Piscataway School Board Tackles Meal Pricing, School Safety, and Educational Initiatives

Overview: The Piscataway School Board convened to address a variety of issues, including the proposal to increase student lunch prices, the long-term safety plan for schools, and the introduction of a door hardware project. The board also discussed the paving of the high school bus loop, the progress of the Energy Savings Improvement Program (ESIP), the potential impact of new legislation on district food services, and the formation of an ad hoc committee to explore solutions for unpaid meal charges.

Elizabeth School Board Approves Settlement and Discusses Financial Audit, Mentoring Programs, and Educational Initiatives

Overview: During the recent Elizabeth School Board meeting, a comprehensive financial audit was presented by John Swisser from Supp Cloone and Company, revealing an unmodified opinion on the district’s financial statements. The audit also highlighted a surplus in the Food Service fund, which the district plans to address with a corrective action plan. A new youth mentoring program, in collaboration with the Elizabeth Police Department, was announced by Vice President Stanley Neron. Other notable discussions included the introduction of various educational programs, contracts for facility maintenance and upgrades, and recognition of the board members’ service. The meeting concluded with the approval of a settlement agreement and the appointment of a new vice principal.

Delran Town Council Addresses Drone Regulations, Riverside Park Flooding, and Solar Panel Ordinance

Overview: The Delran Town Council met on January 23, 2024, to discuss a range of issues, with the proposed drone ordinance, emergency repairs at Riverside Park, and a new solar panel ordinance taking center stage. The meeting saw steps toward regulating drone usage, addressing community concerns about flooding, and supporting renewable energy initiatives.

Edison Residents and Council Members Condemn Mayor for Comments on Immigrants, Demand Apology at Town Council Meeting

Overview: The recent Edison Town Council meeting was marked by discussions on immigration, with several community members and council members condemning Mayor Samip Joshi’s controversial comments on immigrants. Calls for the mayor to apologize and for the council to support the immigrant community were central topics, alongside debates over local infrastructure concerns such as sidewalk repair funding and the proposal of a new arrival system for immigrants. The meeting also formalized council leadership positions and addressed financial management plans for the upcoming year.

Summit School Board Approves Grants, Discusses New Courses, and Reviews District Audit

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Summit School Board approved a grant donation, discussed new course proposals for the 2024-2025 school year, reviewed a positive district audit report, and addressed various facility upgrades. A total of $165,200 in grants from the Summit Education Foundation (SEF) was approved, allocated across social and emotional learning, STEAM, and other educational areas. Superintendent Scott Hough presented the district’s self-assessment scores for harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB), which met state requirements. The board also reviewed the annual Safe Return Plan and discussed staff wellness initiatives funded by a $30,000 grant.