One segment of the meeting was the appointment of new leadership at two schools within the district. Mr. Daniel Finkele was recommended for approval as the new principal of Heightstown High School. Mr. Finkele brings extensive experience, having previously served as principal at Cherry Hill High School East and Delran High School, as well as in assistant principal roles in Livingston. The board expressed confidence in Mr. Finkele’s leadership abilities and his potential to advance the school’s educational mission.

In addition to Mr. Finkele’s appointment, Dr. Erin Sevilo was proposed to serve as interim principal at Perry Drew School, filling in for Mrs. Allen, who is on a temporary leave of absence. Dr. Sevilo, the recently retired assistant superintendent for human resources, is recognized for her deep institutional knowledge and alignment with the district’s values. Her appointment aims to ensure continuity and support at the school during this transitional phase.

Transportation and safety enhancements at the Walter C. Black School were also on the agenda. The meeting detailed adjustments to drop-off and pick-up procedures to alleviate congestion and improve safety, particularly on Haron Avenue. Buses have been rerouted to the front of the school, with parent drop-offs now taking place at the back, and parents were reminded to use Marson Avenue for school access. The changes aim to streamline traffic flow and enhance safety for students and families.

Despite these efforts, traffic congestion remains a concern, particularly during drop-off times at the high school. One board member described chaotic conditions at a key intersection near the gas station, with heavy traffic from both directions complicating student drop-offs. In response, recommendations were made for students to utilize bus transportation and explore alternative routes to ease congestion on Westerly Road.

The introduction of electric vehicles to the school bus fleet was revisited, following discussions in a previous meeting. These buses, primarily serving elementary schools, were celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Their quiet operation and modern features have been well-received by the school community, and the long-term integration of electric buses into the fleet remains a topic of interest.

Student representatives from Heightstown High School, Daniel Mahenni and Sophia Buddha, provided insights into school life and activities. They highlighted the success of a recent freshman BBQ, which fostered connections among new students, and the introduction of new school guidelines, such as a ban on phone use during instructional time. Upperclassmen have found this adjustment challenging, though freshmen have adapted more readily due to their middle school experiences.

Mahenni and Buddha also discussed the new electric buses, noting their popularity among students due to features like air conditioning and a radio. They updated the board on recent school events, such as the senior sunrise and the first town hall meeting of the year, which covered college fairs, prom, and homecoming festivities. The homecoming theme of classical fairy tales has generated excitement, with seniors planning a Cinderella-themed event.

In the realm of athletics, the girls’ volleyball team was celebrated for its progress and the enthusiasm it has sparked within the community. One board member shared a positive experience attending a game.

Routine agenda items were approved, including staffing updates, curriculum documents, and technology recycling. Questions arose regarding transportation arrangements and the organizational chart, specifically the notation of assistant principals and the athletic director’s position. Clarifications were provided, and the board proceeded with a roll call vote, approving the agenda with certain members abstaining from specific items.