Dear Editor:
Recently, the Board of Education school board members have commented in the Reporter. Mr. Biancamano referred to the Board’s efforts to reduce expenses for litigation. Mr. Kluepfel referred to the increased SAT scores, and other improved test scores in literacy and math. These are encouraging signs for a school district that has received mediocre rankings in the past. Unfortunately, some of the Hoboken’s schools are currently ranked in the bottom quartile of schools in the State.
There are recent developments that reflect favorably on the district. These include the school uniform policy, a new attendance benchmark policy, a new language arts series, FOSS Science, Math in Focus, and the purchasing of new textbooks for students at different levels. Moreover, there is a new program, Virtual High School, an online program for classes that do not exist locally. The district has also instituted eGovernance which features BoardDOCS. This should contribute toward increased transparency and improve communications. In the bricks and mortar area, renovations have been made to the junior/senior high gymnasium; Connors school has a new playground; and a new Culinary Arts classroom has been constructed. These are notable events, and they deserve the widest exposure.
Current Board of Education members should be commended for their services. The fact remains that Hoboken School District is a high spender with low achievement results. The Superintendent and Board members need to take the opportunities that eGovernance, and other media outlets offer to better connect with the community. Broad dissemination and increased awareness can contribute toward a more positive image of the school district. Moreover, it may increase parent participation in the governance of the school district. Governance is a continuing process. It is not limited to a once a month meeting.
Michael Fischetti