Teaneck Commemorates Its Historic Role in School Desegregation

Overview: In a recent Teaneck School Board meeting, the focal point of the discussion was a collaborative endeavor between the board and the town council. The joint project aims to install a commemorative plaque at Bryant School, paying tribute to Teaneck’s distinction as the first U.S. school district to voluntarily desegregate without legislation. This initiative sparked a lively discourse among the board members, and even though it touched upon practical matters such as the plaque’s location, language, and cost, it ultimately underlined the significant weight of the local community’s history.

Council Unites Against Online LGBTQ+ Hate Speech

Overview: In a display of unity against online hate speech, the Elmwood Park Borough Council recently convened to discuss and denounce bigotry, harassment, and discrimination, particularly targeting the LGBTQ+ community. The discussion was ignited by the circulation of an offensive post on a local social media page, “Elmwood Park Speaks,” resulting in a resolution R-291-23 aimed at condemning platforms that enable such discriminatory behavior.

Westwood School Board in the Hot Seat: Public and Board Members Clash on LGBTQ Policies

Overview: In a recent Westwood Regional School Board meeting, contentious issues including potential changes to the health curriculum, the role of the school board in managing educators, and the handling of divisive topics have sparked heated debate among board members and the public. Transparency issues, such as possible alterations to public participation and a proposal to discontinue live streaming of meetings, also emerged as sources of contention.

The Battle for Affordable Housing in Englewood Continues

Overview: The Englewood City Council convened on July 20th, 2023, engaging in a robust discussion regarding the city’s affordable housing obligations. This meeting came following a joint meeting held last week, in collaboration with the Planning Board, which also focused on improving housing affordability.

Education Equity or Neighborhood Schools? The Reconfiguration Controversy

Overview: In a recent River Edge School Board meeting, a fierce lack of consensus dominated the debate surrounding the proposed reconfiguration of local schools. The board approved the reconfiguration plan, sparking both support and outcry and triggering fresh questions about the district’s future.