- NJ
- Essex County
- 3/18/24
- 03/18/2024
- 325 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting resolved with the approval of a $30 million bond for renovations at South Orange Middle School and Columbia High School. The bond, which faced detailed scrutiny and required a revised draft, aims to address significant capital projects including the contentious installation of artificial turf on Ritzer Field, and concerns about the functionality of an elevator at Columbia High School.
- NJ
- Essex County
- 3/14/24
- 03/14/2024
- 196 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The South Orange-Maplewood School Board, in its recent meeting, addressed a budget deficit of $9.6 million, leading to discussions on various cost-cutting measures and potential impacts on district resources. The board deliberated on the necessity of a reduction in force, which could result in cutting 30 to 40 positions to help alleviate the shortfall. The proposed budget also included an additional $1 million in state aid, focusing on contractual increases, tuition, transportation, and other expenditures.
- NJ
- Essex County
- 2/29/24
- 02/29/2024
- 342 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: At the recent South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting, the need for repairs to the Columbia High School (CHS) stage dominated the discussion, as students and community members advocated for swift action to address the deteriorating conditions that threaten the school’s robust arts programs. The impassioned pleas from the CHS community, which underscored the stage’s critical role in numerous events and the educational experiences of its students, were a focal point.
- NJ
- Essex County
- 1/25/24
- 01/25/2024
- 285 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: In the latest South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting, the issue of installing artificial turf at Ritzer Field took center stage. While some advocated for the project, citing improved playing conditions for student athletes, others voiced serious environmental and safety concerns. Additionally, the board addressed various topics including student achievements, staff transitions, and updates on construction and curriculum.
- NJ
- Essex County
- 1/4/24
- 01/04/2024
- 123 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: In a recent South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting, notable topics included the election of new board officers with Dr. Qawi Telesford as president, the debate over the superintendent search firm selection, and the strong community support for a student walkout in solidarity with Palestine. The meeting was a platform for community engagement, with numerous public comments addressing the board’s approach to student activism and ethical leadership.