Bernards School Board Addresses Class Sizes, Facility Updates, and Special Programs

Overview: The Bernards School Board meeting highlighted community concerns regarding large class sizes, particularly in the fifth grade, with numbers reaching up to 27 students per class. The issue was raised by several community members, including Desiree Noland and the Patels, who emphasized the challenges large class sizes pose for teachers and students alike. Erin Rowan, a concerned parent, shared her son’s struggle with math due to the crowded classroom environment. The board acknowledged these concerns and discussed efforts to align staffing with enrollments while adhering to class size guidelines.

Bernards School Board Faces $5 Million Budget Shortfall

Overview: The Bernards School Board recently convened to address a projected $5 million budget shortfall, sparking discussions on potential tax increases, the use of banked cap, and careful scrutiny of district expenditures. The budgetary constraints were a primary focus, with transportation and out-of-district tuition costs contributing to the financial challenges. The board considered the implications of administrative and instructional staff cuts or reassignments and the impact on instructional time and tax rates.

Bernards School Board Elects New President, Addresses Schedule Changes and Committee Structures

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Bernards School Board witnessed the election of Tim Salmon as the new board president and Jennifer White as vice president. Amidst organizational changes, the board engaged in a discussion about the potential impacts of a double-tiered schedule for school start times on students’ well-being and academic performance. The meeting also explored the structure of board committees and celebrated student activities.