0:28The financial status of the West Orange School District was a primary focus of the meeting. An audit conducted by the firm Lurch, Vincy, and Bliss revealed a budget surplus of approximately $3.8 million, surpassing the state-mandated limit for unassigned funds. This surplus is expected to ease the upcoming budget cycle, but the auditor cautioned against over-reliance on these funds. The district’s capital reserve fund stands at $5.2 million, allocated for capital improvements, while the maintenance reserve fund contains about $2 million. The audit findings included three recurring issues from the previous year.

19:35The meeting also highlighted the district’s focus on math interventions for grades six through eight. Classroom visits from October 2024 identified areas for improvement, such as increasing student engagement during instructional time. The board is implementing diagnostic assessments to guide these interventions and plans additional visits in February to assess student discussions during lessons. Updates on these math initiatives, along with English Language Arts curriculum progress, are anticipated.

Public comments addressed various community concerns. One resident questioned the board’s financial strategies in light of the district’s high revenue per student compared to state and national averages. Another community member, Margarita Sanoto, expressed gratitude for the ongoing air conditioning upgrades but sought clarity on the timeline for completion, particularly at Redwood School. Superintendent Moore explained the complexities of the electrical upgrades necessary for air conditioning installation, with completion expected by 2026.

35:18The topic of accountability within the school district surfaced during the meeting. Resident Adam Kramer criticized the district’s management, citing poor ninth-grade math scores and a perceived lack of accountability. He questioned the district’s spending compared to neighboring areas and called for improved fiscal management and accountability. His comments resonate with broader community concerns about educational outcomes and financial stewardship.

Immigration-related concerns were also part of the public discussion. Rochelle Alves raised questions about the district’s policies regarding immigration status and the handling of judicial search warrants. She emphasized the community’s fear and urged the board to ensure staff are informed and prepared. Pamela Beerley shared her personal experience with family separation due to immigration laws and asked about the district’s protocols for emergency contacts and school discipline.

19:35The meeting also saw the approval of the 2025-2026 academic calendar, with one board member abstaining from the vote. Personnel resolutions included the recognition of two retiring staff members: Jennifer Maresi, a special education teacher at St. Cloud Elementary with 30 years of service, and Bruno Mitch, a custodian at West Orange High School with 23 years of service. The board expressed its appreciation for their contributions to the school community.

35:18In addition to these discussions, the board approved various finance, special services, and business office items without opposition. The board also acknowledged donations from Miss Vera and Mr. David Meny to Washington Elementary, reflecting continued community support for local schools.