The board placed considerable emphasis on mental health, recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month and the efforts of the school-based Youth Services Program in hosting a Teen Mental Health Summit. The board also took note of the district’s participation in the “Not All Wounds Are Visible” mental health walk. Furthermore, the superintendent outlined the introduction of an expanded Advanced Placement (AP) course offering, which will benefit from a grant providing AP teacher training, mentoring, and tutoring services, as well as an equity workshop to support the initiative.

Another topic that garnered attention at the meeting was the future of Eastside High School. Several community members expressed their dissatisfaction with the planning and communication process regarding the school’s proposed demolition and temporary swing space for students during construction. Speakers raised concerns about the potential impact on the school community, including issues with the proposed spaces for physical education, performances, administrative functions, and parking. The board responded to concerns raised by assuring that the feedback would be taken into account and highlighting collaborative efforts with community agencies to provide resources for students and staff during the transition period.

The meeting also highlighted the achievements of students and schools within the district. Acknowledgments were made to students involved in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program and Henry H. Davis School’s win of the attendance trophy for April. The importance of extended school year programming, Visual and Performing Arts programs, and Credit Recovery programs for high school students was also emphasized.

Staffing and personnel updates included positive feedback for the Camden Connecting program, which is designed to boost staff retention through employee engagement events. The board expressed gratitude for the district’s efforts to show appreciation for the work of its staff and highlighted the impact on employee morale.

Additionally, the board recognized a educator as one of the Camden Education Fund 2024 Rise Award winners and celebrated the third annual Camden College Signing Day.

Public comments further delved into concerns about the disruptions at Eastside High School, legal issues involving a former board president, and a lack of trust in the current board president’s leadership. Speakers called for immediate action and emphasized the importance of ethical leadership for the safety and well-being of students and staff. Policy updates, particularly related to student discipline and support for pregnant and lactating students, were also addressed, with the superintendent committing to policy reviews and updates.

The board’s vice president highlighted the need for community involvement in combating issues such as youth violence. The superintendent’s agenda items and business office agenda items were approved, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:42 PM.