Board approves short-term AP Physics coverage and contingency contract

The Berkeley Heights Board of Education approved short-term staffing measures to cover two physics teachers currently out on medical leave, ensuring AP Physics and honors classes remain staffed.

Personnel committee members reported that the district secured a New Jersey-certified AP physics teacher through the New Jersey Center for Teaching and Learning (NJCTL) as immediate support for honors courses. The board also approved hiring a leave-replacement teacher (agenda item E) and authorized a contracted staffing agency as a backup if fingerprinting or certification timelines delayed classroom coverage. “We should have a physics teacher in the classroom very shortly,” the personnel chair said after describing the multiple steps taken to protect student learning.

Students told the board the temporary disruption had caused concern among juniors in the AP Physics course, with one noting, “it is easy to fall behind” after two weeks of irregular instruction. Student representatives and National Honor Society volunteers also offered to assist with peer tutoring to reduce disruption.

Why it matters: AP courses affect college preparation and grades that matter to juniors and seniors. The district’s chosen mix—internal substitute, vetted NJCTL instructor, and an agency contingency—aims to keep instruction consistent while meeting certification and fingerprinting requirements.

What’s next: The board approved the personnel resolutions authorizing the leave-replacement hire and contingent agency use; administration will report back on the onboarding timeline and whether the agency is ultimately needed.