Ellen Bender’s retirement was a central focus of the meeting, with a resolution officially acknowledging her commitment to educational excellence and her significant impact on student achievement. Board members expressed their appreciation for Bender, with one stating, “Ellen Bender will definitely be missed.” The superintendent praised her efforts in elevating student success and conveyed best wishes for her retirement. This recognition will be recorded in the district’s permanent records.

Following Bender’s recognition, public comments provided an opportunity for community engagement. A representative from the PTA reported on the organization’s recent activities, highlighting a successful fundraising event at Texas Road House that raised $150, alongside $220 generated from candy and chocolate sales. The PTA organized several well-attended events in November, including a soccer game and a volleyball match. Additionally, the holiday shops held at local schools, which allowed students to buy gifts for their families, reported sales totaling approximately $6,700. The PTA also participated in community initiatives, such as the “Mission Magical Christmas” program, contributing $150 worth of wrapping supplies and organizing a raffle that raised $120. The representative expressed gratitude to the board for their support and looked forward to future collaborations.

The meeting then transitioned to committee reports, beginning with an update from the School Business Administrator. Ongoing support for custodial staff and the management of a maintenance work order system were emphasized to address issues promptly. A transportation update included the introduction of a new part-time bus driver, Dumar Beltran, noted for his extensive experience. Recruitment efforts for additional drivers were ongoing, along with reminders about compliance with New Jersey transportation idling regulations. A financial report for November showed a loss of $3,844, though this was an improvement over the previous year’s deficit of over $24,000. Optimism was expressed about the food service program becoming self-sufficient by year-end.

Several resolutions were presented for approval, covering the monthly facility calendar, bills list, payroll approval, and financial reports. The board also considered a transportation agreement and funding for technology services. A consultant services agreement for health insurance, with no rate increases, and educational services agreements with Bergen County Special Services were also discussed. The need for transportation services for preschool students was addressed, with plans to reallocate budget funds. Ongoing investigations related to harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) cases were mentioned, with two cases set for executive session discussion. Long-term facilities plans included roof upgrades at McKenzie School and the board office, with attention to exterior and interior door replacements.

Updates from various district schools were also presented. At F School, students and staff participated in decorating Bergen County’s Christmas tree, featuring a theme of wildcats, metro, MetLife Stadium, and candy canes. A winter concert took place on December 9th, with congratulations extended to F School students for their achievements during the first marking period. Lincoln School’s successful Thanksgiving event on November 27th was highlighted, with traditional foods and student-created placemats. The school’s participation in the East Rutherford Police Department’s Toys for Tots donation drive and preparations for School Spirit Week were noted. McKenzie School recognized “Wildcat of the Month” recipients during ROAR assemblies and celebrated perfect attendance for the first marking period.

Special education updates included a report of 131 students, with an increase of two in-district students and a steady number of seven out-of-district students. The district’s participation in the New Jersey Department of Education’s special education parent survey cohort was noted, with plans to notify parents of the survey in February 2024. Dr. King Doson’s engagement with the New Jersey Department of Education led to an exemption for licensing notice received on November 27th.

Curriculum updates covered discussions held at a county curriculum meeting on December 6th, focusing on project management tools for administrators, cardiac event preparedness, and the impact of New Jersey LGBTQ+ and disability mandates on middle school students. The board approved student field trips and transportation requests for the 2024-2025 school year. The personnel committee addressed motions, including the approval of the Kelly Education substitute list and other personnel actions. The finance committee reviewed and approved motions related to bills, financial reports, and transportation for future school years, omitting certain items for further discussion.