The meeting’s agenda also featured an extensive discussion on the 2024-25 school budget, presented in part by Mr. Sabahu, Mr. Sabolo, and Miss Gibbs. The presentation highlighted the district’s achievements in creating a positive climate and culture, recognized by the state for its character-building initiatives. The budget discussion encompassed the hiring of new ESL and bilingual teachers, occupational therapists, and special education coaches.

A detailed overview of the projected revenues and expenses revealed an increase in the tax levy, with the board outlining various strategies to control costs, such as cooperative purchasing and shared services with the town of Dover. Additionally, the board discussed the use of grants like the Esa Grant and SDA Grant to supplement funding. The potential impact of tax increases on individual taxpayers due to changes in the town’s tax base was also a point of concern.

Facility upgrades across the district were another focal point, with the board detailing renovations and improvements at several schools. The Delk 2 building in Wharton, now featuring offices and special education classrooms, and the Academy Street Elementary’s new fire systems, playgrounds, and sensory hallway, were among the noted projects. The high school’s gymnasium received a new floor, sound system, and curtain, along with a fully renovated weight room. Furthermore, the administrative offices’ relocation to the Belmont property and the addition of a flag pole and HVAC and boiler system upgrades were discussed.

The board took pride in the aesthetic enhancements of school facilities, including murals that incorporated student input. The meeting also touched on the mobility of the buildings and grounds department to a new location, which may create space for future modular buildings. Upcoming facility improvements were outlined, such as ceiling tile replacements, bathroom stall installations, gym floor resurfacing, and roof repairs.

During the public comment portion, various community members voiced their opinions. John Coniglio expressed support for the budget items presented, while Alma Lugo, the Transportation Director, highlighted improvements made to the transportation department. Concerns were raised about personnel management and budget allocations, specifically regarding preschool transportation funding, which was clarified by Dr. McLaughlin as a necessity funded through local funds.

The board also addressed the importance of extracurricular activities, with a member expressing appreciation for the expansion of sports options, including Esports, flag football, and golf. The alignment of district goals with spending priorities was emphasized, and questions were raised about the sustainability of newly hired positions and the impact of being below adequacy on state aid.

In terms of governance, the board discussed policies for remote meetings, determining that full remote participation was not feasible. The committee also considered training topics post-reorganization and the development of a framework for documenting committee activities and timelines.

The meeting’s administrative reports included recognitions such as Administrative Assistant Day and updates on the implementation of simultaneous interpretation services at board meetings. The progress of modular units at two elementary schools, renovation work at Academy Street, and the installation of electronic signs at each school were shared. The administrative approval encompassed items related to final budget approval, grant submissions, and district audit service proposals. Personnel recommendations, including an unpaid leave of absence for a specific employee, were approved.

Finally, the board celebrated the district’s recognition with the Community Partnership award from the County College of Morris and discussed the upcoming Take Your Child to Work Day. The governance committee’s report on the upcoming meeting with the Dover School Staff Association (DSSA) was also mentioned.