Colts Neck Board Discusses Energy Upgrades & Initiatives

COLTS NECK, NJ — The Colts Neck Board of Education held its regular meeting on September 25, 2024, to provide updates on district initiatives, vote on various agenda items, and discuss ongoing projects. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the progress of the Energy Savings Improvement Program (ESIP), which is aimed at reducing the district’s long-term energy costs through a series of infrastructure upgrades.

The district’s ESIP, led by the Board in collaboration with its vendor, DCO Energy, has implemented several energy conservation measures (ECMs) across its schools. Highlights of the program include the installation of energy-efficient lighting systems, improvements to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units, and a robust energy management system that monitors and controls energy consumption in real-time.

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The presentation outlined that approximately 60% of the district's flat roofs now have a 16-year warranty, which allows for future solar panel installations. Additionally, new unit ventilators have been installed, significantly improving air quality and temperature regulation in classrooms. These upgrades not only enhance the learning environment for students but also contribute to long-term operational cost savings for the district.

Construction is well underway, and solar panel installations are expected to commence in October 2024. The Board is optimistic about the energy management system, which provides detailed data on energy usage, helping facility managers optimize the district’s energy consumption. The ESIP is projected to pay for itself over the next 15 to 20 years through energy cost savings.

In other news, the Board reviewed and approved various agenda items, including personnel changes, policy updates, and curriculum-related decisions. Notably, the Board also discussed upcoming community events and district initiatives, such as the ongoing Parent Advisory Committee membership drive and plans for National Night Out.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that the district would be transitioning to a "Committee of the Whole" structure for future board meetings. This change means that smaller sub-committees will no longer meet separately. Instead, all discussions and decisions will be conducted as a full board during the first meeting of each month, ensuring transparency and full participation from all board members. The second meeting of the month will serve as the regular business meeting, where formal actions will be taken.

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The Board also provided updates on several upcoming district events, including Parent-Teacher Conferences scheduled for October 21st through 24th and activities planned for the "Week of Respect" from October 7th to 11th. The Week of Respect is an annual initiative that promotes character education and anti-bullying efforts in schools.

In the superintendent’s report, the Board was informed of the district’s successful start to the 2024-2025 school year, with two well-attended back-to-school nights at the Conover Road Elementary and Cedar Drive Middle School campuses. Superintendent Mary Jane Garabay commended the efforts of staff, teachers, and parents in ensuring a smooth transition into the new academic year.

Additionally, the Board discussed strategies to engage the district’s senior citizen community by inviting them to attend school plays, musicals, band performances, and other events, thus fostering greater community involvement.

The meeting concluded with the unanimous approval of all action items, which included updates to the personnel roster, curriculum modifications, and financial matters. The Board expressed its appreciation to all district staff and community members for their continued support and participation in these initiatives.

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