0:18A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing the transition process for special education students, with presentations detailing strategies for seamless progression from elementary through high school. Interim Director of Special Education Patty Pacersia, along with other presenters, emphasized the need for cooperation among administrators, staff, parents, and students. The focus was on making transitions warm and welcoming, with specific programs discussed at schools like Payne to support families. Workshops for parents, vertical articulation meetings between preschool and elementary case managers, and strategies to alleviate transition anxiety were highlighted. The board was informed of ongoing efforts to introduce career exploration electives and pre-employment transition services for high school students. These initiatives aim to enhance students’ self-advocacy and prepare them for future opportunities.

19:26Further, the meeting addressed the necessity of maintaining IEP services during transitions, with case managers working to ensure continuity. Initiatives like community-based instruction and work-based learning programs were discussed, providing students with real-world experiences to develop social and employment skills. A new initiative involving career exploration electives was also introduced, allowing students to begin career exploration as early as ninth grade. The board acknowledged the importance of a common language for functional communication training and understanding behavior as communication.

36:58The board also delved into restorative practices, introduced as a framework to promote social and emotional wellness. This initiative aims to build relationships among students and staff, creating a positive school culture while addressing misbehavior constructively. Restorative practices were explained as a method for repairing relationships rather than replacing consequences. The district’s multi-year implementation plan seeks to integrate these practices into existing behavioral support systems, with training already underway in several schools.

1:12:06In tandem with restorative practices, the Positive Behavior Support in Schools (PBSIS) program was discussed. Beck Middle School’s partnership with PBSIS, facilitated by Rutgers University and the New Jersey Department of Education, focuses on promoting a positive school culture. This initiative includes monthly meetings to establish tier one behaviors and universal support systems, emphasizing the importance of relationship-building and social-emotional learning.

54:53The board also addressed various community engagement efforts and educational initiatives. Middle school principals shared insights into cultivating positive school cultures through programs like restorative circles, the Feathers program, and the Eagle Honor program. These initiatives reward positive behavior and encourage student reflection on their actions. The use of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) was highlighted to address both academic and behavioral needs.

1:27:10The meeting further covered the ongoing implementation of social-emotional learning programs, emphasizing the importance of consistency across grade levels. Board members discussed the Second Step program, which began as a pilot in kindergarten and has expanded through eighth grade. The role of feedback loops in understanding the needs of students, staff, and families was underscored, with a focus on fostering connections and supporting at-risk students.

1:44:49Community engagement was a recurring theme, with board members sharing experiences from various events, including the Cherry Hill West open house and the Lunar New Year celebration. The board also acknowledged the importance of community involvement in educational initiatives, with student representatives reporting on activities at High School East and High School West.

2:03:10Finally, the meeting addressed administrative matters, including the approval of attendance at conferences and professional service agreements. The board introduced the formation of a new governance committee to oversee board training and roles, emphasizing transparency and community understanding.