
Laura’s Notes on the 01/27/2025 BOE Meeting
EDUCATION F. Approve New Courses: CMS – Mathematics Grade 8 (attachment E). This is being proposed by Dr. Curtiss to serve as a course to comply with the state standards in addition to provide students with a substantial foundation in geometry. This course, if approved, will be rolled out this fall. PERSONNEL B. Mr. Dirk Phillips will continue as Interim...

Johns Notes on the 01/07/2025 BHPSNJ BOE Meeting
Last night’s BOE meeting made it abundantly clear that the board remains deeply divided into two factions: one that seeks to advance change through evidence-based reasoning and thoughtful debate, and another that seems more intent on politicizing every. single. issue. The evening featured the Business Administrator’s perplexing defense of sending documents—already publicly released—for yet another attorney review to determine if...

Laura’s Notes on the 01/07/2025 Berkeley Heights BOE Reorganization Meeting Agenda
The Reorganization Meeting of the Berkeley Heights Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, January 7, starting at 6:45 PM. For those familiar with local politics, this coincides with the Town Council Reorganization meeting, creating a scheduling conflict for those interested in both events. Tuesday’s Board of Education agenda appears relatively standard, with no major surprises expected. The meeting...

Laura’s Notes on the 11/14/2024 Berkeley Heights BOE Meeting
The meeting covered numerous topics, with significant discussions and public input. Here’s a breakdown of the essential points: Guidance Program Presentation Dr. Ashley Janosko delivered a comprehensive presentation on the guidance program at BHPS. While the presentation emphasized support for college-bound students, concerns remain about equitable resources for students pursuing alternative career paths. Many feel that career readiness deserves...

Laura’s Notes on the 11/14/2024 Berkeley Heights BOE Meeting Agenda
Report of the Acting Superintendent Recognition of National Merit Scholars Honoring our National Merit Scholars for their outstanding academic achievements. Presentation on School Counseling Program Dr. Janosko will present updates and highlights on our School Counseling program. Education High Impact Tutoring Grant The district has received a $10,200 grant, which will fund afterschool enrichment programs for students requiring additional support,...

Message from NJ21st to Our Neighbors in Berkeley Heights, NJ
As an independent source of information for our community, we take pride in being both outspoken and impartial. Over the past three years, we have never turned away an elected representative or township official who wanted to engage in meaningful dialogue. We’ve consistently offered opportunities to those with differing viewpoints, inviting them to join us for open and honest debate....

Laura’s Notes on the 10/17/2024 Berkeley Heights BOE Meeting Agenda
The Superintendent Report will include the NJSLA results (from Spring), a Special Education Presentation, and HIB/SSDS (Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying)/(I have no clue what the second acronym means). The Board will start the meeting by approving the meeting minutes from August 15 to the present, followed by the first reading of several revised policies. EDUCATION F. Shout out to the...

09/24/2024 Town Council Meeting- Resolutions 9 & 4- Nokia Property and New Attorney with Higher Rates for Sewage Issues
Residents should pay close attention to a proposed Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Nokia Property, which involves the NJDEP Resolution #9 on the 9/24/2024 Town Council Agenda. The NJDEP is headed by Shawn LaTourette, who has been accused of using strong-arm tactics in connection with waterfront properties. Critics have argued that he places pressure on builders until the few preferred...

Union County Park at Berkeley Caterers Site
Berkeley Heights Residents Need to Ask Questions About the Proposed Park -Steven Kark Berkeley Heights residents need to pay attention to what’s happening to our town. Did you see this? Could Berkeley Heights end up losing its iconic Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel—a 100-year tradition—with its July 16 Garden State Fireworks show? The Planning Board is reviewing the...

Laura’s Notes on the 09/12/2024 BOE Meeting
District Goals, Cell Phone Policy, Inaccurate TAP-Into Article, Visitor Scans, Superintendent Drama & More Mr. Nixon provided a presentation on District Goals. I will summarize, but watch the presentation for yourself, please – I am not going to do it much justice here: Goal #1 Student Achievement in grades 6-12 with a strong emphasis on improving the Math program. Goal...