25:08A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the discussion surrounding the fiscal 2026 budget. The board faced the challenge of balancing the budget amidst a complex financial landscape, primarily due to the constraints of state aid funding. The administration acknowledged the hard work that went into preparing the budget, which began long before formal meetings in February. State aid was a focal point, as the lack of a consistent funding formula resulted in districts like Galloway experiencing underfunding, despite receiving a $1.6 million net effect from state aid. The board expressed gratitude for this amount, yet highlighted that it was only about half of what the district truly needed.

The proposed budget included a potential tax levy increase. The maximum additional expenditure request was noted at $7.5 million, but the board decided against utilizing this full amount to avoid burdening local taxpayers excessively. Instead, the board presented a balanced budget that adhered to a 2% tax levy cap and partially used a bank cap, amounting to $315,000. This resulted in a modest increase of approximately $30 annually for an average assessed home valued at $200,000. Efforts were made to identify efficiencies within the budget, particularly in light of a $600,000 shortfall. The administration attributed their success in managing the budget to the diligent work of the business office and administrative staff.

34:39Following the presentation, the board members unanimously approved the budget.

15:06In addition to budget discussions, the meeting celebrated student achievements, particularly in the realm of science. Students from Galloway Township Middle School (GTMS) excelled at various science fairs, including the Jersey Shore Science Fair and the Delaware Valley Science Fair. Notably, Jamie’s project “Concentration Chaos” won first place at the Jersey Shore Science Fair, while Amore Isa’s engineering project on feedback systems for the visually impaired received first place at Jersey Shore and an honorable mention at Delaware Valley, along with special awards from engineering organizations.

01:13The meeting also highlighted the contributions of Amala Isa, president of the GTMS student council, who provided an overview of the council’s activities throughout the school year. The council engaged in a variety of initiatives, including a 911 memorial event, a canned goods food drive, and a diversity night that brought the community together through food, music, and culture. Amala stated that the council had a busy year but did not require additional assistance from the board.

04:47Recognition was also given to Debbie Summers, named a “friend of education” for her extensive volunteer work within the district. To honor her contributions, the board decided to plant a maple tree on her behalf, involving student participation. Summers, an advocate for the Go Green initiative, mentioned a reusable bag contest that garnered over 400 entries, with a winning design to be featured at an upcoming green market event.

The emphasis on student involvement, community engagement, and the pursuit of excellence in education were recurring themes.

36:11The meeting concluded with routine approvals of curriculum and instruction items, finance and facilities matters, and personnel items. Notably, Dr. Paul was acknowledged for her tenure with the district as she transitioned to her new role as superintendent in the Mullica School District. The board expressed appreciation for her contributions and wished her well.