During the meeting, WEA Bernardo provided an update on Region 5’s recent initiatives, notably the launch of a pilot program utilizing an artificial intelligence diagnostic tool, CogNOA, to address the lengthy wait times for autism evaluations. This tool reduces the wait time for evaluations from one to two years down to approximately one month. This initiative, launched just that month, represents a strategic move to address pressing needs within the districts. Bernardo emphasized the importance of this development, given the current shortage of special educators and related service providers. The board engaged in discussions regarding this initiative, reflecting ongoing efforts to innovate and improve services for the districts and their students.

Additionally, Bernardo highlighted the establishment of relationships with local psychiatrists to schedule expedited mental health evaluations. Another development involved the relocation of Region 5’s office to an old parochial school, facilitating a new program at Hopestone Academy designed for students with emotional regulation impairments. The board acknowledged these efforts and discussed the potential benefits for the community.

The meeting also saw the introduction of several new staff members in the River Edge School District. Brooke Geller was introduced as the new supervisor of innovation assessment and special projects. Nadia Abasi, a teacher with over 15 years of experience, expressed her excitement about joining the district. Kelly Griffin described her role teaching in a resource room at Roosevelt School before transitioning to a maternity leave position at Cherry Hill. Matthew Serano, serving as the leave replacement instrumental music teacher, shared his background and enthusiasm for his first full-time job. Patrick Jagger, another new teacher, discussed his transition into the first grade after completing his student teaching. Emily Polio introduced herself as a special education teacher at the new Hopestone Academy. Jim Marcella, an experienced educator and administrator, shared his positive experiences since joining the community, while Nick Grimshaw, the new principal at Roosevelt School, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he has received. Warren, a special education teacher, and Janine Ziggler, a part-time nurse, also introduced themselves.

The board expressed appreciation for the new staff members, acknowledging the importance of meeting them in person and fostering connections within the community.

Beyond the staffing updates, the board discussed the opening of a new program on September 4th. This new initiative, launched with the collaborative effort of River Edge Public Schools and other member districts, began with one class and three students, supported by a registered nurse. The staff is currently conducting intakes to identify additional students suitable for the program’s growth throughout the school year. The speaker expressed gratitude to various individuals for their support in launching this initiative and offered to arrange tours or meetings for board members to see the program firsthand.

Additionally, the meeting included announcements about the distribution of individual score reports from the NJSLA, which were scheduled to go out that week. The district-level data reporting was set for the next board meeting to ensure compliance with a 60-day reporting requirement. The Roosevelt gym construction was reported to be progressing well, with an expected on-time completion by October 1st. Photos of the construction progress had been circulated earlier in the week. Additionally, fire and security drills were reported as completed at both schools within the mandated timeframes.

Concerns regarding substitute teacher availability were raised, noting a decline in the substitute pool as many former substitutes had sought other employment. Collaborations with local universities were mentioned as a strategy to build the substitute pool through clinical students who could serve dual roles, given the change in regulations allowing certified clinical interns to substitute teach.

In terms of administrative items, it was noted that there were no changes to the code of conduct this year. Regular travel and finance items were addressed, with a special acknowledgment of a $2,000 donation from Doyong Kim and Hayo So Kang for playground improvements. The personnel section included the appointment of the speaker as the pro-tem board secretary when Secretary Napolitano is unavailable, streamlining future processes.

The meeting concluded with principal reports, welcoming new staff and noting a successful easing back into school with two half days. Adjustments to recess procedures were discussed, alongside a successful back-to-school night that utilized a security system for visitor management. The Cherry Hill Student Safety Patrol had started, and preparations for student government elections were underway. The opening of a new playground at Cherry Hill was noted, and the principal extended gratitude to the PTO for their contributions and support, including stocking the teachers’ lounge with snacks.