The board meeting began with an acknowledgment of the high attendance, with over 80 people registered for public speaks. The high participation prompted the board to move up public speaks in the agenda. The board president, Kaitlin Wittleder, issued an apology for supporting the MapSO Freedom School liaison, emphasizing the importance of maintaining apolitical leadership within the school district. This led to discussions about discontinuing the liaison relationship, given the organization’s alleged involvement in political advocacy work.

The public comment period witnessed community members raising concerns about MapSO Freedom School’s alleged anti-Semitic and anti-Israel rhetoric. Multiple individuals accused the school of spreading hate and misinformation about Israel, with some suggesting that the group’s actions threatened the harmony and safety of the community. The overwhelming sentiment expressed during the public comment period was a call for the Board to take decisive action in response to these concerns.

However, the debate was not one-sided. Several community members defended the MapSO Freedom School, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing legitimate criticism of Israel from anti-Semitism. They highlighted the organization’s work in creating safe spaces for black and brown students and its role in addressing racial violence and fostering critical thinking skills among students.

Despite the range of viewpoints, the South Orange-Maplewood School Board voted to terminate the liaison with the MapSO Freedom School.

In addition to the MapSO Freedom School controversy, the meeting also featured discussions on policy changes and district construction projects. Policies 5120 and 5124 sparked debates over language changes and their potential impact on students’ access to transportation. Concerns were expressed about the lack of administrative input and whether the policies had undergone the proper review process.