The technology audit presentation emerged as a primary focus, with representatives from Aspire Technology Partners detailing an extensive review of the district’s network and cybersecurity infrastructure. The audit aims to enhance network resilience against threats such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks and ransomware, which have become prevalent concerns in educational settings. Aspire’s account manager explained that the audit process would involve stakeholder interviews, infrastructure assessments, and compliance checks against industry standards like NIST. The intention is to identify vulnerabilities and provide robust solutions to preempt cybersecurity breaches.

A systematic risk prioritization framework was proposed, categorizing issues into red, yellow, and green levels of urgency. This classification will help the district prioritize repairs and improvements based on urgency and potential impact.

Concerns were raised about the timing of the audit, with questions about whether it should be conducted during the academic year or over the summer. Conducting it while students are present could provide more accurate data on network usage and performance. However, the representatives noted that past logs could also offer valuable insights. The audit also aims to address the district’s physical infrastructure, particularly in older buildings where materials like asbestos pose challenges to network enhancements.

Beyond technical matters, the board celebrated significant achievements within the district. Winslow Township High School’s band and color guard were lauded for their performances, culminating in a regional championship with their program “Crown and Glory.” The color guard achieved the highest score in the school’s history at chapter championships, leading to a promotion to a more competitive class. The dedication and teamwork of these students were emphasized, alongside the invaluable support from the school board, administration, and parents.

The meeting also highlighted the Winslow Drama Club’s triumphs, with their production of “Mama Mia” winning accolades including Best Musical and Best Female Vocalist.

Community engagement was another significant topic. The Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) reported on the decline in participation in the Home and School Association (HSA), attributed to restricted school access and a lack of incentives for parents. The committee suggested reinstating parent volunteers with background checks to boost engagement. Additionally, the possibility of partnering with Rowan University for public relations was discussed to enhance district exposure and community interaction.

The board also addressed infrastructure planning, particularly the potential establishment of food pantries at certain schools. Principals expressed willingness to participate, though they voiced logistical concerns. The ongoing economic growth within the township was noted, with discussions on how it might impact school capacity, particularly in lower elementary schools. The board agreed on the importance of gathering data on current enrollment numbers and capacities to inform future expansion decisions.

During public comments, parents raised concerns about school safety and transportation. A parent described an incident at Winslow School 6 involving a staff member and their child, calling for accountability and consistency with the school’s mission of providing a nurturing environment. Another parent highlighted traffic safety issues at School Number 4, noting a recent accident and seeking improvements in drop-off and pick-up procedures.

The board also heard from a Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) representative, who shared plans to recognize student achievements in essay writing contests and to implement a new program honoring outstanding teachers. The meeting concluded with a reminder of upcoming events, including the senior awards night and discussions on student growth trends related to new housing developments.