The Applied Tech and Engineering program’s Reach initiative was a focal point, with Director Matt Conoz, alongside teachers Dave Johnson and Kyle Shriner, presenting the program’s most recent accomplishment: the Flexi Brush project. The board’s support for the program was unanimous.

The student team’s success was amplified by their recent recognition at an international conference, where the program was hailed as a model of technological literacy and preparation for careers in engineering. The board members and attendees praised the program, noting the profound impact of the students’ work.

Transitioning to the new schedules for the high school and middle school, the board carefully considered how the changes would enhance learning opportunities. Extended class periods and adjustments to the schedules are designed to provide more in-depth instruction, particularly in language arts and math. The board was also keen on ensuring that the schedule transition for middle school students to the high school was smooth and that shared staff could effectively work across both buildings. Plans to communicate these changes to families and the community were also a topic of discussion, with presentations set for both the middle and high school.

Recognition of students and staff at the Burlington County principal and supervisor Association awards dinner was another item of note, with several individuals from Northern Burlington being honored for their achievements.

Parking permits posed a logistical challenge for the board as there were insufficient spaces to accommodate all seniors who requested them. The impact on visitor and special event parking was a concern, with the board considering how best to manage the limited resources.

The business administrator’s report brought to light various operational and financial aspects, including a successful bid from Nutri-Serve for food service management, which guaranteed a net profit. The report also covered the allocation of unencumbered funds towards furniture, equipment, uniforms, and capital projects. The purchase and installation of LED lighting in the middle school and the approval of professional services for security film were also deliberated.

The employment status of district mechanics was particularly challenging, with all positions vacant at the time of the meeting. To maintain fleet services, the board had contracted with Northeast Fleet Services. The upcoming replacement of two retiring 54-passenger school buses was discussed, detailing lease finance purchasing options and the use of a state cooperative for the purchase.

In the realm of safety and security, the board reviewed a report on school safety and violence statistics, covering several months and including data on violence, vandalism, weapons, substance abuse, and confirmed HIV statistics. The board acknowledged the importance of the historical data provided and made adjustments to programs and meetings based on teacher and student feedback.

During the public comment section, the community voiced concerns about the hiring process for the new principal, the involvement of stakeholders in the hiring committees, and the need for improved communication regarding incidents at the school. These concerns, especially those pertaining to the unnotified shelter-in-place incidents and the closure of multiple bathrooms, underscored the importance of transparency and structure in the district’s operations.

The consent agenda items, including the approval of minutes, financial reports, and various contracts, were voted upon. The board approved several purchases and initiatives, such as ESU non-public services, food service management, legal services, LED lighting, window films, and school buses. Donations, book orders, and personnel appointments were also among the approved items.