Detailed discussions centered on the NJSLA results, where Dr. Ederton, along with Ms. Bara and Mr. Pelli, presented data covering English Language Arts (ELA), Math, and Science. The district’s ELA proficiency rate was 65.9%, compared to the state average of 52.2%, and Math scores were close to 60% at 59.9%. Science scores, while above the state average, were noted at 40.5%. The presenters highlighted the importance of these assessments for measuring student mastery and federal compliance. They explained the various performance levels and emphasized the value of multi-year trends and subgroup performances in understanding student progress.

The conversation about student performance included a focus on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, noting particular concern for students in foundational years like kindergarten and third grade. Despite the “COVID shadow,” the district observed an upward trend in proficiency rates since 2017. A notable achievement was the ninth-grade cohort’s 81% passing rate, which was celebrated alongside incremental growth across other grades.

Demographic and subgroup performance was scrutinized, emphasizing support for Hispanic students and multilingual learners. Initiatives like breakfast programs were discussed as crucial for preparing students to learn effectively. Science saw a decline in passing rates, though district performance remained above state averages. Addressing this decline was identified as a priority, with nearly 100% student participation in testing reported.

A significant portion of the meeting addressed special education services, with several parents voicing concerns during the public comment session. Alison, a parent, expressed frustration over the reduced support for her son Anthony, who has special needs. She highlighted a shift from a two-to-one aide system to a three-to-one system and recounted an incident where her son was injured at school without timely notification. Alison’s concerns were echoed by another parent, L. Locker, who criticized the transition of Anthony to middle school as “not academically socially appropriate.” Locker pointed out scheduling issues for students with special needs, particularly literacy inclusion classes placed at the end of the day, which negatively impacted students on medication.

Quin, another parent, emphasized the importance of inclusive educational environments and questioned whether the district was providing the best overall educational experiences for students with special needs. S. Habibi shared sentiments about a recently deceased bus driver, Mr. Bob, who had an impact on the community, highlighting the need for compassionate and dedicated staff. Other parents raised concerns about the lengthy approval process for securing special education services, stressing the need for a more efficient system.

The board reiterated the need to address Anthony’s specific case, emphasizing the importance of maintaining established friendships and supportive educational settings for children with special needs. The newly established Student Services Committee was noted for its role in tackling these concerns, with a focus on special education, climate and culture, school counseling, athletics, and diversity.

Community engagement was another key focus, with efforts to better connect with Spanish-speaking families through the inclusion of a translator fluent in Spanish and English. Plans for an anti-Semitism youth summit during the week of respect were discussed. The summit will involve middle and high school students, with participation from local synagogue leaders and Jewish Community Center representatives.

The meeting also covered various updates on district initiatives. Participation in youth sports was enthusiastically reported, with notable involvement in cheerleading, cross country, field hockey, football, boys and girls soccer, girls tennis, and volleyball. The Home and School Association (HSA) recently celebrated bus drivers, aides, and crossing guards with performances by kindergarten and first-grade students.

Technological advancements were highlighted, including the successful transition to the Genesis system and new initiatives like visitor management systems and print management processes. A welcome back event for families, organized in partnership with local clergy, aimed to connect families with district resources and saw participation from around 50 families. Community organizations like Communities in Crisis were present to offer support, particularly for Hispanic families.

The board also discussed an application to the planning board regarding modifications to the high school site and ongoing efforts by the Green Team to collect plastic film for recycling. A new Student Services Committee was initiated to address various areas, including special education and school climate and culture.