Pasack Valley School Board Debates Impact of Professional Development Days on Student Learning

Overview: The recent Pasack Valley School Board meeting focused on the scheduling of professional development days for teachers and their effect on instructional time for students. The board discussed the proposed 2026-2027 school calendar, which included two additional professional development days, and debated whether these days were detracting from valuable class time.

Summit City Planning Board Reviews Tatlock Field Lights Project Amid Housing Mediation Updates

Overview: The Summit City Planning Board, in its October 27, 2025 meeting, focused on two issues: the Tatlock Field lights capital project and ongoing housing mediation efforts. The board discussed the installation of athletic field lights at the Tatlock Athletic Fields and addressed updates on housing element and fair share plan mediation, both of which took center stage during the meeting.

Otsego City Council Moves Forward with Fire Department Funding Amidst Resident Concerns

Overview: The Otsego City Council meeting on October 27 saw developments, including the approval of a major expenditure for the fire department, ongoing issues with a local grocery store’s compliance with city ordinances, and resident calls for greater transparency and engagement. The council approved a controversial pay application amounting to over $1.5 million for the fire and emergency services facility project, despite concerns over cost-effectiveness and service quality. Residents voiced their frustrations over local governance, particularly around a lack of communication and transparency regarding city decisions.

South Hunterdon School Board Sells Westwell School for $1.2 Million to Address Debt

Overview: The South Hunterdon School Board meeting centered on a financial update: the sale of Westwell School for $1.2 million. The proceeds, expected to be around $1.1 million after closing costs, will be directed toward reducing referendum debt, offering potential tax relief to the district’s taxpayers. This decision is part of ongoing efforts to manage district finances responsibly. The board is committed to exploring various methods to apply these funds effectively, adhering to IRS regulations that stipulate limitations on direct debt payments from sale proceeds.

Superintendent Honored for Excellence in School Safety at Hillsborough Meeting

Overview: At the recent Hillsborough School Board meeting, Superintendent Michael J. Volpe was recognized with the National Association of School Superintendents’ Excellence Award for School Safety and Security. This honor stems from the district’s comprehensive approach to maintaining a safe educational environment. Volpe, expressing appreciation for the accolade, credited the dedicated efforts of key staff members, including the coordinator of school safety operations and the director of technology, for their contributions to this achievement.