Vineland School Board Introduces Ninth Grade Academy Amid Immigration Policy Concerns

The Vineland School Board meeting prominently featured the introduction of the Ninth Grade Academy at Vineland High School, an initiative designed to support students transitioning from middle school to high school. Alongside this development, the board also faced significant public concern regarding recent changes in federal immigration policy, particularly the potential impact on students and their families within the district.

0:00Superintendent Alfonso Llano, along with Principal Justin Adams and Ismael Bermudez, Executive Director of Special Projects and Operations, presented the Ninth Grade Academy, set to launch in September. The Academy is aimed at easing the transition for ninth-grade students by creating a structured environment that emphasizes academic, social, and emotional development. Located at the VHS North Tanner building, the Academy will focus on core academic subjects such as English Language Arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and health and physical education. Mr. Adams underscored the Academy’s goal to improve graduation rates by establishing a strong foundational year for students. A dedicated team of administrators, assistant principals, and guidance counselors will support the Academy’s efforts, with special programs like a seminar class teaching essential high school skills, including study techniques and organization methods.

19:28As part of the Ninth Grade Academy initiative, the board also discussed strategies to address achievement gaps, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Concerns were specifically raised about students’ struggles in math and English Language Arts. The Academy plans to replace some elective courses with foundational courses in pre-algebra and math to better prepare students for future academic success. Additionally, a close read class was highlighted as a targeted intervention for students performing below grade level in reading, which has already shown significant growth among participants.

The meeting revealed the complexities of integrating new educational initiatives within the existing framework, described metaphorically as fitting new “puzzle pieces” into a massive puzzle. Budget constraints and the need for financial flexibility were acknowledged as ongoing challenges. Despite the hurdles, the board emphasized the importance of collaborative support from staff, students, and parents to ensure the Academy’s success. The initiative is intended to foster a sense of community and improve student retention and social development, with planned events such as pep rallies and orientation days to engage students and parents.

1:05:58In parallel, public comments highlighted concerns over recent federal immigration policy changes, specifically the rescinding of a directive that prohibited Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from entering educational institutions. This change has raised fears among students and families, with speakers urging the board to ensure a safe learning environment free from the threat of deportation. Community members, including a history teacher from Vineland High South and several parents, expressed alarm over the implications of a memo from the superintendent, which they feared could exacerbate tensions and fears within the school community.

47:55The board faced calls to clarify their position on these issues and to ensure that staff are appropriately trained to handle situations involving immigration enforcement. Community members urged the board to maintain transparency and communication with families to alleviate concerns, emphasizing the importance of schools as safe havens for all students, regardless of immigration status. The need for clear guidelines and support for families was reiterated, with suggestions to make relevant policies easily accessible to the public.

32:05Adding to the meeting’s discussions, Mr. Mike Garcia from Ford Scott Associates LLC delivered a clean audit report for the district, noting no findings or recommendations. The audit confirmed the district’s adherence to state and federal regulations, with a fund balance of approximately $37 million, most of which is earmarked for specific purposes such as maintenance reserves and excess surplus allocations.

1:23:26Personnel changes were also announced, including the appointment of Mr. Masonet as the new principal of Vineland High School and Jacqueline Mangalo as the principal of Memorial School.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.

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