Superintendent Peter Galasso outlined the district’s financial struggles, highlighting that health benefits have seen a 58% increase over two years, compounded by a reduced reliance on external funding sources. The district’s revenue, amounting to $52,452,478, must align with expenditures, prompting necessary reductions. Staff cuts were announced, including the loss of one media specialist, two bus drivers, and 25 full-time instructional assistants. Galasso acknowledged the challenges these changes pose, stating, “without these people, we cannot run the district,” yet he expressed hope that many would return due to their dedication to students.

Further impacts include limiting sub-varsity sports to league schedules only, a strategic move intended to reduce costs. Additionally, lunch supervision expenses will be covered from the cafeteria fund to aid the operating budget. Reductions in sixth-period teaching assignments at both the high school and middle school were also noted, framed as compliance with federal guidelines.

The superintendent described a strategic approach in managing financial resources, such as directing $10,000 from the night care budget to facility maintenance. Plans to reduce architect and engineering services were discussed, reflecting confidence in the absence of major referendums. A multi-year license purchase strategy was introduced to lower future costs, maximizing technology department staffing by shifting away from traditional roles to expand district capabilities.

The board also addressed transportation efficiency, proposing split shifts for bus drivers to reduce overtime, along with a reduction in courtesy busing and bus routes as part of a mobility audit. Stipends for instructional assistants in high-need positions were proposed to compensate for the transition from full-time to part-time roles, particularly in programs for students with autism and learning disabilities.

Plans for an internship program focusing on trades at Milford High School were proposed, with an expectation of growth. The board endorsed the University of Florida Literacy Institute’s Foundations program to enhance reading instruction for grades K-3. The use of capital reserves for facility updates, including new windows, doors, and cafeteria renovations, was highlighted as a strategy to avoid additional tax burdens.

The Director of Special Education emphasized the collaborative efforts to meet diverse student needs, highlighting the importance of maintaining core programs such as Advanced Placement courses, even amid fiscal constraints.

Student achievements were also celebrated. Emma Brady, the student board representative, reported on the track team’s victory at the Bergen County Relay and Gabby Ultee’s new school record in shot put. The girls’ softball team hosted a pediatric cancer tournament, and the Visual Arts Society organized a thrift store event. The induction of new members into language honor societies was also noted.

The board recognized the positive contributions of staff, including the announcement of Teachers of the Year and Theodore Pericles’ receipt of a STEM grant at Stockton University. Student participation in the North Jersey Honors Band and Orchestra was acknowledged, alongside varsity sports achievements, with the baseball team achieving a strong winning record and the golf team qualifying for state tournaments.

The meeting also covered student discipline and civic engagement, with a commitment to voter registration and civic education. The retirement of Miss Bailey, a dedicated staff member since 2002, was recognized. Financial updates included community donations for scholarships, highlighting the Ed Foundation scholarship’s increase and a new scholarship from Gia Gorgi.

In addressing ongoing challenges, the board discussed the residency verification audit, noting difficulties in ensuring compliance. Concerns about the decision to cut the preschool program to half-day sessions were raised by Tammy Colary, a resident, emphasizing the impact on working parents. The board acknowledged the difficulty of budget cuts, emphasizing collaboration among committees to navigate financial constraints.