Fort Lee School Board Addresses Policy 5756 Amidst Budget Talks

Overview: In an emotionally charged Fort Lee School Board meeting, the community’s attention centered on the debate over policy 5756, which addresses the rights of transgender and gender non-conforming students. The policy, which has been a source of division within the community, has sparked passionate testimonies from parents, students, and educators. The discussion explored the balance between parental rights and the protection of LGBTQ students, with speakers providing anecdotes and expressing concerns about the policy’s implications. The superintendent began the meeting by acknowledging student achievements, and the school business administrator presented the upcoming school year budget, which includes a tax levy increase and capital reserve appropriations for high school programs.

Plymouth School Committee Addresses Fee Increases and Celebrates Achievements

Overview: The Plymouth School Committee recently convened to discuss a range of topics, including proposed increases in transportation and preschool fees, the celebration of a school’s National Blue Ribbon recognition, and the importance of health education revisions. The meeting also included updates on student and staff achievements, strategic planning, and community engagement efforts.

Saddle Brook School Board Plans for Enhanced Education and Mental Health Support

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Saddle Brook School Board addressed a range of topics with focus on the district’s financial planning, particularly the tentative school budget, which includes a tax increase proposal and the addition of key educational and support staff positions. The Board also approved the submission of a teacher climate and culture Innovation grant aimed at reducing administrative burdens for teachers, and discussed the implementation of a new AP pre-calculus course.

East Rutherford Board Approves Preliminary Budget for 2024-2025

Overview: The East Rutherford Board of Education recently convened to address numerous issues, with the approval of the preliminary budget for the 2024-2025 school year taking center stage. The budget includes a local tax levy, state aid, Medicaid reimbursement, and the use of budget and fund balance, which will impact the financial planning of the district and the local community.

Berkeley Heights School Board Faces Budget and Busing Policy Debates

Overview: During the recent Berkeley Heights School Board meeting, attention was dedicated to debates surrounding the preliminary budget for the 2024-2025 school year and proposed changes to the student transportation policy. This budget also accounted for contractual increases for the Berkeley Heights Education Association and the Berkeley Heights Administrators Association, as well as higher contributions to the public employees retirement system, insurance rates, and utilities. The tax impact was estimated at an increase of approximately $135 annually for the average assessed home in Berkeley Heights. The budget discussions became heated as concerns were raised about the accuracy of the budget figures and the potential existence of a $5 million surplus. Members requested further clarification on the spending increases and the accuracy of the budget figures before proceeding.