On Monday evening, the Pascack Valley Regional High School District Board of Education (BOE) discussed the extension of the interim superintendent’s tenure, reviewed the Annual Audit Report, and addressed enrollment concerns regarding a demographic study.
The meeting began with recognition of several exceptional student-athletes for their accomplishments. Students recognized were Hills and Valley students from varying grade levels: Adam Shaw, Allie Polyniak, Madeline Romero, Eva Myers, Kylie DeVincenzo, Hope Gasperino, Courtney Greve, Sydney Flanz, and Keira O’Cathain.
Interim Superintendent Dirk Phillips then gave his interim report. This report covered various matters, such as congratulating select students and teachers, and giving special recognition to the entire custodial and maintenance staff. He briefly mentioned the near completion of construction between both schools and the upcoming retirements of several dedicated teachers at the end of the school year. Phillips also noted the possibility of a change in the district’s phone protocol.
The meeting continued with Auditor Brian Gibbons who delivered the Annual Audit Report. This presentation discussed the funding of the school district and how resources are distributed . He acknowledged the monetary difficulties faced by many districts currently but he praised the PVRHSD for keeping distribution consistent by using excess funds from the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
Board Member James Stankus presented the Policy Committee Report, covering various policies including those related to parking spaces, library-related operations, among others.
Subsequently, Board President Gini Varghese gave an update on the Governance Committee, which discussed the details of the Board committees for the 2026 term. The meeting also covered facilities, ethics, and future Board meeting dates.
Student representative Stephanie Yeung gave her monthly student reports. She discussed recent and upcoming events, highlighting winter sports and events.
In a major announcement, Board President Gini Varghese confirmed that Interim Superintendent Dirk Phillips has been asked to remain as Superintendent until April 30, 2027 following an unsuccessful search and a desire for a permanent presence within the school’s administration.
Varghese praised Phillip’s performance, saying “We thought that his strong work ethic and effective communication…extensive work experience are really in line with what we wanted as a superintendent.”
The meeting concluded with a discussion about a demographic study, which is held on a regular basis and will be conducted next year. A key concern addressed is the potential for a significant increase in enrollment due to affordable housing policies and that the school may not have the revenue to support this growth for some time. Board Member Michael Weaver concluded with, “We’re at the mercy of the town councils and their negotiations with the developers.”
