Jerry Castaneda

The Board meeting included reports from the Superintendent, Athletics, Communications, and Principals regarding student achievements. Key actions included the recognition of Unsung Hero students, approval of new and revised Board policies, and financial authorizations for bills, claims, payroll, and budget transfers. The Board also authorized a grant application for a Clean Fleet charging station, approved numerous staff professional development conferences, authorized various student field trips, approved school fundraisers and community service events, and addressed multiple personnel matters including resignations, leaves of absence, and contract renewals for various services such as lawn care and tutoring.

The board conducted a regular meeting covering various administrative, financial, and educational topics. Key agenda items included the recognition of business partners and staff, approval of consent agenda items such as curriculum development and revisions, professional development and travel requests, field trips, and school event fundraisers. The board also addressed operational matters including bid awards for lawn care, lease approvals for office equipment, and the acceptance of a grant for electric buses. Additionally, the meeting included personnel actions such as staff retirements, resignations, and leave approvals, as well as the adoption of new or revised board policies.

The Board met to review, discuss, and take formal action regarding the operating budget for the upcoming 2026/2027 school year, which includes a total operating budget of $136,602,437 and additional grants and entitlements of $5,304,137 for a total budget of $141,906,574. Furthermore, the Board established the maximum travel and expense reimbursement limit for staff and board members for the 2026/2027 school year at $212,111. Finally, the Board approved $2,250,000 for capital funding, specifically for the renovation of the concession stand and the completion of the parking garage staging area.

The Board discussed various operational and financial matters, including the authorization of multiple grant applications for clean energy initiatives and lead filters. Approvals were granted for curriculum revisions, summer programs, field trips, and staff appointments. The Board also reviewed and authorized procurement through state contracts, addressed personnel matters including resignations and leaves of absence, and established a committee to manage school events and teacher appreciation activities.

The board convened to conduct a special meeting focused on bid awards and cooperative purchasing contracts. Key actions included the award of a bid for a parking garage project to the lowest responsible bidder and the approval of a contract through the Educational Services of New Jersey Purchasing Cooperative for the purchase of baseball field turf and related accessories. An executive session was held to discuss confidential matters in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act.