05:16The Board president emphasized that these improvements are essential for the safety and well-being of students, stating, “we are in need of spending millions of dollars to make our schools safe for our children.” The referendum’s approval by voters means that the district will receive up to 30% of the necessary funding from the state, contingent on its passage. This translates to approximately $40 million, facilitating vital upgrades across the district’s facilities.

The board has been proactive in engaging the community through several information sessions, which contributed to garnering support from parents, the Board of Education, and a majority of voters. The president also took the opportunity to clarify the distinction between the referendum funding and the regular budget funding, which is typically capped at a 2% increase. This budgetary limitation presents challenges in negotiating contracts, as the district seeks to maintain educational quality without increasing class sizes or reducing staff.

Addressing rumors of outsourcing, the president noted that outsourcing has been a part of the district’s operations for decades and that no new decisions have been made on this front. The discussion focused on existing arrangements with the food vendor, SEXO, and the necessity of security vetting through the Department of Education. The president underscored the importance of increasing instructional time, a factor deemed critical for student performance, and expressed optimism about reaching fair agreements that satisfy both teachers’ and students’ interests.

10:57Adjustmentsttention was also given to the district’s anti-bullying initiatives, particularly a collaborative effort with Freehold Regional High School District. This program involves high school student leaders conducting educational sessions with elementary students, covering topics such as empathy and differentiating bullying from conflict. Now in its second year, the initiative will expand to include fifth graders next year. Feedback from teachers and administrators has been positive, with high school staff advisors acknowledging the program’s success. The board reported eight harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) cases since the last meeting, six of which were deemed founded.

16:58The personnel and policy section of the meeting brought attention to the hiring of James Ascalles as the assistant principal at Dwight D. Eisenhower Middle School. The selection process for this role was competitive, with 120 applicants and multiple rounds of interviews involving various stakeholders. Additionally, the board is in the process of recruiting a new principal for Ericson School, with nearly 60 applicants and hopes to fill the position by July 1.

18:07The curriculum committee updated the board on ongoing educational strategies, including the implementation of middle school math programs and professional development initiatives. These efforts aim to enhance instructional practices and boost student engagement.

19:35On the financial front, the meeting addressed bills and claims totaling over $3.7 million, along with a donation of school supplies from the Freehold Beetle Store. The board also reviewed travel expenses, salary adjustments, and proposals for construction management services related to the newly approved referendum.

13:56As the meeting wrapped up, the board opened the floor for public participation, although no members of the public chose to speak. The meeting concluded without further public input, allowing the board to proceed with its agenda.