The district underscored its dedication to its Safe Haven initiative. Amidst ongoing immigration challenges in the community, a representative from an immigrant nonprofit, referred to as M Schools, presented resources and workshops designed to educate families about their rights and prepare them for potential interactions with immigration authorities. This initiative emphasized legal rights, such as the right to remain silent and the necessity of having judicial warrants for any ICE entry into schools. The board’s collaboration with M Schools also extends to professional development for educators on supporting students emotionally and legally during such situations.

Furthering the theme of inclusivity, the board announced professional development for school leaders on creating family emergency plans, especially regarding law enforcement presence in schools. A partnership with the Camden Education Fund is enabling these efforts.

The board meeting also highlighted the district’s impressive progress in financial management. The superintendent reported a decrease in audit findings over the years, with the latest audit reflecting only three findings compared to fifteen in 2012. The audit findings were related to purchasing internal controls, with ongoing efforts to address two repeat findings. The financial report presented showed a positive change in fund balance, despite a $21 million deficit due to delayed state aid payments.

In line with community development, a proposal was introduced by Melissa Thompson, a pre-doctoral fellow from the Rowan University Rutgers Camden Board of Governors, concerning the use of the recently demolished Broadway building site. The proposal seeks to establish a community-owned grocery store, or co-op, along with a health clinic and teacher housing on the upper floors. This initiative aims to address local food insecurity and promote economic development through a cooperative model centered on community ownership and engagement.

The meeting also featured the accomplishments of Camden students, with student representatives sharing their achievements and initiatives. Elijah Vargas, the newly appointed student representative from East Side High School, provided insights into the school’s positive developments, such as participation in the National Honor Society and the Bilingual Seal program. Meanwhile, another student representative, a senior from Brim Medical Arts High School, proposed a district-wide initiative to educate students about the QuestBridge program, which offers college opportunities to low-income families. The board responded positively, congratulating the students and expressing support for their initiatives.

In addition to student presentations, the board recognized the achievements of Shamayra at the WHYY Youth Media Awards, where she earned first place in news reporting for the High School Division. The recognition included a certificate of achievement, highlighting the district’s pride in its students’ accomplishments.

The Camden School Board meeting concluded with a presentation of the District Improvement Plan, addressing areas of concern such as absenteeism and chronic absenteeism, while highlighting the district’s efforts to align with New Jersey’s student learning standards. The plan includes strategies to improve graduation rates, curriculum development, and the implementation of trauma-informed practices to support students’ social-emotional development.