The annual audit report was a focal point of the meeting, with the auditor presenting an unmodified opinion on the district’s financial statements, the highest level of assurance that can be provided. The auditor commended the district for its strong internal controls and adherence to New Jersey laws and regulations. In response, the board expressed their gratitude to the finance department for its diligence and professionalism, which have been instrumental in maintaining the district’s financial stability.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the district’s unreserved and undesignated surplus funds. Clarity was sought on how these funds would be used in the upcoming 2024-2025 budget, and it was confirmed that they would be incorporated into the finance department’s budget planning for the next fiscal year. The board members unanimously supported the finance department’s management of these surplus funds and praised their dedication.

Another important topic at the meeting was the upcoming superintendent search for another district, with one board member reporting on their collaborative meeting to identify the qualities desired in the next superintendent. This board member shared the outcomes of the meeting and thanked the other district for the opportunity to participate in the process. The Franklin School Board showed support for the collaborative efforts and expressed a keen interest in the progress of the superintendent search.

The board also reviewed the adoption of the 2024-2025 student calendar. Superintendent Troy Walton highlighted that the professional development days would be scheduled before Labor Day, and the board discussed the importance of aligning the school calendar with best practices. Board member Greg Smith noted the past concerns from parents regarding calendar discrepancies between districts and acknowledged the efforts to achieve alignment.

During the superintendent’s presentation, the education items I1 through I6, which included the student calendar, were approved following the discussion. The meeting proceeded to address operations items, which encompassed enrollment figures, attendance records, and safety drills. After raising questions and discussing specific items, the board moved to approve the operations items.

Regionalization was a key issue, with board members sharing insights from a recent regionalization presentation they attended. They emphasized the need to consider educational equity in the regionalization process and discussed exploring various options and organizations before making any final decisions. The possibility of Franklin and Delcy merging again was raised by a member of the public. In response, the board informed attendees that a feasibility study was being conducted, with results expected to be shared in April.

The board contemplated investments in new school buses, with Superintendent Walton suggesting that leasing might be a more cost-effective approach. This spurred a conversation about the technological and financial aspects of updating the bus fleet.

Additionally, the meeting served as an occasion to formally welcome new board members Mary Petsch Wilson, Alicia Fragoso, and Greg Smith, who were sworn into office. The board also took a moment to recognize the achievements of educators Miss Hens, Miss K, Mr. DeSantis, and Miss Selfridge, who received the Governor’s Teacher of the Year Awards. Each educator was celebrated for their dedication to inspiring a love for learning and their contributions to their school communities.