A key highlight of the meeting was the detailed presentation of the district’s new goals, led by Dr. Cooper. Emphasizing inclusivity and engagement, Dr. Cooper outlined five specific goals aimed at enhancing the educational experience for students. The first goal focused on classroom and community engagement, promoting student involvement in real-world problem-solving through inquiry-based learning. Specific initiatives under this goal include teaching students about food equity and encouraging leadership in environmental stewardship.

Another goal, titled “Sky’s the Limit,” aimed to engage school communities in reviewing New Jersey school climate data. This involves school leadership teams analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data to inform future practices. Dr. Cooper underscored the importance of fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes the whole child, integrating social-emotional learning alongside academic achievement.

Information literacy was another focal point, with an emphasis on equipping students with strategies to critically assess information, including misinformation. Actions under this goal include engaging students in real-world data analysis and implementing an AI plan for resource curation. The goal also aims to enhance civic readiness by incorporating current events into the curriculum, promoting respectful debates, and understanding global cultures.

The board also discussed the “Best Me” goal, which seeks to align shared values and tiered supports to empower both students and staff. This involves setting behavioral expectations and aligning interventions with the New Jersey Tiered System of Supports (NJTSS) framework. Professional development will extend beyond academics, covering mental health and social-emotional learning.

Concerning construction updates, progress was reported across several school facilities. At the high school, a new cafeteria and outdoor patio are expected to be completed by September 2, with the gym and classrooms in the connecting wing anticipated by late December. Air conditioning installation faced delays, with completion expected in a few months.

At Edgar School, air conditioning should be ready by early September, with new office suites and classrooms expected by the start of the school year. The new main entrance will not be accessible to students and staff during the first few weeks of school. At Campbell School, air conditioning is projected around September 15, while the basketball court and playground should be ready by September 2.

The board also discussed the district-wide climate survey results, which involved participation from various students, staff, and parents. The survey used a one-to-four scale to highlight areas of pride and identify growth opportunities, with action plans set to address these areas. The board emphasized the importance of taking feedback seriously, with plans to administer the survey again in the spring.

A question during the meeting about classroom and community engagement led to a discussion on partnerships with the Shade Tree Commission. The board highlighted existing collaboration, including tree ambassador programs and community presentations.

Further updates included the approval of curriculum revisions and annual course approvals, with new adaptive testing formats for the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments set to be implemented in November. The extracurricular committee discussed various volunteer coaching positions, upcoming events like “Soccer for a Cause,” and new volunteer clubs.

The finance committee outlined funding strategies for roof repairs and energy management plans, noting some repairs had been deferred due to budget constraints. The board approved various agenda items, including personnel matters and financial reports, highlighting an investment-grade energy audit as a significant topic within finance discussions.