Hunterdon Central honors National Merit finalists, Eagle Scouts; parents press board to preserve robotics program

The Hunterdon Central Regional High School District recognized student achievements before taking up budget business. Principal Brandt announced two National Merit Scholarship finalists in the Class of 2026 — Bronwyn Downey (present) and Philip Kazantsev (absent) — and honored a county 'unsung hero', Hera Mustafa. Several Eagle Scouts were also recognized and their service projects described, from birdhouse construction to reef-ball deployments benefiting local fisheries.

During public comment, parents and representatives from the Robotics Support Association urged the board to preserve funding and leadership for the robotics program. Soumya Rajesh, speaking for the association, said the team has earned regional awards and sent students to world championships: "This program is not just a club... our students have consistently brought pride to the school through awards at the regional level and world championship appearances." Parents described alumni mentorship and urged the district to appoint a faculty adviser and ensure stable funding so the program can continue to provide real-world STEM experience.

Board members acknowledged the program's value and agreed to consider the requests as the administration and committees complete personnel and budget decisions for the coming year.

What happens next: the board approved multiple personnel items during the meeting. Parents and RSA representatives were invited to follow up with administration and the board during the second public-comment period and with the personnel committee.