Freehold Regional School Board Confronts Anti-Semitism Concerns at Graduation Event
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
07/18/2024
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Recording Published:
07/19/2024
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Duration:
108 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Colts Neck, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold Borough, Freehold Township, Howell, Manalapan, Marlboro
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Freehold Regional School Board meeting, one notable issue discussed was the public’s concern regarding an incident at the Manalapan High School graduation. A student displayed symbols associated with Hamas alongside a Palestinian flag, which a community member criticized as a depiction of hate and violence, equating it to genocide, murder, rape, beheading, and anti-Semitism. This led to a broader discussion among the attendees about the school’s response to the event, highlighting the need for a clear and explicit denouncement of actions that propagate hate.
The discussion revealed a disappointment in the principal’s letter following the event, which some felt failed to adequately condemn the display of anti-Semitic sentiment. The board acknowledged the gravity of the situation, with voices emphasizing the school’s responsibility in instilling values of respect and tolerance in its students.
Aside from addressing the incident at Manalapan High School, the board meeting covered topics related to school operations and policy. A notable decrease in school violence, vandalism, and substance abuse was reported, which was attributed to the concerted efforts of students, staff, and administrators, as well as the implementation of programs like the pathways to respect. The board also reviewed the confirmed cases of harassment, intimidation, and bullying, noting a substantial decrease from the previous year. Contributions from student groups like peer leadership and lead for diversity were recognized as factors contributing to these positive outcomes.
In terms of school funding, the board faced the challenges of a budget impacted by state aid funding cuts. The discussion centered on the financial position of the Freehold Regional School District and the potential cut of $10.8 million in state aid for the upcoming budget due to the funding formula. An amended budget was presented, reflecting legislation aimed at restoring positions cut due to these funding issues. The debate on the district’s ability to access its local fair share of taxes was a critical point, with the board considering the possibility of exceeding the 2% cap on the property tax levy. This consideration was made in light of the district’s below-average spending relative to other districts in the state and the county, and the challenges posed by the funding formula in determining the ability of the community to afford property taxes.
The complexities of the school funding formula and the impact of the S2 bill were addressed, highlighting the significant loss of state aid over the years. The business administrator and assistant superintendent provided an overview of the challenges faced by the district in relation to the budget adequacy. Efforts to mitigate the funding shortfall through legislative measures were discussed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a high standard of education for the students.
The board also announced the addition of an executive session to discuss an HIV appeal, a shared services agreement with Marlboro Township, and personnel issues. An upcoming vacancy on the board was noted, with the deadline for applications set for August 16th. Furthermore, the superintendent reported on the graduation of 2,559 students and efforts to curtail the use of cell phones among students.
Presentations during the meeting included a State Testing report and the Access for ELLs test, focusing on data analysis to identify areas of improvement and strength. Student safety data systems for the second half of the school year showed a significant drop in major incidents, credited to the administrators and building principals’ efforts in setting behavioral expectations.
Dr. Nicole P. Hazel
School Board Officials:
Peter Bruno, Michael Messinger, Carl Accettola, Jamie Bruno, Diana Cappiello, Elizabeth Higley, Kathie Lavin, Amanda McCobb, Marc Parisi
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
07/18/2024
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Recording Published:
07/19/2024
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Duration:
108 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Highly Noteworthy
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Colts Neck, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold Borough, Freehold Township, Howell, Manalapan, Marlboro
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