Interim superintendent reports construction delays, NJDOE update on graduation assessment options
Summary
Interim Superintendent Dirk Phillips told the board Oct. 27 that district construction projects are facing routine permit-related delays and that the New Jersey Department of Education has allowed current seniors to use PSAT, SAT or ACT scores to meet graduation-assessment requirements for the class of 2026.
Interim Superintendent Dirk Phillips told the Pascack Valley Regional High School District Board of Education on Oct. 27 that several capital projects are progressing but experiencing ordinary construction delays, and he announced a statewide update on graduation-assessment options for current seniors.
Phillips said three significant construction projects are under way; one milestone project (a program for 18- to 21-year-olds) is delayed by permitting and paperwork as the district coordinates with township officials. He said the kitchen and cafeteria HVAC project at Pascack Valley High School is close to completion and that auditorium construction is advancing, with a follow-up coordination meeting scheduled.
On graduation assessment requirements, Phillips reported that the New Jersey Department of Education has told districts that the class of 2026 seniors who have not passed the NJGPA may use secondary assessments — including the PSAT, SAT and ACT — to meet graduation demonstration requirements. "We just heard from them about 2 weeks ago that this current senior class would be allowed to use those exams," Phillips said.
Phillips also reminded the board that the district will administer field tests for the NJGPA and NJSLA adaptive test and noted school schedule adjustments around Election Day and the NJEA teacher convention.
The board requested continued updates on construction timelines and any state guidance that affects graduation requirements.
