A significant portion of the meeting centered on chronic absenteeism, a topic of national concern as schools continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Chronic absenteeism, defined as missing 10% or more of the school year, remains a issue affecting student achievement. The board was presented with data revealing that 14.1% of students were classified as chronically absent last year, and an additional 2,002 students missed between 12 and 17 days. The problem was particularly acute in preschool, where the absentee rate was 25%.

In response to these troubling statistics, the board discussed a comprehensive, multi-tiered strategy to combat absenteeism. This approach involves universal preventative measures to ensure all students feel safe and engaged, targeted support for at-risk students, and intensive interventions for those with chronic absenteeism challenges. Emphasis was placed on the importance of family engagement, urging parents to maintain regular routines and prioritize school attendance.

Board members expressed appreciation for the detailed data provided, acknowledging its role in shaping effective interventions. Discussions extended to the need for individualized support, especially for students facing unique challenges such as housing instability. The board recognized that chronic absenteeism is not isolated to Cherry Hill.

Special education was another major focus of the meeting. Public comments highlighted ongoing grievances within the special education system, including concerns over funding shortages, delayed evaluations, and inconsistent Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Parents and community members urged the board to improve transparency and communication, stressing the need for a cultural shift within the department to better meet the needs of students with disabilities.

Efforts are being made to individualize support and engage families in a collaborative process. The board also discussed the potential impact of federal funding changes on the district’s ability to support special education programs and the need for strategic planning to address these challenges.

In addition to addressing absenteeism and special education, the board received updates on various construction projects within the district. These include classroom additions and renovations at Kilmer, Malberg, and Rosa schools, with work projected to be completed by December of this year. The board also discussed future security enhancements at several elementary schools and the status of ongoing bond projects.