The board presented a special commendation to Alonzo Bland, an eighth-grade student who excelled in the New Jersey Special Olympics, securing gold and bronze medals in swimming, and participating in soccer and bowling. His involvement in the school band and academic accomplishments were also celebrated. Board members and the superintendent lauded Alonzo for his achievements.

The superintendent’s address highlighted recent graduation ceremonies at Hillside High School and the Hillside Innovation Academy, commending the students on their achievements and the transition to the next educational stage. The superintendent acknowledged the role of teachers, staff, and parents in student support and set forth the goal of preparing students for life after secondary education. The report also included the superintendent’s expression of gratitude to various contributors to the district and the importance of mental health, especially in July.

Additionally, the superintendent outlined the district’s aspirations for elementary schools to achieve blue ribbon status by 2027, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to attain this accolade and prepare students for academic success.

During the meeting, the principal discussed the district’s goal to achieve 100% proficiency in reading and math for first-grade students. The principal reported a 51% proficiency in English Language Arts and a 39% proficiency in math. The principal also highlighted the importance of parental involvement and announced an enrollment of 500 students for the upcoming year.

The public comments section of the meeting featured several community members who expressed their appreciation for the district’s educators and administration. One individual commended the teachers for their dedication and impact, while another congratulated the superintendent for receiving the Friend of Education award from the Union County Education Association. Additionally, the board was thanked for their support and presence at various school events.

One speaker during public comments called for a reconsideration of the role of technology in education, advocating for traditional learning methods, such as reading physical books. Another community member praised a new hire at Hillside High School for their role in achieving a record number of graduates.

The meeting also addressed various committee meetings, an executive session, and social events for students, including an ice cream social. In closing, the board members expressed their gratitude to educators and wished everyone a safe and enjoyable summer, followed by a motion to adjourn the meeting.