At the forefront of the meeting was the enthusiastic discussion surrounding the new turf field, a result of a recent referendum. Members underscored the significant impact of the facility upgrades on school spirit and community participation, noting increased attendance at football games and other sports events. The board expressed gratitude towards the community for supporting these enhancements, which also included improved scoreboards and lighting. Positive feedback was shared from soccer parents who appreciated the new facilities, highlighting the versatility and utility of the upgrades beyond just football games. The digital scoreboard was praised for its role in enhancing the experience at events like the girls’ soccer senior day, where it displayed photos and added a celebratory feel.

Student representatives presented a variety of initiatives, with the Environmental Club reporting on their recycling campaign funded by the Bergen County Utilities Authority. Their commitment to reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental awareness was highlighted as they shared plans for Earth Day 2026. The Franklin Elementary Student Council’s “Socktober” campaign was another major initiative, aiming to collect socks for those experiencing homelessness, with donations set to benefit Family Promise in Ridgewood, New Jersey. These efforts reflect the district’s focus on fostering a sense of responsibility and community service among students.

The meeting also touched on academic topics, with the superintendent discussing upcoming PSAT and NJGPA testing. Changes to the assessment system were explained, introducing an adaptive model that adjusts question difficulty based on student performance. The board emphasized the importance of aligning instructional focus with identified gaps in student performance data to improve educational outcomes. Efforts to secure Title IV funding for educational resources were mentioned.

Safety and student engagement were additional focal points. The Safety Patrol at Franklin School, comprised of sixth graders, plays a role in guiding younger students and ensuring safety during school hours. The board discussed the potential for increased student engagement at sporting events, proposing the creation of a designated student section to foster school spirit. The idea of using the scoreboard for live pictures of students during games was suggested, aimed at creating a jumbotron-like experience to boost attendance and participation.

Concerns about parental behavior during school drop-off and pick-up times were raised, with the board considering strategies to address issues such as driveway blocking. Communication with parents through principals was suggested as a potential solution. The board also revised the job description for a principal position.