The meeting commenced with the certification of the 2024 School Board election results. The certified candidates were Roxan Cerna with 1,153 votes, Carlos Moczo with 945 votes, and Lisha Johnson with 154 votes. Following this, the newly elected board members were sworn in, taking oaths to uphold the U.S. Constitution and the New Jersey Constitution. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by several community members, including local officials such as Assemblywoman Suter and Mayor Michael Johnson. This significant event underscored the community’s engagement with and support for the school board.

Assemblywoman Suter addressed the board and attendees, congratulating the new board members and highlighting the critical role they play in ensuring quality education. Her remarks resonated with the attendees, as she stated, “The job that you have before you is protecting our children, setting up a curriculum… it is thanks to the teachers and each of you who make the commitment to show up to do the work without pay but for commitment and heart.”

The meeting continued with the election of a new board president and vice president, which involved nominations followed by a roll call vote. After a brief break for photographs and informal interactions, the board reconvened. The new board president expressed eagerness for collaboration in the upcoming year and reiterated a commitment to the district’s strategic goals aimed at enhancing student success. The president also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing vice president, noting, “He has been a solid vice president for the last two years.”

The meeting also touched on a moment of remembrance for Shirley Scher, a long-time cafeteria aide at Haledon Public Schools, who recently passed away. The board expressed condolences to her family, acknowledging her over 40 years of service to the school community.

Several logistical points were discussed, including the scheduling of board ethics training, which was postponed to the next meeting due to a scheduling conflict. The importance of this training was emphasized, particularly for the new board members. There was also an introduction of a new virtual attendance policy to be reviewed in subsequent meetings.

Committee reports followed, with discussions on personnel, management, curriculum, and technology, all of which received unanimous approval. A proposal for a professional wrestling fundraiser, a successful event in previous years, was suggested to be held again in April or May, and received general support from the board.

The meeting also addressed the importance of maintaining transparency and compliance with public meeting laws. A board member advised against email communications that could create a quorum, stressing the need for official communications to go through the board secretary. This was a reminder to ensure that all school business is conducted within the bounds of the law, avoiding any misunderstandings.

The discussion on new and old business included a reminder of the upcoming PTA’s casino night, a significant fundraising event. Board members were encouraged to support the event through donations. The importance of adhering to public records laws was also highlighted, with a consensus that confidentiality regarding students and staff should be paramount in communications.