Elizabeth Durkos

The meeting agenda includes discussions on the 2026-2027 tentative budget, including capital reserve withdrawals, utilization of banked cap, and enrollment and health care adjustments. It covers the approval of professional services budgets, travel and expense reimbursement policies, and staffing-related actions such as personnel renewals, retirements, and new hires. The board also intends to address the submission of the US Department of Justice COPS/SVPP grant, the solicitation of food service management proposals, and the approval of transportation bids. Furthermore, policy implementations and curriculum updates are scheduled for review.

The proceedings began with the swearing-in ceremony for newly elected members following the November 4th election results, administered by Mr. Lassard. The session then transitioned into mandatory annual ethics training, covering the code of ethics, provisions of the ethics act, and the importance of avoiding justifiable negative impressions on the community, especially concerning social media conduct. Key discussion points included the composition of the ethics commission, deadlines and requirements for mandatory training (Governance 1, 2, 3, and 4 for returning members), and strict rules regarding financial disclosures, which are public records. The presenter detailed various ethical standards (Tenants A through J), emphasizing proper conduct regarding representing all students, confining board surface to policy matters, avoiding administration of daily school activities, and refraining from making personal promises or advancing special interest gains. Procedures for filing ethics complaints, potential penalties for violations (reprimand, censure, suspension, removal), and the use of advice of counsel defense were reviewed. Finally, strict guidance was provided on the use of official board email accounts.

The meeting commenced following adherence to the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. Key discussions centered on recognizing January 2025 as School Board Recognition Month, with resolutions passed to acknowledge the service of local school board members. The Superintendent provided updates, noting minimal snow days used and highlighting School Board Recognition Month. Curriculum and instruction discussions included updates on the "One Book One Community" initiative, culminating in the Young Authors' Conference, and progress on standardized test scores, showing growth after a post-COVID dip. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the Chronic Absenteeism Corrective Action Plan, as the district was slightly over the 10% threshold for chronically absent students (10.1% for 2023-2024). A community survey on attendance was reviewed, indicating strong agreement on the importance of school attendance (94%) but identifying areas for communication improvement, as 14% of families were unsure of whom to contact regarding absences. Current strategies, including daily attendance checks, mailed notifications, and attendance contracts for students needing support, were outlined as part of the plan to reduce chronic absenteeism below 10%.

The meeting agenda included a lengthy list of routine business items covering compensation rates, various staff appointments (routine, professional, unaffiliated, certificated tenured, and certificated non-tenured faculty), the annual meeting calendar, and investments of funds. A major focus of discussion was the Preschool Expansion Aid (PEA) grant, which the entity does not currently have, unlike most other districts in the county. The grant is designed to fund three and four-year-old children without Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and involves mixed delivery programs. Concerns were raised regarding funding consistency, specifically comparing it to a previously received tutorial grant that was subsequently defunded, and the local responsibility for transportation costs exceeding the initial grant allotment, which is a significant concern given the local socioeconomic conditions. Discussions also touched upon the required classroom size, necessary facilities, curriculum models, and staffing requirements for the program. Employment contracts for David Sylvester, Chriso, and Chris Sard were listed under the regular consent agenda.

The meeting summary covered several operational updates and strategic points. Superintendent highlights included the successful ESY/RCI program serving over 150 students and acknowledgments for various staff members and facilities improvements such as floor waxing and tree trimming. Facility updates noted the relocation of CST (Child 17) and the Curriculum office, the installation of safety bollards (flower pots), and regrading of three fields. A new middle school drop-off procedure was detailed to improve traffic flow and speed up student arrival, involving cone usage and designated traffic direction by staff members. Planning for the 75th anniversary of Franklin School included consideration of a mural and a potential community day. Positive growth was reported in state assessment scores for ELA, math, and science. The board reviewed two Board Goals focusing on integrating diverse learners and ensuring responsible financial stewardship. Progress was reported in reducing chronic absenteeism to below the 10% threshold. New state testing details were announced, involving a switch to the Right Cambium platform with benchmark testing scheduled for late October/early November. Personnel updates included filling three paraprofessional resignations and reviewing a request for an extension for a second-grade lead teacher, along with approval for a candidate. Communications focused on the upcoming school year kickoff, including new teacher orientation, in-service days, and orientations for preschool and kindergarten. Back to School Night schedules were discussed, with a plan to consolidate elementary and middle school nights. Policy discussions included the first reading of a revised staff conduct policy incorporating artificial intelligence guidelines to ensure responsible use and protect the district, and a second reading on the use of school facilities and non-residents technology. A discussion was held regarding the dress code, specifically concerning backless shoes without heel straps, balancing safety concerns with professional attire.