Felicia Lott Chetrit

The Board meeting included discussions on school district performance, student achievements in STEM, science fairs, and community service projects. The Interim Superintendent addressed concerns regarding the budget development process and cost-reduction strategies aimed at protecting educational programs. The Board approved several personnel resolutions, including the appointment of an Interim Superintendent and various staffing changes, as well as policies related to facility usage and administrative employment. Additionally, the Board authorized financial measures, including out-of-district travel, tuition charging under the McKinney-Vento Act, and the submission of a focus grant. Public forum comments centered on academic proficiency scores, concerns regarding the Pre-K program transition, and requests for greater budgetary transparency.

The board meeting featured a recognition ceremony for the Board's achievement of board certification through the New Jersey School Boards Academy, marking it as the first board in Hudson County to receive this honor. The discussion also included a presentation by a field service representative regarding the process and benefits of strategic planning for the school district. The presentation outlined the components of strategic planning, including establishing a vision and mission, community engagement, and the development of multi-year goals to improve student achievement.

The board meeting agenda includes various personnel actions such as faculty appointments, transfers, summer program staffing, and contract approvals for central office and custodial staff. Curriculum matters include the adoption of new courses, IT disposal, and reconfiguration requests for Pre-K programs. Financial items cover the approval of check registers, budget transfers, service agreements with various educational and technical providers, and facility improvement projects including elevator modernizations and HVAC replacements. Additionally, the agenda lists the appointment of district officers and coordinators, the implementation of the school budget, and the renewal of insurance and benefit plans for the upcoming school year.

The board discussed the superintendent search, including an extension of the current interim superintendent's contract and the engagement of a professional search firm. Presentations were held regarding the Early Childhood Learning Center and district ethics policies. Various school highlights were shared, covering student achievements, events, and athletics. The board approved resolutions regarding the 2026-2027 school year calendar, out-of-district student placements, employee leaves and appointments, and various facility maintenance projects, including elevator modernization and boiler replacements. Additionally, the board approved several settlement agreements and authorized the advertisement of requests for proposals for a superintendent search firm.

This document provides a preview of the proposed Pre-K program for the 2026-2027 school year for the Secaucus School District. It identifies challenges with the current program, including a significant drop in enrollment due to its part-time nature and lack of extended care. The proposed plan outlines a transition to a full-day Pre-K program for 2026-2027, with the program moving to Clarendon School. Key objectives include advancing inclusion, improving early intervention, enhancing access to services, and realizing operational benefits for the school community.