The construction of the new Eastside High School was a central theme, highlighting the expanded opportunities it will provide for Career and Technical education. A detailed construction timeline was presented. Attention was drawn to the Kramer school’s renovation, selected as the temporary swing space for Eastside High students and staff, with renovations set to accommodate them by September 2024. The board emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive educational environment during the transition and discussed the preservation of historical artifacts from the current Eastside High building. Furthermore, there was dialogue around the potential long-term use of the Kramer building post its role as a swing space.

The mayor also pointed to substantial state funding and the significance of community engagement in the educational planning process.

The meeting proceeded with the acknowledgment of a retiring assistant superintendent, Christy, who had dedicated 18 years to the district. The board celebrated the academic successes of teachers Mr. Bakanowski, Miss Roio, and Miss Johnson, who led in MSGP scores, and specifically noted the remarkable growth in Mr. Bakanowski’s seventh-grade class.

The board addressed the ongoing teacher shortage, reporting a 7% vacancy rate and detailing recruitment efforts through job fairs and online job boards. Retention programs, such as staff connections and employee engagement events, were highlighted as part of the district’s strategy to appreciate and retain teaching staff.

A spotlight was placed on the Teach Camden initiative, a collaborative effort with Rowan University and the New Jersey Department of Education, which aims to facilitate paraprofessionals’ transition into certified teaching roles. This initiative is providing selected staff members with an intensive 18-month program, including full scholarships.

Further discussions included the district’s engagement efforts, exemplified by events like Read Across America Day, as well as the celebration of a newly renamed street after Woodrow Wilson. The board also acknowledged the importance of financial literacy, cheerleading, and other extracurricular activities.

The meeting opened with recognition of various community events and programs, such as School Bus Driver Appreciation Day and the Scholastic Real Mentoring Program. Additionally, the district announced the upcoming STEM Saturday event and highlighted the Summer Youth Employment Program.

Public comments brought forward diverse perspectives and concerns, with Michael A. Wiggins offering a proposal for coaching and value instillation in youth. Jose Delgado voiced dissatisfaction with the current district-wide curriculum, particularly its representation of the Latino community, and advocated for a curriculum that reflects the diverse cultural experiences of Camden’s residents. Rajha Dickerson discussed issues including the QSAC performance standards and the need for a dedicated building for the Score and Pride program.

Karen Burell Luke expressed concerns about the transition to a new school environment, focusing on health and physical education facilities, while Mangalo raised environmental concerns at a school site. Officer White, a security union representative, suggested the implementation of an advanced security system to better ensure student and staff safety.

The superintendent responded to public comments, acknowledging the concerns and assuring that issues would be addressed, and emphasized the need for improved communication and a safe environment for students and staff.