A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to an in-depth analysis of student safety data. The supervisor of counseling presented a detailed report covering incidents of violence, vandalism, harassment, intimidation, bullying, weapons offenses, and substance abuse, in compliance with state guidelines. A decrease in substance-related incidents, attributed to the installation of vape sensors in restrooms, was noted. However, the board expressed concern over a reported increase in confirmed HIB cases, particularly at CREPS, where incidents rose from nine to twenty. The report attributed some of these cases to ongoing conflicts among specific student groups. The administration emphasized the importance of consistent disciplinary measures across grade levels and buildings, while also highlighting ongoing efforts to implement restorative practices meant to address student conflicts and promote accountability.

Proactive measures, such as student mediation, conflict resolution initiatives, and educational efforts against vaping and tobacco use, were discussed. The school self-assessment regarding anti-bullying policies was also addressed, with schools evaluating their programs and procedures in line with anti-bullying legislation. Each building’s scores were reviewed to reflect their performance in various core elements. The report concluded with a summary of climate and culture initiatives, including community engagement events and training programs for staff and students.

The board also engaged in a detailed examination of the “Stop It” anonymous reporting app, which allows students to report concerns about their peers or conflicts. It was noted that the app is not used for HIB reports due to the necessity of identifying individuals in such cases. The administration shared insights into how the app is promoted through posters, brochures, and student assemblies, and how counselors encourage its use for students who feel uncomfortable discussing issues directly. The board highlighted the importance of this tool in creating safe channels for student communication, with a focus on maintaining anonymity when desired.

In another discussion, the board addressed the universal screening mandate for New Jersey schools, which requires twice-yearly screenings for students in grades K through 3. The East Windsor district has opted to conduct these screenings three times a year to gather more actionable data and tailor instructional methods to individual student needs. The screening will assess areas such as phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, oral reading deficiencies, and comprehension, utilizing existing STAR tests and adding a phonics component alongside the DIBELS test. A concerning statistic was shared, stating that “50% of kindergarteners who are behind can actually catch up, but once those students hit third grade, their ability to catch up drops five percent,” underscoring the urgency of early intervention. The board emphasized the significance of these assessments in preventing students from falling behind and planned to make data-driven instructional decisions based on the results from the upcoming December testing.

Student achievements were also celebrated during the meeting. The Heighstown marching band was commended for winning the state championship after completing an undefeated season. The football team was recognized for winning the Mayor’s Cup and the Pedo Cup. Additionally, athletes of the month, Arlene Tour from the girls’ volleyball team and Matteo de Abad Dag Galado from the boys’ cross country team, were acknowledged for their impressive performances. The student council’s initiative to introduce a suggestion box with QR codes to facilitate communication between students and school administration was praised, as was the high school advanced choir’s participation in a New Jersey School Boards Association workshop, where they performed before the commissioner of education.

The meeting also touched upon financial concerns raised during public comments. Ronald Shakar, a community member, questioned the expenditure of over $800,000 on an illuminated scoreboard for the athletic field, considering the district’s need for improvement in math and reading scores. In response, a board member explained that the previous scoreboard was nonfunctional, and the investment was necessary to maintain competitiveness with other districts. They assured Shakar that the board would follow up with him for further transparency regarding the spending.

Finally, the meeting highlighted ongoing professional development for board members, who attended various educational workshops focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, leadership, and community engagement. A board member expressed gratitude for the business office and administration’s support in facilitating these workshops, emphasizing their impact on enhancing the educational experience within the district.