The transportation issues were highlighted by Acting Business Administrator Bruce Watson, who detailed the operational setbacks caused by a “rash of bus problems.” Three buses were out of service, one of which required towing. These issues necessitated route adjustments to accommodate affected students, with the district ensuring effective communication with parents about these changes. Watson emphasized the financial implications of the repairs, which involved extensive engine rebuilding, transmission issues, and tire replacements. Of particular concern were two wheelchair-accessible buses that were also out of commission, requiring alternative transportation arrangements for a specific child. Watson assured the board that communication with the child’s parents had allowed for a satisfactory solution without the need for outsourcing transportation services.

Further operational updates included the progress on roofing projects at Gibbs School and the high school. Watson reported that the Gibbs roof was nearing completion, while the high school roof was approximately 80 to 85 percent finished, pending essential metal components for flashing and venting. A state inspector’s evaluation was anticipated, a necessary step before the district could receive state funding for the projects. Watson also discussed the Rod grant program, noting that two out of three grant applications had been approved, with the third still pending. Building relationships with state inspectors was highlighted as crucial for smoother communication and approval processes.

The meeting also featured a detailed financial overview of the construction projects at the high school and Gibbs. The district’s share for the high school renovations stood at approximately $1,297,000, accounting for about 40% of the total contract. Including architectural fees and change orders, the total expenditure for the high school construction was noted as approximately $3,242,000. Concurrently, the Gibbs roof project amounted to a share of $172,029, with the overall project costing around $437,255.

In an effort to address safety concerns, Watson mentioned the removal of drop-down tables in elementary school cafeterias. This decision stemmed from safety concerns, prompting the board to order wall pads for added protection. During the discussion, questions arose about the coverage area for the newly ordered matting and the transportation arrangements for the child requiring wheelchair access. The board remained engaged.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the upcoming sixth annual Domestic Violence Awareness Symposium, organized with extensive collaboration among local agencies, including the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office. Scheduled for Tuesday, October 29th, at 6 p.m., the symposium will be open to the public for both live attendance and live streaming. The featured guest speaker, Alexis R., a survivor of kidnapping and virtual assault, will share her story, followed by a panel discussion with key figures, including the new domestic violence chief from the prosecutor’s office and retired Judge Terry Botell. The symposium aims to address various facets of domestic violence, highlighting its impact across gender, ethnicity, political affiliation, and social status. This initiative has led to the establishment of other symposiums across Bergen County, focusing on violence prevention and support for victims.

The policy committee report followed, detailing various revisions and new policies slated for discussion in upcoming meetings. Key highlights included a new policy regarding service animals, particularly miniature horses, and the abolition of policies related to remote public meetings during emergencies and gifts from vendors. Revisions to existing policies focused on attendance and the management of excused versus unexcused absences.

A debate involved policies surrounding student suicide prevention, requiring more comprehensive training and protocols for emergency situations. Specific attention was given to accommodations for students with disabilities during emergency drills. Updates to policies concerning firearms and weapons were also discussed.

The board also scrutinized the topic of volunteer coaches, establishing updated requirements for tuberculosis testing and background checks. While requirements for substitute teachers were relaxed, the overall background check process for volunteers working with children remained stringent, addressing potential misunderstandings.

Lastly, the meeting covered the establishment of a pilot ad hoc committee to explore a proposed development at an old site location. A meeting with borough officials was scheduled to discuss the development’s implications for the school district and its students.