The meeting commenced with a presentation of the annual audit by Miss Man Lee from Machia and Company, revealing a fund balance of approximately $4.6 million as of June 30, 2025. This figure represents a $700,000 increase from the previous year, attributed to unspent budget appropriations and increased state revenue. The audit, which concluded with commendations for the finance team’s management, underscored the district’s strong fiscal position.

Turning to academic performance, a comprehensive analysis of the 2024 NJSLA results was presented, revealing a positive trend in student achievement. The district’s students demonstrated impressive performance in ELA, with 81% of the 236 students assessed meeting or exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Mathematics results were similarly encouraging, with 71% of the 237 students assessed passing, just shy of previous benchmarks. The presentation highlighted the success of intervention strategies, with 33 students advancing from meeting to exceeding standards in ELA and nine in mathematics.

In science the district faced challenges with the assessment’s broad reporting categories, which limited actionable insights. Despite this, district science scores surpassed state averages, reflecting the need for ongoing curricular support, particularly at the elementary level.

The meeting further explored demographic performance data, revealing that 89% of females and 74% of males met or exceeded ELA standards, while both genders performed equally in mathematics at 71%. In science, a disparity was observed, with 45% of males and 32% of females meeting or exceeding standards. Special education students showed varied performance, with 49% meeting or exceeding ELA standards, but only 23% achieving the same in mathematics.

To address these challenges, the district has implemented a Response to Intervention (RTI) team to provide academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support. The RTI framework aims to close foundational learning gaps through targeted interventions and regular data analysis.

Additional initiatives include a new AI platform, the Sunshine Education Demoo, which has confirmed improvements in various assessment areas. Plans to enhance tier one instruction, including the training of all K-2 teachers in the Willingham method, and increased dyslexia screenings, reflect a comprehensive approach to bolstering educational outcomes.

The meeting also addressed infrastructure needs, with the facility committee discussing potential projects for a March 2024 referendum. Emphasizing the necessity of state funding, the committee noted the district could receive approximately 34% funding through referendum-approved projects. Collaborations with neighboring districts and initiatives for professional development and mental health certifications were also highlighted by the superintendent.

Community engagement was another focal point, with upcoming events such as a Boonton Township Education Foundation play announcement and an aviation club for sixth to eighth graders, designed to teach drone and flight simulator construction. The Special Education Parent Advisory Group announced a public event on ADHD, while the township’s report included details on a health fair and upcoming municipal move.