A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the introduction of five candidates vying for two open board positions, previously held by Mr. Harris and Mr. Velez. The candidates, Fezun Ahmad, Vincent Coughlin, Dalia Eweis, Stefan Lai, and Steven Muscardi, each presented their qualifications and visions for the board.

Fezun Ahmad was the first to articulate his platform, emphasizing the importance of integrating technology, particularly artificial intelligence, as a tool to enhance educational experiences. Ahmad advocated for a focus on mental health resources within schools, stressing their important role in student success. His emphasis on academic freedom and equity in education highlighted issues the board faces, as he argued against censorship and for equal opportunities for all students regardless of socioeconomic status.

Vincent Coughlin, a lifelong resident of Woodbridge and a product of its public school system, followed with a strong endorsement of public education. Coughlin addressed challenges such as the pandemic’s lingering impact on student learning, mental health issues, and the necessity of transparency in curriculum and school safety. His personal experiences and commitment to collaboration were central to his candidacy.

Dalia Eweis, another lifelong resident and a mother with children in the Woodbridge schools, emphasized community involvement’s role in educational success. Her background in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, along with volunteer work in local schools, supported her commitment to improving education in the community. Eweis underscored the profound impact that a united community can have on student outcomes.

Stefan Lai and Steven Muscardi also presented their visions, though details of Muscardi’s statement were unavailable. Lai, in his remarks, emphasized the foundational role of education in a thriving community and advocated for safe, supportive learning environments that promote students’ mental well-being and personal growth. He pledged to strengthen the relationship between schools and the broader community.

Following public comments, the board entered a closed session to deliberate on the candidates’ qualifications. Upon reconvening, nominations were opened for the first vacant seat. Stefan Lai was nominated and ultimately selected for this position, with board members recognizing his dedication to the community and his advocacy for high-quality education access for all children.

Vincent Coughlin was nominated for the second seat, with board members expressing confidence in his potential to contribute diverse perspectives and positive change, particularly given his legal aspirations. Coughlin’s nomination was uncontested, and he was unanimously approved for the seat.

These themes resonated across multiple candidates’ platforms.

The newly appointed board members, Lai and Coughlin, were sworn in immediately following their selection, officially marking their entry into the board. Their appointments come at a time when the board faces challenges, including addressing the educational impacts of the pandemic, ensuring equitable access to resources, and navigating issues related to curriculum and safety.

The meeting concluded with a motion to incorporate previously submitted feedback into the superintendent’s evaluation, which passed with a vote of 4-2, with two abstentions.