1:15:56A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the ongoing policy review process. The board, having received the first draft of the policy manual from Strauss Esmay, discussed the extensive nature of the task, which is projected to take approximately six months. The updated policies are expected to be finalized and approved by August, just in time for the 2025-2026 academic year. The process involves reviewing the policies section by section rather than individually, allowing for a more comprehensive update. A member emphasized that while the goal is to complete the updates by July, there is flexibility if adjustments are necessary due to the project’s scope.

The importance of aligning the policies with current state statutes was underscored during the discussions. One board member voiced concerns about the precision of references to state laws within the policies, stressing the need for accuracy to ensure compliance with legislative changes. Once completed, the new policy manual will be fully searchable online, improving accessibility compared to the current paper-based system, described as cumbersome and costly.

In addition to the policy overhaul, the board addressed an unexpected financial development. The district received $619,000 in extraordinary aid and non-public transportation funds, a substantial increase from the originally budgeted $130,000. This additional $489,000 will be directed towards technology investments and professional development initiatives to directly benefit students, rather than being diverted to capital reserve accounts.

The board president reported on planning for a potential board retreat in the summer, separate from the strategic planning meetings set for the winter. The strategic planning meetings are open to the public, allowing for community input on board goals. Additionally, the president reminded members about the mandatory training requirements for those in their first term, which must be completed over the first three years of service.

0:00The meeting also included recognitions of student and faculty achievements. The U Barar program, an after-school initiative aimed at improving math and reading skills for K-2 students, was highlighted for its success. Students excelling in this program received accolades for their engagement and performance.

Employee recognitions followed, with Maria Garcia being honored upon her retirement after 25 years in education, including over a decade at River Edge Public Schools. Known for teaching Spanish and organizing cultural events like Hispanic Heritage Month, Garcia was celebrated for her contributions to the school community. The board expressed gratitude for her dedication, officially recognizing her service with a resolution.

Further acknowledgments were given to the Teachers of the Year and the district’s Educational Services Provider of the Year. Will Del Judas was named Cherry Hill School’s Teacher of the Year for her creative engagement in art education. Marini from Roosevelt School received the 2025 Teacher of the Year title, recognized for her commitment to professional growth and community involvement. Lauren Port Val, awarded the district’s Educational Services Provider of the Year, was commended for her expertise in speech therapy and her collaborative approach with parents and colleagues.

1:15:56The board also approved the joint Insurance Fund, affirming its membership with the New Jersey Schools Insurance Group, and discussed the budget calendar, noting that the schedule might be influenced by the governor’s address and the release of state aid numbers.