During the public comment session, a diverse group of individuals, including students, parents, town officials, and members of the Rotary Club, came forward to support DeSantis. They spoke highly of her dedication, the positive impact she has had on students’ lives, and her extensive involvement in community service projects. DeSantis herself, along with her colleagues and supporters, articulated concerns that her reassignment did not align with her experience and passion for counseling high school students. Some speakers also suggested that her role as a Fair Lawn Education Association representative might have influenced the decision to reassign her, raising questions about the transparency of the board’s decision-making process.

One of the most emphasized points was the potential loss of her expertise and the negative impact on the guidance department and its students, particularly rising seniors. DeSantis has been recognized for her role in charitable causes and the military tribute monument project, as well as her advisory position in the Interact Club. Her reassignment, as argued by supporters, could disrupt the established rapport and support she has provided to the high school students, which is crucial during the college admissions period.

In response to these concerns, the superintendent of schools highlighted the thoughtful consideration that goes into staffing decisions. However, the board’s discussions on the matter revealed a range of perspectives, with one member abstaining from the vote and another expressing reluctance to support the reassignment motion. Despite the strong opposition, the board proceeded with the approval of meeting minutes and various resolutions.

Apart from the central issue of DeSantis’s reassignment, other topics of interest were raised during the meeting. A parent and educator brought up the need for a policy on personal mobile devices in schools, citing distractions and the manipulation of attention by social media as concerns. Meanwhile, gratitude was expressed to the staff and administration of Memorial Middle School, and there was a call for clarity on policies regarding attendance at graduation ceremonies.

The meeting also delved into the relevance of cursive writing in today’s educational curriculum.

Lastly, the board touched upon logistical matters, including the accessibility of materials and agendas for committee meetings, advocating for greater transparency and uniform access to meeting information. There was an announcement about upcoming meetings being moved to Memorial Middle School due to construction and refurbishment at the usual venue, and the board recessed into a closed session to discuss reports, personnel, contracts, and legal matters.