Hillside BOE Meeting 3/26/26 - Part 1

The Hillside Public Schools Board of Education held a meeting on March 26, 2026, which included presentations on student achievements, school events, and community engagement. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the presentation of the tentative budget by the Business Administrator, Mr. Dwayne McNeel. The budget discussion highlighted challenges such as declining student enrollment and the potential financial impact of a proposed charter school, which could reduce district revenue by approximately $6.6 million over two years. The tentative budget, exceeding $74 million, was prepared with these factors in mind and will be submitted to the county for approval, with a final budget presentation scheduled for May 7. Additionally, the Buildings and Grounds Committee reported on the approval of an auditorium HVAC upgrade at Hillside High School and an emergency evacuation agreement with a local learning center. Public comments included a request for a formal athletic training facility at Wildfield Stadium and concerns about delayed contract agreements for paraprofessionals. The meeting concluded with committee reports and a motion to enter executive session.