01:41:17The most pressing topic during the meeting was the approval of the 2025-2026 school budget. The process, which began on July 1, involved collaboration with stakeholders to pinpoint capital improvements and identify additional revenue sources. Specific projects planned include a boiler project at Roosevelt School and a roof replacement at Cherry Hill.

The budget discussion highlighted a projected tax levy increase of 4.49%, explained as an adjustment allowed due to a $444,000 healthcare increase. This increase exceeds the typical 2% cap due to healthcare cost adjustments. Revenue sources for the district were diversified, including fees from Region Five as the Local Education Agency, tuition from out-of-district students, and income from the preschool program and the Alphabest before and after school program. The proposed cost per pupil for the upcoming year is $18,287, which is below the state average.

01:57:58The board emphasized the importance of maintaining a capital reserve, with approximately $4 million currently set aside. This reserve is important for unexpected expenses related to school facilities, as additional funds cannot be accessed without voter approval. The district’s long-term debt, associated with the current school building, is scheduled to end in 2032. However, recent increases in health benefits have put additional strain on the budget, necessitating careful financial planning.

A financial challenge discussed was the reduction in state aid, with a $516,000 decrease for 2024-2025 and an additional reduction in the current year. This decrease is attributed to the district’s growing tax base, with home values increasing by 10.5% and income by 13.3%. The state’s funding formula, which considers factors such as census data and enrollment figures, has deemed the district adequately funded, leading to reduced state aid. This shift poses challenges as the district faces increased responsibilities regarding curriculum and staffing. The board acknowledged the need to adapt to these financial changes, emphasizing the importance of efficient resource management.

02:05:02Infrastructure updates were another topic at the meeting. The board discussed the testing infrastructure and confirmed that the district’s system could handle the expected demand for standardized assessments. This was verified through a successful infrastructure trial, allowing preparations for testing to proceed, including a substantial investment in new Chromebooks for grades three through five. Additionally, the board addressed ongoing asbestos removal in section G of the buildings and grounds, discovered during the boiler project. A budget of $40,000 was allocated for the asbestos removal, with potential partial reimbursement through a grant.

02:22:37Personnel matters were also a focus, with discussions on new hires, reappointments of tenured and non-tenured staff, and resignations. The board underscored the importance of maintaining a qualified workforce and reviewed staffing numbers. Plans for a summer academy were mentioned, with a potential collaboration with Ramapo College’s Meadowlands Environmental Center for science and technology components.

01:35:49In terms of community engagement, the meeting included a presentation of math awards to students from Roosevelt School and Cherry Hill, recognizing their achievements in a national contest. The board also addressed the superintendent’s contract, specifically the addition of an accumulated sick bank of 45 days. This provision allows for the accumulation of sick leave days, managed separately from regular annual sick days.