During the meeting, the board grappled with the impact of the 42% rise in the tax levy over the past 16 years, which has not kept pace with escalating costs in areas such as special education salaries (50% increase), overall salaries (55%), health benefits (62%), and transportation (90%). These financial pressures come at a time when Montville schools are expecting a significant uptick in enrollment, especially at Woodmont Elementary, which anticipates a substantial increase with little room to expand.

The board discussed strategies for managing the impending growth in student numbers while maintaining quality education standards. A key goal is to keep average class sizes around 20 students, but with the enrollment surge, this may become challenging. Some members voiced concerns about potentially having to increase class sizes and the prospects of holding certain classes, like music or art, in less conventional spaces such as hallways.

To address space limitations, the board is considering the consolidation of programs and more efficient building utilization. This includes combining the preschool program and reallocating resources to other necessary areas. Recognizing that the current approach may not be suitable in subsequent years, the board acknowledged the need for ongoing assessments and adjustments to cater to the evolving requirements of each school building, while striving for consistency across the district.

Furthermore, the board is looking to introduce new educational programs, including an Elementary program, adjustments in Elementary staff, expansion of the preschool and multiply handicap programs, and the inclusion of American Sign Language and extended college credit options at the high school level. Programs that tackle social issues and provide behavioral, social, and emotional support for students are also under consideration.

Administrative services are set to be scaled back and reorganized to save costs. The board anticipates transportation expenses to rise due to external economic factors and a shortage of drivers. As part of the long-range facilities plan, the board will undertake several school projects starting this summer, with a public hearing on the budget scheduled for April 30th.

In terms of technology and student support, the meeting included a presentation from Envision on a personalized tablet with an AI assistant designed to aid student concentration and productivity. The board members inquired about the tablet’s compatibility with other devices, its features, and the possibility of expanding the product line for adult users.

The superintendent updated the board on various initiatives, including the expansion of the Med program, the installation of new sound systems, and adaptations to the school calendar following the use of emergency days. The policy committee brought up the topic of cell phone usage for K-8 students and modifications to special education programs. The superintendent also highlighted STEAM week and acknowledged the support from the Montville Education Foundation.

Additionally, the meeting featured student-led presentations. The board members asked questions about the product’s manufacturing process and investor involvement. The school’s recent achievements were also reviewed, with events such as a successful theater production of “Footloose,” a Key Club volleyball marathon, and National History Day Regional contest successes taking center stage.

Public participation included expressions of gratitude from a community member for the board’s approval of a 5K event to support pediatric cancer awareness. Board members also shared personal engagements, such as reading to kindergarteners and extending condolences for a recent loss within the community.