preparing students for the future requires more than devices, programs, and buildings. It requires soft skills. Mai observes that while students today may be more comfortable presenting publicly— often shaped by video-based platforms and social media—they can struggle more with interpersonal communication, small group dynamics, and one-onone collaboration. Westberg adds that collaboration is now a fundamental career skill across virtually every field, including technology itself. Great Meadows addresses this through structured group work, classroom discussion, shared problem-solving, and frequent opportunities for students to speak publicly. Student leaders present regularly at Board of Education meetings, and district programming includes concerts, performances, and classroom presentations that build communication confidence and clarity long before high school. For district leadership, another key to long-term success is transparency. Westberg emphasizes that open communication with residents is central to building trust, especially when taxpayer dollars are involved. The district has expanded its outreach through monthly newsletters, public presentations, attendance at community gatherings, township council engagement, and consistent availability to residents who want to ask questions or understand how funds are being used. Leadership views this transparency as a major reason the referendum passed and as an ongoing responsibility as projects move from planning to execution. Looking ahead over the next 18 to 24 months, the district’s priorities are both practical and strategic. On the operational side, construction projects will remain a major focus, including continued work tied to HVAC upgrades, preschool expansion, and infrastructure improvements across campuses. The district will also continue exploring partnership options with neighboring districts to strengthen enrollment opportunities and resource sharing, maintaining a long-term view of reopening Liberty School as enrollment rises. Academically, Mai and Westberg are focused on ensuring staff have the resources and professional development needed to keep learning environments strong, collaborative, and student-centered. 298 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
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