1:14:34Speakers emphasized the critical role Miss Cable plays in providing emotional support, guidance, and a safe space for students struggling with various challenges. A student recounted a personal story of losing a family member, sharing how Miss Cable’s presence was pivotal during that difficult time. The student described her as “a constant in everybody’s life in the school,” urging the board to reconsider the decision to eliminate her position. Another student, Leo Davis, highlighted how Miss Cable helped him cope with the loss of a close friend, reiterating the importance of having a mental health counselor for students who may lack support at home.

Concerns about the broader implications of removing such a vital resource were voiced by Trisha Martell, president of the Audubon Education Association. She stressed the importance of retaining essential positions that support students’ well-being, stating, “The safety and emotional well-being of our students are just as important as their academic growth.”

Further compelling testimonies were shared by community members, including Chris Bane, who credited Miss Cable with assisting his son through severe mental health challenges, and Nicole Stallard, an educator who noted her children’s reliance on Miss Cable’s support. Stallard emphasized the difficulty of getting teenagers to open up, highlighting the unique rapport Miss Cable has with her students.

1:32:58The board acknowledged the emotional testimonies and reiterated their commitment to prioritizing mental health support for students despite ongoing budget challenges. They assured the public that mental health services would continue to be provided, though specific details on how this would be achieved were not disclosed.

Additionally, the meeting addressed other topics, including the presentation of a tentative budget for the upcoming school year. The budget discussion highlighted a net decrease in state aid and proposed a tax levy increase. Board members emphasized that no vote on the budget would take place at this meeting, as it had only been submitted for preliminary review.

51:46In the realm of student achievements, the meeting celebrated several “Students of the Month” from various grade levels. Notable recognitions included Briana Murphy, a 10th-grade student, for maintaining an impressive GPA of 99.4, and Aison Young, an 11th grader, who was acknowledged for scoring his 1,000th career point on the basketball court. The board also recognized several staff members for their contributions, including Gwen Klaus as Havland Avenue Educator of the Month and Thea Reichi as Teacher of the Month for her commitment to her students.

1:32:58Further discussions included updates on various programs and policies, such as adjustments to ensure compliance with state mandates regarding harassment, intimidation, and bullying. The board also addressed the need to update policies concerning student smoking to include vaping and discussed new graduation requirements, which now necessitate the submission of financial aid applications for graduating classes of 2025, 2026, and 2027.

2:18:00Community outreach initiatives and student engagement activities were also highlighted, with updates on upcoming events like Audubon Day and a potential color run organized by the PTAs. Discussions emphasized the importance of practices and procedures to effectively include incoming students from sending districts, with proposals for field trips and joint events to ease transitions.