The meeting’s central topic was the recognition of March Students of the Month, celebrating young achievers from various schools in the district. Assistant Superintendent Sandra Rodriguez Gomez expressed excitement about this segment, emphasizing its inspirational role for students and peers alike. Among those honored, Hannah Mley from Hoboken High School stood out for her academic excellence and leadership in extracurricular activities. Vice Principal Pon introduced her as a role model who excels in Advanced Placement and pre-AP classes and shines in the theater and music departments. Hannah’s achievements include a first-place award in a musical theater ensemble competition and consistent recognition on the high honor roll.

Ver Kapoor from Brandt Elementary School was celebrated for his kindness and empathy, earning respect for his supportive nature academically and socially. His teacher praised his ability to listen without judgment and motivate peers. Ver expressed his affection for Brandt School, stating, “Brandt school is a good school I really like my school.”

At Thomas G. Connors Elementary School, Kylie Olivier was introduced as a positive and loving student excelling academically, particularly in social studies. Her teachers noted her exceptional growth in reading and writing, and her aspiration to become a teacher inspired by her own educators.

Isabelle Sakansky from Wallace Elementary School was recognized for her academic dedication and exemplary social behavior. Her teachers praised her kindness, love for reading, and role in fostering a positive classroom environment. Lastly, Hoboken Middle School’s Stefan Jobski was lauded for his positive attitude and initiative, earning a lead role in the district show “Newsies” and recognized as a supportive peer.

Beyond student recognition, the meeting addressed facility protocols. The board reviewed the approval process for facility use, emphasizing the necessity of formal sponsorship and insurance coverage to prevent liability issues. Some events were not approved due to these requirements. Ongoing projects, such as the high school boiler replacement and stadium locker room renovations, were progressing well under favorable weather conditions.

In the realm of school programming, Superintendent Dr. Christine Johnson reported on various district initiatives, including a successful educational journey to South Africa as part of the Classroom Without Walls program and the positive start of athletic programs at both high school and middle school levels. Additionally, Dr. Johnson announced upcoming events like the Teen Arts Festival and district musical “Newsies,” with collaborative performances scheduled for the waterfront.

Public comments raised issues about transparency and accountability. Patricia Waiters, a resident and former union president, expressed concerns about facility use approval processes and financial dealings between the Hoboken Public Education Foundation and the district. She urged for scrutiny and transparency to avoid perceptions of “pay to play.” Issues related to the handling of contracts and respect for union matters were also discussed, with the board clarifying the independent operation of the Hoboken Public Education Foundation.

Another resident, Manuel Ria Soler, addressed public health communications and facility repair timelines. He emphasized the need for transparency in health-related issues and sought clarity on the historic building’s repair schedule. Soler also requested assurance of public engagement during the upcoming budget presentation.