The retirement of Tim Sty took center stage at the meeting, with numerous board members and attendees expressing their deep appreciation for his service and contributions to the school district. Sty, who began his tenure in 2007, was praised for his financial acumen and his ability to navigate the district through various challenges, including financial turmoil and a troubled referendum project. Board member after board member lauded Sty for his professionalism and dedication, with one remarking, “You’ve been great to work with, a benefit to the board, a benefit to the community.”

The tributes to Sty were filled with personal anecdotes and reflections on the positive impact he had on both the board and the community. Dr. Joy, in particular, emphasized the loyalty and expertise Sty brought to managing the budget, describing him as her “righthand guy” over the past 12 years. She credited him for her growth as both a professional and a mother, saying, “He gets kids. He gets his family.”

A video presentation narrated by Dr. Joy highlighted the substantial upgrades made to school facilities under Sty’s financial leadership. These included enhancements in athletic facilities, academic spaces, and the creation of a design lab supporting robotics and engineering programs. The renovations, funded with nearly $5 million in state aid secured through past referendums, were designed to provide state-of-the-art environments without impacting local taxes. The improvements were not merely physical but transformative, aimed at empowering future leaders.

Following the video, Dr. Joy read a resolution recognizing Sty’s 18 years of service, detailing his extensive responsibilities, such as coordinating capital improvement projects and negotiating food service contracts. The resolution concluded with well-wishes for his retirement, encouraging him to pursue passions such as travel and golf.

During the meeting, several board members and former colleagues shared their sentiments.

The meeting also addressed an urgent and contentious issue regarding a recent announcement from the New Jersey Department of Education about replacing the New Jersey student learning assessment. A board member voiced strong disapproval, labeling the situation an “August surprise,” and criticized the rushed implementation of the new assessment. He argued that the change would undermine efforts to understand student recovery post-pandemic, stating, “This is nothing short than educational malpractice.”

The superintendent provided an update on various school projects and initiatives. Construction projects included ongoing work on the SA sack offices, expected to be completed by mid-September, and the main wall design lab, with new panels anticipated within 8 to 10 weeks. The superintendent also noted the completion of the outdoor classroom near the tennis courts and updates on the Dr. Dansancy memorial wall, with the family selecting a quote for inclusion.

Further, the finance committee report highlighted the allocation of $2.1 million across three reserve accounts, addressing declining enrollment and future capital projects. This included a $600,000 allocation for Greenbrook’s tuition reserve, $1.3 million for the capital reserve, and $200,000 for maintenance.

Public comments were invited, with Marissa Walsh from the Wong Hills Regional Education Association thanking an unnamed individual for their service and discussing union initiatives. These initiatives included securing grants for student and community benefits, establishing a little free lending library, and introducing the WHREA giving closet.