The significant loss of state aid prompted a discussion among board members about the impact on the district’s operations and programs. Concerns were raised about the district’s ability to retain students, and there was debate about the funding formula for the Passaic County Technical Institute (PCTI) and its implications for Hawthorne’s budget. Board members expressed frustration over the perceived inequities in the funding formula and the challenges it presents for financial planning. The Superintendent and board members encouraged the community’s involvement in advocacy, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to elected officials to support the district.

In response to the budget cuts, the Finance and Administration Committee discussed the allocation of federal funds for non-public schools and the consequences of the budget reductions on the district. During the debate, there were calls for greater transparency and understanding of the funding allocation process. Additionally, the Legislative Committee reported on a bill aimed at modifying the formula for a district’s local share in the School Funding Reform Act (SFRA) and another bill that would provide tax cap relief for districts facing state aid cutbacks. The board also considered potentially moving the school election back to April, which would allow the district to seek public approval to exceed the 2% budget cap if necessary.

The Superintendent’s report touched on several other issues, including congratulations to winter sports athletes for their achievements and the broadcasting department’s success in securing a grant for film equipment. The Superintendent also noted upcoming school events and celebrations.

During the public comments portion, citizens engaged with the board on educational matters. Questions were raised about the NJLA test and before and after school assistance for students, with the board confirming that such assistance was being offered at Washington School and possibly at Jefferson School.

The meeting also recognized the contributions of staff and volunteers. Board members celebrated the retirement of a long-serving principal and the filling of a clerk’s position, expressing their best wishes for the retiring principal’s future endeavors. Additionally, gratitude was shown toward a retiring staff member and a volunteer coach, and updates were provided on the search for replacement staff, which had yielded 73 applicants and 16 interviews.

Several resolutions were approved without debate, including those for sports programs, as recommended by the Committee on Curriculum and Instruction. The Buildings and Grounds Committee reported on facilities maintenance, including wind screens at the middle school, gas pipe installations, brick facade repairs at the high school, and a discussion about a Vape detection system at LMS and the high school.

Student council representatives and various associations provided updates on school events, honors, and community initiatives. Updates included upcoming NJ GPA testing for juniors, a spring fundraiser, honor society inductions, a Community Food Drive, and an event with the Harlem Wizards. Recognition was given to a student who received the Passaic County unsung hero award and to another who was accepted into a 3+3 program at Seton Hall University. The CPAC and PTO discussed fundraisers and activities, and new programs at Bergen Community College were announced to support students with disabilities.

Other topics touched upon during the meeting included policy revisions with 14 policy updates and the abolishment of one redundant policy. The board engaged in a reading of a policy alert and discussed various bills, including one related to New Jersey’s open public records act and another regarding autism college connection programs at Bergen Community College.