones and smartwatches, and aims to limit personal use during school hours.

In the personnel section, a motion was passed to approve various items, including the appointment of a new principal, Mr. Bertolini, who expressed gratitude for the board’s trust and emphasized collaboration in addressing future challenges. The board also discussed the importance of specialized teachers and substitutes, noting current understaffing issues.

Community members voiced concerns and suggestions during the public recognition segment. Gary Lorry questioned the status of the new middle school, while Lur Llama advocated for a 2% increase in the school budget to address rising costs. Donna Papait highlighted the success of a recent food drive, and other speakers raised questions about staffing projections and the implications of the new school’s location for student allocation.