East Rutherford School Board Streamlines Sexual Harassment Policies and Emphasizes Cursive Writing Curriculum

Overview: The East Rutherford School Board meeting highlighted important changes to the district’s sexual harassment policies and discussed the integration of cursive writing into the curriculum. The board approved a new unified harassment policy to replace previous overlapping regulations. Public comments were minimal, though one resident expressed support for the new cursive writing mandate, noting its potential impact on both students and teachers.

Community Concerns Spotlight Safety Issues in Pequannock High School Auditorium

Overview: The recent Pequannock School Board meeting was marked by a spirited public comment session that raised concerns regarding safety and maintenance issues at the high school auditorium. Lucas Nasion, a recent graduate and aspiring educator, emphasized the facility’s multifaceted role as a community hub and academic space. He pointed out pressing safety concerns, including overdue fire retardant treatment for curtains, faulty lighting, and obstructed pathways backstage. Nasion’s detailed observations highlighted the auditorium’s importance to local culture and education.

Brookline School Committee Faces Backlash Over Proposed Materials Fee Increase

Overview: During a recent Brookline School Committee meeting, discussions unfolded as educators and committee members grappled with a proposed increase in the materials fee program, which could potentially rise by 23% over the next three years. Teachers from various schools voiced their concerns, arguing that such an increase would undermine staff morale and contradict the program’s original intent of supporting teacher recruitment and retention. The materials fee program has traditionally been viewed as an essential benefit for teachers, allowing their non-resident children to attend Brookline Public Schools at a reduced rate. However, the proposed fee hike has sparked widespread outcry, with educators emphasizing the detrimental impact it could have on their financial well-being and the overall community perception.

Middleborough School Committee Approves New ELA Curriculum Amid Special Education Challenges

Overview: The Middleborough School Committee meeting focused on critical educational reforms, approving a new English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum designed to improve reading proficiency and address longstanding literacy challenges. Alongside the curriculum decision, attention was given to the district’s special education performance, with a commitment to address compliance issues and improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

Wayne School Board Celebrates Retirements and Student Achievements Amid Winter Weather Concerns

Overview: In a recent Wayne School Board meeting, the board celebrated the retirements of several long-serving staff members, acknowledged significant student achievements, and addressed upcoming weather challenges. The meeting, held on January 22, 2026, saw expressions of gratitude towards retiring staff, discussions on student successes, and preparations for potential school closures due to a forecasted snowstorm.