A highlight of the meeting was the announcement of Isabella Lambert’s recognition as a US Presidential Scholar. Superintendent Diane DiGiuseppe detailed the rigorous selection process, which evaluates students based on SAT and ACT scores, state official nominations, and personal achievements. Lambert, a Verona High School senior, is one of only two students from New Jersey to receive this honor, underscoring her academic excellence and personal accomplishments. She is set to receive her medal at a ceremony at the White House in June. This prestigious award, established in 1964, honors high-achieving high school graduates nationwide, and Lambert’s achievement brings pride to the Verona community.

In addition to Lambert’s accolade, the district’s athletic achievements were highlighted, with Verona High School receiving the NJSIAA sportsmanship award for the third time since 2021. Superintendent DiGiuseppe emphasized the values of teamwork and fair play demonstrated by the student-athletes, coaches, and the athletic director, Laura Pomizi. The board also discussed the recent success of Verona High School’s boys’ soccer team, which achieved division champion status for the first time in nearly 15 years. The team’s victory against Cedar Grove was celebrated, along with the girls’ soccer team’s impressive record of winning six out of seven games. The field hockey team’s historic achievement of scoring nine goals in a single game against Cranford High School was also noted. Furthermore, the volleyball team achieved notable victories, and the upcoming football game against Glen Ridge was highlighted as an event, coinciding with senior night for the football team, cheerleaders, and marching band.

The meeting also addressed the district’s facilities, focusing on necessary maintenance and upgrades. It was reported that the control panels of some boilers at Lanning Avenue require replacement, and a rooftop condenser for a gym unit needs replacement due to a previous failure. The facilities team is currently reviewing quotes for the work. Additionally, ongoing litigation regarding playground issues was discussed, with current testing results favoring the district. The opposing party is seeking a second opinion.

In the realm of extracurricular activities, plans were announced for upcoming events, including a national walk to school day and field trips and academic competitions scheduled for November. The board also highlighted a new cheer competition at Walt Disney World in late January and the selection of some cheerleaders to march in a Disney parade.

The meeting’s public comments section included an emotional acknowledgment of the recent community loss of student Daria Gbia to cancer. A member reflected on the memorial service, expressing gratitude for the staff and choir’s involvement and the emotional support within the community. The sentiment was echoed by another member, emphasizing the importance of kindness and positivity, values embodied by Gbia.

The board proceeded to vote on various resolutions, including personnel, educational, athletics, and co-curricular activities, all of which passed unanimously. Additionally, the Verona Police Department’s support during the memorial was praised for their community involvement.