A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of a Milestone Award to board member Abigail Goff, recognizing her over 13 years of service to the board and the district. Superintendent Dr. Richard A. Spirito expressed his gratitude for Goff’s contributions, noting her candidacy for another three-year term on the board. This recognition underscored the board’s appreciation for long-standing members who have impacted the district.

Security enhancements were another focal point of the meeting, with Dr. Spirito announcing that Officer Tim Vega would serve as the new District School Resource Officer (SRO) at Lincoln Middle School and Hawthorne High School starting in September 2024. The superintendent emphasized the importance of this role in maintaining a safe learning environment, stating, “his presence will not only enhance our security but will provide students and staff with another trusted adult.” Meetings with law enforcement had been held to outline expectations for the new position, and Officer Vega was expected to engage with the school community through events like new teacher orientation and back-to-school nights.

Additionally, the completion of the final project from the 2019 referendum was reported, which involved asbestos removal in the high school tunnels. Finalized in July, air quality tests confirmed the building’s safety for occupancy. Staff members were diligently preparing the school for the upcoming academic year, having lost a month to the cleaning process.

The superintendent’s report also included preparations for relocating the district’s board office. During the move, historical memorabilia such as scrapbooks and articles were discovered and donated to the local Historical Society. The final steps of the move were anticipated to be completed shortly, with connectivity to the new office being established.

Moreover, the distribution of devices for students in grades six to nine was highlighted. Sixth graders received their devices at the end of their Leadership Camp, with new devices also planned for some teachers. The technology department was commended for their organization in this rollout.

The meeting also noted the commencement of fall sports practice, generating excitement as teams began to prepare for the upcoming season. Leadership Camp was in progress, with approximately 140 incoming sixth graders participating, a significant increase from the previous year. The program, aimed at easing the transition for new students, was credited with reducing anxiety and promoting acclimation to Lincoln Middle School. The superintendent expressed appreciation for local officials and police department members involved in facilitating the camp.

In other updates, the superintendent announced that new teacher orientation was scheduled for August 26 and 27, with approximately 25 new staff members expected. Additionally, nine student teachers from RIPO were noted, building on the partnership established the previous year. The opening days for staff were confirmed as August 28 and 29, with the first day for students on September 3.

A mandated report regarding student safety data revealed a decrease in incidents from 25 in the fall to 19 in the spring of 2024. This included six incidents of violence, seven incidents of substance abuse (down from 15), one weapon incident involving a pocket knife, and five confirmed cases of HIV. The overall reduction in incidents was received positively by the board.

During the committee updates, the Committee on Curriculum and Instruction presented several resolutions. A board member expressed gratitude towards Dr. Trabona and the teachers for their ongoing curriculum improvements over the summer. The finance and administration committee recommended resolutions regarding district finances, including a resolution for a van used for transporting food within the district. This van was replacing one that was non-reparable, emphasizing its importance for food distribution.

The policy committee discussed two resolutions, one of which was a first reading and the other a second reading. The chairperson of the finance and administration committee mentioned that with the completion of the referendum, the bond council would be sorting out final numbers.

Community events were also highlighted, including a classic car and motorcycle show, a fish and chips dinner, and a fishing derby. It was noted that there would be an election on November 6 for three open board seats, with some members indicating their intent to run again.

During the public comment portion, a participant named Toby shared several handouts with information on grants and programs that could benefit the district. He introduced a grant called the N M Loy 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which is intended to help communities establish or expand activities in community learning centers. Toby suggested this grant could align well with the before-school programs offered in light of state testing. He also brought up the Pay County Bank program, which offers municipalities and school districts tax-exempt financing at low-interest rates for various projects. Toby referenced an article from the NJAA review titled “The Power of Representation,” discussing the importance of hiring male teachers of color in education.

The board members extended condolences to the families of recently deceased community members and expressed their wishes for a successful school year. They also acknowledged the community spirit around the achievements of Ethan Ramos, an alumnus who participated in the Olympics, and thanked a teacher, Ms. Bieber, for her ongoing dedication to education.