Dear Teachers, Staff, Parents and Community Members,
We are pleased to share important updates and decisions from the most recent Gloucester County School Board meeting held on Tuesday. These decisions reflect our ongoing commitment to providing a safe and high-quality educational environment for all students.
**Summer Office Hours**
Beginning June 10 and ending August 9, 2024, school front office hours are 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. District office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Schools and offices are closed on Friday. Employee summer work hours have been communicated through the memorandum FY24-01.
**Employee Recognition**
The School Board Recognized Heather Lucas, Chief Finance Officer, on her retirement. Heather completed 32 years of meritorious service in public finance. Her passion for students and the organization is a fiery as ever! She will be truly missed. Mr. Dwight Duren, her successor, is already on board learning the ropes. We welcome Dwight to the team and wish him much success in this role.
**Budget Update**
We are happy to report that the final Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) state budget has allocated an additional $1.7 million to our operating budget. This increase has effectively covered the previously anticipated $1.5 million shortfall in the school board-approved budget, ensuring that our financial plans are fully supported.
**School Board Approvals**
The School Board has approved several key initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of education and security within our district:
1. **School Security Officers**: Funding has been secured to maintain two existing grant-funded school security officers. This decision underscores our commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students and staff.
2. **Instructional Support**: We have approved the addition of a Reading Specialist at the middle school level. This role is critical in supporting students' literacy and overall academic success. Additionally, we have approved a part-time Gifted Education teacher to better cater to the needs of our gifted students, providing them with the resources and opportunities they require to excel.
3. **Fully Funded Programs**: We are pleased to announce that Instruction, Transportation, and Maintenance budgets have been fully funded. This comprehensive support ensures that our educational programs run smoothly and efficiently, benefiting students and staff alike.
**Future Considerations**
In response to the Superintendent's request to fund a district level Public Information Coordinator to improve crisis responses and overall district communication, the School Board commented that more information and discussion is needed, when it voted to approve the Updated FY25 budget.
We appreciate your continued support and involvement in our school district. Together, we are building a stronger, safer, and more enriching educational environment for our children.
Thank you for your attention to these important updates. We look forward to your ongoing engagement and support.
Sincerely,
The Gloucester County School District
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