Held at James Caldwell High School, the meeting opened with Superintendent Dr. Christopher Conklin’s report, including updates from student house leaders at Grover Cleveland Middle School. The students shared details of their recent initiatives, such as a food drive and a “make a difference” recognition program, as well as a handball tournament and a guest speaker’s visit. The school band’s performance and upcoming events were also highlighted, including a winter chorus and orchestra concert and a Gingerbread House contest.

Dr. Conklin’s report further detailed the district’s 5-year strategic planning progress and the action plan devised to achieve these goals. Central to these plans were the commitment to create responsive instruction and meet diverse student needs.

The meeting also saw the board president, Julianne Grosso, express gratitude to the student representatives and advocate for community support for upcoming school concerts. She also announced a change in the High School Musical production. However, the meeting was not without its share of concern. A citizen voiced worries about the lack of police presence near the middle school and questioned the lack of breaks for students during the school day. The board assured her that they would discuss her concerns in an executive session.

A poignant moment came as the meeting concluded with the farewell of board member Chris Ala. Ala expressed his gratitude and shared his motivation for joining the board – advocating for children. His fellow board members thanked him for his service, commending his dedication and wished him well in his future endeavors.