In a recent Barnegat Board of Education meeting, held on November 26, 2024, the atmosphere buzzed with gratitude and celebration as members highlighted the district's achievements and community support. The meeting began with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the business office's successful audit, led by Kate, who joined mid-year and navigated the complexities of the process with commendable skill.

The board expressed deep appreciation for the generous donations from the Friendly Sons of Shillelagh and the Patriot Financial Group, which provided Thanksgiving meals and supplies to eight families in need. The transportation department also received accolades for their efforts in collecting food and monetary donations, ensuring that these families had a festive holiday.

Among the notable achievements, the Hoard belt leaders in training collected over a thousand cans for the Barnegat food pantry, showcasing the community's commitment to helping those less fortunate. The NJ ROTC cadets were recognized for their participation in Veterans Day ceremonies, honoring those who have served the country. Additionally, students from the Barnegat High School work-based learning program displayed their artistic talents by painting holiday scenes on Dunkin' Donuts windows, adding a festive touch to the community.

As the meeting transitioned to the data harvest segment, excitement filled the room. Board members were invited to explore various school tables showcasing the hard work of staff and students. Highlights included impressive statistics from the seventh-grade English Language Arts (ELA) program, where 18% of students were already above grade level. In pre-kindergarten, 98% of four-year-olds recognized their names, and 71% could write them, marking significant early learning milestones.

The meeting also celebrated the academic progress in geometry and ELA, with proficiency rates showing promising increases compared to previous years. For instance, fourth-grade ELA students entered the year with 70% proficiency in content from the previous year, indicating a strong foundation for future learning.

President Sarno concluded the meeting by thanking all involved in organizing the career day, which featured 40 businesses and engaged students in various fields, from military to nursing. He emphasized the importance of community involvement and expressed optimism for future events.

As the meeting wrapped up, Sarno extended warm wishes for the holiday season, encouraging everyone to enjoy time with loved ones. The gathering not only celebrated past achievements but also set a hopeful tone for the district's future endeavors, leaving attendees inspired and connected to their community.