The School Board’s primary discussion revolved around the cell phone policy, emphasizing the need to manage distractions in classrooms and ensure students’ focus on educational activities. Board members highlighted the challenges teachers face with students frequently using their phones during class. One member shared an anecdote about a teacher’s experience where students would trade their phones for pencils.

The revised policy proposes that students use their phones only in designated areas and with prior permission in the office. The aim is to prevent cheating, bullying, and other issues arising from cell phone usage while empowering teachers to implement measures suitable for their classrooms. Suggestions included a “phone hotel” system, where students deposit their phones upon entering the classroom, and requiring students to leave their phones on the teacher’s desk when they go to the bathroom.

There was also a discussion about the need for flexibility, especially for senior students who might need to contact their parents during the school day. One member noted, “If my phone is off or in my pocket and I’m not really allowed to look at it… I don’t think that they want the office being called.” High school students are permitted to have their phones during passing times and lunch, allowing for necessary communication with parents while minimizing distractions during instructional time.

Attention then shifted to afterschool programs and student safety, particularly for those living near Route 34, which poses significant safety concerns for crossing. The availability of breakfast and afterschool care provided by the YMCA at both the middle and high schools was discussed. The Breakfast Club at the high school and the provision of a late bus for students who remain after school for various activities were highlighted. However, data showed limited usage of the late bus, prompting a review of its necessity.

Safety measures for students crossing Route 34 were a concern. The board discussed the current assignment of crossing guards, the installation of a flashing beacon, and the potential need for additional crossing guards, especially during early morning hours when visibility is low. Budget implications were considered, as hiring crossing guards had not been previously budgeted. Multiple speakers emphasized the importance of student safety and requested action from the town to address this issue.

In other matters, the superintendent provided updates on the upcoming school year’s opening day. Preparations were underway to finalize schedules for grades pre-K through 12, and all staff would be present at the high school on the first day. Lunch would be provided for staff, with an invitation extended to board members and PTO representatives. A guest speaker was planned for opening day, and students would receive their schedules through the parent portal by August 26. The YMCA program saw a good registration response, especially for kindergarten through fifth grade.

The superintendent also reported that the district had successfully uploaded the second period data to the New Jersey Department of Education, reflecting compliance with safety reporting requirements. This included a notable decrease in the overall number of safety reports compared to the previous year, with a significant drop since the peak in the 2021-2022 school year, particularly at the building level.

The meeting also covered curriculum and instruction updates, with several resolutions presented for approval. These included updates to the curriculum, appointment of an evaluation model, the district’s professional development plan, and approval of curricula and textbooks for the school year. A field trip presentation was included, with members expressing enthusiasm for trips that allow students to engage with community resources, such as visits to county landmarks.

The board addressed the student services agenda, seeking approval for revisions related to tuition and district placements. The personnel agenda included walk-in items for staff changes for the upcoming school year, additional resignations, retirements, and various appointments. Concerns were raised regarding the staffing of a monitor at the middle school and the need for a comprehensive security plan moving forward. The resignation of a long-serving staff member was noted with appreciation for her contributions, and there was recognition of new hires who were former students of the district.

The policy agenda included recommendations for the adoption of specific policies, with a request to suspend standard rules to expedite the process for certain policies effective from September 1, 2021. A board member inquired about the status of the facilities, emphasizing the need for clarity on access changes related to facilities updates.

During the public comment segments, one speaker expressed appreciation for the board’s work during negotiations, highlighting a productive dialogue between the board and the administration. There was a request for clarification regarding the new cell phone policy, specifically its visibility on the school’s website and the proposed changes. The policy’s intent was to consolidate existing cell phone usage policies into a single, enforceable document, supporting staff in consistent rule enforcement without ambiguity.