Dr. Jonathan Hart opened the meeting with a review of enrollment trends, emphasizing the decrease in student numbers from 2016 to 2020, followed by a slight rise in the 2021-2022 school year. He pinpointed specific schools, such as White House School and Three Bridges School, which are most affected by ongoing housing developments, including The Willows at White House Station and The Ridge at Readington. Dr. Hart stressed the challenges of using traditional prediction models, like the “ruers formula,” to accurately forecast enrollment given the unique features of each development.

The superintendent elaborated on the redistricting plan that has been in place for three years, detailing the phased transfer of students from White House School to Three Bridges School. He introduced a five-year plan and underscored the need for monthly monitoring of enrollment shifts, particularly from the Ridge at Readington, to manage school capacity effectively.

The board members engaged in a thoughtful dialogue, expressing concerns about the unpredictability of enrollment figures and the potential strain on school resources. They discussed the need to remain adaptable and vigilant, continuously assessing the influence of housing developments on student numbers.

As the meeting progressed, the board reviewed the impact of transitioning to full-day kindergarten, which has led to reduced classroom space availability at White House and Three Bridges Schools. They also considered the room for growth at Holland Brook and the middle school, and the need to review staffing requirements in response to possible enrollment increases.

The board’s attention then turned to the district’s preschool program. Stacy Beegle updated members on the program’s progress, emphasizing the concerted effort to establish a nurturing and engaging preschool environment. The program’s success and future were also highlighted, with board members underscoring the importance of effective communication to ensure community awareness of the registration process and program benefits.

Dr. Camille Cerciello proposed innovative outreach strategies such as lawn signs and flyers to inform potential participants of the preschool program. The board recognized the challenges in reaching out to families not currently connected with the school district and discussed leveraging multiple communication channels to promote the program.

The public comment segment of the meeting addressed funding for the preschool program, clarifying that the $1.6 million allocation is intended to serve 95 students, with anticipation of enrollment exceeding 200 in the coming year. The board also clarified age eligibility criteria for the program, which accommodates three and four-year-old children.

Administrative reports, minutes, and committee reports were approved, with the finance and facilities committee boasting a positive audit outcome and the approval of a refuse recycling bid that entails a $7,000 incremental cost for the first year. The committee also discussed architect fees related to solar energy projects and the green coordinator position.

The education and technology segment involved the adoption of several items, although no committee report was presented due to the cancellation of two meetings. Upcoming meeting dates were set for February and March to discuss the budget, a solar proposal, capital projects, and security measures.

Personnel matters were also a focal point, with Mrs. Jennifer Wolf delivering a report on staffing updates, the analysis of the impact of housing developments, and the ongoing search for a new principal for the AG HBS School. Personnel resolutions and goals, including settling an agreement with the RTAA and setting budget parameters, were discussed.

Mrs. Ellen DePinto reported on the Policy and Communications committee meeting, which included discussions on the sheriff services agreement, proposed legislation, teacher retention, and coordination with other local schools. Proposed revisions to policies affecting non-resident and homeless students were also considered, as well as the school calendar for the following year.

The board concluded with a review of Board Protocols, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established processes and communication standards. A suggestion was made to conduct a self-assessment evaluation earlier in the year to better align with the superintendent’s evaluation process.