The board explored the impact of the tuition revenue structure, which is governed by state guidelines. With a cap of $18,000 to $19,000 per student, the district faces potential revenue losses of around $100,000 for every five students in grades one through eight. This financial strain is exacerbated by the projected 14% increase in healthcare costs, estimated at $260,000, further tightening the budget margins despite the approved tax levy increase of $369,000. These financial pressures are compounded by the conclusion of teachers’ salary negotiations, resulting in a 3.6% salary increase, adding another layer of complexity to the district’s financial planning.

The conversation turned to the New Jersey Association of School Administrators’ announcement of a potential change that might allow districts to raise tax levies if they fall below adequacy levels. However, the board expressed skepticism about the potential impact of this change, noting that even with the opportunity to raise additional revenue, the financial burden from rising healthcare costs would remain significant.

State aid calculations, which consider only residential students, were discussed, with enrollment numbers finalized in December through the Annual Statistical Report (ASSA). Concerns were raised about the increasing tuition costs in sending districts, particularly one that increased to $21,000 due to a decrease in overall enrollment. This situation places a greater financial burden on Belmar, which still experiences relatively stable enrollment numbers. The board expressed frustration over the perceived inequity in tuition cost assignments, especially given that Belmar’s enrollment has not decreased as sharply as others.

An individualized professional development initiative for teachers, “Go Teach,” aims to tailor learning to educators’ needs. Additionally, “Project Leeway” seeks to promote female participation in STEM fields, while a Unified Sports program facilitates interactions between high school students and special needs students at elementary schools.

Concerns were raised about the representation of Belmar students in advanced placement programs, with some board members emphasizing that these students are well-prepared but may not have their needs adequately addressed in high school. The board acknowledged that more than half of the high school’s enrollment comprises students from sending districts, raising questions about Belmar’s influence and representation within the overarching program decisions.

Strategic planning meetings were announced, scheduled for March 5, March 25, and April 10, to outline goals and visions for the district over the next three to five years. These sessions will include opportunities for community input, with translation and babysitting services available to facilitate participation.

The board also engaged in a discussion about screen time in classrooms. One member expressed concerns about the prevalence of digital devices, noting that almost every classroom utilizes whiteboards and screens for lessons. They emphasized that traditional, interactive teaching elements seem less prevalent. A proposal for conducting a survey to gauge parental opinions on screen usage was discussed, with the possibility of a “screen audit” to assess digital device usage time.

An innovative idea for a “no Tech day” was proposed. This concept received enthusiasm as a means to experience a classroom environment reminiscent of the 1990s. The conversation also addressed teachers’ phone usage during school hours.