A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to honoring educators and educational service professionals who have made notable contributions to the school community. Superintendent Thomas McBryde expressed pride in recognizing these individuals, emphasizing their transformative impact beyond academics.

Among the honorees, Miss Jane Kim from Nelly K. Parker School was awarded the Governor’s Educator of the Year. Interim Principal Dr. Galliano praised Miss Kim for her nurturing classroom environment, with a parent testifying to her positive influence on their child. Miss Denise Valier Lacero received the Educational Service Professional of the Year award for her exceptional skills in the ABA classroom.

Hackensack Middle School’s Miss Joanna Beck was celebrated for her ability to unify students through diverse musical performances, fostering cultural appreciation and community spirit. Principal Sass described her as an embodiment of the school’s values. Alongside Beck, Miss Kiana Rodriguez was acknowledged for her vibrant contributions to the school culture.

The meeting also focused on the district’s budget presentation for the upcoming academic year. The superintendent outlined plans for capital improvements aimed at bolstering school safety and infrastructure. Notably, recent projects included the installation of solar panels and a security vestibule at Nelli K Parker Elementary School, with a contract value of $137,300. Future projects include a boiler replacement at Fanny Meyer Hiller School, funded through the capital budget.

Professional learning initiatives for the next school year were also discussed, emphasizing data-driven instructional support in math and reading. The district plans to continue implementing HMH resources and problem-based learning to personalize instruction and track student progress effectively. Plans for preschool expansion were highlighted, with funding anticipated from PA.

The board addressed enhancements in support services for students with disabilities, including the establishment of full child study teams in each building and more ABA and preschool classes. Assistant Superintendent Rosemary Marks elaborated on the budget’s provision for social-emotional learning, allocating funds for school counselors and social workers to support students’ mental health and well-being.

Technology upgrades were another focus, with plans for a device refresh, including Chromebooks at Hackensack Middle School, set to improve digital learning. The incorporation of AI tools and investments in infrastructure improvements aimed at creating a stable and secure learning environment were noted as integral to advancing the district’s educational capabilities.

The budget, prepared by School Business Administrator Lydia Singh, projected an operating revenue of approximately $153 million, reflecting increased state aid and tax levies. However, it also noted a decrease in grant revenue by over $5 million. The budget prioritizes instruction and related services, with special and bilingual education receiving additional funding. Capital projects, including necessary repairs and a boiler replacement, are budgeted at over $2 million, with the average school tax per household showing a slight increase.

Notably, the personnel committee proposed the addition of school monitors to enhance safety, and the policy committee revised policies to align with state updates, affecting staff enrollment procedures and defining academic integrity.