One of notable topics discussed was the athletic facilities’ needs and priorities. The discussion included the proposal for dedicated locker room space for female athletes, the installation of a safe and enclosed press box at the turf facility, and the expansion of the weight room to support student athletes.

The meeting also focused on technology-related topics, such as remote participation in board meetings and the need for updates to classroom technology. The technology committee examined different platforms for virtual participation, including Zoom, Google Meets, and WebEx, and discussed various implementation options like utilizing a TV for Zoom or a projector screen in the meeting room. A pilot test for remote participation was proposed to be conducted after the upcoming NJSLA testing in May. The cost of replacing all phones in the district was estimated at $130,000, with further discussions planned for a technology committee meeting in May.

Transportation policy was another point of contention during the meeting. Policy 8600, which deals with the equity, safety, and traffic implications of student transportation, was debated at length. There were concerns about the lack of documentation for hazardous road designations and the impact on budget constraints. The discussion also included the impact of school reconfigurations on transportation needs and the call for a more comprehensive traffic study. The scoring and ranking of hazardous roads and the need for remedial safety measures were also debated, as well as the impact of a pending bill related to hazardous road designation.

Public safety on hazardous roads, particularly Diamond Hill, Emerson, SNY Avenue, and North Road, was a concern. The lack of sidewalks, presence of blind curves, and safety of students walking to school were discussed, with the board considering subscription busing as a potential solution despite the limited number of buses available. Questions were raised about the transportation consultant’s methodology and the quality of the data provided, as well as concerns over a potential breach of contract and the impact of hazardous busing on state aid.

The board voted on several resolutions, including the approval of a superintendent search firm, the New Jersey School Board Association, for an amount not to exceed $15,000, rescinding the previous firm, McPherson and Jacobson. Policy resolutions were voted on, with discussions on voting eligibility of board members from Mountainside and the rejection of a motion related to harassment, intimidation, and bullying cases, which was later passed with varying votes.

During the public comments section of the meeting, teachers and community members expressed their concerns. A teacher spoke about the frequent changes in programs and assessments, calling for a more collaborative approach and the need to start a healing process for the school community. Community members addressed concerns about policy 8600, criticizing the decision-making process and the lack of communication regarding the policy’s impact on residents. The availability of committee meeting minutes on the district website was debated, with calls for improved procedures and transparency.