02:19The budget presentation, led by the business administrator and Superintendent Toni Violetti, outlined a comprehensive financial plan that encompasses general, special revenue, and debt service funds. A notable highlight was the reliance on tax levies, which constitute nearly 90% of the district’s revenue, with the state aid also playing a role under the current funding formula. The budget delineates fixed costs such as salaries and special education expenses, accounting for 95% of expenses, leaving limited room for cuts.

11:37Specifically, the budget earmarked substantial funds for infrastructure projects. These include tile abatement due to asbestos, as well as upgrades to gym facilities and enhancements to school fields and playgrounds. The district also plans to replace outdated classroom furniture, particularly in kindergarten, and invest in new instructional materials and technology upgrades. Additionally, the continuation of the successful “Amplified” program into the fourth-grade curriculum was highlighted, alongside new materials for Spanish classes and the “Battle of the Books” program.

15:55The board also discussed the need for network infrastructure upgrades to improve Wi-Fi services and the utilization of the COPS grant for security enhancements, including additional cameras and intercom systems. Notably, the renovation of school facilities, such as the new turf field and the ongoing projects at Washington and Coolidge Schools, were mentioned as key achievements, with plans for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new field in the fall.

17:17Staffing additions for the upcoming school year were another focal point, particularly in special education. The board plans to hire a full-time special education teacher for both middle and high schools to support the MD program and prepare for an 18 to 21 program in the following academic year. In the elementary school, another full-time special education teacher will address the needs outlined in students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The hiring of a high school math teacher aims to tackle the district’s historical challenges with math performance by reducing class sizes and dividing Algebra 1 into two parts. Additionally, a middle school world language teacher will be added to mitigate scheduling conflicts.

18:37Financial implications of these staffing changes were presented, with the general fund budget calculated at 6.89, including transfers from reserves. This results in a school tax levy of 2.88, translating to an annual increase of $277 for the average household valued at $473,300. The board emphasized its ongoing efforts to apply for federal Title grants to bolster financial resources, including Title I for schools based on free and reduced lunch qualifications, Title II for teacher professional development, Title III for multilingual learners, and Title IV for overall student performance and growth.

22:38The board celebrated improvements in student performance, particularly in chronic absenteeism and NJSLA scores, alongside the successful implementation of new educational programs like Amplify in grades K to 3 and a new math curriculum for grades K to 6. Concerns about the tax increase, approximately 3.4% or $23 per month, were addressed with an emphasis on the minimal impact on residents compared to the benefits provided.

45:37In addition to budgetary discussions, the meeting also covered personnel matters, including the resignation of a recently hired paraprofessional and the hiring of various teaching and coaching positions. The board noted revisions to extended school year staff, reflecting late sign-ups or declines, and addressed the need to replace a competition coach who had resigned.