The Student Advisory Board took center stage as members shared their experiences and contributions to the district. Dr. Caputo noted the positive interaction between students and the administration during meetings, which facilitates a collaborative environment for addressing student needs.

Three members of the Student Advisory Board, Crew Bagel, Steven Jacobson, and Llaya Weissblum, discussed their roles and the impact of their participation. Bagel, a third-grade student, expressed his enthusiasm for being part of the board, appreciating the welcoming atmosphere. Sixth-grader Jacobson emphasized the board’s significance in effecting change, citing his advocacy for a vending machine to provide drinks for students, especially those involved in after-school sports. He noted that the administration was addressing his suggestion.

Junior Weissblum spoke about the collaborative environment among high school representatives and her appreciation for learning about the school district’s operations. The students described their methods for gathering feedback from peers, with Jacobson highlighting his approach of asking classmates for input before meetings to ensure he represents their collective concerns effectively.

Dr. Caputo lauded the students for their growth and ability to represent their peers’ expectations accurately. The conversation also touched on initiatives like food equity efforts, where students discussed implementing share tables to reduce food waste. Jacobson mentioned the collaboration with extracurricular groups to promote awareness and the potential acquisition of refrigerators for school cafeterias to manage leftover food.

The importance of partnerships with organizations like Share My Meals and the local food pantry was discussed. The board members inquired about the advisory board’s impact on school operations and student life, praising the students for their efforts.

Transitioning to construction updates, the board heard about the progress of various projects within the district. While the construction committee had not met formally, ongoing communication through emails ensured projects moved forward. The high school parking lot and connecting hallway were reported as fully operational. However, delays in cafeteria renovations were attributed to contractor issues. At Moss, a temporary certificate of occupancy was anticipated soon, with the elevator operational and an electrical inspection scheduled. Despite some delays in cafeteria flooring, immediate operations were not expected to be affected.

Attendees were invited to a Harlem Wizards game, a fundraiser for the high school PTO, scheduled as part of these celebrations.

Public comments were brief, with most attendees departing before this section of the meeting. The board discussed the NJ Sky climate survey, which was conducted the previous spring, with another survey planned for the current year. Led by Dr. Herszog, the upcoming survey would involve students, parents, and teachers across the district, with results expected later in the spring. The board emphasized the importance of this data in identifying areas for improvement and encouraged community participation.

Routine approvals were completed swiftly, with the minutes from past meetings and various personnel, finance, and policy items passed unanimously. Announcements included the upcoming Harlem Wizards game, the opening of kindergarten registration, and the Scholastic Book Fair. Staff and teacher appreciation weeks were highlighted, with encouragement for donations and thank-you notes for teachers.