The meeting commenced with Mr. Terry Lewis from the New Jersey School Boards Association addressing the importance of ethics and accountability in the district. He emphasized that board members must maintain public trust and highlighted the School Ethics Act of 1991, which mandates training and disclosure statements. Lewis described the roles and responsibilities of the School Ethics Commission and clarified the distinction between ethics complaints and advisory opinions. He emphasized that actions compromising the board’s integrity, such as personal email use to express views on mask mandates, could be perceived as representing the entire board and thus undermine its integrity.

Lewis provided examples of ethical breaches, including forwarding internal communications to municipal officials, which could harm students or staff and expose the district to liability. He underscored that board members should not benefit personally or allow friends to gain from their positions and clarified their limited role in hiring personnel, which is largely the superintendent’s domain. Lewis used a metaphor to describe the board’s governance role, comparing it to specifying what they want, like a swimming pool, while the administration figures out the implementation.

The ethical framework was further reinforced when a member raised concerns about using board email for personal opinions on mask mandates, directing actions at the state legislature and public. This was categorized as a violation that could compromise the board’s position. Lewis stressed the importance of confidentiality and the board’s role in policy making rather than administration.

The establishment of district and board goals was another focal point. A board member highlighted the value of comprehensive minutes in reducing meeting inquiries and proposed three sets of goals: CSA goals for the Chief School Administrator, district goals developed with the superintendent, and board goals for board performance and effectiveness. The emphasis was on collaborative district goals to align board priorities with superintendent actions and limiting goals to ensure manageability. The discussion included a quiz format to differentiate between district and board goals, using examples like providing tools and training for students and ensuring strong instruction.

A member proposed specific board goals, such as promoting school event participation and ensuring board member training sessions. The cyclical nature of board work was discussed, with a proposed calendar to help keep the board organized. The meeting transitioned to an executive session to discuss personnel items and attorney-client privilege, running longer than anticipated due to discussions involving a conflict attorney.

Community initiatives were celebrated, including a successful blood drive on August 6th, collecting 31 units of blood, which qualified for additional funds for a scholarship. The monthly Food Bank of South Jersey food pantry supported 67 families in August, with the next pantry scheduled for September 19th. The Washington Township Education Foundation approved 28 mini grants totaling over $25,000 for the 2024-25 school year.

A proposal from Chrissy Kosar, president of the Gloucester County Education Association, to restart the “Stuff the Bus” initiative for collecting non-perishable food donations was positively received. Kosar outlined logistics for at least four events throughout the year, promoting through social media and flyers.

The board also discussed dual enrollment agreements and the communication of these opportunities to parents. Several policy motions and student activities passed without debate. Dr. Gregor was recognized for his 35 years of service upon his retirement, and new hires, including a special education supervisor and a director of informational technology, were announced.

Finance and facilities discussions included clarifications on checks and cell phone charges, as well as a budget for life skills trips for special education students. The timeline for working on district and board goals was questioned, with suggestions for involving new board members and developing joint goals with administrative input.