One item at the meeting was the board’s proposal to rename the Coordinated Arts Program for Primary Students (CAPS) to the “Cole CAPS Program,” in honor of Larry Cole. The proclamation read during the meeting emphasized his legacy, noting that both his influence on the program and the foundation’s work resonate deeply and will continue to do so in the future. This renaming is set to be formally approved later in the agenda.

In addition to the recognition of Mr. Cole, the board celebrated various accomplishments of students and staff. Dr. Danielle Freriedenthal was acknowledged for her leadership in the Burlington County Principals and Supervisors Association, an accolade supported by her principal. Among the students, Isabelle Hurley was recognized as the grand champion of the 2025 Berlin County Soil Conservation District poster competition. Her work, titled “Grow your heart at home and help your habitat,” was inspired by her sister, who had previously won the same award.

Another student, Elellaniia Oria, was honored as one of ten students in the Philadelphia region recognized by the Philadelphia Affiliates organization as an all-star student. Her teacher, Miss Delfino, was commended for nominating her. Carly Sepansky received the Leroy Homer Jr. Memorial Award, further highlighting the diverse range of achievements by students within the district.

The meeting also spotlighted student achievements in mathematics, with top scores recognized across various grade levels. Vincent Gallo achieved the highest fifth-grade score district-wide, and several other students were acknowledged for their performances. The board praised these students’ hard work and dedication, noting that some had participated in a trip to Great Adventure earlier that day, which was both a rewarding and exhausting experience.

In a continuation of recognition, Rice Elementary School was celebrated for securing first place in the New Jersey South 2025 stock market game. Students Phoenix Dean, Josiah “Jojo” Williams, Macy Dowardy, Olivia Saunders, Ava D., and Edward Cook were among those congratulated for their accomplishments. The meeting also shifted focus to sports achievements, with the softball coaches and their team, who won a championship on school grounds, being acknowledged. The coaches expressed gratitude for community support, describing the field as the “loudest” in South Jersey and recognizing the contributions of Tucko Turf and the grounds crew for their improvements.

The board also recognized the Martin Middle School boys’ lacrosse team for their undefeated season, with players and coaches sharing their experiences and successes. Further, the Stat club, a student organization aiding in technology education, was highlighted for its initiatives, including organizing workshops and events like the MMS Steam night and the Jagged Science Expo. The club’s advisors emphasized the club’s decade-long operation and its positive impact on the school community.

Dr. Justin Smith, the superintendent, provided a report emphasizing the culmination of the school year and student achievements. He expressed gratitude for the staff’s hard work and highlighted the transition of eighth graders to high school. Administrative items, along with curriculum, finance, and personnel motions, were approved unanimously, with no opposition noted.