A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to ethics training for board members. The training emphasized the necessity for board members to adhere strictly to the code of ethics. The training included discussions on the mandatory submission of financial disclosures and the need for board members to recuse themselves from discussions and votes involving personal or familial interests. There was a specific mention of a long-serving board member who had faced suspension for a conflict of interest, underscoring that even experienced members must remain vigilant in their ethical conduct. The trainer also discussed the challenges posed by social media, advising members to limit their engagement to avoid potential ethics violations.

Following the ethics discussion, the board deliberated on the proposed climate and culture survey, an initiative aimed at gathering feedback from students, staff, parents, and community members to inform strategic decisions within the district. The survey’s design and administration were discussed, with an emphasis on collecting data to develop an action plan for improving the district’s learning environment. The survey, which had been part of previous discussions, was noted as a valuable tool for enhancing the school’s culture and promoting inclusivity and support.

The board also reviewed progress on expanding middle school elective options, a goal partially completed in the previous year. This initiative aims to provide students with a wider array of elective courses, including in the arts and STEM, and involves making STEM, art, and music teachers full-time. The board discussed the possibility of allowing students in grades six through eight to merge elective choices, thereby offering greater flexibility and encouraging exploration in different fields.

In addition to educational goals, the board addressed ongoing issues with the school’s air conditioning system. Despite 95% of the building being functional, the malfunctioning air conditioning has been a source of frustration, with repairs needed before the colder weather arrives. The board expressed hope that the system would be fully operational soon, emphasizing the importance of resolving these issues to avoid future disruptions.

Safety initiatives were also a key topic, with the introduction of a new countywide safety plan developed with local law enforcement and education departments. This plan aims to streamline procedures for relocation and reunification during emergencies, addressing previous confusion and ensuring a coherent approach to student safety. Staff training on emergency preparedness had already taken place, and the board discussed the logistics of transportation during such events.

The board reviewed updates to the music curriculum, which now includes music theory after a 12-year absence, aligning with efforts to enhance student choice in music education. There was also a discussion on dress code policies, with a focus on clarifying expectations for student and staff attire while maintaining standards of professionalism.

The meeting also included updates on the district’s attendance policy, with a recommendation to revert to requiring written notes or doctor’s notes to excuse absences. The board emphasized the importance of maintaining strong attendance rates and holding parents accountable for their children’s school attendance.

In other business, the board discussed the regionalization study in collaboration with Rowan University, aimed at exploring the feasibility of restructuring district alignments. A steering committee will guide this study, with representation from each district involved.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the need for additional paraprofessional staff to support an increase in preschool students with special needs and the ongoing challenges of balancing community use of the school field with maintaining its condition.