The Hopewell Valley Regional School District (HVRSD) Board of Education held a general meeting on August 11, 2025, focusing on the results of the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA) for the 2025 academic year. The meeting highlighted the district's overall performance, trends over multiple years, and subgroup analysis, aiming to celebrate successes while identifying areas for improvement.

Dr. Plitzes presented the NJGPA results, noting that 94% of students met the English Language Arts (ELA) graduation requirement, while 86% achieved the same in mathematics. The NJGPA, adopted by the New Jersey Department of Education in 2021, is a graduation requirement for students graduating in 2023 and beyond. For those who do not meet the benchmark, alternative pathways are available, including portfolio appeals and qualifying scores on standardized tests.

The presentation included a multiyear comparison of NJGPA performance from 2023 to 2025, showing stable or improving scores, with HVRSD students consistently outperforming state averages in both ELA and math. However, the data also revealed performance gaps among racial subgroups, prompting discussions on equity and the need for targeted instructional support.

Board members expressed concerns regarding the small sample sizes of Black and Hispanic students, which can lead to significant fluctuations in reported performance. They emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying factors contributing to these disparities and the need for culturally responsive practices in instruction.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue monitoring performance trends and implementing strategies to support underrepresented and lower-performing subgroups. The board acknowledged the importance of sustained efforts to ensure all students have equitable access to educational resources and opportunities for success.