Central to the meeting was the formulation of the district’s goals, which included a commitment to enrolling at least 90% of 3 and 4-year-olds in the district’s preschool programs by the 2027-2028 school year. Dr. Kwame Morton, the district superintendent, along with the administrative team, outlined plans for implementing the Eureka Math squared curriculum district-wide and the new ELA curriculum, Amplify, at the elementary level to improve NJSLA scores. The goals articulated were not just academic; they also encompassed a comprehensive community relations plan, a new five-year strategic plan, balanced student distribution, student and staff wellness, and school climate and culture.

The board was informed of the development of an online data dashboard scheduled to be operational by December 2024. This tool is intended to increase accountability and transparency within the district. Special attention was given to the needs of special education students, with the intent to expand access to AP courses for historically underserved populations and to create smoother transitions between levels for special education students.

During the meeting, some concerns were raised about the feasibility of these ambitious goals. The need for accountability in meeting the targets set was emphasised, with discussion around the challenges faced by special education families during transitions. Dr. Morton stressed the importance of setting both ambitious and realistic goals for the betterment of students and families. Despite the concerns, there was a consensus among the board members on the thoroughness and transparency of the goal development process, with recognition of the hard work and collaboration that went into shaping the district’s priorities.

Another portion of the meeting focused on the approval of a services agreement with a childcare provider to offer preschool before and after care. Questions were raised about the selection process and the potential cost to parents, with community members urging the board to reconsider the dollar amount of the transfer to capital reserves and seeking transparency on the preschool program. Dr. Morton shared comments on the preschool before and after care services, emphasizing the district’s effort to provide support for families.

The meeting also tackled internal board communication and collaboration. A discussion revealed that some members felt excluded from the process and called for better clarity and involvement in reviewing documents and contributing ideas to committee meetings. The success of discussions within the Human Resources committee was noted as an example of effective communication.

Public comments during the meeting brought to light community concerns, including the challenges faced by special education students due to a shortage of support staff. A community member voiced the need for comprehensive approaches that include science test achievements and youth engagement. Additionally, a local resident raised safety concerns over baseballs from a nearby field landing in their yard.

The board discussed the need for Spanish teachers and the request for community assistance in recruiting for these positions. A comparison of state aid and tax levies between Cherry Hill and another school district was presented, highlighting funding discrepancies.

The meeting also included expressions of congratulations to an individual appointed as an assistant principal at a local high school, acknowledging the individual’s longstanding connection to the community.