13:58The Gearheads, Somerville High School’s robotics team, made a significant impression with their presentation. Their accomplishments included competing in three major competitions and advancing to the district championships at Lehigh University. They earned several accolades, including the Imagery Award at Robinsville and the District Engineering Inspiration Award at Montgomery. Initiatives such as public speaking workshops and mentoring younger teams like the Future Bulldogs were part of their strategy to build skills and confidence.

15:51The Gearheads’ outreach extended to over 100 Girl Scouts, focusing on inclusivity for girls with various challenges. The team also highlighted their Scout Radios app, which facilitates global connections among robotics teams. Alumni mentors play a role in sustaining the team’s legacy, contributing to a supportive environment that extends beyond robotics.

The board recognized the Gearheads’ achievements and expressed gratitude for their contributions. A notable incident was recounted involving the team’s sportsmanship at a competition, where they assisted a team from Haden Heights with mechanical issues.

42:31In other developments, the board addressed a special education dispute resolution. After entering an executive session to discuss confidential matters, the board returned to public session to approve a settlement agreement regarding a Somerville student eligible for special education services. This resolution followed litigation filed by the student, and the board authorized its president or designee, along with the superintendent, to finalize the agreement, which is to be kept on file at the board’s central office. The resolution passed with a majority vote, though two members opposed it.

36:20The meeting also covered various policy updates and initiatives. The board discussed the CUAC corrective action plan in response to chronic absenteeism at Vanir and the middle school, outlining steps to address the issue. Additionally, the district’s special education review concluded successfully, with no indicators requiring action, thanks to the efforts of Dr. McDonald and her team.

Curriculum updates were presented, focusing on intervention teams and schedule adjustments to better support students’ needs. The board announced the creation of a literacy leaders team at the elementary level and plans to enhance instructional methods. Updates on SEI training for staff were shared.

40:26Teacher Appreciation Week was acknowledged, with the board expressing gratitude to educators for their dedication. The meeting also included a report from the Somerset County Association of Boards of Education, where legislative updates and other educational matters were discussed. Miss Van Horn highlighted the introduction of the 2024-2025 Somerset County Teacher of the Year and emphasized the importance of community involvement in education.

50:37The board approved several agenda items, including high school and district-wide matters, and addressed questions about changes in school meal prices and curriculum additions, confirming new courses such as theater calculus and sports and fashion marketing for the upcoming school year.