00:00The focal point of the meeting was the presentation of the school budget, which included a 2% increase in the local tax levy. With the operating budget set at $16,848,930, the board discussed the financial pressures of maintaining educational standards while adhering to state mandates. Nearly 25% of the budget is allocated for tuition to Manisquan High School, a cost that often raises concerns due to its impact on the overall budget. Health benefits are projected to rise by 9.5%, alongside increases in dental and transportation costs. Despite these challenges, the district has committed to a thorough analysis of its English Language Arts and math programs.

15:33A significant curriculum update discussed was the district’s plan to replace the “Go Math” curriculum. A math committee has been formed to evaluate state standards and identify suitable programs, with “Reveal Math” being noted as a potential replacement. The budget includes resources for this transition, though it may require incremental implementation due to high costs. The board also addressed the increasing expenses of online educational resources, as publishers shift to digital platforms. Concerns were expressed over the lack of cost reductions from publishers despite this shift, yet the benefits of maintaining educational relevance through updated standards were acknowledged.

26:29Class sizes in the middle school grades sparked a discussion. A community member expressed concerns about the potential challenges students might face transitioning to high school, where class sizes are larger. The current class sizes of 17 to 20 students in grades six to eight were debated, with the board defending these numbers as consistent with other sending districts. The board highlighted the importance of maintaining educational quality and preparing students for high school rigor.

49:22The meeting also addressed concerns about guest speakers, particularly those who sell products during visits. A participant shared a personal story about the educational value of an author visit, arguing that such events should prioritize learning experiences over profit motives. The board discussed the need for clear guidelines and transparency regarding guest speakers. A more systematic approach to vetting guest speakers was proposed, with potential policy revisions to follow.

21:16In terms of technology initiatives, the district reported a 30% reduction in technology-related expenses, thanks to the elimination of redundant services. A new communication tool, Parent Square, was adopted, perceived as more efficient than its predecessor.