A significant portion of the meeting focused on the dual language program at Community Park School. Residents and parents shared concerns about the program’s execution and its impact on student retention. Abby Kach, a resident, highlighted the necessity of strengthening the program to retain students who might otherwise transfer to different schools. She suggested distributing surveys more effectively and called for a district-wide email to ensure accessibility. Kach emphasized that the dual language program attracts families to the area but requires more Spanish-speaking staff to succeed. She pointed out that the absence of Spanish-speaking educators, particularly in art and music, and a non-Spanish-speaking principal, discouraged Spanish-speaking parents from enrolling their children. Her recommendation included hiring bilingual educators to foster a more inclusive environment.

Further discussion on the dual language program centered around the communication methods used to disseminate information to parents. The board considered suggestions to improve email clarity, possibly integrating brief summaries or leveraging new media formats like TikTok videos to engage effectively with parents. The board acknowledged the historical significance of the dual language program, initiated by a long-serving principal, and reiterated their commitment to enhancing it.

Special education funding was another topic addressed during the meeting. Kathy Gto advocated for sustained investment in special education services, emphasizing their importance in fostering independence and graduation rates among students with disabilities. Gto shared data indicating that approximately 14% of Princeton students receive special education services, aligning with national averages. She urged the board to avoid budget cuts that could adversely affect vulnerable students. Gto’s personal story about her child’s success in Littlebrook’s special education program illustrated the positive outcomes of specialized support.

The meeting also addressed the approval of referendum projects, with a primary focus on construction and renovation. The board discussed a conditional authorization related to middle school renovations, which faced legal challenges from a nonwinning bidder. The members emphasized the importance of adherence to state law, including assurance bonds for project completion, which influenced their decision to select the second lowest bidder due to non-compliance by the lowest bidder. Additionally, a solar purchase agreement was mentioned, with board acknowledgment of the extensive work involved, although it remains conditional pending state paperwork.

In further discussions, the board tackled issues at Littlebrook Elementary School. Chris Potts, a parent, expressed concerns over declining staff morale, turnover rates, and the impact of new curricula, particularly the Arts and Letters program. He argued that the program restrained educators’ ability to teach effectively and raised issues about increasing class sizes in critical transitional years. Potts contended that Princeton schools should aim for more than just meeting state standards, given the high taxes residents pay for quality education. Dr. Lassusa responded by providing clarity on class sizes, explaining that adjustments were made to accommodate smaller cohorts, aligning with district practices.

The meeting concluded with several personnel announcements, including the retirements of Susan McGrevy, the administrative assistant to the superintendent, and Barbara Young, a long-serving special education English teacher. The board expressed gratitude for their years of service and contributions to the district. Additionally, the board discussed planning for summer school programs and the approval of contracts for various construction projects, including HVAC equipment replacement at the high school.