The meeting was largely focused on the Superintendent’s presentation of the Student Safety Data System (SSDS) report, which highlighted a rise in negative interpersonal behaviors among students. This increase, reported across the district, was attributed to social media influences, referred to as the “TikTok social media effect.” The report, which the Superintendent delivers biannually, showed that issues such as name-calling and inappropriate behavior were prevalent concerns. A survey conducted among teachers, parents, and students underscored the impact of social media on student interactions.

In response to these challenges, the board is exploring strategies to address them, including splitting middle school and high school students and appointing a dedicated principal for the middle school, Miss Pavlech. The aim is to focus on the unique challenges faced by middle school students, especially those arising from social media exposure. The Superintendent expressed optimism that by isolating middle school issues, the district could more effectively manage interpersonal conflicts, given that many arise from students navigating new social and digital dynamics without the necessary emotional maturity.

The discussion also covered ongoing efforts to improve school climate and character education. An expansion of the Harding School’s character education program, including the “Soore” program and second-step Hawk assemblies, is now being implemented at the middle school level. This initiative seeks to reinforce positive behaviors and improve future data outcomes. Furthermore, the school climate teams will have access to insights from the New Jersey School Climate Improvement Survey, designed by Rutgers University, to implement more effective targeted programming.

Concerns about the digital landscape extended to parents, with one parent voicing a sense of disconnection from the technology their children navigate, particularly TikTok. The meeting acknowledged the necessity for parental education on the implications of social media access at certain ages. A consensus emerged on the need for collaborative efforts between parents and schools to establish guidelines for phone and social media access.

The board noted that cell phones are now banned at the middle school, with strict enforcement measures in place to ensure they are not used during lunch, in hallways, or bathrooms. There was enthusiasm about extending this policy into the high school as current middle schoolers transition.

Harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) were also discussed, with the state mandating additional measures for repeat offenders. The difficulty of discerning real incidents from false allegations, especially with manipulated social media messages, was highlighted. There was agreement on the need for penalties for fraudulent claims while focusing on improving support for students and navigating parental cooperation.

In terms of district improvements, the board discussed upgrades to school facilities, particularly at the preschool site. There was a proposal for the finance and facilities committee to tour the preschool to review enhancements, such as upgrades to the auditorium, playgrounds, and the addition of new classrooms and STEM facilities. These improvements, along with excellent transportation and cafeteria services, ensure the district’s readiness for the students’ return on September 8.

The personnel management section saw the acceptance of a resignation for a classroom aide and the approval to hire a human resources secretary. Questions about the necessity of the new position were addressed, emphasizing the need for support in administrative tasks such as hiring and background checks.

Old business addressed updates to the student handbook regarding facility usage, with revisions made to tackle issues like improper use of facilities. The meeting mentioned the need for clearer signage at facility entrances to communicate rules against bikes and other wheeled items on the track, with steps already underway to improve signage and enforce stricter access measures.

General announcements included reminders about the early dismissal on the first day of school and updates about schedules and logistical details communicated via email. Upcoming school events, such as the first football game of the season, were noted, alongside an invitation for community involvement in the strategic planning process scheduled for October, November, and December. The board encouraged all stakeholders to contribute their thoughts as the district plans for the next five years.