Hawthorne School Board Acknowledges Academic Challenges and Celebrates Student-Driven Fundraiser
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
10/15/2024
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Recording Published:
10/15/2024
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Duration:
112 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Passaic County
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Towns:
Hawthorne
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting of the Hawthorne School Board, members addressed pressing educational challenges, celebrated a successful student-led fundraiser, and discussed ongoing improvements to district facilities. The meeting covered a range of topics, with particular emphasis on academic performance and community engagement.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on the district’s ongoing challenges with mathematics education, particularly concerning Algebra 1. It was noted that this issue is not unique to Hawthorne but is seen statewide, emphasizing the need for foundational skill development. The board discussed the implementation of math labs in middle and high schools to provide supplemental support. These labs are designed to address essential fluency skills, helping students manage current assignments while building foundational knowledge.
The board also addressed the drop-off in performance observed as students transition from eighth to ninth grade.
In a shift from challenges to achievements, the meeting celebrated sophomore Ella Alberta’s initiative in organizing a fundraiser titled “Hawthorne High School Goes Gold for Pediatric Cancer Awareness.” Ella, inspired by her experience with the Tackle Kids Cancer Foundation, collaborated with school administration to raise over $3,000 for pediatric cancer research, exceeding her initial goal of $1,000. The fundraiser, which involved community engagement and support, included a raffle for a signed Eli Manning jersey, donated by Manning himself. The funds were donated to Hackensack University Medical Center.
The academic performance report provided insights into the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments, highlighting gradual improvements in English Language Arts but noting struggles in math. The district’s scores generally outperformed state averages, despite a noted decrease in ninth-grade performance. Attention was drawn to specific subgroups, including economically disadvantaged students and those with disabilities. The report emphasized the importance of targeted interventions and data analysis initiatives to support students in reaching proficiency.
In addition to academic topics, the meeting addressed upcoming facility improvements and community events. The district plans to replace the roof at Roosevelt School, partially funded by a grant, and upgrade the public address system across schools. Efforts are underway to enhance security with a single master key system for all exterior doors and to address drainage issues at Jefferson Elementary School. The board also discussed the upcoming 50th reunion of the 1974 football team, with a fundraising event scheduled for October 26.
The meeting touched on legislative updates, including a new bill signed by Governor Phil Murphy to alleviate bus driver shortages by allowing school personnel to transport students under certain conditions. The board also reviewed personnel resolutions, with several new hires welcomed into various positions and the retirement of a long-standing staff member acknowledged.
Public comments included a focus on breast cancer awareness initiatives at Lincoln Middle School, with a fundraiser planned to purchase a new projector and screen for the gym. The importance of community support for local schools was emphasized, with a request for better communication from Jefferson School.
Dr. Richard A. Spirito
School Board Officials:
Abigail Goff, Alex Clavijo, Joseph Carr, Michael Doyle, Jen Ehrentraut, Erica Mulkey-Koltzan, Anthony Puluse, Jay Shortway, Marco Totaro
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
10/15/2024
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Recording Published:
10/15/2024
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Duration:
112 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Passaic County
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Towns:
Hawthorne
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