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Haddon Township superintendent outlines bond-project shifts, class-size first reading and plans for an emerging technologies lab
Summary
The Haddon Township superintendent updated the board on district traditions and recognitions, proposed a first reading on class-size policy changes, recommended redirecting bond funds from a costly, stormwater-impacted field project to improvements at Van Skyver, and described a new emerging technologies lab and plans to teach artificial intelligence in courses.
The Haddon Township Superintendent delivered a wide-ranging report to the school board, highlighting new student traditions, construction updates and curricular changes that officials say will prepare students for technology-driven careers.
The Superintendent opened by describing a new "Hawk Legacy Walk," in which seniors don gowns and walk the halls of the elementary schools they attended. He also said staff recently opened a 1976 time capsule found in a library closet with class photos, a student handbook and other artifacts that illustrated the district's history.
Why it matters: The presentation combined community-building items with policy and capital-plan choices that could alter where and how the district spends its referendum dollars. The Superintendent asked the board to consider a first reading of shifts to class-size policy and to authorize flexibility in adult staffing models to address resource scarcity.
In facilities and bond-program updates, the Superintendent said work at the lower high-school wing—the former automotive shop—has halted because of oil contamination that will require an environmental study and remediation. "Any risk to any student is marginal. There's no access to it," he said in response to a board question, noting the space has been used for storage for years. Bond funds are being re-evaluated because stormwater and cost concerns make the originally planned field improvements at Lower Rino infeasible. He recommended redirecting those funds toward Van Skyver field improvements and adding space for a smaller, secondary field for elementary players.
The Superintendent also said some planned high-school entrance widening will likely be dropped due to cost; instead the district will pursue lower-cost student-centric improvements such as seating, tree planting and sign replacement.
On program space, he described plans for a wellness area, two new classrooms and expanded art facilities (including ceramics linked to a greenhouse), and highlighted an emerging technologies lab that will connect traditional shop classes to 3D printing, robotics, CAD and other STEM learning.
On technology policy and curriculum, the Superintendent cautioned against unrestrained home device use because of screen-time concerns while urging that the district "embrace the reality that we must begin teaching artificial intelligence." He said the district will review policies on sending devices home and will embed responsible AI instruction in new courses; the Graphic Design 2 course on the agenda will incorporate AI tools.
Budget pressures and shared services: The Superintendent said staffing levels have declined and the district is pursuing shared-service agreements for business-office support (with Lindal School District) and student-residency support (with Collegewood) to manage costs. He also noted continuation of a New Jersey Tutoring Corps grant/donation of $150,000 to provide classroom tutoring.
Student representatives praised the district's work and reflected on their board experience. The board later adopted resolutions honoring three student reps for their service.
What's next: The Superintendent requested the board consider the proposed class-size policy at first reading and sign off on recommended bond-program shifts; formal budget or project reallocations will appear as separate agenda actions for board approval.
