The board explored the adequacy of the disaster recovery plan, with participants expressing apprehension that High Point Solutions’ current scope might not include a detailed roadmap for disaster recovery. The sentiment was that while the consultants could aid in remediation, they should also ascertain whether a recovery plan exists and incorporate it into their responsibilities if absent. This urgency reflects a broader concern regarding the district’s preparedness for potential disruptions, particularly during winter months when severe weather poses a heightened risk.

The conversation underscored the importance of evaluating existing business continuity strategies and ensuring redundancy within the district’s server systems. Concerns were raised about the timeline for the assessment, with some members questioning the sufficiency of a 30-day evaluation period to both identify issues and propose actionable solutions. Past incidents, such as a winter storm-induced system failure, have highlighted vulnerabilities within the district’s infrastructure.

The dialogue extended to other matters, including discussions about the Food Service Fund. It was noted that the district must effectively utilize these funds for specific purposes related to food service, with ongoing communication with the New Jersey Department of Agriculture to ensure compliance. The board has been working on releasing bids for necessary upgrades in school kitchens.

Turning to technology services, the board scrutinized contractual language with High Point Solutions, particularly around target dates and the scope of their assessment. Participants emphasized the need for a review that goes beyond active directory to include broader issues such as storage and server infrastructure. The acknowledgment of outdated technology within the district’s systems prompted a call for clarity and improvements to prevent future operational problems.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed draft meeting dates for upcoming years, with particular focus on ensuring board member availability and avoiding scheduling conflicts. The board also deliberated on the approval of the 2023-2024 annual comprehensive financial report, a corrective action plan from audit findings, and a three-year preschool program plan. A corrective action plan was necessitated by audit findings, notably addressing the food service program’s financial status and the need for an updated fixed assets report.

Concerns about student lunch debt were highlighted, reflecting economic challenges faced by families and the district’s ongoing efforts to collect outstanding balances. While no immediate action was recommended, the board acknowledged the steps taken to address the issue.

Another area of discussion involved the lottery selection process for Choice School seats, confirming all 13 seats were filled with 15 applicants on the waitlist. The lottery was conducted publicly to ensure fairness, and it was clarified that students admitted remain enrolled until graduation or departure, while waitlisted students must reapply annually.

During public comments, which were limited due to low attendance, the board emphasized the importance of community engagement. They discussed plans for educational presentations on pressing student issues, such as youth vaping and drug use, with the potential to involve a prevention center representative. The board expressed enthusiasm for organizing community events around these presentations, highlighting a commitment to fostering community involvement and addressing student concerns.