The meeting commenced with a discussion on the preschool expansion grant awarded to the district. The grant aims to ensure that 90% of the preschool-aged children in the district are educated over a five-year period. Currently, the district is grappling with accommodating the growing number of students, with 56 children already enrolled in the free pre-K program. The enrollment projections for the upcoming year suggest a total of 95 students, which still accounts for only 65% of the required universe. Concerns about adequate space led to discussions about potential collaborations with local daycare facilities, such as Kitty Academy, which could offer additional space and an established curriculum. Board members are considering visiting Kitty Academy to further explore this opportunity.

Financial management was another key focus of the meeting, as the board examined the district’s budget with an eye toward identifying redundancies and outdated tools. This review is part of a larger initiative to modernize the budget and ensure responsible financial stewardship. Additionally, there was a proposal for professional development aimed at paraprofessionals, particularly in managing challenging behaviors, which has been identified as a critical area of need.

In an effort to ensure that district resources are allocated to eligible students, a district-wide re-registration process was proposed. This initiative is designed to verify that students attending the district’s schools are indeed residents, especially given the attraction of free pre-K offerings to families from outside the district. The re-registration process is set to begin in February, with designated nights for parents to register at various schools.

Facility upgrades were also on the agenda, with updates from the School Business Administrator concerning ongoing custodial and maintenance operations. Despite staffing shortages, high standards have been maintained, and notable projects at McKenzie School include the installation of an energy-efficient AC system and gym lighting. The board approved several facility use applications and discussed proposals for roof replacements and door repairs.

The interim superintendent presented several resolutions for approval, including fire and emergency drill reports and an enrollment report showing an increase of eleven students since the start of the school year. The board approved these resolutions unanimously. Discussions also covered the return of art and music rooms to the pre-K program, with assurances that the art room would be reinstated at McKenzie School.

The technology committee reported on ongoing evaluations of district technologies to enhance data security. Plans are also underway to improve communication with families through the Parent Square app, which is being increasingly utilized by teachers.

The meeting also highlighted community involvement through a report from the PTA, which noted a 19% increase in membership and a variety of successful fundraisers. Upcoming events include a winter dance for eighth graders and participation in the East Rutherford tree lighting craft fair.

In new business, members discussed the importance of ethics training scheduled for February, particularly with the arrival of a new school board member. This training is deemed essential in light of upcoming budget discussions. Additionally, the board considered the necessity of a superintendent’s evaluation, debating whether to conduct a detailed evaluation or a simpler narrative focused on district goals.