The meeting’s central topic was the presentation on the NJGPA and the ACCESS for Multilingual Learners report for spring 2024. The NJGPA is a mandatory proficiency test for 11th-grade students assessing readiness in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. The report revealed that all 155 juniors participated in both assessments. In ELA, 92% demonstrated graduation readiness, while 68% met the graduation requirement in math. Compared to the previous year, these results marked a 2% increase in ELA and a 3% increase in math readiness. New Milford’s performance exceeded statewide averages, with a 3% increase locally in math readiness and a 1% increase statewide.

The report also highlighted subgroup performance, noting that 100% of students in the Asian and Black subgroups were graduation-ready in ELA. Female students outperformed males in both ELA and math, and 69% of special education students achieved readiness in ELA.

Strategies to support student learning were emphasized, including revising ELA and math curriculum standards to align with new state standards. Professional development for teachers focuses on collaborative data analysis to enhance instructional practices. The board is committed to supporting all content areas, recognizing the need for similar support in related arts and other subjects. A multi-tiered system of supports for ELA and math, including tier-three interventions for elementary students, provides intensive, individualized instruction.

The discussion transitioned to the effectiveness of various educational initiatives, particularly the expanded use of the Linkit platform for better data storage and accessibility. This system allows educators to view historical student performance data, aiding in understanding students’ academic backgrounds. Preliminary data from New Jersey’s Student Learning Assessments (NJSLA) suggested incremental gains in student achievement, particularly in math, though the graduation readiness rate remained at 32%, above the state average.

The board also discussed the sustainability of educational initiatives following the exhaustion of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funding. Despite budget constraints, the district plans to continue some components and consider piloting an Intervention Manager tool to support individualized instruction. A new tutoring program launched in spring received modest state funding of around $9,000.

A new athletic director was commended for achieving certification as a Master Athletic Administrator, which included a project focused on safety and security at athletic events. This recognition came with a financial award to support implementing new policies aimed at enhancing spectator conduct.

The board introduced a parent survey to gather feedback on academic programs, social-emotional supports, and overall educational quality, with over 200 responses reported. The survey will remain open until mid-September, providing valuable insights into the community’s educational concerns and expectations.

The summer programs designed to help students transition into new grades were also discussed. Camp Deo for incoming sixth graders and the K-2 step-up program aimed to facilitate the transition and reduce summer learning loss. Freshman orientation on August 27 received positive feedback for its team-building activities and engagement.

The assistant superintendent’s report acknowledged staff support during the transition period and highlighted new teacher orientation attended by 20 teachers. The orientation included various presentations to ease new staff into the district.

Concerns arose during the business administrative report regarding facilities management, particularly an issue with grease traps in the high school cafeteria. The problem, persisting for three years, required immediate action. The facilities manager coordinated with a contractor to address the issue, funded by the food service account.

The meeting also addressed ongoing roofing projects, with updates on their progress. The Gib Gibbs roof was reported to be 95% complete, and the high school roof approximately 80% done. Efforts were made to ensure no residual impacts on the upcoming school opening.

Public comments included questions about additional pay positions and the approval of a health assistant position. There was also interest in the college credit partnership program, with inquiries about student enrollment numbers and the possibility of late sign-ups.