During the public comment segment, a local resident, Norman Shinberg, voiced strong opinions on the allocation of several hundred thousand dollars annually towards school security. He argued that the perception of schools as unsafe environments fuels unnecessary spending, aligning with a broader national trend where billions are invested in similar initiatives. Shinberg highlighted that data shows no student in New Jersey has been shot and killed on a K-2 school campus in over five decades. He emphasized statistics indicating a student is more likely to be harmed outside school premises, with the likelihood of a school shooting being a rare occurrence.

Shinberg critiqued current security measures, particularly the presence of armed security guards, as ineffective in reducing casualties during potential incidents. He cited studies and reports from organizations such as the Secret Service and the National Police Foundation, which suggest that armed guards do not prevent or effectively influence the outcomes of school shootings. He expressed skepticism towards the school security industry’s portrayal of schools as hazardous, describing it as a “multi-billion dollar industry” with vested interests in promoting fear-driven narratives.

Additionally, Shinberg questioned the practicality and efficacy of metal detectors in schools, explaining how certain firearms may evade detection and noting the logistical challenges of processing students through such security measures. He raised concerns about the creativity students might employ to bypass security, such as hiding weapons outside the school.

The topic of bullying was another focal point during the public session. Shinberg shared personal experiences from decades ago. In response, a board member defended the current efforts of teachers, emphasizing their dedication to addressing bullying. This exchange underscored differing perspectives on the role of educators in preventing bullying.

In the superintendent’s report, Dr. Sylvia Zircher highlighted several developments, including the opening of a new dance studio at the high school annex, funded through a grant. The studio, already hosting dance classes and yoga sessions, is also eyed for community activities like Zumba classes. Positive feedback from students and the community has been reported, with potential plans to introduce competitive dance programs.

Dr. Zircher also announced the opening of a new multi-purpose turf field, which has hosted multiple soccer games and is being used for educational activities. Efforts to promote student safety and well-being were addressed, with assemblies focusing on respectful language and partnerships with the South River Police Department to highlight the repercussions of biased language.

In terms of administrative initiatives, the district’s central registration and residency efforts were discussed. A new office located in the primary school parking lot allows for in-person and online registrations, with multilingual evening sessions available at South River Middle School. The district plans a random residency check in the spring.

The meeting also covered the district’s anti-bullying initiatives. Matt Crouch, Director of Student Services, discussed the 2023-2024 School Self-Assessment under the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act. Despite exceeding state expectations in several areas, Crouch acknowledged a dip in scores and highlighted the need for community engagement and improved data analysis.