18:49A significant portion of the meeting focused on the public comments section, where community members raised issues. Alexandra Guida Smith, a resident of Collingswood, congratulated the board on its newly elected members and leadership, particularly acknowledging Roger Chu for his election as president. Smith emphasized the importance of addressing inclusivity within the school district, particularly concerning the needs of students of color. She highlighted past instances where students felt unheard and urged the board to continue its efforts in tackling these issues. Smith praised the district for its progress in fostering inclusivity but emphasized that there is still work to be done to confront difficult truths and sustain positive momentum.

Another community member, Steve Sylves, brought up a issue regarding the local tax revenue gap affecting the district’s operational capabilities. Sylves pointed out that the calculated funding from the state does not match the actual local tax revenue, which is lower than that of neighboring districts and falls below the state average. This financial shortfall has accumulated over time, resulting in constraints on salaries and resources needed for students. Sylves suggested that the board explore solutions seen in other New Jersey districts, where municipalities have collaborated with school districts to bridge funding gaps through mechanisms like pilot agreements. He encouraged the board to engage in discussions with borough commissioners to explore collaborative solutions that could enhance school funding.

0:00The board also tackled several organizational matters during the meeting. New members Mrs. Brown, Mrs. Divine, and Mrs. Z were sworn in following their election in November, receiving congratulations and applause from attendees. The board proceeded with the election of its leadership, with Roger Chu nominated for president and Kelly Maia and Kate Seltzer nominated for vice president. After casting their votes, the board elected Roger Chu as president and Kate Seltzer as vice president, both receiving applause from those present.

18:49Further discussions during the meeting involved selecting representatives for various boards and committees. The board addressed the need for representatives for the New Jersey School Boards Association and the Camden County School Boards Association. After some discussion, Sarah Sherman volunteered to serve as the primary representative for the New Jersey School Boards Association, with Mrs. Divine confirmed as the alternate. For the Camden County School Boards Association, the board confirmed the continuation of last year’s arrangement, with an existing alternate agreeing to remain in their role.

The meeting also included agenda items related to the Education Services Commission. The board voted to continue services provided by the Camden County Educational Services Commission for the 2025 school year. Matthew Craig expressed his willingness to serve as the representative, with Kate Seltzer confirmed as the alternate.

Additionally, the board addressed policies and bylaws, unanimously adopting existing policies and job descriptions. The appointment of Beth Anne Coleman as the public agency compliance officer for the 2025-2026 school year was also approved after a brief discussion clarifying the role.

0:00The board set official meeting dates for the year 2025 and the reorganization meeting scheduled for January 5, 2026. Regular meetings will be held on the fourth Monday of each month, with a closed session at 6 PM followed by a public meeting at 6:30 PM. While questions arose regarding the frequency of closed sessions, it was clarified that not all meetings would include them, but the advertisement served as a precautionary measure. The board unanimously approved the proposed meeting schedule through a roll call vote.