The median age is slightly higher and the level of education is more advanced compared to state averages. Cherry Hill is portrayed as a relatively affluent community, with median household incomes exceeding the state average. The housing market analysis revealed that 1,700 new units are slated for development, potentially bringing in approximately 500 public school children. This projection, alongside historical construction data, emphasized the need for the School Board to plan for increased enrollments, particularly in light of the expansion of the pre-kindergarten program. The board also discussed the impact of Cherry Hill’s higher home values and income levels on state equalization aid, which has recently been reduced, raising concerns about the district’s funding and budget allocation.

The meeting took a contentious turn when the board addressed concerns over the integration of the alternative high school with Cherry Hill East. Students and parents voiced their worries about the potential overcrowding and the detrimental effect on the learning environment and teacher morale. The lack of communication from the board to staff and students about this decision was sharply criticized. In contrast, the appointment of Dr. Kwame Morton as superintendent was met with both support and opposition.

Public comments further highlighted the community’s divided stance on numerous issues. A Cherry Hill student expressed discomfort with Dr. Birdie assuming more responsibility over the schools they attend, citing feelings of being unsafe and bullied. Concerns over budgetary constraints were also raised, with a Cherry Hill resident urging the board to reconsider personnel reassignments due to a $6.9 million cut in state aid. The reassignment of staff for the 2024-2025 school year and the proposed salaries of reassigned personnel were debated, with suggestions to reallocate the funds more effectively.

The topic of cell phone usage in schools was another area of discussion. The board considered the impact of cell phones on instructional time, with suggestions such as using locked pouches to minimize distractions. The Policy and Legislative committee, in collaboration with lead principals, reviewed cell phone policies to address the diverse needs of students while maintaining the educational quality. Dr. Morton presented a plan to revise the existing cell phone policy by June, emphasizing the importance of modeling behavior and recognizing the differences in maturity between middle and high school students.

Other initiatives, such as the sustainability committee’s work on pollinator gardens and plant kits at Rosa Middle School, were met with positive feedback from the public. The board also navigated issues surrounding the scheduling of public meetings during religious holidays, with calls for consideration of those observing such holidays.

The Human Resources Committee report shed light on positive trends in hiring and retention within the district, while the Financial reports and resolutions were mostly approved, albeit with some abstentions and recusals due to conflicts of interest. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the various holidays celebrated by community members and a congratulatory note to student honorees.