The board’s analysis of the district’s performance on the state’s high school graduation readiness assessment in English language arts and mathematics revealed rates higher than state averages. The discussion acknowledged the importance of these scores for meeting graduation requirements and emphasized efforts to revise the curriculum for math and English language arts. Concerns were raised about a noted decline in math scores, with the board debating whether this was due to changes in the assessment or the impact of the pandemic on student learning. The board also highlighted support and intervention strategies for multilanguage learners, including the creation of an immigrant family engagement committee and the development of multilingual profiles.

The meeting delved into the draft of the Strategic plan, outlining four key goals. Specific actionable items were discussed, such as expanding peer mediation programs, increasing communication accessibility, and enhancing academic rigor. There was a debate on the order and priority of goals, with suggestions to align the Strategic plan with board goals and establish benchmarks for each goal. Feedback included concerns about the potential impact of incorporating standardized test-style questions into daily practices on teaching to the test.

The discussion on the district’s capital repairs and maintenance needs stressed the importance of being more strategic about maintenance, evaluating classroom needs based on capacity and demographic studies, and ensuring accessibility of facilities. Security measures, including visitor check-in stations with exterior door locks and procedures for entry into school buildings after hours, were also discussed. Additionally, the board addressed the need to reduce key inventory and upgrade security systems.

Public participation added perspectives on the Strategic plan. Feedback emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to identity-based bullying, promotion of a culture of self and community care, and the importance of data collection on bullying. The intersection of culture, climate, and achievement was discussed, advocating for a focus on rigor and differentiation to address the needs of various student communities. Questions were raised about the inclusion of the expansion of the preschool program and the emphasis on security measures in the Strategic plan, as well as the progress of the pre-K playground area.

The meeting also covered the comprehensive Equity plan statement of assurance for 2024 to 2025, required by the New Jersey Department of Education, and the progress of various facility projects, including the renovation of the baseball field and purchase of network equipment. Personnel matters, communications, and improvements in district event sharing were discussed, highlighting the need to prevent overlapping events and enhance community communication.

Additionally, the meeting addressed policy matters, including policies on cell phone use in schools, a slight change to the organizational chart, and revisions to the immigrant newcomer handbook. Public comments brought up concerns about the completion of the Irving playground project, with suggestions to consider completion during winter break to avoid disruption to the pre-K program.