A comprehensive analysis of math instruction across kindergarten through eighth grade took center stage. The Board examined student performance data, specifically through the I-Ready diagnostic assessments. The results showed significant growth in kindergarten, with students achieving proficiency at grade-level content. This growth was attributed to inclusive assessment methods that accommodate diverse groups, including special education and multilingual learners. The assessments provided insights into ongoing educational progress, highlighting improvements in second-grade performance and upward trends in third and fourth grades.

To address these challenges, the Board scheduled data meetings to review performance metrics and set plans to restructure the Flex period for seventh-grade math students. This restructuring aims to facilitate small group instruction, a strategy successfully implemented in elementary grades. Teachers will receive training to utilize the I-Ready toolbox for targeted instruction. This approach, coupled with previous high-impact tutoring initiatives, is designed to replicate positive outcomes at the middle school level.

The Board also discussed efforts to identify and support advanced students through personalized learning paths. Preparations for upcoming state assessments were outlined, with plans to celebrate students who exceed growth goals through public recognition.

In parallel, the Board addressed preschool expansion plans amidst ongoing water contamination issues at West Amwell. The preschool program’s future was a focal point, with discussions on housing classes at St. John’s and the elementary school. A new proposal suggested splitting the classes between the two locations. This move comes as the district considers the high cost of $291,000 annually to rent St. John’s facility. The Board is awaiting a response to this proposal, which seeks to maintain suitable class sizes while enhancing the preschool program.

The issue of water contamination at West Amwell remains unresolved, as efforts to communicate with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) since November have not yet resulted in a meeting date. The contamination, linked to a nearby business, has led to the use of bottled water for students, with the responsible business agreeing to reimburse the school for these costs. The Board is seeking a resolution to this issue and has engaged a commercial real estate broker to update the property’s assessment, including environmental considerations.

The meeting also included updates on administrative restructuring plans for the 2025-2026 school year. The Board announced the appointment of a new principal for instruction and special projects, a decision aimed at supporting various educational initiatives. This restructuring is projected to save the district approximately $61,000 compared to previous staffing arrangements. Additional staffing changes include the appointment of a new middle school principal and proposals for new teaching positions in art, French, and Spanish.

Public comment periods revealed community concerns regarding preschool programming and enrollment numbers. A community member emphasized the need for careful planning to ensure classroom sizes and learning environments facilitate student growth. Concerns were also raised about a 6% decline in enrollment, the lowest in nine years, leading to suggestions for optimizing building usage by relocating one grade to the middle school.

Lastly, the Board reviewed a financial audit letter affirming no transactions lacked guidance during the audit period. A corrective action plan was discussed to address issues related to approval signatures and record-keeping inaccuracies. The meeting concluded with discussions on future fundraising events, curriculum development, and the need to enhance communication and community engagement.