Hardyston board adopts 2025–26 district and board goals; elementary will get air conditioning

The Hardyston Township Board of Education on Aug. 12 approved its 2025–26 district and board goals after a workshop-style meeting focused on measures for academic growth, attendance and facilities.

Facilitator Kathleen Hellowatt told the board that goals “move your district forward,” and walked members through how district goals, superintendent merit goals and board goals fit into the district’s five-year strategic plan. Superintendent Dr. Ryder outlined quantitative merit targets tied to his evaluation, including reducing chronic absenteeism from 8.4% to 5.9% or lower.

Board members discussed objectives intended to raise student achievement in mathematics and language arts, expand enrichment opportunities and improve staff collaboration and retention. The board also added a facilities-and-finance goal to produce a long‑range facilities plan, conduct a needs assessment and explore funding options.

On operational items, the superintendent reported that electricians have finished work and units are on site to equip 29 elementary classrooms with air conditioning; he said work is underway to mount and finish installations. The new preschool playground’s demolition and installation schedule has slipped and is expected in October, leaving the old playground in use when school opens.

The board took a roll-call vote to adopt the district goals and, in a separate vote, the board goals; both motions were approved. The superintendent will provide periodic updates to the board and the public on progress toward the goals.