Intentional Integration Initiative (SOMSD III)

To reduce the cost of transportation, district officials have suggested a busing hub system “where students would be assigned hubs that are no more than 1.25 miles from their home.” One parent called the idea “baffling.” Officials say the concept is in the discovery phase and would not be implemented in 2025-26.

Jocelyn Ryan and Erin Siders of the South Orange/Maplewood Coalition on Race’s Schools Committee asked the Board of Education to be “100%” committed to the Intentional Integration Initiative, in response to some town hall comments questioning the cost of the program and transportation.

The wide-ranging interview covered topics such as the Fergus recommendations, the code of conduct, Board of Education functionality, communications, data, equity, hiring and retention, and more.

Acting Supt. Gilbert provided the BOE with an update on SOMSD’s five district goals for 2024-25.

The policy changes would allow a socioeconomic status-neutral waitlist for transfers related to the Intentional Integration Initiative.

Board of Education members asked for more details, including timelines, budget numbers and measurable goals.

The five candidates respond to our questions on the Intentional Integration Initiative and a proposed transfer portal.

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Village Colonials families learned that the Board of Education will vote to restore their bus later this month.

SOMSD saw improved III survey responses rates after falling short on previous efforts.