Development News for Cherry Hill, New Jersey

NJSBA Conducts Comprehensive Training on Superintendent Evaluation Process for Board of Education

The Board of Education received a detailed training session from the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA) on the process and requirements for conducting the annual Superintendent's evaluation (CSA Evaluation). The training covered the statutory obligations, the importance of written evaluations, communication protocols between the board and superintendent, and the structure of the evaluation tool, which includes district goals and six leadership standards. Key aspects discussed were the timeline, the role of non-conflicted board members, the compilation of ratings and comments, and the final annual performance report. The session also clarified procedures for executive sessions and the importance of consulting with board attorneys for guidance.

Students and Community Advocate for Maintaining African American Studies as Graduation Requirement

During public comment, students from Cherry Hill High School East, including members of the African American Culture Club, spoke passionately about the importance of maintaining African American Studies as a mandatory graduation requirement. They argued that the course provides essential historical context, highlights the integral role of African Americans in U.S. history, fosters understanding of systemic issues, and promotes a more inclusive and culturally diverse school environment. Concerns were raised that removing the course or making it elective would send a damaging message about the value placed on Black history and could exacerbate existing issues of feeling overlooked or facing unfair treatment within the predominantly white school district. Several adult community members and a former district employee also spoke in support of keeping the course, emphasizing its historical significance, the rigorous process involved in its development, and the importance of diversity and inclusion.

Student Representatives Conclude Year with Detailed Reports on High School Activities and Post-Graduation Plans

Student representatives from Cherry Hill High School East and West presented their final reports, highlighting academic achievements, athletic successes, arts programs, and extracurricular activities from the past school year. The reports detailed student participation in AP tests, final exams, DECA, World Language Cook-Off, Field Day, National Commitment Day, proms, military balls, sports playoffs, art shows, concerts, one-act play festivals, and various club fundraisers and events. Both groups of students shared their post-graduation plans, including attending various universities to pursue diverse fields of study such as genetics, political science, business, government, and history.

Cherry Hill Board of Education Provides Update on Fair Funding Advocacy and Upcoming Commissioner Visit

The Board of Education discussed ongoing fair funding advocacy efforts. A letter was sent to the NJ Department of Education Commissioner Locks, detailing the district's budget impacts and need for state aid. A meeting with the Commissioner, legislative representatives, and governor's staff was described as productive, highlighting community advocacy as the driving force. The Commissioner has agreed to visit Cherry Hill to tour buildings and understand the district's needs firsthand. Discussions are slated to begin over the summer regarding a new funding formula, aiming for enactment before the next budget cycle, an aggressive timeline described as surprising but cautiously optimistic. The need for continued community pressure through calls and emails was emphasized, along with the importance of the district's large size in South Jersey as a strength for advocacy.