The most contentious topic was Policy 5756, which addresses gender identity and parental notification. Multiple speakers during the public comment section criticized the policy for allegedly creating a divide between parents and teachers. One speaker argued that the policy erodes the essential partnership needed for a child’s development, emphasizing that strong parental involvement is correlated with higher graduation rates and improved student focus. Another individual, identified during the meeting, expressed frustration with the board’s perceived lack of response to concerns about parental involvement, asserting that excluding parents from discussions about their child’s gender identity violated fundamental rights. The speaker also cited safety concerns, referencing an incident involving a transgender student in athletics that resulted in a serious injury.

A different speaker urged the board to reconsider Policy 5756, arguing that it undermines parental rights and accountability in the education system. This individual highlighted recent rulings suggesting that the policy was not mandatory and questioned the policy’s implications for students’ ability to make significant life decisions without parental consent. The discussion revealed a clear divide in perspectives on the policy’s implementation and its consequences for students and families.

Alongside the policy debate, the board grappled with budgetary issues. Superintendent Edward Aldarelli presented the 2026 preliminary budget, amounting to approximately $378 million, with $235 million sourced from the local tax base. Notably, despite a loss of $8.5 million in state aid, including a $6 million grant for the pre-K program, the budget managed to maintain a 0% tax increase for the fifth consecutive year. President Shei acknowledged the efforts of the administration and finance committee in achieving this, despite the challenges posed by the funding cuts.

However, the sustainability of maintaining a 0% tax increase was questioned by Matt Revnack, president of the Edison Township Education Association. He highlighted a state funding cut of over $2.8 million and rising costs for school supplies and utilities, arguing that even a modest tax increase could have supported necessary programs and construction. Revnack expressed concern about the district’s future, drawing parallels to past situations where funding cuts led to staff reductions and program eliminations.

Further financial discussions included a change order for the JP Stevens addition project, amounting to $29,000 for additional cabling and access points, which would not alter the contract amount due to being charged to the allowance. The board also accepted a $14,000 Project Lead the Way grant for JP Stevens. Public comments raised by Brian Rivera highlighted concerns regarding transparency in the board’s financial practices, particularly regarding the bill list, which he argued should be made available to the public prior to board approval. Rivera criticized the board for allegedly concealing a payment related to Vice President Vishal Patel’s legal fees.”

In response to Rivera’s concerns, a board member stated that there is no statutory obligation to produce any draft to the public until the board votes on it and makes it final. The board member defended Patel’s absences by stating they had valid reasons and that the policy regarding removal required a lack of good cause for missed meetings.

The meeting also addressed community concerns about traffic safety and student health initiatives. Residents suggested traffic regulation changes near Herbert Hoover to alleviate congestion and proposed the introduction of crossing guards to improve student safety. A participant introduced the “Bike to School” program, advocating for designated green zones to encourage children to ride bikes or scooters to school, promoting a healthier lifestyle. The speaker also suggested that new housing developments include sidewalks to ensure pedestrian safety.