The Board meeting, held in the high school cafeteria, was called to order by Mr. Grippa. In addition to Grippa, five other board members were present, including Mrs. Inan, Mrs. Narvaez, Mr. Pych, Mr. Jacobs, and Mrs. Vudragovic. Mr. Morilla was notably absent.

The appointment of Dr. Anemone was the major point of interest in the resolutions presented during the meeting. His tenure as the Superintendent of Schools will commence on July 1, 2023, and last until June 30, 2028, subject to County approval. This comes as the most significant change in the district’s leadership in recent years. The newly appointed Superintendent took the opportunity to thank the Board, staff, and parents for their support.

In addition to this critical appointment, the Board made several other operational decisions. The Ridgefield Public Schools District calendar for the 2022-2023 academic year was revised. The amendment dictates that schools will be closed on April 21, 2023, offering students an additional day off.

The Board also unanimously passed a resolution to authorize the use of competitive contracting for a Food Service Management Company. Citing New Jersey legislation, the resolution empowers the School Business Administrator/Board Secretary to advertise for a Food Service Management Company and employ a competitive contracting method in selecting a vendor for the 2023-2024 school year.

In a discussion about new business, Mr. Grippa mentioned a grant opportunity for Pre-K expansion. He also noted the potential to utilize an ambulance building for this expansion and suggested reaching out to the Mayor regarding the location. Further discussions will need to take place.

The Ridgefield School District’s meeting ended on a note of welcome from Mr. Jacobs to Dr. Anemone, setting a positive tone for future collaboration.