The Hillside Public Schools Board of Education convened on October 30, 2024, to address several pressing issues concerning district operations and personnel. The meeting began with a focus on ethical standards for board members, emphasizing the importance of avoiding conflicts of interest in business dealings and ensuring that board members do not use their positions for personal gain.

A significant portion of the discussion centered around the hiring practices within the district, particularly regarding a recent hire, Mr. Anthony Salters. Concerns were raised by community members about Mr. Salters' criminal history, specifically his guilty plea to federal charges prior to his hiring. Questions were posed regarding the application process and whether it adequately screened for criminal backgrounds. Community members expressed their discontent, questioning the ethics of hiring someone with such a background and the implications for the district's integrity.

Several attendees voiced their frustrations about the lack of transparency in the hiring process and the qualifications of Mr. Salters, particularly regarding the requirements for a step 12 master's degree position. They demanded clarity on whether Mr. Salters met these qualifications and whether the board was aware of his criminal history at the time of hiring.

The meeting also highlighted broader concerns about the district's ability to meet educational needs, particularly in light of staffing shortages. Parents expressed worries about the impact on students, noting that some were falling behind due to inadequate teaching resources. The community called for better communication and involvement in initiatives that could engage students, such as community service projects.

In response to the criticisms, the board's legal counsel clarified that Mr. Salters' legal issues were unrelated to his role within the school district, asserting that there was no conflict of interest in his hiring. However, this explanation did little to quell the concerns raised by parents and community members, who continued to advocate for a reevaluation of the district's hiring practices and overall governance.

The meeting concluded with a call for increased accountability and transparency from the board, as community members expressed a desire for a more ethical and effective approach to managing the district's educational responsibilities. The board is expected to address these concerns in future meetings, with a focus on improving communication and ensuring that the needs of students are prioritized.