One item at the meeting was the presentation on the ESL college readiness program, a two-year partnership with Bergen Community College. This initiative has been instrumental in supporting multilingual learners by offering them dual enrollment in summer courses to enhance their academic and language skills. Mrs. Stephanie Brennan, the ESL supervisor, introduced the program and emphasized its role in preparing students for college-level expectations. She noted that the program is funded by the College Readiness Now grant from the New Jersey state legislature, covering tuition, textbooks, and student support services.

The program faced initial challenges, with the first summer session conducted online during a busy period filled with senior activities, like prom. Despite these hurdles, students diligently attended classes focusing on Success 101 and Public Speaking. The second session shifted to in-person instruction, offering grammar, reading, writing, and skill-building workshops across different campus locations. Students were selected based on specific criteria, including a minimum WIDA ACCESS score and ESL ACUPLACER test results, targeting those in grades 10 to 12.

Laura Madera, director of the college readiness program at Bergen Community College, discussed the program’s outcomes, highlighting the milestone achievement of a student being invited to join the college’s PAD program. Madera stressed the importance of commitment, as students earned college credits for electives. The program included workshops on creating LinkedIn profiles, time management, and personal responsibility, which contributed to students’ growth. Professor Susanna Lansen added insights, expressing her initial vision of providing a genuine college experience, which evolved into a structured program benefitting students from multiple Bergen County high schools.

Recognition was given to several students, including Yousef, Joy, Carlos, and Jennifer, who received certificates for their participation. The board president commended the award recipients and their parents, emphasizing the value of education. The board encouraged the audience to leave if they preferred not to stay for the remaining meeting.

In the resolutions segment, the board decided to table resolutions 29, 31, and 32 after a review by the transportation committee, with plans for further discussion in a work session. Resolution 30, concerning the decommissioning of a salt truck, proceeded to a vote. The board approved the motion to table the resolutions and moved on to other agenda items.

Updates included the recent completion of field testing for the NJSLA and NJ GPA assessments, with thanks extended to principals and Mr. Satisano for their efforts. Report card distribution timelines were shared, and the new ADA-compliant school website, designed to improve communication with parents, was introduced. Facilities projects, such as the installation of a new floor in the School 5 multi-purpose room and renovations to the high school lobby, were noted.

The board also discussed the preschool education aid program’s expansion despite space challenges and highlighted field trips, including visits to Lifetown in Livingston, NJ, for special education classes. The Seal of Biliteracy program was mentioned, offering students a credential that enhances their college and job applications.

Additionally, Mr. Alfano reported on the 2026-2027 budget preparations, emphasizing the importance of finalizing plans by December for project bidding. A resolution on information technology improvements was discussed.

The high school student council shared positive developments within their school, including a visit from TikTok influencer Jersey Joe, who spoke about cyberbullying and perseverance. They also discussed their participation in the Rebecca Vera Foundation symposium on driving safety and plans for community support during the holiday season.