0:00A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to evaluating academic performance, with a comprehensive presentation by the superintendent focusing on the NJSLA results. The superintendent provided a detailed comparison of Oradell Public School’s scores in English Language Arts (ELA) and math against 21 socioeconomically similar districts in Bergen County. Notably, the analysis revealed that while overall performance showed improvement, ELA scores were consistently higher than those in math—a trend previously observed in the district.

The presentation introduced the concept of scale scores, offering a deeper insight into student achievement levels. For instance, although the district ranked tenth in passing rates for fourth-grade ELA, when viewed through scale scores, it improved to fourth place. This discrepancy prompted discussions on potential reasons behind such differences. A standout achievement noted was in sixth-grade math, where 33.7% of students scored at the highest level, surpassing the Bergen County average of 19.6%.

20:47Focusing on student growth, it was highlighted that the percentage of fifth graders scoring at the highest level increased dramatically from 9.6% to 43.6% within a year. However, it was acknowledged that while these numbers are promising, there is a need for consistent progress across student groups. Special attention was given to students with disabilities, particularly concerning the transition from fifth to sixth grade mathematics. A reduction in instructional time was flagged as a potential barrier to accessing the curriculum effectively.

The discussion also included interventions and teaching strategies, which were deemed effective given that 21% of students in grades three through six showed positive gains, with 105 students advancing at least one achievement level.

0:00In addition to academic discussions, the meeting recognized students for exemplary performance on the NJSLA. Certificates of recognition were awarded to students excelling in ELA and math, with the Board Vice President expressing pride in their accomplishments. The move to personally sign certificates rather than use a stamped signature added a personal touch to the ceremony. Outgoing Board member Elena Costa, who served from 2022 to 2024, was also acknowledged for her contributions and would be formally recognized with a plaque and state legislature commendation at a later date.

34:34The meeting also featured a proposal by Eric Modell, a resident of River Edge and a member of the historic commission, advocating for the inclusion of local history in the school curriculum. Modell emphasized that history should be a community-driven narrative rather than a top-down account. He shared his involvement in local history projects, including the use of QR codes on street signs to provide historical context, and suggested a collaborative effort between River Edge and Oradell to develop a local history curriculum. Modell’s initiative aims to highlight overlooked local stories, such as those related to Newbridge Landing and the Van Stueben House, as part of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

Board members engaged with Modell’s proposal, recognizing New Jersey’s often overlooked role in American history and the potential benefits of incorporating local history into the curriculum. They acknowledged the value of teaching students about their community’s heritage to enrich their understanding of both local and national narratives.

The meeting concluded with congratulations to Miss Hook for receiving the Educator of the Year award for Oradell, followed by the exchange of holiday greetings among board members. A closed session was proposed to discuss student issues, scheduled for discussion without any subsequent actions.