Chronic absenteeism was a primary focus, with Dr. Matthew Beck, the superintendent, presenting an analysis of absenteeism rates across the district. Chronic absenteeism is defined as a student missing 10% or more of school days, equating to 18 days in a school year. Dr. Beck highlighted that although all schools in the district are above the 10% threshold, four out of five schools have shown a decrease in absenteeism rates compared to the previous year. For instance, Alpine Elementary School reduced its rate from 24% to 15.5%, while other schools like Mohawk Avenue, Helen Morgan, and Sparta Middle School also showed improvements. However, Sparta High School saw a 2.3% increase, which Dr. Beck noted requires further investigation.

Dr. Beck clarified the distinction between chronic absenteeism and truancy, explaining that the former includes both excused and unexcused absences. He emphasized that chronic absenteeism correlates with academic underachievement and a higher dropout rate, necessitating corrective action plans as mandated by the New Jersey Department of Education. These plans involve problem-solving teams and a focus on sustainability and ongoing professional development. Despite the challenges, the district’s efforts appear effective, as evidenced by the decreasing absenteeism rates.

The board also addressed the strategic planning process, with Vice President Chad Wood providing updates on the board’s goals and achievements over the past year. The board completed its self-evaluation, exceeding half of its annual training targets, and submitted its Quality Assurance Committee self-evaluation to the New Jersey Department of Education. A significant achievement was the award of a “dreams grant” for implementing the Nurtured Heart Approach, which aims to equip educators with effective student management techniques.

Policy updates were another topic of discussion, with Wood noting the creation of a policy list to track revisions, essential for ongoing management. The board plans to align its focus with the district’s five-year plan, scheduling meetings between board vice presidents and the superintendent for spring. Wood highlighted the importance of efficient time management, given the board’s limited membership and their divided priorities.

The meeting also included the presentation of the ACCESS scores for the 2024-25 assessment cycle, evaluating English language proficiency among multilingual learners. Dr. Andrew Buchanan explained that while many students were in the developing range, notable growth was observed in oral language acquisition. Writing remained a challenge, with nearly half of the students still classified as developing. Buchanan praised the collaborative efforts among teachers and the improved retention of ESL staff, which contributed to continuity and support for students.

In addition to absenteeism and strategic planning, the board discussed preparations for an upcoming bond referendum scheduled for September 16. The district has been proactive in informing residents about the referendum through mailers, virtual forums, and website updates. An in-person community forum is set for September 9 at Alpine Elementary. The referendum is important for creating safe and inspiring learning environments and has the potential to positively impact the community.

The meeting addressed other operational matters, including a contract with Sporting Club Premiere, allowing the soccer program to continue utilizing school facilities while providing scholarships and donations for upgrading the cardio fitness room. Acknowledgment was given to the Alpine PTO for a $1,000 donation for landscaping improvements at a local school.

During the public comment segment, Jenny Derk raised questions about overload stipends and special education staffing. She expressed concern about the sustainability of overload stipends throughout the school year and requested clarity on the number of preschool sections available in-district versus out-of-district. The district confirmed having eight in-district sections and three out-of-district sections, with ongoing efforts to expand the pre-k program.