The budget presentation revealed a general fund allocation of $22,684,312. The local tax levy was set at $19,180,116, a decrease in the annual increase from 4.9% to 3.25%. This reduction was attributed to strategic planning and adjustments, allowing the district to ensure financial health without significant cuts. Additionally, a substantial increase in state aid was noted, with a 17.8% rise equating to nearly $70,000, alongside an even larger increase in preschool education aid. Superintendent Giovanni Giancaspro emphasized the importance of balancing fiscal responsibilities with the need to provide quality education, highlighting the district’s strategic use of funds for necessary capital projects, such as roof and door replacements at school facilities.

Further details of the budget included a special revenue fund of $1,342,298 and a debt service budget of $2,213,758, designated to address referendum obligations. The proposed financial plan also included a withdrawal of funds to support ongoing instructional coaching and the hiring of additional staff to meet the district’s expanding needs, while also reducing out-of-district placements for special education students. The board’s approach to minimizing reliance on extraordinary aid was seen as a prudent financial strategy, with auditors providing positive feedback on the district’s fiscal practices.

The meeting also addressed the lead drinking water statement of assurance, with reports of two instances where lead levels exceeded acceptable limits. Contaminated sources were immediately shut down and retested to ensure safety.

In addition to budgetary matters, the meeting covered academic performance, particularly student growth metrics across the district. The board received updates on the district’s aim for growth percentages between 60% to 99% in academic subjects, with specific attention to McKenzie School’s performance in mathematics and English language arts. McKenzie School reported mathematics performance at 46.6%, just above the state minimum, while English language arts performance was below the state average at 42%. The board and administration expressed a desire to strive for higher achievement levels, noting the need for small group instruction to support struggling students and prevent boredom among advanced learners.

Chronic absenteeism emerged as a concern, with the formation of attendance committees at individual schools aiming to incentivize attendance.

The meeting also highlighted the introduction of a new phonics program, “Phonics First,” at McKenzie School, with expectations that next year’s comparisons would provide clearer insights into its impact on performance metrics. The board recognized the importance of tracking individual test scores to gain a comprehensive understanding of student progress and instructional quality.

In community affairs, the East Rutherford PTA reported on their fundraising initiatives, including the successful Spiritware sales and the ongoing shoe collection. The PTA’s major fundraiser, the Tricky Tray event, is scheduled for May 9, with a variety of prizes offered by local businesses and community members. Other PTA-led activities included a St. Patrick’s Day coin challenge, character education assemblies, and upcoming events such as the Grit Ninja assembly and Holly Rock Entertainment quiz show.

The meeting concluded with logistical discussions about scheduling future board meetings. The board agreed to hold a work session on May 10 and a public meeting on May 26, accommodating various commitments and ensuring a quorum for decision-making.