03:47Superintendent Dr. Nicole P. Hazel began by addressing the approaching end of the school year and the excitement surrounding the senior class of 2025’s celebrations. However, the focus quickly shifted to the district’s financial difficulties, primarily driven by the S2 funding formula that has cut state aid from approximately $50 million in fiscal year 2019 to $29 million currently. This reduction has forced the district to make tough decisions, including staff cuts proportional to declining student enrollment.

23:52Dr. Hazel emphasized the district’s need to address facility issues identified by the Speasel Architectural Group, with urgent requirements in areas such as mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and roofing systems. The board approved a tax levy incentive aid program to increase expenditures significantly, highlighting the urgency of preparing for a large-scale referendum to tackle these facility priorities.

11:35Assistant Superintendent for Business, Alex Ferrer, provided further insights into the budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. He explained the breakdown into specific funds as mandated by the Department of Education, with a primary focus on Fund 10, the operating budget. Ferrer noted a planned tax levy increase and anticipated enrollment changes, which would slightly boost tuition revenue. The budget also anticipates withdrawals from reserves to support capital projects and maintenance needs, estimating $750,000 and $130,000, respectively.

The board discussed the sustainability of the fund balance and the need for community support and board approval to move forward with the proposed budget and planned initiatives. The conversation highlighted the long-term implications of these financial decisions, emphasizing the need for strategic planning to ensure essential services and facilities for the student body.

39:26A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the district’s administrative costs and their impact on the budget. Despite community concerns about administrative expenses, it was noted that the district’s administrative costs are lower than the New Jersey high school average. Vice principals and other administrators were highlighted as important to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment, playing roles beyond management by supporting teachers and developing curricula.

16:13The district’s local tax levy has had to compensate for state aid reductions, with a representative noting that a 2% tax levy increase is insufficient to keep pace with inflation. The district remains approximately $30.3 million below the adequacy level defined by the Department of Education, necessitating tough choices to maintain operations. The administration suggested a tax levy increase to mitigate the risk of a more impactful future referendum and to address aging infrastructure and other needs.

36:30The conversation also covered staff reductions, with the administration estimating the need to cut around 15 positions due to enrollment declines. The district’s student population has decreased from over 11,700 students in 2008 to just under 10,000 in 2024, requiring staffing adjustments to align with the reduced population.

56:44The meeting addressed personnel changes, including retirements and new appointments. Dr. Ross, principal of Freehold High School, and Robert Shepard, a bus driver, announced their retirements effective in 2025. The board welcomed Mr. Jonathan Tlesco as the new assistant principal at Freehold Township High School, acknowledging his extensive background in education.

01:00:05The meeting concluded with expressions of appreciation for the district’s administrative assistants and teachers, coinciding with Administrative Assistants Day, National Principal Day, and Teacher Appreciation Week. The board looked forward to the next meeting on June 12, where district awards will be presented in person.