0:02The most notable topic of discussion was the budget, as Superintendent Sylvia Zircher presented plans to address the district’s financial constraints. Despite cuts in state and federal aid, the superintendent assured the board that the budget has been balanced without reducing staff or major programs. “Although this presented quite a challenge, we did balance the budget… without reducing staffing or major programs,” she stated. The budget prioritizes academic and extracurricular needs, with investments in classroom technology and instructional materials. Mental health services continue to be a focus. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for April 28, allowing the community to engage with the financial plans in detail.

The board also tackled the ongoing issue of student attendance. Superintendent Zircher highlighted efforts to reduce chronic absenteeism, a metric that could designate schools as needing improvement if it exceeds 10%. The board is collaborating with parents, guidance counselors, and social workers to address this concern. Moreover, a truancy officer is involved in visiting the homes of frequently absent students and filing complaints with municipal court when necessary.

Another issue discussed was cell phone usage in schools, particularly following recent media coverage and a related initiative from the governor. Teachers are given the autonomy to manage phone usage in their classrooms, with many opting to have students put phones away during lessons. However, challenges persist, especially at the high school level where some students possess multiple phones. Addressing these challenges requires continued cooperation from both students and parents.

Additionally, Superintendent Zircher emphasized the need for better cooperation in maintaining school facilities. She expressed concerns over vandalism and littering on playgrounds and the inappropriate use of the turf field, such as riding electric bikes and leaving trash behind. To preserve these spaces for student use, the school has implemented measures like locking playgrounds during evenings and weekends. Superintendent Zircher urged the community to maintain cleanliness and respect the facilities, mentioning the availability of garbage cans for proper trash disposal.

In a notable personnel update, the board announced the resignation of member Lisa Byrne, effective March 31. Byrne, who served on the board for four years, expressed her enjoyment in serving the community and was wished well by her peers as she transitions to new opportunities. Her departure was humorously noted as potentially increasing audience attendance in future meetings.

14:37The meeting also included committee reports, with updates on various initiatives. The finance committee, for instance, focused on crafting a budget that prioritizes student education and staff retention amid financial challenges. The board approved several financial resolutions, including contracts for preschool expansion and other essential services. Meanwhile, the athletics committee shared news of South River High School students’ success at a conference in Iowa City, although specific student names were not provided.

In the realm of instruction, the board discussed preparations for New Jersey state assessments and initiatives to enhance learning through data analysis. Professional development is emphasizing support for multilingual learners and social-emotional learning, with significant events like the South River Day of Service and a curriculum fair on the horizon.

The meeting concluded with a session for public comments, which did not yield any new issues or concerns. The board then moved into a closed executive session to discuss personnel matters, with an assurance that the subjects would be disclosed to the public at a later date.