During the recent meeting, the board provided a thorough presentation of the upcoming referendum, detailing the projects planned for each school. Central High School’s needs encompass roof replacement and HVAC improvements, while Timberlane Elementary School requires roofing, indoor environmental improvements, and site upgrades. Bear Tavern Elementary School’s plans include constructing a pre-K addition, and Hope Elementary School seeks to enhance security and make facilities ADA compliant. The referendum aims to address the district’s pressing infrastructure issues that cannot be funded through the normal budget.

The board also discussed the potential tax impact on households, estimating a range from $500 to $575 per year. The timeline for the referendum process was outlined, with community members expressing concerns about the financial burden and urging transparency in the decision-making process. The board members debated the inclusion of specific projects, such as a turf field, and the use of capital reserves for immediate needs like Central High School’s boiler replacement.

The necessity of the proposed TMS turf field was scrutinized, with cost estimates and upkeep details requested.

The board also tackled the topic of e-learning days, which were introduced to avoid makeup days for snow closures and other emergencies. Superintendent Rosetta D. Treece explained that these days are now built into the calendar and involve enrichment assignments with a two-day submission window upon return to school. However, concerns were raised by community members and board members about the impact of e-learning on student workload and mental health. The board acknowledged the need for better communication and planning around these days to assist parents with childcare arrangements and to consider alternative support methods for students and staff during school closures.

Further discussions encompassed the School Board’s recognition month and the preliminary budget, with emphasis on the budget timeline and key dates for deliberation. The board stressed the importance of gauging community perception through surveys and focus groups and the need to evaluate programs, technology, and transportation to both reduce and expand costs.

In terms of educational initiatives, Superintendent Treece highlighted the allocation of funds for STEM facilitators and the development of programs focusing on climate change standards and technology. The superintendent also addressed the number of instructional days and the impact on students, advocating for clear assignments and effective e-learning practices.

The meeting also addressed concerns about the financial burden on taxpayers due to an influx of students from the Township’s housing projects. The effective utilization of pilot program money associated with new housing to support the growing school district was debated.

Finally, the board recognized the retirements of Vincent G and Bonnie Brown for their long service to the district, discussed permanent appointments, and addressed updates to job descriptions for Tech and network administrator roles. The Education Program committee proposed a revamp of the math placement test and explored professional development for implicit biases in STEM classrooms.