Branchburg School Board Explores AI Integration with Somerville Collaboration

Overview: The recent Branchburg School Board meeting focused on integrating technology and improving educational strategies, with discussions on a $75,000 AI grant awarded to neighboring Somerville. This grant, aimed at professional development and resource sharing, stands to benefit Branchburg through collaborative efforts.

Watchung School Board Reviews Norms and Student Performance, Plans Governance Handbook

Overview: In a recent meeting held on October 16, 2025, the Watchung School Board focused on developing board norms, addressing student performance data, and planning the creation of a governance handbook. These discussions were aimed at enhancing board effectiveness and improving educational outcomes across the district. Several operational updates, curriculum revisions, and community engagement initiatives were also highlighted.

Franklin Board Considers Warehouse Project, Approves Hamilton Street Development

Overview: The Franklin Planning Board meeting addressed significant proposals, focusing primarily on a major warehouse development on Atrium and approving a separate project on Hamilton Street. The board scrutinized the warehouse plans, considering site adjustments and variances, while also giving a green light to the Hamilton Street project with conditions for aesthetic improvements.

Somerville Zoning Board Considers Conversion of Historic Office Building to Multifamily Dwelling

Overview: The Somerville Zoning Board meeting centered around the significant zoning application by Princeton Canal LLC for the adaptive reuse of a historic office building on West End Avenue into an eight-unit multifamily dwelling. This project involves extensive renovations, including a two-story addition and the conversion of a garage into a residential unit, as well as adjustments to meet accessibility and parking standards. The board engaged in discussions on the variances required, accessibility issues, and the potential impact on local traffic and community character.

Somerset Hills School Board Grapples with Policy 5756 and Gender Identity Discussions

Overview: In a recent Somerset Hills School Board meeting, the board addressed issues related to policy 5756, concerning the treatment and notification of transgender students’ gender identity. The board’s deliberations focused on legal compliance following a Supreme Court ruling, with debates on the adequacy of current policies and the necessity for updates. The meeting also touched on concerns over the board’s communication strategies regarding sensitive educational content and recent personnel decisions affecting the district’s wrestling program.