A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing a phishing email incident that occurred over the weekend, compromising a staff member’s email. This incident led to a phishing attempt targeting several staff members and students. The board expressed gratitude for the swift action taken by staff, students, and parents in reporting the suspicious email. Measures to enhance email security were discussed, with a planned meeting to further address administrative steps.

Moving on from cybersecurity concerns, the student report highlighted various school events and achievements. A notable visit was made by approximately 20 students from Koshi High School in Fuki, Japan, to New Providence High School. This cultural exchange was deemed successful by both the visiting and host students. The report also noted the upcoming performances of the fall play “It’s a Wonderful Life,” encouraging community support and attendance.

The student report further detailed the accomplishments of New Providence’s sports teams. The marching band completed a successful season, raising their performance scores in competitions. The girls’ soccer team achieved an impressive upset against a group four school. Meanwhile, the boys’ soccer team, under new leadership, secured a third seed in the state tournament despite facing tough competition. The boys and girls cross-country teams also reported commendable performances, with both making strides in their respective divisions.

The football team, although initially struggling, displayed resilience and ended the season with pride, maintaining an undefeated record until their final game against Cedar Grove. The girls’ volleyball team reached the section finals, narrowly missing victory in a competitive match. The girls’ tennis team continued their dominance, winning state sectionals for the seventh consecutive year. The board expressed anticipation for the winter sports season, including swimming and ice hockey, with excitement for the upcoming performances of other winter teams.

Enrollment figures were presented, revealing a total of 2,246 students across the district’s schools, with an additional 39 students in out-of-district placements, totaling 2,285. The board also discussed the PAL softball girls project, where $34,872 was raised for field renovations. The project plans included infield and fencing renovations, field repairs, and a new storage shed, with a desire to begin work before the winter freeze or, alternatively, in March before the softball season.

The board meeting addressed the ongoing focus on staff wellness and community engagement, with initiatives aimed at advancing staff wellness to enhance student achievement. A “gratitude week” involved various activities, such as distributing coffee and apple cider donuts, cornucopia displays of gratitude, and chair massages.

In other business, the board approved several action items, including the annual New Providence School District communication plan. Although no major changes were made, the board recognized the need for further enhancements in the coming year. Personnel matters included the appointment of a new teacher aide and the recognition of a retiring secretary.

Infrastructure projects were also discussed, with the finance and facilities committee reporting $1.2 million available from the bond referendum. Bid advertisements for HVAC projects at several schools were released, with work expected to commence in June and conclude by August. The personnel committee emphasized the importance of family engagement and communication, planning a survey to gather parent feedback and explore app-based communication solutions.

The meeting concluded with a brief mention of unofficial school board election results, with the county expected to certify these results soon. A motion to recess to closed session for matters related to HIB, litigation, and personnel was made, concluding the public session.