Somerset Hills School District

This document outlines the strategic goals and budget priorities for Fiscal Year 2027 for the Somerset Hills School District, emphasizing equity and excellence. The plan focuses on four main pillars: improving student achievement by reducing achievement gaps, enhancing school culture, climate, and social-emotional learning, developing a long-range facility plan for STEM/Robotics/CTE, and strengthening community engagement. It details the financial commitments and priorities necessary to support these objectives, with an overarching aim to provide a balanced learning experience and cultivate thoughtful, impactful global citizens.

The board discussed district goals related to academics, facilities, and community integration. Key topics included honoring educators for their support of the 8th Grade Research Symposium, announcing multiple staff retirements, and receiving a presentation on the 2026 Referendum. Business operations covered project updates such as the tennis court submission, capital reserve allocation for security upgrades, budget planning for the upcoming fiscal year, and new banking services. The curriculum committee reviewed student performance data, discussed the IXL software pilot, and examined the bilingual services program and waiver. Personnel discussions included staff appointments and leaves, while policy discussions addressed the first reading of several bylaws and policies, including those regarding nepotism and sexual harassment. Student services provided an overview of Special Education and Section 504 services, and the board reviewed Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) reports.

This public presentation details a proposed March 2026 referendum for the Somerset Hills School District's district-wide facilities renovation program. The plan's goals include identifying and prioritizing needed facility improvements, enhancing student experiences, and ensuring safe and functional schools. Key priorities encompass improved learning environments, student and staff safety, and maintaining up-to-date operations. The proposal seeks to fund educational classroom renovations, capital projects, and security upgrades, while aiming for a net neutral or reduced tax impact by leveraging expiring debt and state aid.

Key business approvals for the 2025-2026 school year included Aflac as a supplemental insurance company and IntraFi Cash Management for large cash deposits. Revised not-to-exceed amounts were approved for several vendors. Curriculum items approved professional development opportunities and student field trips. Personnel actions included the approval of several educator retirements and the appointment of a new maintenance worker, along with the first reading of several policy documents related to sexual harassment and employment of the Chief School Administrator. Student Services approved HIB Reports and the submission of the Student Safety Data System Report for Period 1 (Sept 1-Dec 31, 2025). The 8th grade Research Symposium was recognized, and a presentation was given on the 2026 Referendum, which is scheduled for a vote on March 10, 2026.

The meeting included a review of Board Norms covering expectations for behavior before, during, and after meetings. Key district goals for 2025-2026 were established across four areas: Academic performance focusing on decreasing achievement gaps and expanding dual enrollment/CTE offerings; Facilities planning for STEM/Robotics/CTE needs; Community Integration via expanding connectivity avenues; and Culture & Climate/Social Emotional Learning through baseline experience assessments. The Board entered Executive Session to discuss Student Matters and returned to open session, followed by public comment which involved no attendees, and final adjournment.