Paola Cavalli

The meeting included a student representative report detailing recent high school events such as the Mr. Bourtown competition, FFA participation, club fundraising, and recognition for student achievements including wrestling milestones and Thespian Society awards. The public forum for agenda items only yielded no speakers. Recognition was given for Board of Education Recognition Month, with a presentation by the district auditor on the comprehensive financial report for 2025, noting an unmodified opinion for financial statements, internal controls, and major programs including Special Education Cluster and General State Aid. The superintendent provided an introductory report highlighting positive observations of the district, commitments to transparent communication via social media and a new webpage section, and announced upcoming events like meet and greets and the Special Education Parent Advisory Group meeting. A significant portion of the discussion involved clarifying required procedural motions related to improvement projects, which are necessary preliminary steps for potentially considering a future referendum, emphasizing that approving these motions only permits fact-finding and does not constitute approval of a referendum itself. Additionally, the superintendent addressed concerns regarding immigration enforcement on school premises, outlining procedures requiring staff to notify the chief school administrator before granting access, based on State and Federal Department of Education guidelines.

The meeting agenda included an Executive Session followed by a Public Session. Key topics involved a resolution for going into closed session to discuss collective bargaining agreement terms, specifically a presentation by Laura Bishop Communications regarding a crisis communication service. Discussions and motions were planned for administrative matters, including the Superintendent's report on HIB investigations, adopting decisions on HIB matters, and adding an Assistant Golf Coach position. Personnel actions included accepting retirements and resignations, approving additional teaching assignments due to staff leave, approving new CDA staff, approving volunteer coaches, and approving leaves of absence for staff members. Business and finance items included approving a change order for sidewalk replacement, approving a joint transportation agreement for a student, authorizing an application for a Local Recreation Improvement Grant for Peter Muschal Elementary School playground improvement, approving contracts for a Residency Verification System and Employee Evaluation Management software, and approving a donation of weight room equipment from the BRHS Huddle Club. Curriculum actions included approving a Settlement Agreement and Tuition Agreement for a student to attend CALO.

The meeting included provisions for an Executive Session to discuss matters potentially involving pending litigation, contract negotiations, or personnel issues, followed by reconvening to public session. Key agenda items involved a presentation and discussion of the FY2024-25 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and its audit recommendations. The Consent Agenda covered numerous operational approvals, including travel reimbursement, reports from various directors (Special Services, Curriculum, Facilities, Technology, etc.), and approval of the Substitute List. Personnel actions included accepting retirements and resignations, approving long-term leave replacements and new hires for custodian positions, and approving an appointment for an acting Assistant Principal of Athletics. The Curriculum section addressed approving a duel enrollment course and appointing a District 504 Coordinator. The Business, Finance & Operations section included motions to accept the Board Secretary's Monthly Certification, approve the renewal of membership in the Burlington County Insurance Pool (BCIP), approve a Change Order for the HS Boiler replacement, and approve various Rehabilitation Projects across multiple district schools. Additionally, the Board reviewed and approved Joint Agreements for student transportation services with Florence Township, Springfield, Trenton, and East Windsor School Districts, and an agreement payable to Mount Holly Township Board of Education.

The meeting commenced with the organization segment, including the election of board officers, such as the president and vice president, conducted by voice vote. The proceedings involved two sessions: a mandatory reorganization meeting to elect officers and a public meeting addressing recurring business. Key agenda items included reviewing election results, discussion regarding the adoption of Robert's Rules of Order, and approval of standard operating procedures for items 2 through 4 in section G. The board also addressed curriculum matters and personnel items, specifically the approval of seventeen personnel actions including student teacher placements. Furthermore, the board voted on policies A through J for second reading, which included adopting a standard policy for AI and clarifying policies related to dyslexia screening and resource parents. Public comments were heard, and board members discussed future steps, specifically the reorganization of standing and ad hoc committees to align with board goals, emphasizing compliance with open public meeting acts regarding committee size.

The meeting agenda covered several key areas, beginning with the announcement of adequate notice compliance under the Sunshine Law and the presentation of the November 4, 2025 Election Results for various district seats. The Re-Organization business included the nomination and election of Board Officers (President and Vice President), the adoption of existing Board Policies and parliamentary procedures, and the adoption of specific policies including Policy #9111 regarding Board Member Ethics. Actions were also scheduled to designate official publications, depositories, and bank account signers. Furthermore, the Board planned to appoint providers for professional services, including the Treasurer and Board Solicitor/General Counsel. The Regular Public Meeting Agenda outlined procedures for the Public Forum, approval of the Consent Agenda (Substitute List), and reports from committees and the Superintendent. Personnel actions included appointments for a bus driver, a secretary, a long-term leave replacement, volunteer and assistant coaches, and acting principal assignments, alongside approvals for staff working additional hours and several leaves of absence under FMLA/NJFLA. The agenda also covered curriculum matters, specifically approving a field trip for FBLA students. Finally, the Board was set to conduct the second reading and adoption of several new policies and regulations concerning Special Education and Artificial Intelligence use, and to address public suggestions for the 2026-2027 budget, with a provision for an Executive Session if necessary.