Marie Battist-Rock

The board meeting agenda focused on several key administrative and personnel items. The board reviewed and approved a revision to the annual meeting calendar regarding the start times for upcoming voting meetings. Personnel actions included accepting multiple staff resignations and retirements, as well as approving several new appointments for administrative and teaching positions, including school principals and counselors. Additionally, the board approved longevity payments for eligible staff and accepted findings related to Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) cases. An executive session was scheduled to discuss personnel, legal, and student matters.

The board meeting included a superintendent's report regarding staffing updates, including the appointment of new principals and an assistant principal, as well as the recognition of staff retirements. Board members provided reports on a policy project related to AI governance in K-12 education and the success of the science research symposium. Additionally, updates were provided on student activities, including upcoming senior prom and graduation ceremonies. The board also acted on various agenda items, including administrative appointments and operational matters.

The board meeting focused on celebrating outstanding educators within the district. Principals and administrators presented and honored teachers of the year from various schools, highlighting their individual achievements, dedication to student success, and contributions to the school community. Honorees included educators from Bernat Hill Elementary, Collins Elementary, Harrison Elementary, Hillside Elementary, and Riker Hill Elementary.

The board conducted a workshop and voting meeting covering various administrative and educational items. Key discussion topics included NJSBA training, updates to the elementary school schedule, and the approval of a funding grant for a comprehensive universal screener. The board authorized several student services including out-of-district placements and a mental health resources agreement with Care Solace, Inc. Financial actions included the payment of bills, review of monthly financial reports, and the approval of various fees for technology, student activities, and facility usage. The board also adopted a resolution urging relief for rising public school health-care costs and approved changes to school facility use, various personnel appointments, resignations, and curriculum writing initiatives.

This document outlines the values and process for a reimagined elementary schedule for the 2026-2027 school year. The redesign is driven by four core values: embedding Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through dedicated Class Meetings, creating inclusive learning environments with high-quality instruction and Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) by integrating small-group instruction within ELA and Math blocks, fostering staff collaboration through prioritized common planning time, and developing a balanced and interconnected schedule that supports whole-child development and ensures consistent representation of content areas. The plan aims to empower all students, meet diverse learner needs, build a collaborative support system, and use data to inform instruction through shared responsibility, clear structures, ongoing professional development, and inclusive, data-informed learning experiences.