The meeting commenced with the introduction of Patricia Lewis as the new supervisor of special education, who expressed gratitude and discussed her progression within the district. The Board then moved on to matters, starting with a detailed presentation by Superintendent Caputo on the Student Safety Data System (SSDS) and HIB reports for the period from September to December. The report revealed incidents of violence, vandalism, substance abuse, weapon possession, confirmed and alleged cases of HIB.

Board members engaged with the report, seeking clarification on trends and questioning how practices to combat these issues were coordinated across schools. Eric Suss and Alicia Killean were notably inquisitive, probing deeper into the data provided. The President of the Board took the opportunity to commend the community’s solidarity in the wake of recent tragedies.

The meeting also focused on the school calendar for the 2024-2025 academic year. Michele Cook, a member of the Policy Committee, outlined the reasons for the proposed changes, which were primarily due to ongoing construction and grade realignment within the district. Cook emphasized the committee’s deliberate efforts to consider the needs of all stakeholders. The revised calendar anticipates an extended summer break and full weeks off during the academic year, with a return to school slated for the last week of August. The committee plans to revert to traditional calendar decisions in subsequent years based on community feedback and needs.

Acknowledging the importance of collaboration, the Board extended gratitude to the Metuchen Education Association for their partnership in calendar planning. The proposed calendar would be available on the district website before the scheduled vote on February 13th. In relation to construction, Brian Glassberg announced the bid opening date of February 7th and informed about a public committee meeting to be held on February 12th at the Mouen High School Library.

Alicia Killean, serving as the liaison to the Edgar Moss PTO, highlighted the PTO’s appreciation from school principals and encouraged volunteer participation for the forthcoming spring Extravaganza at Campbell School. The student board member, Miss Nbang, reported on school activities including spirit week, music concerts, and parent orientation for incoming 9th graders.