The meeting’s most pressing topic was the presentation on the district’s mental health initiatives led by Dr. Herzog. The initiative, bolstered by a mental health referendum from 2019, supports vital positions and programs, including school psychologists, behavioral support, and therapeutic programs. The presentation detailed essential elements of the initiative, with a focus on tiered interventions and social-emotional learning (SEL), integrated into the curriculum across all grade levels. Dr. Herzog explained the use of assemblies, guest speakers, and daily announcements to reinforce positive mental health and coping skills among students.

The board underscored the importance of staff development, with all staff members receiving training on suicide awareness and mental health. Dr. Herzog highlighted the utilization of evidence-based resources and the collaboration with community experts and parents to align with district goals. Board members expressed their support for these initiatives, recognizing the comprehensive nature of the programs.

The Bulldog Buddies program pairs younger students with older mentors to focus on social-emotional learning themes, while middle school students have been trained as mental health ambassadors. The Wingman program promotes kindness and inclusivity through student-led initiatives. The Lifelines Trilogy, a mental health program, educates students about warning signs and encourages them to seek help. The campaign for identifying trusted adults within schools and the training sessions for parents on the Lifelines program were also topics of discussion.

The board reviewed the district’s self-assessment under the anti-bullying bill of rights, revealing a score of 74 out of 78. The scores for individual schools were shared, with Campbell School scoring 75, Edgar 73, the high school 74, and Moss School 72. These scores are based on evaluations of nine core elements and are available online for public access.

Community engagement was a recurring theme throughout the meeting. The board discussed recent efforts to involve parents and caregivers, such as a session on suicide prevention. The district has collaborated with Rutgers University and the Metuchen Police Department to enhance the response to mental health issues involving students. The board also noted the success of the “special person tea” at the elementary school, emphasizing the importance of fostering connections within the school community.

The meeting also addressed the success of the district’s band performance, as students performed Duke Ellington’s “Cottontail,” receiving commendations from board members for their musical talent and the quality of the district’s music education. Additionally, the discussion highlighted the student’s participation in the upcoming Jazz on the Plaza concert.

The board provided updates on academic and community developments, including the hybrid format of Advanced Placement exams, which students found manageable and even preferable.

Administrative business included discussing personnel items, such as protocols for approving leave replacements for substitutes, and finance items, including a proposed busing fee for the upcoming year. The meeting concluded with policy approvals, recognition of teacher Caroline Ford with an Applebee’s award, and reminders of the busy music season ahead.