The meeting’s central topic was the announcement of a new high school varsity sport: a girls flag football team. The team is set to participate in non-varsity games starting in the spring of 2025, providing a new avenue for student engagement and physical activity. The introduction of this sport reflects the district’s ongoing efforts to diversify extracurricular offerings and promote inclusivity in athletics.

On the educational front, the board discussed significant curriculum changes, particularly in the English Language Arts (ELA) program. The changes involve new criteria for students transitioning from College Prep (CP) courses to Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The English Department’s extensive analysis over several years determined the need for these revisions. The curriculum committee also proposed three new ELA electives for grades 10 through 12, designed to broaden students’ literary exposure. These courses—Women in Literature, Science Fiction and Fantasy, and Mystery Thriller and Suspense—are targeted at students who have achieved a B-minus or better in ninth-grade ELA, offering a wider range of options for students to explore.

During the superintendent’s report, the board reviewed five agenda items, including the submission of the Code of Conduct report and school safety data. The number of confirmed incidents of harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) remained stable compared to the previous year. Additionally, an educational research project was highlighted, involving a collaboration with a professor, representing the district’s dedication to innovative educational practices.

In the realm of facilities operations, the board discussed the potential purchase of a new bus, weighing the benefits of purchasing versus leasing. A cost-benefit analysis was recommended, with the committee favoring the purchase at approximately $120,000, noting the investment would be recouped within five years. The district also plans to replace outdated maintenance vehicles. Additionally, concerns about the district’s aging phone system, over 20 years old, were raised. The system’s limitations in integrating with emergency communication systems prompted considerations for a comprehensive upgrade to enhance safety across the district.

Financial discussions included a report from the finance committee, which proposed consolidating maintenance work within an in-house team. This move is projected to save the district approximately $100,000 annually by replacing the existing 11-person team with eight specialized staff members. The audit results were reviewed, with anticipation of one finding related to the timing of student activity fund deposits. Additionally, an audit of a $1.2 million state grant for special education students revealed a clerical error, necessitating a corrective action plan from the state.

The board also addressed community developments that could impact the schools, including plans for a movie studio and community center. These developments could offer new opportunities for student internships, particularly within the district’s theater and Pathways Departments. However, concerns were raised about potential traffic implications and the nature of projects approved by the company managing the studios. Community members were encouraged to attend upcoming planning board and Township committee meetings to voice their opinions and stay informed about these projects.

Public comments during the meeting included expressions of appreciation for the school’s choir performance and calls for increased transparency and accountability in the district’s educational spending. A resident highlighted the importance of including school psychologists in empathy training programs and establishing measurable outcomes for new initiatives. The board acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing the necessity of data-driven decision-making and community involvement in shaping district policies.

As the meeting concluded, departing board members were acknowledged for their contributions, with expressions of gratitude and reflections on their tenure. The board members shared a sense of fulfillment from their roles and the positive impact of the supportive community on the district’s educational landscape. The meeting ended with holiday wishes exchanged among members.