A major focus of the meeting was the district’s staffing situation. The transition from the previous substitute staffing organization, Swing, to Edu Staff was emphasized, driven by concerns about safety and security. The superintendent underscored the importance of student safety, describing it as “number one.” The district has filled four permanent substitute positions and continues to recruit more substitutes to address the high absence counts, which have seen daily numbers ranging from 70 to 130. This situation has been particularly challenging on Fridays, when absence rates peak. The superintendent highlighted the necessity for advance notice of absences to better manage substitute placements, as it is impossible for any district in New Jersey to provide enough substitutes to cover such high numbers in a single building.

Despite these challenges, the board reported a decrease in professional development days from 411 last year to 252 this year between September and October. This reduction has lessened the demand for substitutes by 158, allowing for an increase in instructional days for students by 35. Efforts to minimize the impact of professional development on classroom instruction are ongoing, with plans for potential in-house training for staff.

The meeting also celebrated community engagement through a PBIS and Honor Roll event attended by over 300 families. Additionally, the introduction of girls wrestling as a new sport marked a historic milestone for Dover High School, with enthusiasm for the team’s future despite a loss in their inaugural match.

In terms of student achievements, the board recognized several outstanding performances. Dylan Alvarado from Dover Middle School’s boys cross country team was honored for being the individual divisional champion at the Greater Morris County Middle School Championships. The Dover High School boys soccer team and the boys cross country team were also celebrated for their respective divisional championships and undefeated seasons. Moreover, a senior student received a QuestBridge scholarship to the University of Southern California.

Facility updates were another significant topic. The Finance and Facilities report included the anticipated closing on the purchase and renovation of the former Dover Sport building on Route 46. The delivery of a new generator for Dover High School is scheduled for January, and HVAC upgrades at Dover Middle School are nearing completion. Efforts to repurpose vacant spaces into functional areas like a book nook were noted, as well as ongoing door replacements at East Dover Academy. The management of the high school boiler room has improved.

The board also discussed a proposal for a new camera and GPS system for school buses, which would offer real-time viewing capabilities. The system, costing $70,000, includes a discount for prompt sign-on, and board members expressed enthusiasm for its potential to enhance student safety during transportation.

In legislative matters, the board reviewed several state education bills, including one concerning district consolidation without voter approval and another aimed at reforming state school funding laws. While these bills did not receive votes, they sparked discussion about their potential impacts on the district.

Community activities were highlighted, such as the “Breakfast with Santa” event and a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Dover Bridge Academy, intended to ease sixth graders’ transition into middle school. A winter pep rally and upcoming coat drive were mentioned as part of efforts to bolster community spirit and support families in need.

Lastly, the meeting included personal tributes as a board member attended their last meeting, reflecting on the impact of Dover public schools on their family and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve. The second public comment portion allowed community members to express appreciation for the board’s efforts in fostering a supportive educational environment.