The special education committee addressed the need for more robust support and accommodations for special education students. An educator and parent brought up her son’s difficulties with homework and the lack of follow-through on promised behavioral consultation. The committee also introduced a new emotional regulation impairment program.

Another topic was the impact of smartphone and social media use on adolescents’ mental health. Community member Adam Pollock proposed new norms to delay children’s access to these technologies and advocated for phone-free schools to reduce distractions. His proposal, along with the need for collective action to address this challenge, was acknowledged by the board with an invitation for further discussion via email.

Regarding academic performance, the board discussed the district’s growth in English language arts and mathematics, as highlighted in the New Jersey School Performance Report. The importance of using data to inform teaching practices and continuous improvement of the curriculum was emphasized, and the board noted the district’s high-performing status relative to surrounding districts. Additionally, a presentation on student achievement touched on the impact of high school-level math courses on district math scores.

The board also discussed the upcoming summer curriculum writing, aimed at aligning with common assessments and resources in relation to new standards. Mrs. Gross was anticipated to present how these elements come together. The planned increase in physical activity during physical education classes and the intention to make the drafted curriculum publicly available on the district website before approval were also topics of conversation.

A notable achievement celebrated was the cheerleading squad winning the first national championship in the school’s history. The board congratulated the squad and emphasized the importance of addressing ongoing budgetary concerns, including the challenges posed by the reduction in teachers and the impact on class sizes for the 2024-2025 budget.

The board also reviewed policies related to school counseling and parent organizations, with the policy committee urging PTO/PTA presidents to review and provide feedback on the policies. Various resolutions related to financial, business, and personnel matters were voted on, including a motion to table one of the resolutions for further review.

The Freehold Regional School District meeting also highlighted the importance of community events, such as the mayor’s bike and stroll event and the opening of the Farmers Market. The Monmouth County School Board passed a motion allowing the school district to decide on the location of voting, an action that could influence the dynamics of future elections.

School PTO liaisons reported on various successful events and upcoming activities, including field days, magic shows, and a year-end picnic.

In response to a community member’s inquiry during public comments, some board members explained that they could not discuss the reasons for their votes on a specific motion due to confidentiality. The community member’s quest for clarity highlighted the need for transparency and accountability from the board.