Bernards School Board Addresses Class Sizes, Facility Updates, and Special Programs

Overview: The Bernards School Board meeting highlighted community concerns regarding large class sizes, particularly in the fifth grade, with numbers reaching up to 27 students per class. The issue was raised by several community members, including Desiree Noland and the Patels, who emphasized the challenges large class sizes pose for teachers and students alike. Erin Rowan, a concerned parent, shared her son’s struggle with math due to the crowded classroom environment. The board acknowledged these concerns and discussed efforts to align staffing with enrollments while adhering to class size guidelines.

North Hunterdon-Voorhees School Board Examines Inequity in Student Suspensions

Overview: The North Hunterdon-Voorhees School Board meeting on July 23, 2024, addressed a range of issues, including the inequity of suspensions between North Hunterdon and Voorhees High Schools, updates on HVAC work, discussions about emergency virtual instruction plans, and considerations for upcoming school assemblies and cafeteria meal pricing.

Woodbridge Township Advances Support for Special Needs Adults

Overview: In a recent Woodbridge Township Council meeting, the council adopted an ordinance for the lease of a property on East Smith Street, intended for a facility to support special needs adults. Additionally, the council approved a resolution to execute a memorandum of agreement with local 3044 for a labor contract and discussed a variety of community concerns and initiatives, including emergency preparedness, train traffic safety, and local redevelopment projects.

Marion School Board Approves Gaggle Monitoring Expansion

Overview: The Marion County School Board recently convened to address several issues, with the unanimous approval of an expanded Gaggle pilot program being the most noteworthy. This program is designed to enhance student safety by monitoring online activity with the aim of identifying and addressing potential threats and concerning behaviors such as harassment, drug use, or self-harm. The board also tackled the opening of the new school year, budget considerations for future construction, and the scheduling of a special board meeting.

Howell Zoning Board Approves School Expansion Amid Septic, Traffic Concerns

Overview: The Howell Zoning Board’s recent meeting resulted in the approval of a school expansion project, which sparked discussion due to concerns about septic system capacity and traffic implications. In the same session, the board also granted minor subdivision approval for the construction of a single-family dwelling, reviewed an application for a new place of worship, and considered various other development proposals.