The proposed funding question, set for a public vote on November 4th, seeks $700,250 to renovate the second floor of the Riverview annex. This renovation aims to maintain optimal class sizes by accommodating additional staff. The proposal is part of a broader vision to address demographic shifts within the district, including increasing student numbers at Riverview and decreasing numbers at Lake View. The board scheduled several public meetings in October to discuss the funding question and gather community input.

The meeting also highlighted concerns surrounding the district’s website. The board discussed the potential rollout of an updated website template, named Skyline, intended to enhance the district’s online presence. Dr. Clifford Moore expressed reservations about the new template. The board debated whether existing vendor resources could sufficiently implement the desired changes or if additional consulting hours with a consultant named Susan were warranted. The timing of the website update is crucial, with budget planning on the horizon, and the board aims to have a clearer understanding of the website’s capabilities by Christmas.

Superintendent Forte also provided updates on the district’s strategic goals. He highlighted the anticipated launch of the updated website by the 2026-2027 school year and noted ongoing infrastructure developments, such as the creation of new lavatories and classrooms at Riverview, to accommodate potential future kindergarten or pre-K classes.

In educational initiatives, Dr. Cullis outlined her goals to boost student achievement based on the latest NJSLA data. School teams are analyzing this data to identify areas for improvement, and she plans to present a detailed report to the board on October 27th. This effort is accompanied by the development of professional development plans and an audit of special services programs in collaboration with Mrs. Johnson, the director of special services. Dr. Cullis also addressed the creation of a vertically aligned social-emotional learning (SEL) plan, which aims to integrate SEL into both classroom and advisory settings.

The board also discussed the district’s involvement in the Screenagers project, which provides screenings of films that address the impact of the digital age on mental health and social media. The first screening is scheduled for October 15th at the Valley View Gym, and the initiative seeks to engage students and parents in discussions about these topics.

During the governance segment, the board approved several policies for first reading and adoption, including a motion to abolish policy 1648.15. There was a discussion about revising the policy on artificial intelligence, where it was clarified that while staff responsibilities in guiding students are outlined, specific programs are not listed due to the fast-evolving nature of technology.

In personnel matters, the board approved the hiring of staff for after-school enrichment programs and additional hours for crisis prevention intervention. A flu shot clinic for staff was also scheduled for October 16th, although one member abstained from the resolution. Additionally, the board approved workshops, field trips, a staff resiliency training program, an internship for a high school student, and a revised remote learning plan.

Finance resolutions included the approval of various financial items, such as the disposal of equipment and acceptance of a donation of colored paper. A specific resolution concerning milk funds received a negative vote.

The operations segment included a report on a retroactive approval for a compressor replacement at Lake View, funded from the maintenance reserve. Positive feedback was shared about Superintendent Forte’s presentation on the Riverview Annex expansion, which was well-received by parents due to effective communication from the board.