The meeting commenced with the presentation of an audit report by Brian Co, the audit manager. Co praised the hard work of Kathleen Marano and her team during the audit process. The report highlighted a $4 million fund balance in the general fund, detailing its composition which includes capital reserves, maintenance surplus, excess surplus, and funds assigned for future expenditures. The utilization of federal grants and an ongoing project funded through capital reserves were also mentioned. In his review of the Debt Service fund, Co noted no bonded debts and no recommendations, a point which raised no questions or concerns from the board.

In the personnel matters segment, the board approved several motions including the employment of a full-time tenure track special education position, various maternity leaves, and the termination of an employee. The reinstatement of a full-time technology network administrator position was also affirmed. The board additionally approved attendance at various workshops for curriculum development, one of which will be funded through Title II funds.

The policy segment of the meeting saw the board decide to table the motion for the second reading and adoption of specific policies. Under business and finance office resolutions, the board ratified and affirmed bills and claims, approved payroll, authorized transfers and grants, and passed resolutions about building use applications, community outreach programs, and repairs at Stevenson school.

The meeting also saw an expression of gratitude for the community’s support in the recent election. One board member thanked groups including the community outreach group, HSA, Education Foundation, and Frank LaMore for promoting a positive vote. The member acknowledged the hard work of these groups in informing and engaging voters, and specifically thanked Frank LaMore for his contributions.

Lauren Matano from the Education Foundation shared the organization’s goals for the upcoming school year, which include providing additional funds and resources to Fairfield students. Matano emphasized the foundation’s focus on student and professional development and community support, and encouraged everyone to join their mailing list for updates.

Community member Frank Lamort raised questions about the hiring process and salary allocations during the public comments section. Superintendent Susan Ciccotelli clarified that job openings were posted on the NJ School Jobs website and that hiring was competitive. She also acknowledged the difficulty in finding teachers and filling positions, a challenge faced by many districts in the state.

The board assured Lamort that information on allocations for certain items was available online. Ciccotelli explained that her final salary decision for a job is based on the candidate’s experience, not just their salary expectation. She also mentioned how difficult it is to match the expectations of candidates with limited experience but higher salaries.