The board’s decision to approve a new employment contract for Superintendent Joan Mast was a focal point of the meeting. The contract, effective from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2030, was unanimously supported by board members present. The salary for Dr. Mast, currently at $220,000, was discussed in relation to averages for similar districts, which stand at approximately $256,700. A board member emphasized Dr. Mast’s extensive experience and leadership, especially during the pandemic, as justification for the adjustment. The discussion on this topic opened the floor to public comments, although no immediate objections were raised during the session.

However, concerns emerged from the public regarding the district’s financial management and staffing changes. Shyam, a Fanwood resident, questioned the need for an increased salary amid recent administrative cuts, potentially increasing the superintendent’s workload. The board clarified that the salary freeze was a state mandate, only affecting the superintendent’s position, and assured that salary budgeting is carefully managed.

The meeting also addressed the impact of impending administrative changes, particularly the elimination of the social studies supervisor position and the reassignment of Dr. Brooke Espazito, assistant principal and supervisor of the teaching academy, to another school. Public commenters expressed unease about these changes, fearing a decline in educational quality and student support. One speaker highlighted the critical role played by Noel Baxter, the outgoing social studies supervisor, in maintaining curriculum standards, stressing the importance of specialized leadership. Concerns were echoed about the reassignment of Dr. Espazito, whose leadership is deemed vital for the teaching academy. A student from the academy articulated apprehension about losing a mentor pivotal to their educational experience.

A financial issue discussed was the district’s outstanding lunch balances, which have risen from $4,000 to $30,000 following a legislative change in New Jersey prohibiting schools from denying lunch to students with unpaid balances. The board has implemented a corrective action plan, including outreach to affected families and enlisting a collection agency to manage $15,000 of the overdue balances. This move aligns with legal compliance and auditor recommendations.

Recognition of community and educational achievements was a prominent theme. The board acknowledged the contributions of the Parent-Teacher Association and the Educational Enrichment Foundation, which awarded $17,230 in grants for innovative classroom projects. The meeting celebrated educators who completed the Orton Gillingham certification, with testimonials from parents highlighting improvements in children’s reading skills. Teacher Appreciation Week was noted, with educators praised for their dedication.

Public comments raised concerns about the district’s transparency and ethics concerning student capacity and enrollment figures presented during a previous referendum. Gary Morris from Fanwood challenged the accuracy of claims that the schools were over capacity, calling for more accountability in communications from the district.

The board also discussed a partnership with Kane University, allowing teachers to take graduate-level courses focusing on Holocaust education and prejudice reduction, furthering professional development opportunities.

The meeting concluded with the announcement of board member Amy Winkler’s resignation after 15 years of service. Her departure was met with expressions of gratitude, recognizing her contributions to the district. Winkler reflected on her tenure, expressing appreciation for her colleagues and emphasizing the importance of prioritizing students’ interests.