The comprehensive equity plan took center stage as Dr. Kristina Susca outlined the requirements set by the New Jersey Department of Education. This plan mandates that all public school districts conduct a needs assessment and develop a three-year plan to address discriminatory practices and biases. A committee comprising district leaders, educators, parents, students, and community members has been formed to oversee the plan’s development, with subcommittees dedicated to data collection and establishing equity goals. The draft plan is slated for completion in April, followed by community feedback and a final version for approval by June.

In the realm of student assessments, the Board reviewed recent improvements in pre-assessment scores at the middle school, particularly in mathematics, where seventh-grade scores increased by nearly 30% from the previous year. This progress was partially attributed to reduced teacher turnover, which had previously contributed to instability. The assessment strategies were a point of discussion, with the Board considering feedback from educators on the effectiveness of current assessments. There was a suggestion to interview teachers regularly to ensure that assessments are useful and relevant, aligning closely with the content taught each quarter.

The meeting also addressed student discipline, with a focus on restorative actions and peer mediation initiatives. Disciplinary actions reported for February included 63 incidents at the middle school, leading to 10 in-school and nine out-of-school suspensions primarily due to physical altercations. The high school reported 80 incidents with minimal suspensions. This approach was linked to the district’s goals of maintaining an inclusive and supportive school climate.

Equity in student engagement across district clubs and activities was another significant topic, with the administration proposing the collection of qualitative data to better understand student participation and interests. There was a proposal to discontinue clubs with low participation and create new ones that might appeal to a broader range of students. Peer leadership groups at the middle and high school levels are expected to help identify new interests that could guide the development of these activities.

Financial and facilities discussions highlighted the preliminary budget and the encouraging enrollment numbers for the afterschool program, which now serves over 300 students. The Board is working to address challenges related to the subsidy program and is exploring opportunities for a free snack program to provide financial relief. A new STEM program for fourth and fifth graders is being piloted, with the potential for expansion. In facilities, the Board expressed optimism about awarding a bid for a Bartle bathroom project, while other projects, such as the high school baseball field renovation, are progressing smoothly.

Personnel matters included several leaves of absence, resignations, and retirements, alongside new appointments such as a baseball coach for the middle school and an orchestra teacher for Bartle. Discussions also covered staff members taking on additional roles focused on climate and culture.

The Board reviewed policy regulations, including a first reading of guidelines related to student smoking and spectator conduct during interscholastic events. Action items related to curriculum, equity, finance, and policy regulations were supported, with one member abstaining from a specific finance item.