The most pressing topic of the meeting revolved around the financial challenges faced by the district due to the S2 funding cuts. Superintendent Michael J. Volpe highlighted the financial implications for Hillsborough, noting that it is the only school district in Somerset County experiencing such funding reductions. The Superintendent urged community members to participate in a scheduled meeting on January 8th in Somerville to voice their concerns about the proposed changes to the school funding reform law. He emphasized the importance of strong representation from Hillsborough to advocate for fair funding.

In discussing the budgetary constraints, the Superintendent expressed the difficulty of constructing a budget without complete data from the state. He advocated for the creation of a portal that would allow the district better access to necessary information as it becomes available. This would enable the district to plan more effectively and address any potential financial shortfalls. The board welcomed this proposal as a means to streamline the budgeting process and reduce uncertainty.

The meeting also touched upon the adoption of the new meeting schedule, which included discussions regarding the need for additional meetings to accommodate budget discussions and community engagement. A board member, identified as Miss Nurse, highlighted March as a critical month for budget deliberations. Similarly, the importance of having two meetings in October was emphasized to address concerns arising at the start of the school year.

Community engagement was a recurring theme, with proposals for community engagement nights in January, February, March, April, May, and June. This initiative aimed at providing more opportunities for public input and ensuring the community’s concerns are addressed. The revised meeting schedule was eventually approved by a majority vote.

In a moment of recognition, the Superintendent congratulated Hillsborough High School students Ava Quinn and Shy Gavi for their acceptance into the 2025 All Eastern Choir Ensemble. He also acknowledged the Raider Marching Band’s achievement in being declared the 2024 Group 5 Open New Jersey State Champions, with plans to formally recognize them in a future meeting.

The board’s Human Resources section took a somber turn when it acknowledged the untimely passing of Jose Chicas, a dedicated custodian with the Hillsborough Township Public Schools. Board members expressed their condolences and recognized his contributions to the school community. This section also covered routine matters such as retirements, resignations, appointments, transfers, and leaves of absence, all of which were approved.

Operational motions included approval of monthly bills, designation of the public agency compliance officer, and acceptance of donations. A question was raised regarding the absence of bills typically presented at the second meeting of the month, to which it was clarified that only an EasyPass tag bill was present to avoid a late fee.

The public comments segment invited community feedback on agenda items and broader school or district issues. The board reminded attendees that the public forum is a platform for expressing thoughts rather than a question-and-answer session.