A significant part of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the resignations of notable staff members. The board accepted the resignation of Karen Delinsky, an administrative assistant whose departure was met with expressions of appreciation for her contributions and acknowledgment of the challenge in filling her position. Another resignation of Adriatic C. was also noted, with board members positively reflecting on his impact within the district.

The departure of trustee Antonio Segalini was another focal point. There was a request for Segalini to take on a liaison role between the school district and the borough.

Community engagement was another prominent topic. The board discussed increasing their presence at local events, such as the upcoming Fall Festival. They encouraged members to take shifts at the festival to foster community engagement. Positive reflections were shared on recent school events like back-to-school nights, which saw high attendance and appreciation for the staff’s efforts.

During the public comment sessions, a speaker identified as Antonio expressed gratitude towards the board for their hard work and dedication to the students and the community. Another speaker raised concerns regarding BSI services, particularly the absence of such services for grades two through four. They mentioned an email from the board president stating that the district would implement safeguards to inform parents in the future, implying that parents had not been notified previously. The speaker questioned the allocation of funds, referencing a reported return of $80,000 to local funds and inquiring why a BSI teacher had not been hired despite claims of active searching.

The board addressed these concerns by indicating that the issues raised had been referred to their office and responses had been provided. They emphasized the importance of transparency and noted an invitation for further discussions with Superintendent Giovanni A. Giancaspro to clarify any misunderstandings.

The meeting also highlighted the integration of cultural heritage programs in school curricula. Staff have been incorporating content related to National Hispanic Heritage Month, which began on September 15, into their programming. McKenzie School hosted a back-to-school night on September 25 for parents to meet teachers, featuring a general assembly and access to a PTA book fair. Additionally, McKenzie School planned to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Italian American Heritage Month, and Polish American Heritage Month, featuring various classroom activities. A new “Gold Ticket” program aimed at positive behavior support was introduced at McKenzie School, along with “Wild Fridays,” where students and staff would wear favorite football attire throughout the month.

The School Business Administrator’s report included approval requests for the use of school facilities. The East Rutherford Police Department sought to utilize Lincoln School on November 7 and for various drills during the school closures due to the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association Convention. Foul School also submitted requests for dances scheduled on October 25, February 14, April 25, and May 30. Discussion on these requests prompted clarification regarding the school calendar, specifically a date correction from October 7 to October 14 for a full day off.

The Superintendent mentioned an upcoming presentation for the October Board of Education meeting concerning New Jersey Student Learning Standards and assessment scores in various subjects. Plans for preschool aid expansion awaited approval, with the implementation timeline set for 75 days once funding was secured. The report detailed ongoing construction plans, including a new roof for the current building and exterior door enhancements at Foul School, aimed at addressing facility issues while keeping costs manageable.

Another individual, representing the PTA, provided updates on recent activities, including membership statistics and events hosted by the PTA, such as a welcome breakfast for teachers and a book fair that had seen substantial participation. They detailed upcoming initiatives, including a new fundraiser and assistance with school events, emphasizing the PTA’s active role in supporting school functions.

Additionally, a request from a film producer was made to film at local schools, specifically seeking permission for filming over a few days.

As the meeting continued, discussions transitioned into an executive session to address legal and personnel matters. Upon returning from the session, the board approved a resolution for district facility use for PTA meetings for the 2024-2025 school year. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn after confirming the approval of these items.