Budget, Classroom Performances, Food Management & Retirement

Asbury Park Board of Education Meeting Summary

The Asbury Park Board of Education held its latest meeting on May 22, 2025, at 6 pm at Bradley Elementary School. Major topics included the 2025-2026 school budget, reported improvements in classroom performances, food management services, and the upcoming retirement of State Monitor David Shafter.

During the last meeting, there was a huge discussion about budget planning for the 2025-2026 School Year. This discussion was centered around keeping resources to maintain academic programs while addressing rising operational costs.

Acting Superintendent Mark J. Gerbino emphasized the importance of responsibility when it comes to meeting student needs. He mentioned that 66% of students passed the ELA assessment, with nine students scoring in the 800s. He also highlighted that the district’s Early Childhood Center was recognized as “School to Watch.” Additionally, he acknowledged that the district’s science assessment scores have been low for several years and have now improved by 70%. Mr. Gerbino was contacted on Friday May 23, 2025 via email for more details about classroom improvement; however, he has not responded.

During the public comment session, concerns about the cost and quality of food provided by the district’s vendor, Sodexo Management Inc., were raised. A few community members expressed dissatisfaction with the meals being provided for the district. They stated that the students often don’t eat the food they are being served.

“This is a lot of money that we’re paying for food service to feed our children, and they’re not eating the meals,” said community member Nina Summerlin. She urged the board to reevaluate food options to better suit student preferences.”

Despite these concerns, Board Secretary Ivy Brown defended the current vendor. She said, “I don’t know where that is coming from.” She noted that school principals have reported general satisfaction with meals and minimal complaints.

The renewed contract with Sodexo will run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, for $1,527,892.

Compared to school districts of similar sizes like Neptune and Ocean Township with about 3,400 and 3,200 students enrolled, it becomes easier to highlight the differences in food service differences. Neptune Township partners with Chartwells Dining Services while Ocean also contracts with Sodexo Management Inc. for their district food services. Although Neptune’s exact food service cost is not publicly detailed, Ocean Township’s April 29th Board of Education meeting agenda confirms a renewed contract for the 2025-2026 school year at a cost of $1,337,619.36 – which is less than Asbury Park’s cost and is for nearly triple the amount of students.

Another topic discussed during this meeting was the purchasing of district electronic devices. The board approved the purchase of new student electronic devices, which was a shift from the previously stated plan to refurbish existing laptops and desktops. This change follows a debate during the last session and requires a revision of the public agenda packet.

State Monitor David Shafter announced his upcoming retirement at this meeting, effective June 30, 2025.

Overall, the Board of Education addressed budget planning for the 2025-2026 school year, food service concerns, and technology upgrades. Although the rising costs remain a key challenge, the district states it aims to balance fiscal responsibility with student needs. Community feedback specifically on food quality highlighted ongoing tension between policy and public expectations.

The next Board of Education meeting is on June 26, 2025 at Bradley Elementary School at 6 pm.