Brandon Pugh Discusses New Moorestown Policies In 50th Edition Of Education Column

MOORESTOWN, NJ — It is hard to believe, but this is the 50th edition of the Education Monthly column since the first one was published back in January of 2013. Thank you to everyone who has followed the column. You can always read past editions here.

This month’s Moorestown Township Public School District Board of Education highlights include a presentation by an international travel program, student recognition, and adoption of a revised homework policy, among other actions.

At the monthly meeting on May 16, the board heard a presentation from Peter Adams of WorldStrides. This organization offers educational trips abroad for about 85 school districts in New Jersey.

The board is expected to vote on this program in June, with the possibility for school trips beginning as early as spring break in 2018. The proposal is for students to fundraise to cover trip expenses, but the organization does offer scholarships based on need. Additional information can be found here.

Over 100 students were recognized for outstanding achievement in different areas. This included students who excelled on Spanish, Latin, and French exams, in the performing arts, and in various business competitions. Many Moorestown students ranked in the top of New Jersey in the award categories, along with some being in the top nationally.

The board passed several policies on second reading. One policy in particular to highlight is Policy 2330 – Homework. This policy adds and revises language on when homework can be assigned. Specifically, the policy states that “homework shall not be due the day after District observed extended vacations and/or religious holidays” and homework to be submitted electronically must have a posting deadline within normal school operating hours, along with a couple other changes.

The 2017-18 tuition rates were approved by the board. These rates vary by school, but at the high school the tuition rate will be $15,766 and the middle school rate will be $16,067, which are based on the state’s budget formula.

Excitingly, the board approved three non-resident students to attend Moorestown schools on a tuition basis next year. The district’s goal is to have 10 students attend on a tuition basis and this will be very helpful for the board’s revenue generation focus.

There are several events to be aware of over the next month. Moorestown Day will take place on June 3. This will include a special art show by MoorArts. Also, graduating students will be honored for achievement and scholarships at a recognition night on June 13. The year will culminate with graduation on June 22.

The last regular monthly Board of Education meeting for this school year will be held on Tuesday, June 20, 2017, at 7 p.m. in the William Allen Middle School Media Center. It would be great to see you at an upcoming meeting, and do not hesitate to reach out to the board as a whole, or myself if you need anything.

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The views and content in this column do not necessarily represent those of the Moorestown Board of Education as a whole or any other individual member.

About this column: In this column, Moorestown Board of Education Member Brandon Pugh provides monthly updates on what's going on in the school district and on the BOE.