The proposed neurodiversity course was a prominent topic at the meeting. Presented by Laura Ironman, the course is designed to educate students in grades 9 through 12 about neurodiversity and neurotypical behaviors, and to help them develop executive functioning, regulation skills, social emotional regulation, and academic skills. Ironman outlined the course structure, which includes check-in scales, sensory profiles, and building a sense of community among students. The course also plans to incorporate advocacy, goal setting, and discussions on neurodiverse authors.

Ironman stressed that the elective would be beneficial to all students, not only those who identify as neurodiverse, by increasing empathy and leadership skills. Additionally, the course aims to empower students with knowledge about various careers in therapy and psychology. The board members engaged in a discussion about the course, acknowledging its potential to create a more inclusive and empathetic school community. Concerns were raised about the feasibility of implementing the course, particularly regarding resources and curriculum development. However, despite the debate, the board agreed to place the proposed elective on the agenda for approval at the next meeting.

Superintendent Toni Violetti also contributed to the meeting with her report, which included an announcement of a 2-hour delayed opening for the following day. She mentioned that the 2024-2025 school calendar was not ready and would be discussed in the February meeting. Violetti’s report set the stage for the board’s subsequent discussions on various educational and operational agenda items.

The board’s conversation about the Budget Finance section was another significant part of the meeting. They reviewed the revised board meeting calendar and approved it. A memorandum of agreement with the Saddle Brook police department was discussed. The student safety data system was also part of the agenda, further emphasizing the importance of security within the school district.

Under Education and Curriculum, the board deliberated on several student engagement activities. These included a field trip for the outdoor club, a campus tour for interested juniors at William Patterson University, and participation in a construction industry career day at the New Jersey Expo Center. The Service Learning Club’s initiative to visit kindergarten classes and promote kindness was recognized as an important community-building effort.

The board also scrutinized financial aspects, such as financial reports, purchases, and bids during the Budget and Finance section discussion. In the Facilities and Operations section, a single item was addressed. Meanwhile, the Personnel section was concerned with staff changes, including resignations and retirements.

Additionally, the board contemplated adding a special meeting in June to their schedule.

The board members raised the issue of background checks for new personnel. Questions about the board calendar and the possibility of adding a meeting in July were also part of the discussions. Moreover, the board anticipated a future presentation by Law Memorial School and the presentation of awards by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

The board opted to enter a closed session to discuss two cases related to HIV. During this time, there was no public commentary, and the board’s discussions centered around routine yet crucial administrative tasks.