The meeting started with recognition of Tracey St. Auburn for her nine years of service. The board members, including Superintendent Dirk Phillips, expressed their admiration for St. Auburn’s dedication and service. Plans were also announced to honor her by planting a tree in the spring.

The Superintendent’s search was another key topic, with Phillips providing an update on the process, including the publication of a timeline and the receipt of promising resumes. The board also discussed the implementation of phonics and phonemic awareness programs at Forest Avenue School and recognized several staff members for their 25 years of service.

Superintendent Phillips recognized the Visual and Performing Arts program, the CAD and engineering program, and the annual student art show. He also praised Tia Gist, a health and physical education teacher and athletic trainer, for her dedication to student athletes. The board welcomed Paul Lurch from Lurch Vinci and Bliss, who presented a summary of the audit report. Lurch reported that the district ran well with minor issues related to coding of expenditures and student activities and athletics.

Shiong Jang, a high school teacher, was also recognized by Phillips as the Educator of the Year by the New Jersey Chinese Teacher Association. Phillips provided an update on the tutoring grant targeted for third and fourth graders. The board concluded with a public comment period for agenda items only.

The meeting also addressed issues in the curriculum and school activities. Among the issues was the use of the Language Learning Network to teach Spanish, with concerns raised by a parent about the program’s effectiveness. The district acknowledged the importance of having a live teacher and expressed hope for legislative changes to make certification in World languages more accessible.

A parent raised concern over the reporting and tracking of bullying incidents. The district reassured the parent that they tracked and reviewed all incidents and emphasized its commitment to addressing bullying, supporting both victims and perpetrators, and involving parents in the process.