The board deliberated on the proposal to condense its meeting schedule to one session per month. The discussion acknowledged the risk of longer meetings if topics are not adequately addressed in advance, with some members expressing concern about the potential for extended sessions. Nevertheless, there was consensus that such a change could streamline operations, provided that careful planning and timely completion of agenda items were ensured. The board also considered the timing of closed sessions, weighing the benefits of earlier starts against potential scheduling conflicts for members.

In tandem with scheduling adjustments, the board also focused on student engagement and extracurricular activities. The New Milford High School Winter Chorus performed “Carol of the Bells,” a staple in their repertoire, extending an invitation to the audience for their upcoming concert. This performance served as a prelude to the student board representative’s report, which highlighted the announcement of the musical “Legally Blonde,” generating excitement among students. The student representative also reported on the successful holiday breakfast event and the participation of the Future Health Club in outreach activities at Berkeley Elementary School.

Athletic programs were another focal point of the meeting. The board celebrated the participation levels in various sports, with over 30 students involved in wrestling, and about 20 in swimming, reflecting strong engagement across the district. An event honoring the cheerleaders and football team, attended by the mayor and a board member, underscored community support for school sports. Additionally, individual achievements were recognized, such as Jake Johnson’s all-county honor as a defensive lineman and Kobe St. Heler’s notable performance despite missing several games.

The Superintendent of Schools provided an overview of district affairs, citing the November 2025 HIB (Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying) report, which noted two submissions at the high school that were not classified as HIB cases. The suspension statistics were also shared, with two high school students and three from the District Education Office having been suspended. Furthermore, the Superintendent proposed sending students to the Elks Peer Leadership Conference to promote healthy decision-making and leadership skills.

In terms of personnel, the Superintendent addressed the hiring of interventionists and the administration of teacher leaves, alongside a proposal for a new “teacher in charge” role at elementary schools to bolster leadership during principal absences. Approval of the job description for this role was pending, with no immediate plans to post the position.

The business administrator’s report detailed the approval of purchases above the bid threshold through cooperatives to meet audit recommendations. A new grant for the Holocaust program was announced, intended to enrich student experiences in this area. The board also tackled technology procurement complexities, particularly concerning a three-year term for a new phone system, and discussed audit processes for future school years.

Policy updates featured prominently, with the policy committee reporting on first readings of changes related to the Freedom to Read Law. This included a structured process for parents to raise objections to educational materials, requiring complaints to be directed first to the principal, then to the superintendent. This approach aims to address grievances systematically while complying with recent legal standards.