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Lodi highlights preschool expansion, Blue Ribbon school and renovated auditorium at June board meeting
Summary
Superintendent and board praised student and staff achievements, announced preschool expansion and described recent facility upgrades including a renovated Lodi High School auditorium and a new TJMS STEM lab.
At its June 23 meeting the Lodi Board of Education showcased student achievements and recent facility investments while honoring staff and retirees.
Superintendent’s report: the superintendent said the district expanded free preschool access to all eligible four-year-old residents this year and partnered with private providers to offer 60 lottery spots for three-year-old preschool (preK3); officials described a goal to expand to 105 preK3 spots over the next five years. Roosevelt School was recognized as a New Jersey Blue Ribbon School for strong performance and efforts to narrow learning gaps, and several students were singled out for county and national recognition.
Student outcomes and awards: the superintendent reported that graduates had received more than 500 college acceptance offers and over $4 million in scholarships and financial aid. Student honorees included Melanie Mahia, selected for the New Jersey State Board of Education student recognition program, and the student representative Dana, who gave her final report before graduating and heading to Montclair State University in the fall.
Facilities and STEM: the district described a renovated STEM lab at Thomas Jefferson Middle School featuring 3D printers and a planned student-run shop to support equipment maintenance. The Lodi High School auditorium renovation — upgraded stage, LED lighting, new sound system, new seating and live-streaming capability — was highlighted by board members as improving acoustics and audience experience.
Recognitions and retirements: the meeting featured presentations honoring teachers and staff (including multiple Governor’s Educator of the Year acknowledgements) and recognizing numerous retirees across district schools. Two Washington School teachers, Jackie Herszog and Joe Ciza, were noted for lifesaving action during a student choking incident and will receive Red Cross certificates.
What’s next: the district said it will publish a year-in-review highlighting the year’s achievements and proceed with the planned rollout of early-childhood seats and facility projects approved later in the meeting.
