The most pressing topic was the serious concern voiced by a parent, Isa Grel, over threatening text messages exchanged by students at the JK School. Grel expressed alarm about the content of these messages, which referenced gun violence, and emphasized her desire to ensure her children’s safety. “I am still alarmed and I also want to be able to tell my boys… that I’ve done everything I can to ensure their safety,” Grel stated. She highlighted the importance of accountability and meaningful consequences for the students involved, questioning how the school managed such threats and the implications for school discipline.

In response, Dr. Doro noted that the district had followed established protocols, thoroughly investigating the incident with the involvement of law enforcement agencies. While acknowledging the seriousness of the issue, Dr. Doro explained that the district’s response was focused on investigation and assessment rather than making disciplinary actions public. This led to a tension between the need for community transparency and the necessity of maintaining student confidentiality. Grel pressed for clarity on the disciplinary actions, emphasizing the need for visible accountability to convey the gravity of threatening behavior. “How many more signs do we need until we take some action?” she questioned, advocating for proactive measures to prevent potential escalation of such incidents.

Another aspect of the meeting was the presentation of the preliminary budget for the 2025-2026 school year by Mr. Lamb. He outlined the budget approval process and the importance of transparency in presenting budget details incrementally. A key point was New Jersey’s tax levy cap of 2% for school districts, with waivers available for increases, particularly regarding healthcare costs. Mr. Lamb explained that a health waiver would permit an additional $1 million, allowing the district to accommodate necessary funding for health benefits within budgetary constraints.

The total tax levy was projected at approximately $73 million, with an overall budget of around $83 million. Mr. Lamb stressed the need for cost-saving measures in facilities, technology, and supplies to prevent negative impacts on student programs. He also addressed state and federal aid, noting that state aid constituted a small fraction of the overall budget, and projected a 15% reduction in expected federal funding. Mr. Lamb concluded with plans for capital projects and the importance of minimizing reliance on budget surpluses.

The meeting also featured notable achievements within the district. Dr. Fair highlighted the success of the high school girls’ bowling team, which won the 2025 Patriot division Championship, and the achievement of a student project in the gifted and talented program. Additionally, Dr. Juro shared positive feedback from the New Jersey Elks peer leadership conference, where Mahwah students demonstrated leadership skills. The athletic accomplishments of students, including a state championship win by senior diver Christian Matur and a historic qualification by female wrestler Ava, were celebrated.

The board also acknowledged the impending departure of Dr. Rino from Mahwah to a new position as superintendent in Hoboken. Dr. Juro expressed gratitude for Dr. Rino’s fourteen years of contributions, recognizing her leadership and instructional impact within the district.

The upcoming strategic planning meeting, scheduled for March 12, was highlighted as an opportunity for parents and community members to contribute to shaping the district’s future goals. The board encouraged participation, noting the successful turnout of the initial meeting and the ongoing discussions about the district’s strengths and areas for growth.