The meeting began with a significant presentation by Douglas Reed, CEO of Douglas Emmery LLC, who introduced the “Notice, Talk, Act” program, a mental health training initiative aimed at K-12 educators. This program, funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), is designed to help educators recognize early signs of mental health issues in students, engage in supportive conversations, and connect them with appropriate resources. Reed shared compelling statistics, noting a 70% reduction in truancy, an 89% decrease in discipline referrals, and a 99% reduction in major mental health incidents among students participating in the program. The program is offered at no cost to schools and can be implemented through live or hybrid sessions lasting 90 minutes to two hours.

Board members expressed strong interest in bringing this program to Winslow schools, with discussions on the logistics of implementation and the potential for Winslow to be the first district in New Jersey to adopt it. They questioned the program’s reach and impact in other local schools, to which Reed responded that Winslow could lead the state in mental health training adoption.

Following the mental health presentation, the board heard from Alma Martinez Walsh, site director of the Orchards Family Success Center. Walsh outlined the center’s offerings, which include workshops, family support services, and community events, emphasizing the importance of addressing the community’s evolving needs. The center has seen significant growth, with registered households increasing from 95 to 386 within a year. Events like a back-to-school giveaway and a Thanksgiving turkey distribution have been well-received.

The board discussed potential collaborations with the center to enhance student and family participation in its activities, recognizing the mutual benefits of such partnerships.

A recurring theme in the meeting was the distribution of Chromebooks to high school students. Concerns were raised about the low sign-up rate for the devices, with only 25% of students expressing interest. Board members speculated that the lack of sign-ups could be due to students already having personal laptops. To address this issue, the board proposed conducting surveys to better understand student needs and improve marketing efforts to encourage participation. The distribution aims to ensure all students have access to necessary technology for their education.

Further discussions touched on the financial aspects of the district’s operations. The operations committee reported on various projects, including HVAC upgrades and serving line enhancements in the high school cafeteria, which were over budget. The need to seek additional funding from the county and potentially utilize capital reserve funds was highlighted as a strategy to manage these financial challenges.

The athletic committee report celebrated the achievements of the Winslow Township football team, which was preparing for a state championship game. The board acknowledged the team’s success in consecutive championship appearances, with special mention of quarterback Jayen Parker’s pursuit of a state record for touchdown receptions. The girls’ cross-country team’s historic success was also noted.

In new business, discussions included plans for a Hall of Fame initiative to honor individuals who have contributed to the district’s academic and cultural legacy. The board also addressed community concerns raised during public comments. Suggestions included improving meeting accessibility through Microsoft Teams, enhancing transportation arrangements for the championship football game, and considering varsity jackets for the cheerleaders if the boys’ team wins the championship.