Community individuals, including Mea Froz, Lisa Tuo, Patty Richardson, Joyce Sodo, and Molly Eisen, voiced strong opposition to the possible cuts in the school library program, particularly at the middle school level. They argued that the reduction would negatively impact students’ access to resources, educational support, and emotional well-being. The significance of library media specialists was a common thread through their comments, with Froz raising concerns about equity and the link between certified media specialists and student test scores. Sodo emphasized the critical nature of school libraries for students who lack access to public libraries and the librarians’ role in preparing students for academic success. Eisen stressed the welcoming atmosphere of school libraries and their positive impact on student reading habits.

Sharon Ortiz, another community member, also spoke in opposition to the potential cuts, emphasizing the importance of library media specialists in maintaining student interest in reading. Jaclyn Kaiser highlighted the role of library media specialists in fostering intellectual curiosity and exposing students to diverse perspectives.

Superintendent Moore and President Rock responded to the community’s concerns, acknowledging the value of the library media specialist positions and the empathy they felt for the difficult decisions necessitated by budget constraints. They highlighted the impact of state funding on the budget and the tough choices regarding position eliminations that the board faced. Both expressed appreciation for the community’s feedback and advocacy, while also conveying the challenges of the budgeting process.

In addition to the concerns over library staffing, the meeting celebrated the achievements of the West Orange High School Youth Advisory Board. The board’s contributions to legislative advocacy, particularly related to traffic safety, were recognized. Governor Murphy presented a signed bill to the group, thanking them for their role in its passage. The Youth Advisory Board, in collaboration with the N Bani Foundation, had advocated for the 50-hour practice hour bill and conducted a Traffic Safety Week at the high school. Representatives from TriAA also commended the students for their dedication and the impact they’ve made on legislative matters.

Furthermore, the superintendent’s report praised the work of students involved in the Youth Advisory Board. The student liaison report underscored accomplishments and upcoming events in sports, music, and community service at the schools. The HIV report noted two investigations, with one founded.

The meeting also delved into the state school funding formula, discussing how the district was affected by changes in local fair share and adequacy budget. This conversation was part of a broader debate on the district’s finances and the retirement of several long-serving staff members. Committee reports included a tour of Roosevelt School and a discussion on traffic and drop-off safety concerns.

The presentation of personnel, curricular, finance, and report items were approved without debate, as no public comments were made during the designated time for petitions and hearings of citizens on agenda or non-agenda items.