One notable issue addressed was the presentation of the New Jersey graduation proficiency assessment test results. Superintendent Kristina Susca reported that 89.2% of 11th-grade students in Highland Park were deemed graduation-ready in English language arts, surpassing the state average of 80.5%. The mathematics proficiency stood at 69.2%, also exceeding the state average of 55%. The board dissected these results, focusing on subgroup performance and the disparities between ELA and math scores. They discussed intervention strategies, including after-school mentoring, teacher professional development, and enhancing school culture to combat chronic absenteeism. Additionally, the district plans to implement common benchmarks and add support classes in geometry and Algebra 2 for at-risk students, with a holistic approach to student support.

The meeting also shone a light on the disparities in student access to rigorous coursework. Dr. Monique Coleman voiced concerns about interventions for students with disabilities, prompting Superintendent Susca to outline a plan for professional development in co-teaching models and expansion of successful classes. The board deliberated on the impact of scheduling conflicts at the middle school level, which affected students’ ability to take world language classes. Creative solutions, such as hiring a part-time dance, theater, and theater teacher, were discussed to ease these conflicts.

Further, the board explored the potential of dual enrollment with Middlesex College, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity for students to earn college credits through hybrid courses taught by college professors at the high school. Courses of interest included gaming design and computer science, with additional non-degree bearing certificate programs like phlebotomy to enhance career readiness. Middlesex College’s support for first-generation students was also commended, highlighting the need for early communication with students about these opportunities.

The Equity and Excellence Community committee presented proposals to address accessibility issues in AP and honors cohort classes and reviewed the online life choices curriculum. They tackled the challenges of providing adequate support and activities due to staffing constraints and discussed the importance of community resources in promoting equity.

Financial and facilities updates were also a focal point, with the board reviewing the district’s financial status, grants received for school improvements, and the progress of playground and modular classroom constructions. They discussed the referendum for building additional classrooms to expand the Pre-K program and addressed the ongoing preparations for the next school year, including the frustration over the delayed delivery of modular classrooms.

The meeting recognized the efforts of John Flanagan and Anthony Sirois in playground improvements and addressed personnel matters, including the approval of new hires and additional hours for existing staff. The board also approved various funding allocations, such as the appointment of a speech therapist for the Educational Services Department.

Public comments reflected gratitude for board initiatives and raised concerns about transparency in board deliberations. The board clarified the legal requirements for executive sessions.

Lastly, the board discussed the process for filling the vacancies left by the resignations of Chris Woodward and Mark Krieger. Candidates will present introductory speeches, and the board will select new members based on their responses to provided prompts. The importance of community involvement in the board’s work was underlined, with a call for candidates to step forward.