00:08The discourse on referendum projects was a key aspect of the meeting. However, the board acknowledged delays due to issues with power acquisition from PSNG, which affected several projects. The completion of the roof was highlighted as a critical step before further landscaping and parking lot improvements can be undertaken. A member inquired about potential county assistance for the parking lot enhancements and requested contact information for a county liaison.

11:41Another topic of discussion was the district’s exploration into electric vehicles, driven by an inquiry about acquiring electric vans as replacements for existing ones. The board examined plans for installing charging stations, though the exact location remains undecided, pending the relocation of the maintenance area.

15:00Staffing changes were also a focal point during the meeting, with the board addressing two resignations—a teacher at the middle/high school and a paraprofessional. Additionally, three leaves of absence were announced, and several new positions were filled, including a school nurse at Long Memorial School and two elementary teachers at Franklin School. The hiring of a special education teacher who completed student teaching at Franklin School was also confirmed. The board discussed stipend revisions for various staff roles, including an evening custodian and district head nurse, with positions marked as “to be determined” for finalization in the next meeting. Coaching appointments were considered, with the assistant cross-country and assistant girls’ soccer coach positions being part of the discussions, alongside an interview for the head boys’ basketball coach.

05:03The meeting also delved into budget and finance matters. The board reviewed architect fees associated with referendum projects, noting that they exceeded previous estimates. Meal prices for the upcoming school year were set, and a resolution was passed to allow the office to pay bills between meetings, subject to subsequent approval. The discussion on financials extended to the potential transfer of interest earned in referendum and capital funds to the general fund, alongside routine supply orders through a cooperative educational service. Additionally, the board addressed the year-end audit and the possible transfer of unexpended balances into reserve accounts for future projects.

03:15A query about school security drills led to confirmation that all buildings had completed the required exercises. In educational matters, teachers attended workshops focused on improving science instruction, particularly relevant due to low state science scores. Curriculum discussions included field trips during Memorial Day weekend, with the marching band participating in parades.

13:50The board also touched on the use of school district buses for activities like the Saddle Brook Police Department’s junior police academy and a Broadway show outing by the music association. In the personnel section, adjustments to summer hours for middle/high school counselors were noted, aimed at resolving scheduling issues before the school year begins.

19:46The meeting concluded with a discussion on various stipends and appointments for the next school year, including tenured staff and summer curriculum writing staff. A motion to table the business administrator’s contract was made, accompanied by lighthearted comments on its frequent appearance on the agenda. The need for a special meeting, potentially on June 18th, was mentioned to discuss evaluations and other matters. The board acknowledged recent achievements of members, including one receiving a boardsmanship certificate and another recognized for ten years of service. The Hall of Fame nomination page was noted as active on the main website.