The remembrance of Tom Lewis was a central focus of the meeting, with numerous board members and attendees sharing personal anecdotes and reflections on his life and work. Lewis was celebrated as a cornerstone of the Clark community, noted for his unwavering dedication to education and his ability to connect with students and colleagues alike. A speaker described him as “more than just a fellow board member,” underscoring his role as a mentor and pillar of the community. Lewis’s passion for people, particularly the underprivileged and students, was emphasized repeatedly. He played a key role in reviving the district’s preschool program, a recent success that was noted with pride.

Attendees shared stories of Lewis’s generosity, such as his long-standing tradition of gathering and discreetly delivering Christmas gift baskets to families in need. His influence extended beyond the school district, drawing people from the wider community and even retired colleagues to his funeral service. The board acknowledged the profound loss felt by both the board and the community, while vowing to carry forward Lewis’s legacy of selfless service and commitment to education.

In addition to honoring Lewis, the board discussed financial plans, notably a bond referendum scheduled for September 16. This referendum seeks to address approximately $35 million in necessary projects, including roof repairs and elementary school expansion due to population growth. The referendum would unlock $9 million in state aid, thereby reducing the local share to $26 million. Attendees were assured that this would not lead to an increase in school taxes, as an existing referendum from two decades ago is set to expire. The situation was likened to refinancing a mortgage, with old payments being replaced by new ones at no additional cost to residents.

The meeting also included updates from Superintendent Edward Grande on various district activities. He reported the retirement of a long-serving lunch recess aide at Henley School and detailed the smooth start of the new school year. The technology and curriculum committee provided an overview of recent curriculum developments, including the alignment of 26 curricula areas with New Jersey student learning standards. Subjects revised or developed over the summer included preschool courses, middle school science and social studies, and high school course revisions.

During the public comment period, a community member expressed opposition to a law requiring LGBTQ education and abortion discussions in schools, citing a Supreme Court case and questioning the board’s transparency and compliance with constitutional standards. Another attendee voiced concerns about the bond referendum, asking what the board’s priorities would be if it did not pass. The board responded that they would seek expert guidance if necessary.