Lawrence Township board spotlights Slackwood renovations, accepts $10,000 environmental grant and approves consent items

The Lawrence Township Board of Education at its December board meeting reviewed recent renovations at Slackwood School, accepted a $10,000 grant to support outdoor environmental education at two Title I elementary schools and approved multiple personnel and curriculum consent items.

The discussion was led by Tom, who presented a photo-rich facilities update on Slackwood School, and Vanessa Bakarciak, assistant superintendent for student services, reminded the public that the district's referendum vote is three months away on March 11. Bonnie Giglio, executive director of the Lawrence Township Foundation (LTF), presented a $10,000 check from Church & Dwight's employee giving fund to support a StreamWatch scientists program at Slackwood Elementary and Eldridge Park Elementary.

Why it matters: Slackwood is one of the district's oldest schools and the presentation was intended to show how facilities work has preserved historic character while adding modern safety and instructional features. The grant will fund place-based environmental learning for kindergarten through third grade at the two Title I schools.

Tom's presentation emphasized security and infrastructure work done at…