South Brunswick Board Tackles Student Proficiency Concerns

In the recent South Brunswick School Board meeting, a portion of the discourse was dedicated to the concerning results of the New Jersey graduation proficiency assessment (NJPA) for spring 2024, revealing a 45% failure rate across the state. This assessment, a requirement for high school juniors to graduate, showed particular areas where students are struggling, especially among Hispanic students and those with disabilities. The board engaged in a discussion on the multiplicity of graduation pathways and the strategies to support students who are falling behind, emphasizing the need for early intervention and the role of the community in bolstering student success.

The presentation on the NJPA results underscored the urgency of addressing the proficiency gaps. The board members probed into the support mechanisms for students who do not pass the assessment on their first attempt, including retaking the test, alternative assessments, and a portfolio appeal. The discussion further delved into the performance of different student subgroups and the subsequent necessity to tailor educational support to each student’s needs.

Amidst the examination of the graduation proficiency results, board members also debated the efficacy of the NJPA test itself. Concerns were raised about the high failure rate and whether the assessment serves as an effective tool for measuring student readiness. The board members concurred on the importance of collaborative efforts between the community and the school district to furnish the required resources and support for students, with a particular stress on personalized approaches to educational assistance.

In addition to the graduation proficiency assessment, the meeting addressed the assessments given to English Language Learner (ELL) students with suggestions made to further disaggregate data to better understand ELL performance, particularly in math assessments which involve extensive reading and problem-solving skills.

The superintendent updated the board on logistical matters such as kindergarten registration, summer reading programs, and supply lists. A issue of unpaid Chromebook fees was also discussed, with the stipulation that unpaid devices would be disabled. Adjustments to the meeting schedule were made to avoid conflict with the Ed Foundation’s event, and the board considered the concerning trend of low kindergarten enrollment numbers.

In the realm of business operations, the board decided to end its current cafeteria contract and move forward with a new service provider. The possibility of a visit to the high school to review new signage was also discussed. Although the meeting allowed for public comments, no audience members came forward to speak during the designated times.

The consent agenda, encompassing a range of motions from business operations to contracts, bids, professional services, and personnel, was passed without incident. The meeting concluded with the announcement of an executive session to deliberate on personnel matters, and the board adjourned with a reminder of the next scheduled meeting on August 22nd.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Superintendent:
Scott Feder
School Board Officials:
Lisa Rodgers, Laura Hernandez, Julie Ferrara, Dr. Smitha Raj, Ph.D, Deepa Karthik, Alisha Khan, Raja Krishna, Mike Mitchell, Barry Nathanson

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