Denville School Board Approves Science Program and Addresses Neurodiversity
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
05/13/2024
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Recording Published:
05/14/2024
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Duration:
59 Minutes
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Towns:
Denville
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County:
Morris County
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State:
New Jersey
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting, the Denville School Board approved the purchase of the TCI Science Alive program for K-5, discussed the elimination of part-time nursing positions, and celebrated students’ service learning focused on neurodiversity. The board also reviewed a range of policy revisions and operational matters, including out-of-district student placements and the rejection of a costly bid for new ADA toilet rooms at Riverview Elementary.
The board’s approval of the TCI Science Alive program stands out as a significant investment in the district’s elementary science curriculum. With an average cost of $20.76 per student, this program is set to enhance the learning experience by providing interactive science education.
Another focal point of the meeting was the celebration of neurodiversity through a service learning project presented by Lake View and Valley View students. The students and school counselors shared their experiences. The Denville Library’s youth services supervisor thanked the students for their donation and highlighted the project’s role in fostering inclusivity.
The board also deliberated on personnel matters, with new hires, resignations, retirements, employee leaves, and salary adjustments on the agenda. Particular attention was given to the employment contracts for Dr. Cullers and Miss Koski.
Additionally, the meeting covered a range of policy revisions. The board discussed the potential abolishment of policies related to equity and educational programs, sportsmanship, bilingual education, and school district security, among others. These revisions point to the board’s ongoing efforts to update and refine district policies to better serve the school community.
Operational matters included the board’s approval of a feasibility study for the board-owned Nicole Drive property. However, they rejected a bid for new ADA toilet rooms at Riverview Elementary due to the bid exceeding the budget. The board also approved an out-of-district placement for a student in accordance with the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
The Finance section of the meeting included the approval of contracts and services related to environmental consulting, architectural and engineering services, auditing, legal services, and broker record services. A donation to the Valley View Mock Trial Club was also approved, evidencing the board’s support for extracurricular activities that enrich student experience.
The Denville Education Foundation’s Spring Fling band night fundraiser was highlighted. Updates on the Transportation Task Force and Governance Committee meetings were also provided, offering insight into the board’s ongoing initiatives to improve district operations.
The meeting concluded with a public comment session, although no one came forward to speak, and an adjournment at 8:35 p.m. The board’s next meeting promises to include reports on the treasurer, student enrollment, and meeting minutes.
Steven Forte
School Board Officials:
James Kim, Dr. Clifford Moore, Michael Andersen, Dr. Venu Arunajatesan, Dino Cappello, Don Casse, Andrea Zeydelis
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
05/13/2024
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Recording Published:
05/14/2024
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Duration:
59 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Morris County
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Towns:
Denville
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