West Orange School Board Highlights Academic Success and Expanding Preschool Enrollment

Overview: The West Orange School Board meeting on August 26, 2024, featured discussions on academic performance improvements, significant gains in multilingual learner proficiency, and the expansion of the district’s Universal Pre-K program.

West Orange School Board Honors Retirees and Addresses Community Concerns

Overview: In the recent West Orange School Board meeting, the board addressed a variety of issues ranging from summer program successes to community concerns about academic transparency. The Superintendent extended condolences to the Montclair community for the loss of Dr. Jonathan Pon and reported on the effective operation of summer programs. A community member highlighted the need for transparency in the scholarship application process and the determination of the top 10 students. The financial literacy program received praise, and the board acknowledged the long-term service of retirees Kevin Alvine and Gerard Narcissa.

West Orange School Board Celebrates Student Achievements and Staff Dedication

Overview: The West Orange School Board meeting was marked by the celebration of student achievements, the recognition of staff dedication, and discussions on educational programs amidst funding challenges. Notably, the board presented the Dylan Penel Mountaineer Trailblazer award, recognized the retirement of Gina Velasquez from the special service department, and addressed the discontinuation of the P.A.S.S. scholarship program.

West Orange School Board Faces Budget Cuts and Community Concerns

Overview: The West Orange School Board convened on May 6, 2024, to address a variety of issues, most notably the significant reduction in state aid and its impact on the district’s budget. With a decrease in Equalization Aid and the challenging task of balancing the budget amidst funding cuts, the board faced tough decisions that could potentially affect staff positions, educational programs, and the quality of student services.

West Orange School Board Addresses Library Staff Cuts and Celebrates Student Achievements

Overview: At the recent meeting of the West Orange School Board, the potential reduction of library media specialists within the district’s schools emerged as a primary concern among community members, while the district’s students were recognized for their legislative advocacy. The meeting also featured the presentation of a signed bill by Governor Phil Murphy to the West Orange High School Youth Advisory Board and discussions on school funding and personnel retirements.