A central concern raised during the meeting was the buckling of the gym floor in the new gymnasium, which has persisted since its replacement in 2017. This issue is reportedly due to moisture problems related to the underlying piping, necessitating an assessment to determine the cause and potential solutions. The board acknowledged the urgency of resolving this issue as it may affect the upcoming winter sports schedule, with the need to address safety and usability for the student athletes.

In a more celebratory tone, the board highlighted numerous student and community achievements across the Kinnelon School District. Notably, the district recognized the efforts of the Horat family in creating a new buddy bench at Keel School, designed to encourage friendship and support among students. This initiative was a collaborative effort involving kindergarten students who added their handprints to the bench.

The meeting also saw the introduction of the Keel Koala Kindness Awards, recognizing students who exemplify kindness and respect within their school community. This was further emphasized by Miss Tinny, who underscored the importance of kindness in her remarks.

Student achievements were further celebrated with a commendation presented to Tang Pandy, a high school student recognized for his multifaceted accomplishments. Tang, a member of the state championship bowling team and a National Merit commended scholar, has volunteered and shared his academic research at national conferences. His book, “Roman Philosophy’s Ancient Wisdom for Today,” was praised for its insightful analysis and acknowledgment of his educators and family.

Amid these recognitions, the board discussed the establishment of a K-5 Lead Teacher position in each elementary school. This initiative aims to enhance leadership and communication among staff, providing immediate support and resources for teachers. The superintendent emphasized the importance of parental involvement in shaping board decisions, particularly regarding cell phone policies and elective surveys for students.

The meeting also addressed the district’s self-assessment report on compliance with the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights. The schools scored well, with Kinnelon High School achieving a perfect score.

In addition to these points, the board considered revisions to its club offerings, including the introduction of a Robotics Club at Kinnelon High School and the removal of inactive clubs due to lack of student interest. Efforts to revamp report cards to align better with New Jersey standards were discussed, as well as a policy proposal to eliminate the requirement for a substitute certificate to coach.

The board also touched on the need for an alternate representative on the Morris County School Boards Association Board of Directors to participate in discussions on artificial intelligence. Legislative updates included a reminder that completing the FAFSA is now a requirement for high school seniors in New Jersey, effective December 1st.

The meeting concluded with a note of appreciation for the staff’s dedication and a motion to adjourn, with members wishing each other a happy Thanksgiving and looking forward to continued collaboration.