A major part of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the district’s student achievement goals for the coming school year. The board delved into the use of the I-Ready diagnostic program and its role in personalizing learning pathways for students. The goal-setting process, led by a board member, emphasized the importance of not only achieving typical growth but also encouraging stretch growth to help students who are currently below grade level. The board member noted that if students can meet these stretch goals consistently for two years, they could potentially reach grade-level performance. Last year, 62% of students in grades K through 8 met their typical growth goals, surpassing national averages. This year’s strategy involves analyzing individual school data to tailor growth expectations.

The board also addressed concerns related to the narrow focus of previous goal-setting strategies, particularly in vocabulary, which may have inadvertently affected overall comprehension skills. This led to discussions on crafting more holistic goals encompassing broader domains in reading and math.

The conversation expanded to include the integration of restorative practices and the use of artificial intelligence within the district. Middle school teachers are being trained in restorative justice conferencing, with plans to extend these practices to elementary schools through a responsive classroom model. Meanwhile, an AI committee was established to create guidelines for AI use among staff and students, emphasizing the need for ongoing evaluation and adjustment of these guidelines based on research and feedback.

Financial management was another topic. The board discussed a bond refunding initiative that aims to save the district nearly $950,000 over seven years, with an annual saving of approximately $137,000. The resolution for the bond issuance, which will not exceed $13,700,000, requires a two-thirds majority from the board. Once approved, the administrative team will prepare the preliminary official statement for distribution, with the projected sale of the bonds set for early November. This bond refunding is part of ongoing efforts to ensure financial efficiency and reflects similar discussions from previous meetings.

Additionally, the board received a certification from the business administrator and board secretary, affirming the district’s financial health as of August 31, 2025. It was noted that no line items had been overextended, and sufficient funds were available to meet obligations. The upcoming budget season was mentioned, with the anticipation of changes in the timeline due to potential delays in state aid announcements.

The board also addressed various personnel and policy items, approving the first reading of policy 2415.51 along with several personnel changes, including resignations, new employment, and salary adjustments. A significant donation of $210,000 from the Freehold Township Education Foundation was reported, intended for the Clifton T. Barker Middle School library media center. This donation was made in accordance with the wishes of the late Carolyn S. Ducket.

Finally, the board discussed transportation improvements, with the implementation of the Zonar system to enhance student safety by tracking their boarding and alighting from buses. The finance, facilities, and transportation committee reported on environmental insurance issues following a mold incident at Laura Donovan School. Efforts are ongoing to meet insurer requirements and reinstate coverage.