33:30The meeting commenced with President Monica Watson expressing gratitude to those in attendance, including online participants, and acknowledging a packed agenda. A central highlight was the celebration of the new ECDC, which opened on June 2, 2025. The center aims to accommodate a community-wide preschool universe of approximately 500 students, with a current enrollment of 93. The board secretary detailed efforts to expand preschool access, including applying for preschool expansion aid and acquiring additional classroom space in Gibbsboro.

35:18The construction of the ECDC involved a significant contract awarded to Weatherbe Construction for $14,598,000, which included a $300,000 allowance for unforeseen changes. Several construction challenges were discussed, including three change orders and modifications such as transitioning from a warming kitchen to a full-service kitchen to better serve 285 preschool students. This decision was driven by increased enrollment at ET Hamilton, complicating meal logistics, and necessitated an external walk-in freezer to maximize classroom space. The kitchen’s completion is expected by the end of July 2025, with interim meal preparations being handled by Signal Hill School.

48:12The project funding, sourced from capital reserves and a preschool facilities expansion grant totaling $18 million, avoided the need for a bond referendum. The board expressed pride in this financial strategy, which allowed for the construction without increasing the tax burden on residents. The meeting also highlighted a shared service agreement with the Voorhees Township Police Department for a School Resource Officer, with costs proportionally shared between Gibbs and Voorhees.

In a public hearing segment, the board addressed a proposed amendment to extend Superintendent Dr. Hackett’s contract from three years to five, keeping existing terms intact, including a 2.5% annual increment. The motion passed unanimously without public comment.

36:55Another notable public comment focused on migraines and headache awareness. The speaker, a parent of a child with high-frequency migraines, advocated for accommodations like dimming classroom lights and adopting fragrance-free policies, following recent U.S. Department of Education guidance recognizing migraines under Section 504 and IDEA.

05:45The meeting also recognized retiring staff members for their dedication and contributions to nurturing and educating students. Their service was celebrated with gratitude for their lasting impact on the district.

41:58Further discussions included a review of policy 0164.1 concerning board member conduct, which the policy committee recommended tabling for further discussion post-July break. The academic excellence committee reported on the upcoming assessment schedule for the 2025-2026 school year, and the receipt of a grant to enhance early literacy screening.

45:46Personnel adjustments were also discussed, including reducing the number of registered behavior technicians in favor of full-time instructional assistants and converting a teacher vacancy to a board-certified behavioral analyst position. Plans for the 2026-2027 calendar and summer hiring were also reviewed.

15:21Recognition of various heritage months, such as Jewish American Heritage Month and Pride Month, was emphasized, stressing the importance of celebrating diversity within the district. One board member spoke on the significance of adding Eid and Diwali to the school calendar, acknowledging the challenges but underscoring the importance of representing students’ traditions.