Bob Morrison introduced the shared services regionalization feasibility study, emphasizing its goals to optimize and potentially improve the educational system. Morrison underscored the importance of the study being a collaborative and public process, involving an advisory committee with stakeholder input and community involvement. He also noted that the session was recorded and would be accessible on the Watchung Hills website.

Magar provided an overview of the state’s grant program for feasibility studies on shared services and regionalization. He explained the requirements of the study, stressing the significance of demographic studies, cost projections, and options for governance and cost sharing. The four domains of the study—governance and law, demography, education and program, and finance and operations—were outlined, each involving a detailed examination of various factors.

The proposed study was described as careful, involving a range of professionals and experts in relevant fields. It is projected to take several months, with the final recommendations informed by ongoing communication and data gathering.

The timeline for the study was also a topic of discussion, with an aim to complete the study by April 2025. The board emphasized the importance of thoroughness over speed, intending to deliver a comprehensive finished product for discussion with the school boards involved. Additionally, financial aspects were discussed, including the potential impact of sending districts’ payments on the school’s operations.

The meeting closed with a mention of the ongoing nature of the process and an encouragement for the community’s continued engagement and feedback. Future opportunities for public input were highlighted, with the possibility of in-person or virtual town hall events to discuss the study’s progress and findings. The commitment to address any inquiries from the attendees was reiterated.