The debate over a proposed code of conduct for board members was a focal point of the meeting. The board’s attorney, Mr. Rivera, recommended the adoption of a code to promote respectful dialogue and professional decorum during meetings. Rivera outlined four tenets for the code: recognition to speak, respectful dialogue, focus on appropriate comments, and adherence to ethical guidance. The suggestion sparked significant dissent among board members. Trustee Morris vocally opposed the recommendation, arguing that it infringed on free speech and the independence of elected officials. Morris contended, “I don’t work for you. You actually work for us,” reflecting her belief that the attorney’s guidelines were overly restrictive. Other board members supported the code, viewing it as a tool to maintain professionalism in meetings. Despite the debate’s intensity, the board did not reach a decision on whether to formalize the code.

Alongside governance issues, concerns about the special education system were prominently featured during the public comment section. Several parents expressed frustration with the district’s handling of special education resources and support. One parent highlighted the disparity in resources between New Jersey and neighboring states, emphasizing the challenges faced when advocating for their child’s needs. Another parent recounted difficulties in securing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) due to previous good grades, despite their child’s mental health crisis. The call for transparency and reform was echoed by multiple speakers, who urged the board to release the findings of a special education audit authorized in 2023. The board assured that the audit would be made public once complete, although it remained unfinished at the time of the meeting.

The meeting also addressed the district’s ongoing efforts to improve operational efficiency, particularly in payroll and human resources. An audit revealed several discrepancies, including missing IRS W-4 forms, discrepancies in salary calculations, and errors in civil service employee records. The board discussed corrective actions, such as transitioning to a new payroll system expected to go live in January. The integration of the new system aims to reduce errors and improve information verification. The board committed to continued oversight and improvements in HR processes, acknowledging the need for transparency and accountability in addressing these issues.

Public comments further highlighted parental dissatisfaction with the district’s administrative processes. One parent criticized the inconsistent application of disciplinary actions under the Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) policy, citing a disparity in consequences faced by their child compared to others. Another parent called for a special education task force to ensure consistent service delivery across the district, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support for students with emotional issues. The board acknowledged these concerns, reiterating the importance of maintaining decorum during meetings and ensuring that public comments remain constructive and focused on student welfare.

The meeting also touched upon logistical and procedural matters, including the scheduling of caucus meetings and the distribution of board books. The board debated the timing of caucus meetings, weighing the benefits of additional discussion time against the potential financial burden of overtime costs for staff. While some members advocated for extended caucus meetings to allow for more in-depth discussion, others questioned the efficiency of such meetings.