Charlene Peterson from the New Jersey School Boards began the meeting by detailing the ethical obligations of board members, highlighting the need for transparency, confidentiality, and the avoidance of independent actions that could contravene collective board decisions. Peterson’s presentation was particularly pertinent given the recent ethical violations within the board, including the forwarding of confidential emails to Township officials and a board member’s unauthorized private investigation into the district’s choice of technology, leading to formal ethics charges.

Instances of conflicts of interest were also a focal point, with the School Ethics Commission providing guidance on the necessity of recusal in situations with potential financial gain or employment advantages. Another ethics charge arose from a board member’s controversial walk-on resolution to change the name of Columbus Day, which created a public uproar and was criticized for bypassing the board’s collective decision-making process. The Commission reiterated the importance of board members considering the public perception of their actions, particularly when involving themselves in school operations or using social media.

Superintendent DiGiuseppe updated the board on the district’s preparations for QSAC on-site monitoring and the Civil Rights data collection, describing the latter as an extensive endeavor requiring detailed demographic and academic data. She also discussed ongoing negotiations with the district’s associations and celebrated the recognition of two music students for state and regional performances.

The board then proceeded to discuss the district’s strategic plan, with a presentation on goals centered on student achievement, the development of 21st-century skills, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Questions arose about the methodology behind setting these goals and the analysis of student performance data, with Superintendent DiGiuseppe assuring the board of efforts to ensure data accuracy.

Deliberations continued around curriculum alignment with test scores, the implementation of the gifted and talented program, inclusion models, and the life skills class at the high school. The board also deliberated on the challenges of vocational education and the potential financial impact on the district, considering partnerships to provide vocational training opportunities.

In terms of operations, the Business Administrator, Mr. CH, provided a financial report, outlining the midyear budget review and preparations for the upcoming fiscal year budget. The Student Representative and Athletics Committee reported on school events and sports progress, while the Education Committee gave an extensive overview of educational initiatives.

The Buildings and Grounds Committee discussed various operational issues, including the closure of the Press Box at the high school football field and the challenges of compensating for additional administrative duties. A board member questioned the justification and necessity of annual compensations related to Title IX responsibilities, sparking a debate on how to ensure fair and justified payments.

Security and finance emerged as concerns, with a proposal to create an ad hoc security committee to collaborate with the Verona Police Department and assess district security practices, with a deadline of December 31st for planning and evaluation. The board also acknowledged the need to consider the educational welfare of homeless and foster care students under the McKinney-Vento Act.

Public comments brought to light community concerns about school security, transparency, and communication during security incidents, as well as the cost of school lunches. Board member Michael Boone criticized the district’s food services for charging for food during early dismissals and suggested exploring new contract options.