In a recent meeting of the Watchung Hills Regional High School Board of Education, board members gathered to discuss pressing issues affecting students and staff, with a particular focus on teacher compensation and school start times.

As the meeting unfolded, a board member highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure that compensation for teachers involved in extracurricular activities remains competitive with neighboring districts. The discussion underscored the importance of recognizing the time and effort teachers dedicate to these roles, with hopes for increased unit allocations to address undercompensation. However, the board noted a lack of recent updates from union discussions, leaving some uncertainty about future changes.

Traffic patterns around the school also emerged as a topic of concern. With new signs in place, board members acknowledged that the current traffic flow has not improved as intended, prompting a call for a reevaluation of the situation to enhance safety and efficiency for students and parents alike.

Perhaps the most impassioned discussion centered on the school start times. One board member expressed frustration over the early hours that require students to wake up as early as 5:15 AM. Citing potential impacts on academic performance and mental health, the member advocated for a serious reconsideration of start times. They pointed out that research supports the benefits of later start times for high school students, a change already adopted by nearby districts like Basking Ridge.

The conversation revealed a consensus among board members regarding the need for a shift in start times, although logistical challenges remain a significant hurdle. The board acknowledged that while regional cooperation is ideal, they may need to explore establishing an independent transportation system to facilitate this change if necessary.

As the meeting concluded, the board members recognized recent electoral victories among their ranks, celebrating the successes of their colleagues while remaining focused on the pressing issues at hand. The discussions highlighted a commitment to prioritizing student well-being and academic success, setting the stage for future deliberations on these critical topics.