The principal focus of the meeting was the presentation of the 2023-2024 School Climate and Culture Survey results by Principal Ed Brandt. The survey, which included feedback from 673 students, 138 staff members, and 134 families, revealed several positive trends. Notably, there was an 8.8 percentage point increase in students feeling encouraged by their teachers to do their best, and a 6.1% rise in students’ sense of belonging at Hunterdon Central, increasing from 72% to nearly 80%. Brandt highlighted these findings as indicative of a supportive and inclusive school environment. Despite these gains, the survey also identified areas needing improvement, such as the availability of laboratories and restrooms during the school day.

Brandt’s report underscored the importance of collaboration among students, families, and staff. He compared this collaboration to the stability of a triangle, emphasizing that nine out of ten related survey items showed considerable improvement. Brandt also touched upon a slight decline in students feeling safe at school, a point he acknowledged needed further attention. The presentation concluded with an outline of administrative priorities, which included addressing student concerns and involving the Home and School Association in the analysis of the survey data.

The board also discussed various updates and approvals related to student life and programs. Unanimous support was given for the district goals for the 2024-25 school year, as well as for tuition and transportation for special education students and enrollment in a multilingual program for five students from another high school.

Financial matters were another key topic of the meeting. The board reviewed state aid, which included an award of $135,000 designated for capital purposes. They also approved a cooperative agreement regarding local food for schools and an increase of $5,728 for transportation routes. Additionally, the board moved to approve bus stops and routes for the 2024-2025 school year and a transportation joiner agreement for Burlington County. A professional service provider was approved for substance abuse evaluations at a cost of $425 per evaluation.

Personnel matters included the approval of 28 items, such as two resignations and two contractual appointments, one for a campus security officer and another for a manager of transportation. A substitute bus driver was promoted to a full-time position, and hourly appointments primarily consisting of HCTV student workers were discussed. The board also highlighted the appointment of Dr. Jeff Charney as the interim assistant superintendent for curriculum and HR, noting his familiarity with the district.

Policy updates were also on the agenda, with the policy committee introducing 13 items for first reading. These included a mandated regulation regarding domestic violence and updates to existing policies on the acceptable use of computer networks and emergency procedures for sports. The proposed changes aim to align the district’s practices with recent legislative updates and ensure clarity and compliance across various areas. The board unanimously approved these policy updates.

Public commentary during the meeting included remarks from Sandra D’Or of Raritan Township, who criticized certain board members for their comments about a candidate’s familial responsibilities. D’Or argued that having a large family could make the candidate more qualified due to her experience managing diverse personalities and responsibilities. Another resident, Jay Hoff from Flemington Borough, praised the district for a successful start to the academic year and the inclusion of student representation on the board, while also addressing the contentious nature of recent votes on an open board seat. Hoff questioned board members about their association with the New Jersey Project, which has been labeled a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center.