- Filters
- NJ
- Essex County
- 5/8/25
- 05/08/2025
- 51 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: In a recent meeting of the South Orange-Maplewood School Board, the decision to delay a key survey and the exclusion of the Columbia High School robotics team from an international competition became focal points of discussion. The board approved a new teachers’ contract amid a nationwide teacher shortage, but faced criticism over survey administration and extracurricular policies.
- NJ
- Essex County
- 5/6/25
- 05/06/2025
- 127 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The Maplewood Town Council meeting on May 6, 2025, was notably marked by public opposition to a proposed bike lane installation on Parker Avenue. Residents voiced strong concerns over safety, congestion, and the impact on local infrastructure. The meeting also included discussions on mental health awareness, significant proclamations, zoning changes, and a variety of ordinances.
- NJ
- Essex County
- 05/05/2025
- 67 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The recent South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting focused on the intricacies of math course recommendations for middle school students, emphasizing the importance of readiness for Algebra 1. Concerns were raised about the preparedness of students in accelerated math paths and the potential need for adjustments in course selections.
- NJ
- Essex County
- 4/24/25
- 04/24/2025
- 234 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting delved into pressing budgetary challenges and cultural tensions, highlighting the district’s struggle to maintain financial stability while ensuring inclusivity and equity. With a projected $141 million tax levy for the fiscal year 2025-2026 and a focus on strategic planning, the board sought to address financial constraints and community concerns about cultural representation in schools.
- NJ
- Essex County
- 4/23/25
- 04/25/2025
- 64 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The South Orange-Maplewood School Board meeting focused heavily on the impact of smartphones on children’s mental health, with discussions led by social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, who emphasized the detrimental effects of smartphones and social media on youth. The meeting also delved into strategies to mitigate these effects, including promoting unstructured play and delaying smartphone ownership until after eighth grade.
