Giovana Solico, a longstanding employee, received recognition from the School Board for her two decades of commitment to the district. To honor her contributions, the Board dedicated a bench in her name outside the Board of Education office. Solico’s role was acknowledged as integral to the district’s success, and the tribute included the presentation of a token of appreciation for her years of service. The Board also mentioned the addition of benches outside the Board of Education office, with one bench specifically commemorating Solico’s tenure.

The meeting then transitioned to a review of the district’s test scores, particularly the NJ GPA test results. The test, a graduation requirement for students, showed that 97% of Emerson students passed the English Language Arts (ELA) portion, and 85% succeeded in math. These results outpaced the state averages, which stood at 82% for ELA and 55% for math. The data was presented by Mrs. Oerman, who outlined the multifaceted role of test scores in educational assessment and planning. She emphasized that while test scores are a componet, they are used in conjunction with a range of metrics including teacher evaluations and child study team assessments.

Mrs. Oerman’s report included not only the impressive pass rates but also a demographic breakdown of the test results, which showed consistently high achievement across various groups. However, she pointed out that there is room for improvement, notably among students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), where a gap in math scores was identified. The comparison with the previous year’s data revealed steady high pass rates in ELA and a notable improvement in math scores from 76% to 85%. Oerman concluded the presentation by discussing how test scores help shape student plans, specialized program criteria, and course placement decisions.

The board’s attention to student performance extended beyond test scores. The discussion also proposed curricular changes, such as the introduction of a geometry support course and a new pathway for IEP students to enhance their learning experiences.

The facilities, buildings, and grounds committee chair expressed gratitude for the work accomplished by the buildings and grounds team. While the budget and negotiations committee had no report, the curriculinstruction and student achievement committee deferred their report to the next meeting.

Board members took the opportunity to share their thoughts and updates. One member extended congratulations and appreciation for the enlightening presentation on student test scores, and another acknowledged the central office staff for their diligent efforts over the summer. Furthermore, the board welcomed a new administrative team member, introduced the new board office secretary, and bid farewell to an outgoing staff member.

Superintendent Philip H. Nisonoff provided an overview of the district’s AP test scores, noting the achievement of 40 AP Scholars and commending the summer preparations by teachers and the admin team for the upcoming school year. Moreover, the business administrator welcomed new staff members and recognized the retirement of a key staff member, underlining the importance of transitions within the district.