The meeting commenced with a presentation from Washington School’s principal, who reported on the school’s growth following a recent referendum, which facilitated the addition of four new classrooms. The expansion supported the preschool program, allowing it to accommodate more students. Teachers at the school are New Jersey certified, with many holding dual certifications in general and special education, enabling them to address diverse student needs effectively. The school boasts in-house service providers. The principal highlighted the importance of hands-on activities and field trips, such as visits to Franklin School, to prepare preschoolers for the transition to kindergarten.

The presentation also featured the school’s social worker, who emphasized the importance of social-emotional learning in preschool. Daily routines and play are integrated into lessons to help children develop skills in identifying emotions, managing frustrations, and cooperating with peers. An integrated preschool teacher discussed the use of the Creative Curriculum, which incorporates language, literacy, and math through thematic studies. The preschool’s focus on developmentally appropriate practices includes multi-sensory approaches to teaching handwriting, incorporating play to enhance learning.

Further enhancing the preschool’s offerings, a new playroom was introduced, equipped with interactive equipment to promote movement and engagement. The playroom includes a funronic floor for various learning activities. This space is designed to support functional play and provides a quieter area for students when needed. Activities like balloon popping and soccer games are used to develop physical coordination and social skills.

The meeting also addressed the district’s efforts to improve attendance. Although preschool attendance does not affect the state’s chronic absenteeism rate, it is tracked and reported. The district’s chronic absenteeism rate decreased from 13.5% to 9.4% this year, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve student attendance. The board acknowledged the importance of attendance in school performance and expressed gratitude to principals and families for their efforts in reducing absenteeism.

In a different segment of the meeting, discussions centered around the need for paraprofessionals within the district. The board was informed of a current shortage of five to six paras. Paras are required to have 60 college credits or pass the ParaPro test, and the district plans to offer training and professional development once they are assigned to specific roles.

Administrative updates included the ongoing annual audit, the development of the budget for the upcoming school year, and a review of food service operations expected to occur in February. The meeting also covered the progress of referendum projects, such as the installation of flagpoles at the athletic field entrance and ongoing door replacements throughout the school buildings.

The board addressed financial matters, approving various budget and finance items. Some members abstained from specific votes. Policy updates were discussed, particularly in light of recent legislative changes regarding library materials, necessitating revisions to align with new regulations.

Personnel matters concluded the meeting, with announcements of resignations, retirements, and new hires, including three paraprofessionals and a lunch aid. The board recognized the contributions of departing staff and welcomed new members to the team.

Community engagement was a theme throughout the meeting, with reports on various school activities, including successful parent-teacher conferences and upcoming holiday events.