South Orange – Maplewood Board of Education

From the South Orange Maplewood Board of Education, originally published on May 30: The…

“The unfortunate reality…is that some very good, inspiring, outstanding educators have got caught in the crosshairs, and for that I’m truly sorry,” said Gilbert. Noting the many “tough” decisions that had to be made, the BOE passed the resolution by an 8-1 vote.

“I see your uncomfortable faces, and you should be uncomfortable, because this is embarrassing,” said CHS student Izzy Sandoval to BOE members.

BA Eric Burnside came under fire with the district facing a multi-million dollar budget deficit and cuts to courses, programs and 28 positions.

A list of 28 positions to be cut was posted to the school district website late Wednesday.

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

Student rep Asa Glassman said when asked what could be improved at CHS, Pedro noted “the importance of a culture of excellence that Columbia seems to be lacking” and that little things like holes in the walls, dilapidated ceilings and messy posters around the school “contribute to the slow erosion of a climate of success at a school like ours.”

18 positions will be cut through attrition; 10 employees will be fired. The budget also entails a 35% reduction for materials and textbooks, applied evenly across departments.

A $100K benefit to the SOMSD property in Maplewood, negotiated with the developer of The Gleason, is set to expire in May if the Board of Ed does not act.

From the South Orange Maplewood Board of Education: The Board of Education will meet…