The meeting began with a presentation outlining the district’s goals for the 2023-2024 academic year. Dr. Cullis initiated the discussion of the first goal, which focuses on increasing achievement for all students, particularly in Science and Math. The district has invested in a new science program for elementary students and is continuing teacher training alongside expanded intervention services. The second goal emphasizes the expansion of tiered systems to support both academic and mental health needs of students, referred to as the TSS program. Adjustmentsdvancements have been made, including the creation of a new role for a supervisor of student support services, collaboration with a data analysis vendor, and the development of an intervention manager system.

The third goal addresses transportation challenges, including the flooding issues at the bus depot that necessitated remediation. The transportation task force is set to meet this week to explore solutions, including recruitment and hiring practices. The fourth goal involves implementing a communication plan to enhance district communication, with ongoing meetings with the technology team and a consultant to devise manageable solutions.

During the review of board goals, which include advocating for district needs at various governmental levels and monitoring progress toward district goals, a board member raised a concern regarding the fourth goal about increasing member presence at events and activities. They requested clarity on the best way to find information about such events. There was general agreement on the beneficial nature of this proposal.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comments, where a parent expressed concerns about the safety of a bus stop located at Route 46 and Hornbeck. The parent described the location as unsafe due to a lack of street lights, sidewalks, and limited sight distance. They highlighted the dangers posed by children standing in the dark for a bus at 6:45 a.m., especially given the proximity to a busy highway where the speed limit is 40-45 mph and a significant volume of traffic passes. The parent also mentioned the presence of wildlife, specifically bears, in the area. They argued against normalizing bus routes on Route 46 and advocated for safer alternatives that had previously been available.

Following this, newly appointed Council liaison Mark Venice introduced himself and expressed a desire to build a productive relationship with the school board, asking for guidance on how he could assist them effectively. There were no further public comments, leading to the closure of the public comment period.

In the old business section, board member Mr. Cappello proposed moving several items, including the board reports from July and August 2024 and the HIB self-grading report, for discussion. These items were collectively approved without objections. Dr. Moore and Mr. Cass participated in the roll call, with all members voting in favor of the motions.

Shifting to new business, personnel matters were detailed, including resolutions related to new hires, resignations, retirements, employee leaves, and salary adjustments. A new hire for a bus driver and several Family Leave Act requests were highlighted. Additionally, a vaccine clinic for district staff was scheduled for October 10 at Acme Pharmacy, noted as voluntary and without any cost to the district. Mr. Kim abstained from voting on this specific resolution. The board also discussed the Marshall evaluation system for administrative staff, which focuses on ongoing performance across multiple categories rather than one-time observations.

In the policy and revisions section, Mr. Cappello presented a series of policies for second readings, including a newly proposed firearms and weapons policy and various revisions to attendance regulations. A notable change in the attendance regulation was highlighted, shifting the requirement for a doctor’s note from three days of absence to four or more.

The finance portion of the agenda included the approval of bills, donations of school supplies, and a food services management plan. A donation of atlases for third-grade students was approved as part of a Denville Rotary project. This initiative was met with enthusiasm for its educational value in understanding geography and navigation.

The meeting also addressed budget challenges related to the State Health Benefit program. It was conveyed that remaining in the current plan would result in a 50% increase in costs over the next 12 months, equating to almost half a million dollars for the district. The administration is navigating these choices carefully. The finance committee’s work in addressing this issue was acknowledged, and the importance of communication regarding this transition was emphasized.

The meeting concluded with several financial resolutions, including the rejection of a cybersecurity bid and the approval of donations from local rotary clubs for educational materials. The board also authorized participation in the State Health Benefit Plan for school employees for the 2025 calendar year.