The board commenced with the acknowledgment of ongoing negotiations for the teachers’ contract, set to expire on June 30. Coupled with this, the search for a new superintendent is underway, following the closure of applications the previous Friday. Dr. Pantoliano is leading the search effort, alongside another board member, with interviews for select candidates planned in the near future. The importance of this search was highlighted, given the role the superintendent plays in guiding the district’s educational strategies and policies.

In terms of finance, the board is in the initial stages of crafting a budget for the 2025-2026 school year, approximated at $70 million. The Business Administrator, Louis Alfano, noted that discussions with the municipality are scheduled for the following day, with a special meeting planned for the end of next week. The board is awaiting the state’s allocation numbers to gain a clearer understanding of the financial landscape. Mr. Alfano commended the efforts of Lu Alano, who has managed budgets over the past decade, consistently resulting in a surplus despite rising healthcare and prescription costs.

On the educational front, Dr. Hayes reported on the successful application to transition from Early Childhood Program Aid to preschool education aid for the 2025-2026 school year. This transition will enable the district to offer expanded preschool programs for three- and four-year-olds, broadening educational opportunities for the community. Dr. Hayes expressed gratitude to Mrs. Marady and Mr. Alban for their efforts in securing this funding, which promises to bring financial resources to the district. A future presentation on this initiative was suggested to increase community awareness.

The meeting also included updates on ongoing capital improvement projects. The Building and Grounds committee reported that the lobby expansion is nearing completion, with 95% of the work finished. Fire alarm system pre-testing has been conducted, and a temporary certificate of occupancy is expected soon, with the lobby anticipated to open by the following Monday. Additionally, while contractors were on-site, the board opted to paint the stairwells on the ground floor. Looking ahead, the board plans to solicit proposals for paving and concrete work for outdoor areas, expected to start in early spring.

A report from the curriculum department, communicated by Mrs. Calib, emphasized recommendations from a recent evaluation by CUSAC. These include enhancing the academic framework to address issues such as chronic absenteeism and participation in the NJSLA, particularly in mathematics. The potential introduction of dedicated elementary guidance counselors was discussed.

A unique community engagement initiative was highlighted by the high school committee in the form of a “Battle of the Classes” fundraiser. This event aims to benefit the Fairview food pantry, with donations collected through buckets. Half of the funds will support participating classes, while the remainder will be donated to charity, engaging students in community service. Additionally, senior class scholarship applications were encouraged, promoting peer sharing of this opportunity.

During public comments, accolades were shared for students invited to participate in an international engineering challenge in Washington, D.C., scheduled for May. The representative expressed gratitude for the board’s support and noted that students have been fundraising in the community to cover expenses, reaching out to local businesses for donations.

In recognition of environmental sustainability efforts, Mr. Alfano presented a resolution regarding a $5,000 environmental grant awarded to the school from Bergen Community College. This grant will fund sustainability design challenges in partnership with five high-need schools in Metro New Jersey, providing valuable educational opportunities.