Richard J. Burd

The meeting featured a presentation of the 2024-2025 financial audit, highlighting findings related to payroll account analyses, compensated absence valuations, bank reconciliations, and federal grant expenditure tracking. The audit noted missing journal entries and issues with food service fund balances and capital asset classifications. Additionally, the Board recognized student winners of the annual poster contest, with citations presented from the state legislature, and received a superintendent's report covering district updates, including kindergarten registration, Black History Month activities, and upcoming extracurricular events.

The board meeting agenda focused on several key items, including the recognition of Ema Bengu as a 2026 Passaic County Unsung Hero. Curriculum items included the approval of various field trips, tuition contracts for student placements, home instruction arrangements, and a revision to the school calendar. The personnel section covered staffing adjustments, resignations, and the hiring of substitutes and coaches. Financial and administrative matters involved the acceptance of budget and treasurer reports, as well as the approval of the bill list for the month. Additionally, the board reviewed applications for the use of school property, approved a transportation contract, and conducted a first reading of several district policies.

The board addressed several operational and academic agenda items. Curriculum approvals included various field trips and home instruction services. Personnel matters involved staff appointments, leaves of absence, and approvals for chaperones and substitute teachers. Financial and administrative actions included the acceptance of the annual audit reports and the accompanying corrective action plan, budget transfers, and the affirmation of HIB investigation decisions. The board also approved the use of school facilities for community organizations and awarded transportation contracts for students. Finally, the board conducted a second reading and adoption of multiple district policies and regulations.

This document outlines the 'Middle School 1A Accelerated Program', designed to provide students with high-level coursework and aligned pathways in STEM and Humanities. The program aims to prepare students for honors, AP, Dual Enrollment, and specialized career programs in high school, ultimately equipping them for college and career success. Key components include accelerated pathways in Math, Science, English, and Social Studies, with specific eligibility criteria for participation, and details on available advanced courses and college credits.

The Reorganization Meeting involved several procedural and administrative resolutions. Key actions included the certification of the Annual School Election results for terms ending in 2025, the administration of the Oath of Office to newly elected members, and the election of the Board President and Vice-President. The Board adopted the Code of Ethics for School Board Members for the period January 6, 2026, through January 5, 2027. Furthermore, the meeting established the schedule for regular monthly board meetings for the upcoming year, adopted by-laws and the policy manual, designated official newspapers and bank depositories, and approved facsimile signature use. The Board also appointed various officers and agents, including board attorneys, acting board secretary, risk manager, purchasing agent, public agency compliance officer, and committee/liaison representatives for several regulatory and cooperative groups. Additionally, the petty cash fund structure was reestablished, service providers like the Benefit Agent and School Medical Examiner were appointed, and fees for public document copies were set. Finally, the Guide for Standard Operating Procedures and Internal Controls for the 2025-2026 School Year was approved, along with various contracts and purchasing cooperative participations.