Highland Park School Board Grapples with Low Math Scores and Curriculum Challenges

Overview: During the latest Highland Park School Board meeting, discussions were dominated by concerning trends in student math performance, particularly at the middle school level, and the district’s response through new curriculum pilots. The board focused on the stark decline in math scores, notably among middle school students, where only 7% to 20% met a 60% benchmark, a significant drop from the previous year’s 28% to 61%. Board members and community participants speculated on potential causes, including previous teacher turnover and a need for curriculum reassessment.

Edison Residents Challenge Proposed 32% Mayoral Salary Increase Amid Economic Concerns

Overview: During a recent Edison Town Council meeting, debate ensued over a proposed 32% salary increase for Mayor Sam Joshi. The proposal, which would elevate the mayor’s salary to exceed that of the New Jersey governor, drew widespread criticism from residents and council members alike. Concerns were raised over the appropriateness of the increase, with calls for the raise to be deferred until the next mayoral term beginning in 2030.

Monroe Township Council Discusses Affordable Housing Settlement and Community Initiatives

Overview: The Monroe Township Council meeting on December 22, 2025, focused on the affordable housing settlement, community events, and ongoing infrastructure projects. The meeting saw a discussion about resolution R12-2025-305 concerning fair housing, alongside acknowledgment of local community events, infrastructure improvements, and plans for environmental initiatives.

Teacher Alleges Retaliation Over Book Ban and Racism at Woodbridge School Board Meeting

Overview: During the Woodbridge Board of Education meeting held on December 18, 2025, Everett Jackson, a language arts teacher at Avanel Middle School, publicly declared himself a SEPA whistleblower, alleging retaliation stemming from his refusal to participate in a book banning action. He expressed concern over the removal of a poetry volume his students were engaged with and claimed disrespect linked to his racial identity. The meeting also featured a presentation from student representatives at John F. Kennedy Memorial High School about their community service initiatives and various administrative approvals.

Old Bridge Zoning Board Rejects Solar Panel Variance, Approves Porch Extension Amid Compliance Concerns

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Old Bridge Township Zoning Board, attention was given to an application for a ground-mounted solar array on Raton Circle, ultimately resulting in the denial of the requested variance due to non-compliance with setback regulations. The board also approved a porch extension for a property on Pacific Boulevard.