The board’s self-evaluation report, completed between November and December, pinpointed three major challenges: securing adequate funding, addressing the social and emotional needs of students, and dealing with the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The evaluation led to a debate on how the board should progress. Suggestions included organizing a retreat or structured brainstorming sessions to tackle these challenges more effectively. The board contemplated various approaches, such as dividing into smaller groups, assigning preparatory tasks, and utilizing committee meetings as a precursor to the retreat. Members also expressed varying preferences for timing and scheduling these sessions.

Communication within the district emerged as a prominent issue, particularly concerning bus transportation and food services. The board acknowledged the need for improved notification systems and debated the efficacy of current communication methods. To enhance outreach, the possibility of collaborating with the municipal office for better communication was considered, including the use of automated phone calls in addition to text and email notifications. The board recognized the urgency of refining the notification process after a late announcement of a two-hour delay due to weather conditions, emphasizing the importance of timely communication with families and the commitment to post information promptly on the district website.

Financial deliberations included the procurement of gas and transmission services. The board engaged in a debate on whether the existing arrangement with Aces remained the most cost-effective option. Ensuring fiscal responsibility and exploring alternatives for utility services were central to the discussion.

The board also expressed appreciation for the Buildings and Grounds team and the Oaklyn Public Works for their dedication to maintaining school facilities and roads. The meeting proceeded with routine administrative matters, such as approving financial statements, purchase orders, and warrants. Shared service agreements for technology and child study team services for the upcoming school year with Collingswood Board of Education were also sanctioned.

Further topics of discussion included the superintendent’s report on enrollment numbers and safety drills, though no anti-bullying report was available at the time. The meeting covered updates from the Collingswood Board of Education and the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), with the latter’s upcoming events, such as a family fund skate night and a book fair. The Oaklyn Municipal Alliance Committee (OMAC) reported the success of a recent gym night and the planning of a spring schedule. Additionally, the Oaklyn Education Foundation outlined efforts to recruit new members and organize a fundraiser.

Moreover, policy readings and approvals for a new contract, club, and the hiring of substitutes were addressed. The board considered the idea of broadcasting meetings to increase public engagement and transparency, discussing the number of views the meetings received online.