The board’s recognition of athletic achievements was a standout moment, with a particular emphasis on fall and winter sports. The athletic director initiated the awards segment, calling attention to the boys’ soccer team’s success. The team was celebrated for being state sectional finalists and ranked 19th in New Jersey. Individual athletes were also acknowledged, such as Lamar Oliver and Aiden Bardo for their contributions to boys cross country, and Alexis Smith for girls cross country. Notably, the boys indoor track coach, Kareem West, received recognition as the county coach of the year. In wrestling, Nick Doctor and Joe Galletta were named First Team All-County wrestlers, and their coach, Dan Getta, was celebrated for his 300th victory and for expanding the girls wrestling team from three to sixteen members.

The board’s recognition extended to the coaches. Coach Cavas was congratulated for his 100th win in boys basketball, while another coach achieved 300 wins in both boys and girls soccer. These acknowledgments underscored the coaches’ long-term commitment to the students and programs.

The Clifton Against Substance Abuse initiative was prominent, coinciding with National Leadership Day and National Student Volunteer Day. This initiative included a banner contest, attracting over a hundred student submissions from various educational levels. Winners Alejandro Quinones, Raman, and Sophie Hernandez were awarded certificates, plaques, and $100 Amazon gift cards. The banners are set to be displayed in prominent city locations.

The meeting also highlighted student volunteerism with the presentation of the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. A member of the Key Club awarded bronze medals to students Opa, Daisy Zuniga, Anaura W., and Mora Colan, each of whom completed over 100 hours of volunteer work. This recognition celebrated the students’ commitment to community service and the positive impact of their contributions.

Academic excellence was another focal point, with the board recognizing students of the month for December and January. Honorees included Nathan Capelli, Kayla Sanchez, Violet Kasm, Anthony Oale, Evaluna Castro, Pay Greenway, and Mana, each noted for their academic achievements and extracurricular involvement. The board also acknowledged Sterling H. Kimbell for his original composition, “Caribbean Caprice,” which earned him a finalist position in the New Jersey Young Composers Competition.

The meeting further honored distinguished employees for their dedication and impact across various levels of the district. Linda Chavez was recognized as the December District Employee of the Month for her exemplary support in the special education department.

The board concluded the meeting with the announcement of the New Jersey Music Educators Association School Administrator Award, presented to Mr. Hrew Jer for his contributions to music education. Additionally, the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program was discussed, with Blue Wave School and Christopher Columbus Middle School recognized as model sites for their successful implementation of data-driven practices.