Berkeley Heights School Board Expresses Support for Open Campus Privilege for Seniors Amid Discussions on Academic Performance and Student Clubs

Overview: The Berkeley Heights School Board meeting covered topics including the support for open campus privileges for seniors, the decline in standardized test scores, and the establishment of the Prism Club.

Berkeley Heights School Board Faces Controversy Over Prism Club Rejection

Overview: The Berkeley Heights School Board meeting was predominantly occupied by the discussion of the Prism Club’s rejection, the hiring of a new director of Elementary Education Intervention, and the debate over the Lower Columbia field lease agreement. The board was confronted with community pushback regarding the decision not to fund the Prism Club, a proposed safe space for LGBTQ+ students within the district.

Berkeley Heights School Board Tackles Athletic Facilities and Surplus Funds

Overview: The Berkeley Heights School Board convened to deliberate on matters including the fate of surplus funds, updates to athletic facilities, staffing concerns, and public unrest regarding the dismissal of a popular coach. Community engagement was high as residents voiced their concerns over these and other issues.

Berkeley Heights School Board Tackles Superintendent Search and Safety Policies

Overview: The Berkeley Heights School Board meeting addressed issues, including the selection of a superintendent search firm and the contentious policy 8600, dealing with hazardous roads for student transportation. The board approved the appointment of the New Jersey School Board Association as the superintendent search firm, capped at a $15,000 budget. Simultaneously, policy 8600 sparked rigorous debate, emphasizing student safety, equity, and the proper assessment of hazardous routes.

Berkeley Heights School Board Plans Overhaul of Math Program

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Berkeley Heights School Board, a plan to revitalize the mathematics department was the central topic of discussion. The proposed professional development plan, aimed at addressing a loss of faith in the instructional program in mathematics post-COVID, was presented with a budget of $17,500. This plan includes two full-day teacher trainings, monthly math department meetings, and collaborative planning release time for teachers. The focus is set on rebuilding trust, balancing technology with instructional delivery, and enhancing collective teacher efficacy, as well as supporting student well-being.