Budget Talks, Animal Policy Among Moorestown BOE Updates

Column written by Moorestown Board of Education Member Brandon Pugh

While December may have been a short academic month because of the holidays, the district and the board of education were still very active, and are looking at future action items, including the 2014-15 budget, possible new curriculum enhancements, and an interim superintendent.

On a brief personal note, it is hard to believe my first year on the Moorestown Board of Education is coming to an end. I truly enjoy having the opportunity to serve the district, and I look forward to continuing.

At the December monthly meeting, two Moorestown High School students, Kayla Rini and Sophia Rosati, were recognized in the Pageant of Success. As a result of the efforts of these students, changes were implemented to create a positive environmental impact at the high school. Specifically, recycling capabilities increased, cafeteria trays were changed to a more environmentally friendly option, and a water bottle dispenser was installed, saving more than 2,000 plastic bottles so far.

The board also introduced Policy 7490, “Animals on School Property,” which is available on the district website. If this policy is passed at the January board meeting, animals would no longer be permitted on school grounds, except with permission from administration. This is an attempt to ensure staff and students are safe, and also to preserve the quality of the district’s fields.

The district’s 2014-15 budget was discussed in the Budget and Finance Committee report. The board will have a difficult task this budget season because—due to rising costs and a decrease in available surplus—there will be a budget deficit. As such, a range of options will be considered. Moving forward, budget presentations will be open to the public, and community members and parents are strongly encouraged to attend.

Like most districts, there are students who attend Moorestown public schools who do not live in the township. It was emphasized at the December meeting that the district have an active residency investigation committee, with a professional investigator. Individuals who know of possible residency violations are encouraged to contact the district and an investigation will be conducted.

Looking ahead to January, be sure to mark your calendars for Home and School’s adult social on Jan. 31. More information on tickets will be coming. Also, the board will hold its reorganization meeting at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 7 in the William Allen Middle School media center, where we will welcome new Board Member Al Panzarella and elect a president and vice president.

The next regular monthly board of education meeting will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 7:30 p.m. in the media center. In the meantime, do not hesitate to reach out to the board as a whole, or myself, if you need anything.

I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

The views and content in this column do not necessarily represent those of the Moorestown Board of Education as a whole or any other individual member. 

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