The debate over athletic field funding took center stage as multiple public comments questioned the prioritization of sports facility improvements over educational resources. A speaker noted that the cost of fixing the baseball field was comparable to the salaries and benefits of ten teachers, prompting a discussion on whether such investments were justified. The speaker provocatively asked, “So do you want to lose the equivalent of 50 classroom sessions or do the baseball field which we don’t own?” This sentiment shed light on the broader issue of how taxpayer money is allocated within the district.

Further complicating the issue were concerns about the historical and regulatory context of the fields. Another commenter explained that the fields were purchased with New Jersey Green Acres funds, meaning they must comply with environmental regulations. This includes limitations on redirecting water runoff from the soccer field, which has been a barrier to improving drainage issues. Vicky Coffin, a member of the public, highlighted these concerns, pointing out that the drainage ditch was obstructed by downed trees and vegetation, necessitating maintenance to ensure effective drainage.

She emphasized the importance of the planned improvements for her eighth-grade child and other student athletes. Despite these varied perspectives, the board acknowledged the need for strategic decision-making regarding the future of the athletic fields.

Beyond the athletic field debate, the meeting addressed significant educational matters. Superintendent Nick Markarian reported on state assessment results. Notably, Liberty Corner and Oak Street schools showed substantial progress due to effective intervention strategies. However, the superintendent identified areas needing improvement, particularly among multilingual learners and economically disadvantaged students. The district plans to expand tutoring opportunities to address these gaps.

In English Language Arts, grades four and five exceeded pre-pandemic performance levels, contrasting with declines in grades three and nine. Science results were slightly below state averages, particularly among eleventh graders. The superintendent mentioned an upcoming adaptive testing format for a new state assessment set to launch in 2026, with field tests occurring imminently in district buildings.

The board’s finance report highlighted a donation from the Ridge Runners Club, which provided pole vault mats valued at over $21,000. The district is forecasting a lower fund balance for the next budget cycle, prompting discussions on potential measures to address this shortfall, such as not replacing retired or departed staff. The varsity field project was discussed, including drainage improvements and the conversion of the natural grass soccer field to artificial turf. However, this did not include field lighting, which remains a consideration for future discussions.

Personnel restructuring at Ridge High School involved reducing campus monitors from eight to six, with increased hours for the remaining staff. Cedar Hill School requires an additional lunch aid due to its larger student population. Policy updates included excused days for religious holidays and adjustments to the school calendar affecting Eid. The policy committee is working on field usage guidelines, prioritizing student activities and addressing sound and lighting management.

A notable public comment session featured Marissa Tayak, who presented a petition advocating for reevaluating the school calendar to close on major religious holidays observed by minority populations. With 230 signatures, Tayak argued that aligning school closures with important religious observances would promote inclusion and respect. She emphasized that the request was not for additional days off but for a thoughtful reconfiguration of existing non-instructional days.

The board also discussed curriculum matters, including textbook adoption for high school computer applications. The course currently relies on an outdated online textbook, and a new version is available for $4,500. The board is exploring long-term solutions for this issue. Additionally, a dual enrollment opportunity for a genocide course was considered, with the board evaluating interest in adapting an existing course from Keen University.

The wellness committee presented Pride survey data, indicating that local substance use rates are lower than national averages, though alcohol and marijuana remain concerns. The committee is exploring ways to track this data longitudinally and potentially distinguish between medical and recreational substance use. A proposal for virtual coaching sessions for staff trainers was also discussed, with estimated costs between $2,000 and $4,000.