One notable issue addressed during the meeting was the public comment from a parent, Matt Leanderelli, who detailed the struggles his family faced in securing necessary services for his son under the Department of Student Services. Leanderelli explained that his fifth-grade son, who has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for dyslexia and other learning challenges, experienced a 14-month delay in the initiation of the IEP. He also cited significant delays in implementing auditory accommodations, which took nearly two years. These delays and miscommunications forced the family to seek private evaluations at their own expense, costing nearly $25,000 over five years. Leanderelli emphasized the systemic failures within the district, describing a pattern of delay, deflection, and inaccurate information, which he stated created a deeply frustrating and damaging experience.

Leanderelli provided specific examples of miscommunication, such as an incident where a 504 coordinator informed them that their child would not be tested, despite evident needs for services. He also highlighted the absence of appropriate assistive technology and the difficulties they faced in securing necessary accommodations. Leanderelli’s detailed account underscored the need for the board to take these concerns seriously and ensure that all students receive timely and lawful support.

In the wake of these revelations, there was no immediate response from the board during the public comment session, and the meeting proceeded to other agenda items. However, the impact of Leanderelli’s comments resonated, as they highlighted ongoing challenges within the district’s special education services.

The board also focused on the budget for the 2025-2026 school year, presenting a detailed overview of revenue sources and expenditures. The budget presentation noted that over 85% of the revenue comes from local district taxes, with state aid contributing about 9%. A reduction of approximately $27,000 in state aid was reported due to changes in the state aid formula. On the expenditure side, instruction and pupil support were identified as the largest expenses. Mountainside’s budget includes substantial tuition costs for high school students, which is atypical compared to other districts. Despite some areas of cost increase, the budget allowed for the maintenance of current programs and staff without cuts, a contrast to trends seen in other districts.

Additionally, student achievements were celebrated, with several students receiving recognition for their artistic and academic accomplishments. Other students recognized included Verouch Patel and Reese Goodwin, who won a Martin Luther King poster contest, and participants in the Union County Dental Society poster contest. Deerfield School’s recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School was also celebrated, along with its ranking as the 14th best middle school in New Jersey.

The board discussed various school programs and initiatives, including the introduction of the Character Strong program for grades three to five and the “Helpful Huskys” initiative, which engages students in community-building activities. Assemblies and guest presentations were also emphasized, addressing topics like vaping and marijuana awareness.

In terms of infrastructure and community projects, the board confirmed the opening of bids for the repair of a significant sewer system issue, though delays in the timeline were expected. Additionally, a lighting ceremony for pickleball courts, a joint project with the Mountainside Recreation Department, was highlighted as a successful partnership.