The meeting began with the acknowledgment of Megan Warner’s resignation, a board member from Lambertville who served for seven years. The board expressed gratitude for her contributions, and a motion to accept her resignation was passed unanimously. The board highlighted that the position is open for candidates, with applications due by September 6th. Interested individuals are encouraged to send resumes and letters of interest to Andrew Harris, with interviews scheduled for the board’s meeting on September 23rd. Warner’s journey was noted as impressive, having run for the board seat shortly after graduating.

Adding to the evening’s topics, Mr. Suo provided insights on the Request for Proposal (RFP) process for adding solar panels to South Elementary, South Hunterdon Middle School, and the high school. The initial plan to install solar panels was paused due to delays in the Middle School construction, as companies prefer to undertake all three projects simultaneously. The new solar panels, depending on the purchasing agreement, would be owned by the district, potentially leading to significant savings on electricity costs, estimated at 60 to 70% of current needs, although specific numbers were not disclosed.

In other updates, the board addressed the initiation of after-school athletics and clubs, with events scheduled to begin on September 3rd. These activities are planned to run until 5:15 PM at the Horseshoe area beside the building. The aim is to engage seventh and ninth-grade families, with a Google sign-up form circulated by the Athletic Director for parents. The event will offer food, organized with help from the PTO, and will feature an activity fair from 6:00 to 7:00 PM, where students can learn about various clubs and athletic opportunities. Parents will also receive important academic information, including details about the dual enrollment program, which allows students to earn college credits alongside high school coursework.

Further, transportation updates were provided, highlighting Amanda Brown’s work as the new Transportation Coordinator since July 1st. Parents were reminded to be patient during the initial weeks of bus runs as drivers adjust to new routes and the number of students riding. It was advised that students arrive at bus stops 10 minutes early and wait 10 minutes after scheduled times before leaving. The board acknowledged that many parents had questions about transportation information recently posted.

School construction updates included positive developments following the ribbon-cutting for the new elementary school on August 15th and subsequent open houses that drew community attendance. The board noted that responses regarding the new building have been positive. Remaining tasks include the installation of a new sign, gym floor striping, and addressing punch list items with the contractor. There was a mention of concerns regarding paving in the city lot at the elementary school, which requires permitting for pervious paving and involves drainage systems. The lot is owned by the city, and the process is anticipated to extend into the fall, with paving likely occurring in summer 2024 to minimize disruption during the school year.

Progress on the middle school construction was described as excellent, with steel structures now erected, and a target completion date set for March 31, 2025. The board expressed optimism about having more time to prepare for the opening compared to the tight timeline experienced with the elementary school.

The topic of preschool facility planning for the 2025-2026 year was highlighted, with three community input sessions planned to gather feedback on different options for the preschool program. These sessions will be conducted via Zoom and recorded for later access. Andrew and Dr. Nay Smith, in charge of the preschool program, will present options that include educational pros and cons, along with fiscal impacts, before the board makes decisions in the fall or early winter regarding the future of the preschool program.

The board also discussed changes to drop-off and pick-up procedures for improved pedestrian safety, with an emphasis on a video that families are encouraged to watch. Collaboration with Go Hunterdon provided recommendations for site safety, and new transportation provisions are in place for students living beyond the previously established two-mile boundary from the old LPs school, particularly those needing to cross busy roads.

During public comments, there was no feedback or questions raised from attendees, leading to the closure of this segment of the meeting. The board then moved on to committee reports covering buildings, grounds, transportation, finance, and safety.