A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the presentation of the district test report by Mr. Yamamoto, which focused on the performance of secondary students across various state assessments, including the ACCESS test, DLM, NJGPA, and NJSLA. The ACCESS test results showed that of 41 multilingual students, 11 demonstrated progress in English language skills, with six achieving more than one year of growth. The DLM assessment, which serves as an alternate for special education students with significant intellectual disabilities, was also highlighted.

Particularly noteworthy was the NJGPA, a graduation requirement for juniors. Discussion revolved around the drop in the cutoff score from 750 to 725, which resulted in a higher passing rate. This raised questions about the assessment’s rigor, especially given the disparity in performance among different demographic groups. Economically disadvantaged students faced challenges, with only one out of 25 meeting graduation requirements, though alternative pathways allowed many to graduate. The NJSLA test data revealed that only two out of ten students passed the eighth-grade assessment statewide, prompting concerns about academic standards and the need for intervention.

The board also tackled the topic of shared legal representation with the Collingswood School District. Concerns were raised about potential conflicts of interest due to shared attorney services. The attorney primarily provides legal counsel on special education matters, which reportedly does not present conflicts. However, the board considered appointing a separate attorney from the same firm to work exclusively for Oaklyn, to ensure a clearer separation of interests and reduce the risk of conflicts. The discussion included considerations of additional costs and the unpredictability of legal needs.

In efforts to enhance student support and improve overall school performance, the board discussed various initiatives. Among these was the implementation of strategies to foster an inclusive classroom environment and adjustments to staffing and scheduling to meet student needs better. A new screener, the NWEA MAP, was introduced at the secondary level to analyze student data and tailor support effectively. The board announced a new integrated math course combining algebra and geometry, allowing students to take the Algebra I test in their sophomore year. Supplemental support for ninth-grade language arts students was also emphasized.

A proposal was made during the public comments to reevaluate the policy requiring public disclosure of addresses during comment periods. This idea was well-received.

Further discussion touched on the onboarding process for new board members, highlighting the need for expanded training beyond financial matters to include collaboration and expectations. The board also reviewed important upcoming dates, including early dismissal before Thanksgiving, scheduled conferences, and the celebration of a member’s 50 years of service.

In addition to the test report and legal matters, the meeting addressed community engagement through the PTA liaison’s report on events, such as a free game night and an upcoming winter event featuring a special guest. The community relations and policy committee shared updates from the Collingswood board meeting, including a partnership with Camden County College to support at-risk students by offering opportunities to earn high school and college credits concurrently.