At the meeting, the wrestling team was acknowledged for its dedication and resilience throughout the season, which was fraught with challenges, including numerous injuries that affected nearly all team members. The athletic director, Mr. Riad Deli, expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments and reflected on the remarkable growth of the program. He noted that the wrestling team expanded from a joint team with Woodridge to a standalone team with 38 participants.

Further remarks were made about the strategic approach taken by the team to maximize their performance. The concept of “winning big and losing small” was emphasized as a strategy to optimize team points. Winning by a decisive margin, such as a pin or technical fall, was considered ideal, while minimizing losses by narrow margins helped control the points awarded to opponents. This strategic mindset, combined with the team’s unity and shared purpose, was key to their success.

Coach Gasso addressed the gathering, dispelling the common misconception that wrestling is solely an individual sport. He stressed the importance of each wrestler’s contribution to the team’s success, illustrating how individual performances directly impact team outcomes. Gasso provided statistics from key matches and emphasized the importance of strategic decisions in selecting wrestlers for matchups. He articulated the notion that every point matters in close contests, highlighting the collaborative effort required to secure victories.

The meeting also highlighted the community’s role in the team’s success. The support from parents, the booster club, and the broader community was acknowledged as crucial in providing the resources and encouragement needed for the team to excel. Plans to honor the team were also discussed, such as recognition from the Bergen County Commissioner’s Office and the placement of banners in town to commemorate the achievement. The recognition is set to take place in May, further celebrating the team’s historic victory.

Apart from the wrestling team’s achievements, the meeting covered other topics concerning the school district. Safety measures were a particular focus, with the board approving a lightning protection system for the district’s recreational facilities. This decision underscored the commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff.

Administrative updates included welcoming the new director of special services, who was praised for bringing an open-minded approach and eagerness for positive change. The board also discussed the revised district calendar. These discussions reflected ongoing efforts to align school operations with the needs of the community and ensure a smooth academic year.

The board also addressed recent incidents, including a transformer explosion that led to a vehicle fire outside a school. The superintendent assured those present that all students were safe, and the situation was effectively handled by local police and fire departments. The response of students during the incident was commended, as they adhered to safety protocols, allowing school activities to continue without disruption.

In terms of educational and extracurricular achievements, several students were recognized for their accomplishments. The Seal of Biliteracy was awarded to thirteen students, celebrating their proficiency in English and additional languages. The mock trial team also received accolades for their success, with two students recognized in a courtroom news reporter contest.

Community involvement was another topic of discussion, with successful events such as the PTO Berkeley Night Out and the MPH’s murder mystery event attracting high levels of parental participation. The board acknowledged the contributions of the New Milford Education Foundation, which donated over $220,000 to support various programs and initiatives.

Upcoming events were announced, including a New Milford Education Foundation Gala, Berkeley theater week performances, and an international night at Gibbs. These events, along with reminders about spring break and a Bergen County job fair, highlighted the vibrant community engagement and opportunities for student involvement in the district.