29:38The most notable discussion at the meeting centered around the approval of a tentative budget that proposes a 9.3% tax increase on the school district portion of taxes. This increase utilizes bank cap provisions and accounts for healthcare adjustment costs. The board emphasized the urgency of submitting this budget to the county, assuring members that this figure is preliminary and could be adjusted before the final approval scheduled for May 6th. One member clarified that adopting this tentative budget would allow the district to meet its responsibilities, making it eligible for potential additional state funding through a tax levy incentive program.

Board members debated the implications of the tax increase, with some focusing on specific line items, such as homeless tuition costs. These costs refer to students from Haddon Township who have moved to another district, and the board is obligated to cover their tuition. Questions were asked about an investment account opened to manage bond funds. Another safety concern addressed was the mercury found in locker room flooring, which the board plans to handle during spring break with necessary precautions.

0:00In addition to financial matters, the meeting highlighted the superintendent’s report, which covered recent developments and praised the district’s accomplishments. The state monitoring system CQAC evaluated the district and received positive feedback from Carmen Rodriguez, the Camden County Executive County Superintendent.

Student achievements were a prominent theme, with plans to recognize distinguished athletes at the April meeting. The Visual and Performing Arts department was also commended for its March Pops interstellar night event. The event was described as a “phenomenal labor of love and talent,” raising $6,600 to support the program. Student representatives from the high school and middle school shared updates on various events and initiatives, such as a recent Wellness Week organized by the Herring Club to promote substance awareness. Activities included a basketball tournament and a guest speaker, Joe Owens, who shared his recovery journey. Students also participated in a ‘phone-free Friday’ to engage more deeply with peers.

Middle school representatives reported on events like a Holocaust assembly focusing on Anne Frank’s story and a strong turnout for a recent track meeting. They also shared upcoming events, including a dance for sixth and seventh graders and a ‘Rock Socks’ day to raise awareness for Down syndrome. The discussion touched on the ‘No Place for Hate’ initiative to promote a positive school climate, alongside a student survey on school climate, which highlighted areas for improvement, particularly traffic flow in the eighth-grade hallway.

15:20The meeting also included a presentation from Dr. Don Palano, principal of Vans Skyver Elementary School. Dr. Palano emphasized the importance of building relationships among students, staff, and families. He described Vans Skyver as the largest elementary school in Haddon Township, serving around 350 students, including those with special education needs. The school provides various educational models, such as inclusion and self-contained classrooms, to cater to all students’ needs. Dr. Palano praised the collaborative efforts of the faculty and the important role of paraprofessionals in providing necessary support and promoting independence.

Dr. Palano addressed logistical challenges during arrival and dismissal times due to the high volume of students. He shared that Vans Skyver is set to undergo a redesign of the front of the building as part of a bond referendum project, aimed at improving traffic flow and safety. This redesign includes wider access roads and organized traffic patterns. Dr. Palano expressed his gratitude for the school’s PTA and its contributions to enriching the school community through events like book fairs and assemblies.