District Goals - Quarterly Update #1

November 11, 2025

 

Dear Cherry Hill Public Schools Community,

I am pleased to share this comprehensive update on the progress of our district’s goals for the 2025-2026 school year. This information reflects the first quarter of the school year. Consequently, there will be three additional updates provided as we progress throughout the school year. Below, you will find detailed updates on each of our five district priorities contained within the district goals, highlighting achievements, challenges, and next steps.
 

Priority I: Academic Achievement and Outcomes

Progress and Achievements
This quarter, we have made significant strides in advancing academic outcomes through data-driven instruction, preschool program expansion, career readiness integration, and experiential learning opportunities.

Key Actions

• Data Analysis Implementation:
  • Regular data review sessions are being conducted in elementary and secondary schools to inform instruction.
  • Elementary schools have developed actionable plans using tools like MTSS trackers and CKLA benchmark data.
  • Secondary schools are analyzing classroom and standardized testing data to identify trends and improve strategies.
• Preschool Program Expansion:
  • Community forums and diverse communication methods are strengthening family engagement.
• Career Readiness Integration:
  • Career readiness is being embedded into the K-12 curriculum, with a comprehensive review due in January 2026.
  • A district-wide framework with grade-specific milestones is on track for completion by March 2026.
• Experiential Learning Opportunities:
  • High school students from East and West are participating in experiential learning programs.
  • A system to track student participation is under development to ensure inclusivity and access.

Challenges and Current Blockers

• Monitoring the delivery of preschool classroom resources is critical to avoid delays.

Next Steps

• Complete November 2025 tasks related to data analysis.
• Finalize preparations for January 2026 preschool classroom openings.
• Advance career readiness curriculum review and framework development.
• Finalize the system to track experiential learning participation.           
   

Priority II: Operational Excellence

Progress and Achievements
This quarter, we have made significant progress in advancing our goals under Priority II, focusing on Bond construction projects, facilities management, data dashboard improvements, and elementary redistricting planning. All goals remain on track, and positive steps have been taken to ensure these efforts are moving forward effectively and efficiently.

Key Actions

• Bond Construction Projects:
  • Security vestibule installations, office renovations, and preschool classroom additions are on track.
  • Significant progress has been made at Beck, Kilmer, Malberg, Carusi, and Rosa schools.
  • Accessibility enhancements are being addressed to meet ADA and safety standards.
• Facilities Management:
  • Weekly checklist systems have been implemented to streamline operations.
  • Annual health and safety assessments are on track for completion by November 15, 2025.
• Elementary Redistricting Planning:
  • Monthly enrollment rebalancing meetings are ongoing, with three community input sessions scheduled for November 13, 18, and 20, 2025.
  • The final redistricting proposal is on track for completion by January 27, 2026.
• Data Dashboard Improvements:
  • Efforts are underway to enhance financial data visualization and accessibility.
  • A communication campaign to promote the improved dashboard will launch on January 1, 2026.

Challenges and Current Blockers

• No significant blockers have been identified, and all tasks are progressing as planned.

Next Steps

• Prepare materials for November community input sessions on redistricting.
• Complete annual health and safety checklists by November 15, 2025.
• Finalize preschool classroom additions by December 2025.
• Continue development of facilities inspection protocols and dashboard improvements.
   

Priority III: Aligning Student Supports to Mirror Student Needs

Progress and Achievements
This quarter, we have focused on creating inclusive learning environments and providing targeted assistance for students with diverse needs. Positive steps have been taken, and the goals remain on track to support all learners effectively.

Key Actions

• Universal Screening Assessments:
  • DIBELS assessments have been implemented across all 12 elementary schools, with data analysis underway.
• Professional Development:
  • Training sessions for interventionists have clarified roles and provided resources.
  • SPIRE implementation training is being expanded to support curriculum differentiation.
• Family and Community Engagement:
  • Collaboration with SEPAG is ongoing, with a family event planned for December 2025.
  • Planning for STAR Games 2026 has begun.
• Safety Care Training:
  • Building-level training is ongoing to promote inclusive environments in self-contained settings.

Challenges and Current Blockers

• No explicit blockers have been identified, and all tasks are progressing on schedule.

Next Steps

• Prepare for the December family event in collaboration with SEPAG.
• Continue analyzing DIBELS data to inform intervention strategies.
• Expand SPIRE training and continue Safety Care training.
• Conduct school visits to evaluate classroom practices and interventions.
   

Priority IV: Climate & Family Engagement

Progress and Achievements
This quarter, we have focused on enhancing school climate, strengthening family engagement, and promoting student leadership. Positive steps have been taken, and the goals remain on track to foster a supportive and collaborative environment in all schools.

Key Actions

• Student Leadership Development:
  • Structured programs for student government, peer mentorship, and leadership training are advancing.
• Family Engagement Initiatives:
  • Community forums and diverse communication methods are strengthening family engagement.
• School Climate Improvement:
  • Professional development and targeted interventions are being implemented to improve school climate.

Challenges and Current Blockers

• No significant blockers have been identified, and all tasks are progressing on schedule.

Next Steps

• Finalize dates for community engagement sessions on chronic absenteeism, AI, and online safety.
• Prepare for the NJ SCI Culture and Climate survey for students in grades 5-12.
• Continue implementing MTSS trackers and distributing materials about support services.
   

Priority V: Staff Recruitment and Retention

Progress and Achievements
This initiative focuses on creating a supportive work environment, improving recruitment processes, and enhancing staff development opportunities.

Key Actions

• Staff Recognition and Morale:
  • Multiple recognition events have been held, including National Coaches Day and World Teachers Day.
• Professional Development and Mentorship:
  • Comprehensive professional development experiences have been implemented at the Preschool level.
• Feedback and Retention Insights:
  • Exit interviews are being conducted regularly, with plans to implement stay interviews.

Challenges and Current Blockers

• No significant blockers have been identified.

Next Steps

• Conduct school-based walkthroughs and staff listening sessions.
• Launch the NJSCI survey to gather staff feedback.
• Prepare for early interview opportunities for student teachers in spring 2026.
   

In closing, as we reflect on the progress made this quarter, it is evident that the district's administrative team, staff, and faculty are working diligently to ensure that the ambitious goals we have set for the 2025-2026 school year are accomplished. Across the five district priorities of Academic Achievement and Outcomes, Operational Excellence, Aligning Student Supports, Climate & Family Engagement, and Staff Recruitment and Retention, our team remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering excellence, access, and opportunity for every student.

Through collaboration, strategic planning, and a relentless focus on continuous improvement, we are addressing challenges, meeting milestones, and building momentum for sustained success. We are grateful for the ongoing support and partnership of our educators, Board of Education, families, and stakeholders, whose contributions are critical to the success of the district. Together, with the hard work and dedication of our staff and faculty, we are building a stronger, more inclusive, and innovative future for our schools.

The next quarterly update will be shared on January 27, 2026, and we look forward to providing further insights into our progress and achievements. Thank you for your continued trust and commitment to our students and schools.

 

Sincerely,

Dr. Kwame R. Morton, Sr.
Superintendent of Schools