A central topic was the expansion of the in-class consultative model aimed at improving inclusion efforts. The district plans to have special education teachers provide support in World Languages and other elective classes. This initiative was well received by the committee. The partnership emphasizes professional development and social opportunities for special education students, a need identified through parent feedback sessions.

The Curriculum and Instruction Committee reported on several initiatives, including the revamped curriculum for grades three, four, and five. The new curriculum aims to enhance material flow, particularly in light of the recent transition to the Orton-Gillingham approach for grades K-2. Teachers expressed excitement about the new curriculum programs. Additionally, report cards for grades four and five will now include numerical percentages alongside standards-based grading. Parent tutorials are planned to familiarize families with these updates.

Upcoming speaking engagements were highlighted, including an event featuring Jordan Toma on September 18th and another with Robert Fran scheduled for October 16th and 17th, focusing on finding best practices in education. These events aim to provide valuable insights for both parents and educators.

The Facilities Committee reported on various construction and maintenance projects, notably the high school turf field. Concerns about delays and rumors of cancellation were addressed, with assurances that the project remained on schedule despite drainage challenges. The field is set to be ready for practice before the first game, pending safety tests. The track is expected to be completed by the end of September. The collaboration with the Department of Public Works (DPW) was acknowledged for their assistance in maintaining drainage and cost-effectively.

Attention was also drawn to the geothermal systems at secondary schools, which had been restored to full operational capacity. The HVAC controls were reprogrammed, and assessments of the 225 units in the district revealed only one needed replacement, resulting in significant cost savings. The committee clarified that lead testing in the district’s water supply was a routine requirement conducted every three years, not a reaction to any immediate concern.

A significant topic of discussion was transportation for fall sports, as certain teams lacked adequate transportation. The board received additional quotes to cover the athletic routes, which were included in the agenda for that evening. Dialogue also touched on the role of strength and conditioning coaches, emphasizing the need for increased collaboration between these coaches and athletic coaches during the offseason. This collaboration aims to ensure athletes maximize the benefits of strength and conditioning services. Additionally, the district plans to integrate the skills of strength and conditioning coaches into health and physical education classes to extend these services to non-athletes.

The meeting also covered major projects completed over the summer, with the high school turf project highlighted. The timeline for having the turf ready by September 6, with hopes of completion a few days earlier, was reaffirmed. Freshman orientations were noted as successful, with students receiving their Chromebooks and being mentored by peer leaders.

The partnership with the Monmouth County Arts High School was mentioned, aimed at offering equitable arts experiences across both high schools. Additionally, a new consultative model for World Language classes at the high school will ensure better support and manageable class sizes.

Detective Cruz was recognized for his contributions to the LEAD program, which focuses on anti-violence and anti-drug education. The board publicly honored him for being named New Jersey Instructor of the Year, appreciating his impactful work with students in various elementary schools. The acknowledgment emphasized the importance of his role.

Public comments were invited on agenda items, but no one stepped forward. One member expressed sentiments about sending children off to college. Another member expressed excitement for the upcoming school year, noting the return of the teaching staff and the completion of new educator training. She acknowledged the efforts of the facilities, custodial, and maintenance staff in preparing the buildings for the school year.

The administrative team had a retreat prior to the start of the school year, and gratitude was expressed for their year-round efforts. Thanks were also conveyed to instructional staff members who had been preparing their classrooms during the summer. A back-to-school update was mentioned as forthcoming, containing information about major initiatives and events planned for the school year.