The educators of the year were acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to student achievement. Taylor Leau, Jean Marce Lover, Miss Silverman, Mr. McLain, Mrs. Christine Diley, and Mr. Tom Bill received commendations for their dedication and impact on students across various schools in the district.

The board’s comprehensive budget hearing was a major focus, with the superintendent and business administrator tag-teaming the presentation. The budget, designed to align with the district’s mission statement and strategic goals, was dissected to shed light on critical factors impacting the financial plan, including staffing, benefits, special education programming, maintenance, and transportation costs.

The utilization of federal ESSER funds was presented in detail, highlighting their allocation towards after-school tutoring programs, instructional technology software, program reviews, mental health clinician services, and summer academic programs. The district also outlined strategic goals to accommodate the opening of a new elementary school, maintain class sizes, and prepare for unforeseen expenses associated with the new building. Revenue sources such as state aid, federal aid, tax levy, and other items like fund balance and interest from bank accounts were discussed to provide a clear picture of the district’s financial framework.

Staffing changes were on the agenda, with the district preparing for the opening of a new elementary school in September and a new middle school in 2025. Facilities discussions included preparations for the new building and considerations for the preschool program.

The meeting also addressed the district’s strategic plan, with a link provided for further exploration, and discussed upcoming changes to the district’s programming. A new research-based English language arts program was introduced, and the dual enrollment program, which allows students to earn college credits before graduation, was emphasized.

The board conveyed satisfaction with the upcoming year’s class sizes, contrasting them with concerns in neighboring districts over budget cuts and layoffs. Expansion efforts for the preschool program were discussed, with preschool expansion aid utilized to support staff and free up budget resources. The introduction of a theater program and the offering of dual enrollment courses in partnership with universities were notable developments.

Furthermore, the implementation of a new student information system, findings of a report on gifted and talented programs, and plans for a new communication system for parents were outlined. Potential capital reserve projects like an outdoor fitness course, field turf area, and fitness center renovation were also discussed. The meeting presented the increase in ratables for the communities served by the district and the decision to maintain a budget increase within 2%. Updates on debt service, specifically the expiration of high school and West Amwell debt in February 2026, were shared, impacting future financial planning.

Discussion on the 2024-25 budget was a key agenda item. Community questions on the budget were invited, followed by a motion to approve the final budget. The new schedule for the elementary school was addressed, with a proposed schedule that balances social-emotional learning and academics. The schedule includes a daily acceleration period and an 80-minute block for ELA and math. The board stressed the importance of data-informed decision-making and the role of ELA and math skills in the acceleration block. The state’s learning acceleration plan was discussed, focusing on addressing unfinished learning and implementing a high-impact tutoring program.

The high-impact tutoring program’s success was presented, showing a high attendance rate for students and teachers and notable improvements in math and reading. The board discussed the implementation of the acceleration block for academic support, enrichment opportunities, and social and emotional learning. Questions about student participation and barriers to the tutoring program were considered, with the board expressing interest in ensuring broad participation in future programs.

The district’s efforts to support students during after-school hours, balancing technology with interpersonal connections, were highlighted. Success of the tutoring program and plans to implement it during school hours were also discussed. Public inquiries covered the cost of dual enrollment courses, traffic concerns, and the management of the acceleration program. Community recognition of the district’s transportation efforts for the softball team and suggestions for traffic management related to sporting events were also noted.

A discussion on the algorithm for teacher-student movements in middle and high schools ensued, addressing student and teacher requests and administration push into classes. The board members inquired about visibility and parental insight into student activities.

Committee updates included health benefit plans, budget review, construction progress, NJ6 safety grant award for bus cameras, and the RFP for the Food Service management company. The Personnel Committee reviewed recommendations on personnel matters, while the Curricula and Technology Committee provided updates on data migration, parent-grand class link, preparations for the NJ SLA test, summer curricula, and the District Parent Council.

The Policy Committee reviewed curriculum content and technology device policies and discussed the importance of flexibility in classroom technology use. The School and Community Committee discussed the PTO reorganization, draft press release regarding Pre-K expansion, school mascots, and computer and screen usage in classrooms. Fire drills and a harassment, intimidation, and bullying report were also deliberated.