The meeting began with a presentation from the student representatives, Gabriella Detia and AA Otano, co-presidents of the Cedar Grove High School All School Council. They provided updates on recent school events, such as a fall pep rally and a spirit week that aimed to foster school spirit. They also organized a tailgate event before a football game, featuring activities like Rita’s Ice Cream, balloon animals, and airbrush tattoos. Upcoming plans include assisting with the elementary school’s trick-or-trunk event in October.

Next, the head coach of the girls’ softball team proposed a spring training trip for 2025. This trip, which has been a regular occurrence, aims to enhance team bonding and chemistry during the cold March season when games are limited. The trip is scheduled to depart on March 20 and return on March 25, during which students would miss four days of school. The coach emphasized the importance of academic responsibilities, noting that a staff member who is also a teacher would oversee study hall sessions during the trip to ensure students complete their homework. The coach expressed confidence in the team’s focus and aspirations to break a state record by achieving three consecutive state championships.

The board then moved to a detailed presentation on the New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA) results and district goals. The presentation highlighted the importance of examining student achievement data over a two-year period, noting that Cedar Grove’s academic performance should ideally exceed state averages given the community’s demographics and structure. The analysis revealed areas of both strength and underperformance compared to state achievement levels. In English Language Arts (ELA), a cohort analysis showed consistency in student achievement across grades, but there were instances where Cedar Grove’s performance fell below state levels, prompting a need for further examination.

In mathematics, the cohort analysis identified generally higher achievement in the lower grades but a decline in higher grades. The geometry results for 9th graders were slightly above state averages, but significant improvement is necessary across all areas. The presentation also addressed science achievement, which was identified as a concern, revealing underperformance in state comparisons. The presenter emphasized the need for new investments and resources in science education, proposing the launch of a healthcare pathway at the high school to elevate science instruction from earlier grades.

Following the data presentation, three district goals were outlined. The first goal focused on student growth and academic achievement, with a commitment to fully implement a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) to provide necessary interventions for struggling students. The presentation mentioned the importance of ongoing data analysis and benchmark assessments. Additionally, the necessity for new curricular resources was highlighted, particularly in mathematics, with plans to introduce new math materials for grades K through algebra. This initiative aims to address identified gaps in student performance, particularly in math and science, and includes plans for professional development for teachers on new instructional strategies. The overall approach was described as a multi-year commitment to improving educational outcomes and ensuring that teachers are equipped with effective resources.

Another discussion revolved around the need for new English Language Arts (ELA) resources, with an emphasis on professional development for teachers, particularly at the elementary level. It was noted that there is a strong appetite among educators for these resources, and plans are underway to investigate potential investments in the upcoming school year. The topic of artificial intelligence also emerged, with plans to create a committee aimed at developing appropriate policies to guide educators in this area by the end of the school year.

Communication and public relations were highlighted as crucial for the district, with a commitment to improving how achievements and events are communicated to families and the community. It was proposed that investing in a new website and mobile app could enhance communication by providing timely notifications regarding school activities. There was a clear intention to build excitement around school events and performances through strategic public relations efforts. The importance of transparency and high standards in communication for a successful school district was emphasized.

The discussion progressed to the district’s financial health and facilities, addressing overcrowding issues in schools. There was a recognition of the need for strategic budgeting and planning to allocate resources effectively. The administration plans to engage the community in discussing potential solutions, including the possibility of a referendum, to address facility needs and ensure the long-term success of the schools. There was a commitment to educating the community about any potential referendum and its significance.

Committee reports were also a part of the meeting. In the curriculum and instruction meeting on September 10, various topics, including settlements and out-of-district placements, were discussed. The advancements in educational curriculum were noted as critical for future planning.

Facilities discussions focused on referendum options and building needs. The committee reviewed previous needs presented and discussed ongoing efforts to address programming requirements for students. There was acknowledgment of the work being done, particularly regarding infrastructure improvements such as HVAC systems.