Alpine School Board Approves Emergency Plan Amid Staffing and Facility Upgrades

Overview: In a meeting replete with significant resolutions but missing its President and Vice President, the Alpine Board of Education met on July 24 to approve a flurry of initiatives. The meeting was chaired by Maria DiBiase in the absence of the top brass and attended by members Christine Lewis, Shai Barbi, and Maureen Cheesman. Board member Philip Simotas was notably absent. The headline decision was the approval of an Emergency Virtual or Remote Instruction Plan for the upcoming 2023-2024 academic year.

Wood-Ridge Council Unveils $1.7M Bond for Public Improvements, Highlights Second Consecutive Tax Cut

Overview: In a meeting saturated with fiscal maneuvering and long-term planning, the Wood-Ridge Borough Council, led by Mayor Paulo Sarlo, introduced a $1.7 million bond ordinance aimed at funding various public improvements including the acquisition of a new fire engine. Coupled with this, Administrator Eilert announced a tax rate decrease for the second year running. The August 23 meeting provided glimpses of the Council’s multi-year strategic outlook for capital expenditures and showcased efforts to optimize Borough operations based on annual audit recommendations.

Teaneck School Board Grapples with Bullying, Inequality, and Graduation Assessments

Overview: In a far-reaching meeting that touched on everything from academic goals to public concerns, the Teaneck School Board navigated a sea of issues aimed at bettering education for its diverse student body. Of most immediate concern were unresolved cases of bullying—especially against transgender students—inequalities in graduation assessments, and new initiatives to support English as a Second Language (ESL) students.

Rutherford Council Proclaims International Overdose Awareness Day, Introduces Porchfest

Overview: In a recent Rutherford Borough Council meeting, numerous matters of community importance came to light, including the proclamation of August 31st, 2023, as International Overdose Awareness Day. The proclamation addressed the escalating public health threat of drug overdoses, highlighting a commitment to remember those lost to this crisis and fostering hope for recovery. Mayor Frank Nunziato expressed gratitude for the opportunity to read the proclamation, emphasizing community unity and remembrance for those affected. Residents of Rutherford have been encouraged to don purple on this day, the color symbolic of the recovery movement.

Auditorium Mold and LGBTQ Curriculum Stir Concern at Glen Rock School Board Meeting

Overview: A recent Glen Rock School Board meeting celebrated a significant rise in graduation readiness among 11th-grade students. However, the jubilation was punctuated with concerns over perceived educational shifts and the state of school facilities.