The most pressing topic of the meeting revolved around school safety, following a recent unfounded rumor at Hampton Middle School that necessitated an investigation by both the school administration and local police. The superintendent assured attendees that students were never in danger and emphasized the district’s thorough protocol for investigating such rumors, encouraging parents to communicate directly with school officials for accurate information. This prompted a broader discussion on how parents can guide their children in safety protocols, with a focus on the “see something, say something” approach.

During the public comment section, Caitlyn Collins, a concerned parent, voiced her apprehensions about school safety. Collins questioned the absence of metal detectors in the schools and proposed a clear backpack policy to prevent the entry of prohibited items. She argued that such measures could be more effective than reactive protocols, stating, “It’s hard for me to understand why we don’t have them other than a cost basis.” In response, the board clarified that the decision against metal detectors was not financially motivated and mentioned that alternative security measures are being explored.

Another parent, Noel Castine, expressed her enthusiasm about starting her role as a pre-K teacher, thanking the board for the opportunity to contribute to the school community. Her excitement was acknowledged, and the board praised her swift preparations for the new school year.

Updates from school principals highlighted a successful start to the new academic year. Mr. Matina from Hammonton High School reported positive feedback from freshman orientation and the inaugural senior sunrise event. He noted the impressive performance of fall sports teams, including the field hockey team’s perfect 4-0 start, and the marching band’s first-place win at a competition. The high school was also preparing for upcoming events such as PSATs, NJ GPA testing, a pep rally, and homecoming.

The principal of another school thanked the board for their support in ensuring a smooth start to the year. Clubs and fall sports were active, with the Go Green Club working on garden projects and a new sewing academy funded by an HF Grant teaching students sewing basics. Upcoming events included a dance, Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, a book fair, and Back to School Night.

Dr. T from the Elementary School expressed satisfaction with the successful orientation for new students and staff. He highlighted the benefits of recent expansions and improvements to the school’s grounds. Back to School Night was planned for September 26, with translators available upon request.

At the Early Childhood Education Center, Dr. S reported on the opening of a new preschool wing and the successful ribbon-cutting ceremony. Adjustments had been made to traffic patterns to accommodate increased student numbers, and further enhancements were planned for streamlined dismissal. The center also introduced a therapy doll named Tater Tod, which had quickly become popular among students.

Superintendent Robin Chieco emphasized the significant increase in community engagement, with regular principals’ attendance at board meetings and outreach initiatives with local organizations. Concerns were raised about traffic and safety during student drop-off and pick-up times at the Early Childhood Center, with measures implemented to increase drop-off points from four to eleven or twelve.

The board also received updates on athletic programs, with the girls’ volleyball team starting the season with a perfect 3-0 record and the field hockey team achieving a 4-0 start. Anthony Lakovic committed verbally to Princeton University for football, and Natalie Claus was recognized as the overall winner in cross-country dual meets.

Mr. Luke, chair of the buildings and grounds committee, reported on the completion of construction at the Early Childhood Center and ongoing projects requiring attention. He expressed gratitude towards local businesses and individuals who contributed to the projects, including free paving services and concrete replacements. The landscaping team received praise for their thorough grooming of school properties.

A point of discussion was the acceptance of a $10,000 grant from the Special Olympics to establish a United Sports Club, promoting inclusive participation in athletics. The negotiations committee reported that the teacher and employee contract was settled in the spring, with ongoing minor edits. A $10,000 wellness package for staff members, funded through health insurance premiums, was discussed as part of efforts to enhance staff wellbeing.