Sheila Cooper

The meeting commenced with the reorganization proceedings, including the reading of the November election results and the swearing-in of newly elected board members, followed by the election of a new president and vice president. The Superintendent provided an extensive report highlighting 2025 milestones in academic achievement, safety improvements (such as an 86% decrease in fighting-related suspensions and upgraded security infrastructure), technological innovation (including the launch of an AI chatbot and HR assistant), and financial achievements, such as an upgrade to a 'AA' rating by S&P Global Ratings. Key agenda items included deferring the establishment of board committee appointments until the following day to finalize allocations, discussing and approving the 2026 regular meeting schedule with accommodations for honoring retirees, approving minutes from previous sessions, and passing motions related to professional expenses and human resources actions including retirements and appointments for the 2026 summer enrichment program. A public comment was made urging the board to apply for School Regionalization Efficiency Program funding for a feasibility study.

The primary discussion centered on the redistricting process for K through four schools in Hillsboro, driven by community growth. Initial plans to redraw boundary lines revealed that maximizing student shifts to other schools based on long-term projections of new developments might create immediate overcrowding elsewhere. The strategy shifted to a phased or "dimmer switch" approach: addressing the immediate enrollment need for approximately 73 new students expected in the coming summer/fall, while intentionally preserving flexibility for future growth. A core commitment made was that any student moved under this first phase will only move once, ensuring stability and preventing future reassignments. The plan involves solving the immediate need, preserving space, and making small, gradual adjustments as future housing developments come online. This process is being managed while keeping the launch of full day kindergarten on schedule for the 2026-2027 school year.

The meeting included recognitions for students who achieved third place in the environment category at the 2025 Chemagination at Princeton competition and for the semi-finalists for the National Merit Scholarship. There was a discussion regarding redistricting and full-day kindergarten, with a decision to maintain the six existing local community elementary schools. The board also discussed new course proposals, an overnight trip for the seventh and eighth-grade wind ensemble, the 2026-2027 district calendar, and curriculum review. Additionally, there were discussions about a settlement, a possible unified robotics stipend, replacing temporary classrooms at Triangle School, a Girl Scout project at Hillsborough Elementary, improving facilities for the transportation and buildings and grounds departments, and preliminary budget considerations.

The board of education meeting included discussions and updates on redistricting and full-day kindergarten initiatives. The primary focus was on maintaining the existing six local community elementary schools and adjusting school boundaries to balance capacity and accommodate growth. The community provided feedback which was considered when evaluating options such as converting Hillsbor Elementary or making Triangle School an early childhood center. The goal is to inform parents of new school boundaries by spring break and ensure a smooth transition for students. Kindergarten enrollment is set to open in January to aid in boundary determination.

The meeting included an executive session and recognitions. Victoria Samanssky was recognized for joining the NGSS teacher leader program. Michael J. Vulpi received the National Association of School Superintendent Excellence Award for School Safety and Security. The board also recognized Bob Fster for receiving the excellence in education award from the New Jersey Society of the Cincinnati. Additionally, Dr. Lisa Rabimus presented the NJSLA and DLM statewide assessment results for the spring of 2025, covering English language arts, mathematics, and science scores.