The most pressing topic of the meeting was the presentation of the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJ GPA) results by Mr. Burke. These results revealed a notable increase in the percentage of students deemed graduation ready. In English Language Arts (ELA), the readiness percentage jumped from 78% to 88%. The math results showed a 7% increase, rising from 44% in spring 2023 to 51% in spring 2024. Mr. Burke emphasized the importance of year-to-year comparisons despite these being different student cohorts. While the district showed progress, it still lagged behind state averages in math, moving from 11% below to 4% below the state average.

Further discussion centered on instructional strategies and the importance of diagnostic assessments to identify and address gaps in students’ foundational knowledge. A board member raised concerns about how gaps in foundational math knowledge could impact students’ progress through higher-level math courses. Mr. Burke explained that while new ELA standards would be implemented, the application of new math standards was uncertain. This led to a conversation about the timing of these changes and their potential impact on student preparedness.

The topic of parental notification concerning standardized assessment results was also discussed. Parents received copies of their children’s scores in July, accompanied by a letter explaining the implications for graduation readiness. For students who did not meet the required threshold, further action plans were discussed, especially for seniors not currently enrolled in a math class after completing the required three years. There was some concern about how parents would be informed of their children’s actual status if they passed through alternative assessments.

Additionally, the board discussed the safety measures within the school district. Miss Allen presented the School Safety Data System (SSDS) report for the second half of the school year, detailing various safety-related incidents such as violence, vandalism, and harassment. Miss Allen highlighted the collaboration with the local police department, adherence to board policies, and ongoing professional development for faculty and staff on safety procedures.

Board members expressed concern about the high number of incidents reported, notably the 103 incidents at the Junior Senior High School. Miss Allen reassured them that not all incidents classified as removals from school were related to violence or vandalism. She emphasized the importance of emergency drills and the need for balanced communication with parents regarding these drills.

The meeting addressed student conduct and governance issues, particularly the Code of Conduct for the high school. The Code of Conduct had been tabled in past meetings due to ongoing discussions about its tone compared to the more supportive Mansion Code of Conduct. The governance committee recognized the need for a more progressive approach to discipline, emphasizing restorative practices. There was consensus that the existing Code of Conduct would remain in place for now, with revisions planned to align with evolving practices.

Other operational topics included the damage to the tennis courts and the subsequent repairs. Mr. Gatti noted that a representative from the construction company, Ricky Slade, discussed repairs, with some costs covered by the construction company and a portion paid from referendum funds. There was also mention of water damage to the new gym floor due to a roof issue, which led to mold growth but was promptly remediated.

The education committee discussed the junior senior high school book list for the 2024-2025 school year. Concerns were raised about better communication regarding book materials with potentially triggering content. The district aimed to establish a consistent notification system for teachers to inform parents about sensitive content in assigned books.

The meeting concluded with discussions on staff appointments, recognitions, and negotiations. The board reviewed various agenda items, including staff appointments, resignations, curriculum revisions, and summer work for guidance counselors. A motion to approve multiple items, excluding a specific agenda item, passed with a roll call vote.