The most notable topic at the Mahwah School Board meeting was the discussion surrounding the strategic plan meeting, originally scheduled for February 27. The superintendent emphasized the importance of community participation in shaping the future aspirations of Mahwah schools. Over 70 participants, including community members, administrators, and board members, attended a previous session. The meeting coincided with the first round of state basketball playoffs for both the boys’ and girls’ teams at Mahwah High School, prompting a discussion to reschedule the meeting to March 12. The board deliberated on the availability of members for the proposed date, noting that a quorum was necessary for a formal meeting. The possibility of changing the meeting’s structure if the date was adjusted was also considered.

In addition to strategic planning, the meeting highlighted the annual Gala for the Mahwah Schools Foundation, themed “Casino Royale,” which raises funds for teacher-driven grants. The superintendent expressed enthusiasm for the event and encouraged community participation.

The meeting was marked by the celebration of Joyce Kilmer Day, featuring a concert at the Mahwah Public Library. The concert included performances by school musicians and focused on music related to Joyce Kilmer’s poetry. Directed by Miss Mor F and composed by Tim Miller, the event featured various musicians, including soprano Valerie Gonzalez and clarinetist Daniel Ker.

An alumni spotlight was presented on Vara Narayanan, a recent graduate attending the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Her work explored the role of AI technologies in improving diagnostic accuracy in healthcare.

The meeting also addressed the retirements of three staff members: Ellen Mahoney, Ted Lesby, and Sherry Bounds. Ellen Mahoney, a kindergarten teacher at Lena School for 40 years, was commended for her impact on students and her support for colleagues and parents. The board expressed gratitude for her dedication, noting her plans to travel during retirement. Ted Lesby, a custodian for 28 years, was acknowledged for maintaining the school’s facilities and overseeing custodial staff. Known for his pride in his work, Lesby plans to enjoy retirement through cruises and outdoor activities. Sherry Bounds, an instructional paraprofessional for 25 years, was praised for her support of students and teachers at Joyce Kilmer School, with plans to visit family in Arkansas and travel to Europe after retirement. The board wished all three retirees happiness in their new chapters.

To address these retirements, the district plans to host the Bergen County Educator Job Fair on April 5, aimed at attracting potential educators. The fair is scheduled to run from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and the board encouraged spreading the word to neighboring districts and local colleges as part of their recruitment efforts.

In board committee reports, a board member noted attending a Bergen County School Boards Association meeting, where the introduction of County Superintendent Patrick Fletcher was announced. The Assistant Commissioner of Education advised school boards to plan for flat or slightly decreased state funding. Another board member reported on the finance committee’s initial review of the 2025-2026 budget, with a preliminary submission to be voted on at the next meeting and final budget resolution expected in April.