25:49The most notable portion of the meeting revolved around the presentation of the New Jersey Graduate Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA) results. Assistant Superintendent Rosemary Marks and Director of Curriculum and Instruction Jennifer Laneski reported on the results from the spring 2025 administration, highlighting both successes and areas in need of improvement. The NJGPA, designed to assess 11th and 12th-grade students’ readiness for graduation, revealed that while Hackensack achieved a 99.5% participation rate, only 33.8% of students met readiness standards in math compared to 75% in ELA. This disparity underscored the necessity for enhanced mathematical support.

39:37The presentation detailed the performance of various student groups, revealing that economically disadvantaged students and those in general education had similar graduation readiness rates, while multilingual learners and special education students faced greater challenges, especially in math. The data prompted a discussion on the need for targeted intervention strategies, including small group instruction and the use of educational platforms like Alex for math, to address these gaps.

Responding to these concerns, the board outlined intervention strategies aimed at supporting students who do not meet graduation readiness standards. These strategies included retaking assessment components, utilizing alternative competency tests, and engaging in a portfolio appeal process. Emphasis was placed on scaffolding practices to improve argumentative writing, reading comprehension, and algebraic reasoning.

04:20In addition to the focus on academic performance, the meeting marked the introduction of the new board member, Michael Jones. After taking the oath of office, Jones was congratulated by attendees, who expressed confidence in his ability to contribute positively to the board, given his deep-rooted connection to the Hackensack community.

47:50The meeting also included updates on various operational aspects of the district. The superintendent’s report highlighted current enrollment figures and addressed the harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) report, noting six cases, with one founded and five unfounded. Additionally, the district received a $24,000 grant from the Schools for Trees program.

58:45The personnel committee presented several items, including the introduction of a part-time technology assistant position for high school seniors and recent graduates. The finance committee, led by Vice President Stein, addressed budgetary resolutions, explaining the necessity of approving previously underbudgeted expenditures from the last school year to comply with New Jersey law.

01:10:13Community engagement initiatives were also a topic of discussion, with plans for a community health fair and a town hall meeting designed to engage residents in setting priorities and interests for the district. The board emphasized the importance of these events in fostering communication and collaboration with the community.

01:12:15The meeting concluded with public comments and expressions of gratitude from various board members, who reflected on recent school ceremonies and acknowledged the efforts of staff and administrators during a period of transition. As the board prepares for the upcoming school year, members reiterated their commitment to providing quality education and maintaining transparency with the public.