Teachers' union warns cuts to academic coaches and interventionists will strain services

Tracy Tigu, president of the Bayon Education Association, told the board she appreciated earlier notice of moves but expressed alarm that the district is dissolving remaining academic coaching positions and reducing staff who support gifted-and-talented (G&T) services and Title interventionists.

Tigu said the district previously employed three G&T coaches servicing approximately 900 students across 11 elementary schools; the G&T services are being reduced to one coach, and most buildings will have only one Title interventionist. "The loss of these positions does raise concern on how this level of instructional support will continue moving forward," she said, adding that interventionists are required to help Tier 3 students under NJTSS and that reductions could leave classroom teachers responsible for Tier 1–3 support and progress monitoring.

The union asked the board and administration to reconsider the reductions, noting academic coaches provide instructional coaching, support early-career teachers and coordinate countywide competitions and enrichment opportunities. Administrators did not announce a reversal at the meeting; the BEA asked for further discussion on maintaining services for G&T students and those needing intensive interventions.

Tigu also said the district communicated teacher moves earlier than in past years, which teachers appreciated, and raised a procedural concern about classroom orders remaining with buildings after moves until ed-data is corrected so teachers receive necessary supplies in September.

The board did not take immediate action to restore positions during the meeting; the item was presented as an appeal from the union and for board consideration.