Montgomery BOE Highlights Summer Facilities Work and Strong NJGPA Results

Nicholas Mistretta

At the July 15 meeting of the Montgomery Township Board of Education, Superintendent Mary McLoughlin opened with a strong note of appreciation for the district’s facilities team, recognizing their tireless work behind the scenes this summer.

“While school may be out, our buildings are far from quiet,” McLoughlin remarked. “Every building is in use, and the work happening right now is essential to a smooth start in September.” She detailed a wide range of summer efforts—from deep cleaning and floor waxing to critical maintenance like HVAC inspections, plumbing checks, gym equipment servicing, and kitchen sanitation. Preparations for fall sports are also underway, including field grooming, net installations, and repairs to tennis courts, paving, and concrete surfaces.

Despite the buildings being active with camps, enrichment programs, and administrative activity, McLoughlin emphasized that the facilities team is working seamlessly to prepare the district for the fall. “Their work is vital, and we are incredibly grateful,” she said.

Following the superintendent’s report, Fiona Borland, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Staff Development, presented data on the district’s New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA) results, administered to 11th graders in March.

According to Borland, only two classifications are used in the NJGPA: “graduation ready” or “not graduation ready.” 95.5% of our students were deemed graduation-ready in English Language Arts, while 92% achieved readiness in Mathematics. 

Board member Ania Wolecka-Jernigan inquired about a slight dip in math readiness, which dropped by 2% compared to the prior year. Borland explained that this fluctuation—amounting to just 32 students—is normal and varies from cohort to cohort. “Some years, we have exceptionally strong groups; other years, students may need more support. That’s expected,” she said. “What matters is that we’re identifying those students early and giving them the support they need.” The district’s approach is deeply data-informed. “We’re using real-time indicators to pinpoint students who are struggling,” she said. “Our interventions—both in class and after school—are responsive. These students are not lost. They are a population whose needs we are actively addressing.”

The full NJGPA presentation, including detailed subgroup and demographic breakdowns, is available on the district’s website: View Full Report

MTEA Report:  Board President Mike Razzoli shared an update on the Montgomery Township Education Association’s summer reading initiative, which is aimed at providing books and supplies to students in need. “We have volunteers delivering books to families,” Razzoli noted, adding that the initiative also includes collaboration with the local food pantry to ensure students receive essential supplies over the summer.

Board Member Joanna Filak delivered the Operations, Facilities and Finance Committee report providing the public with key updates on the district’s ongoing initiatives and priorities.

Filak, who serves on multiple committees, offered insight into the collaborative work being done behind the scenes to support the district’s mission of academic excellence, student well-being, and operational transparency.

Among the highlights, Filak emphasized progress on curriculum development, noting continued efforts to align instructional materials with state standards while also incorporating feedback from educators and families. She underscored the committee’s commitment to ensuring that students have access to challenging, relevant, and inclusive content across all grade levels.

Filak also addressed updates related to facilities planning and transportation, including ongoing evaluations of bus routes and school safety protocols. “We’re working closely with administration and stakeholders to identify practical improvements that benefit both students and staff,” she said.

In addition, she praised the district’s expanding efforts around mental health resources and student support services, acknowledging that these remain top priorities for the board moving into the new school year.

As the meeting concluded, Filak expressed gratitude to her fellow committee members and the broader school community. “Our work is rooted in collaboration, and I want to thank everyone who contributes time and insight to these important discussions,” she said. “There’s a lot more to come, and we’re excited about the direction we’re headed.

The next meeting of the Board of Education is scheduled for August.

Photo Credit: Nicholas Mistretta/headlinenewsmontgomery.com