Board of Education Meeting 2/9/2026

The Galloway Township School District Board of Education held a regular meeting on February 9, 2026, focusing heavily on the district's response to a recent fire at Arthur Ran Elementary School and the ongoing budget preparation for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The board received a detailed update on the fire incident, including the swift emergency response, extensive remediation efforts led by environmental consultants, and the temporary relocation of students and staff to other district facilities. The district emphasized safety and continuity of education, with transportation and child care logistics carefully managed. Additionally, the business administrator presented a preliminary budget overview highlighting significant challenges such as a projected 27% increase in health care costs, transportation cost increases, and flat or uncertain state aid. The board discussed the constraints of the 2% tax levy cap and potential allowances for extraordinary health care cost increases. Motions were passed to approve emergency relocation plans and the 2026-2027 school calendar. The meeting also included recognition of staff retirements and community acknowledgments for the district's coordinated response to the crisis. Overall, the meeting underscored the district's focus on managing emergency facilities issues while navigating complex budgetary pressures.