In a recent Holmdel Township School District Board of Education meeting, a sense of urgency filled the air as discussions turned to the safety of students navigating the roads on electric bikes. A concerned board member passionately urged parents to ensure their children wear helmets and understand road rules, highlighting alarming incidents of young riders being struck by vehicles. “It’s really scary,” they said, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness as the community grapples with the rising popularity of e-bikes among teenagers.

The conversation underscored a growing concern that state regulations may soon require licenses for e-bike riders exceeding 30 miles per hour, reflecting a broader push for safety measures in light of recent accidents. The board member's plea resonated with the audience, as they expressed a desire to prevent any harm to students, particularly those who may not fully grasp the dangers of riding in traffic.

Transitioning from safety to academic initiatives, the meeting also spotlighted a new college preparation program spearheaded by guidance counselor Casey Rosatello. For the first time, students will begin working on their college application essays during their junior year, rather than waiting until their senior year. This change aims to better align with the college application timeline, which opens on August 1. Rosatello has organized a college boot camp scheduled for August 4, encouraging students to take advantage of this opportunity to get a head start on their applications.

Despite the positive developments, concerns about participation were raised, as only 35% of students had signed up for the boot camp. Board members discussed strategies to improve communication and ensure that all students are informed about such valuable resources.

As the meeting progressed, community member Mr. Tedisco took the floor to address parking issues at the school, expressing gratitude for the administration's proactive approach. He shared his insights and offered to collaborate with the school to explore potential solutions, demonstrating the community's commitment to working together for the benefit of students and families.

The meeting concluded with a sense of collaboration and shared responsibility, as board members and community members alike recognized the importance of both student safety and academic readiness in shaping a supportive environment for Holmdel's youth.