1975, the Ottabon Board of Education transmitted notice of the meeting scheduled at 6:30 p.m. in the Ottabon Junior Senior High School Media Center to the Retrospect newspaper and the Burough Clerk and by postings on the Ottabon Public School District website and at the main and the Pine Street
entrances of the junior senior high school. Roll call, please. Mrs. Ron Casease, >> Mark Gaddy, >> here. >> Bill Wilson, >> here. >> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> here. >> Alison Cox. Angia Robinson late with notice. Amy Davis
>> here. >> Steven Wilson >> here. >> Sarah Coen >> here. >> Michelle Canada >> here. >> Thank you. >> Whereas while the Senator Byron and Bear open public meetings act requires all meetings of the Ottabon Board of
Education to be held in public. NJSA 10 col4-12B sets forth nine types of matters that may lawfully be discussed in executive session i.e. without the public being permitted to attend. And whereas the Ottabon Board of Education has deemed it necessary to go into close session to
discuss certain matters that are exempted from the public and as are noted in the agenda. May I have a motion to go into executive session? >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Any opposed? It will be approximately 30 minutes.
Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. That's what I thought. I got pretty good. Good evening. May I have a motion to reconvene the board of education meeting? board of education meeting? >> Motion. >> Motion.
>> Second. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> All in favor? >> Any opposed? >> Any opposed? >> All right. Um, I'd like to call the >> All right. Um, I'd like to call the meeting to order once again and ask meeting to order once again and ask everyone to please stand for the flag everyone to please stand for the flag salute. salute. May I have a motion to reconvene the I pledge algiance to the flag of the
United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Next, I would like to recognize our student representatives to the board.
Mr. win. >> So, I did not get to meet with a second grader this month. This was uh the end of my year doing that. Instead, I just talked to Miss Leard. She gave me some uh updates on what's happening at Havland. Uh Havlin had their blacktop
bash on June 5th, which a bunch of people showed up for. They had second grade uh families come for an Memorial Day concert. They had a trip to the public library, which is great. Uh they had children's night. They had a Alex's
lemonade stand to raise funds for cancer. Uh and the PTA hosted the end of the year book fair. That's basically it. So since it is the end of the year, today was our last full day of school. Tomorrow final start. I don't have too
much to report on since school ends next week. Um, but I'd like to say this is my last meeting. I have never been more proud of Aottabon as a community seeing here today at 6:45, not even 640, seeing all these people come and support and be
passionate about what you care about. And I'm very, very proud of you all. Thank you for coming. Um, at this time I'd like to ask Elena to come over to the podium, please. So, as this is Helena's last meeting with us, the board wanted to recognize
her and thank her for all of the time and dedication that she has given to this position. We have appreciated your perspective. We appreciated your insight and your thoughts, especially when it came to what you shared with us when we
were developing our AI task force. We are so thankful that we've had you with us for the last two years. We wish you all the best in school next year and we hope to stay in touch. Yes. All right. On with um more good news for this evening. We are going to
have our spotlight program where we are going to recognize our students of the month for May and we are also going to recognize our teachers staff members for the month of May and our retirees. So without any further ado um we'll start
with our pre kindergarten student. And you are welcome to come up with um a favorite grown-up or person if you're a little bit shy. It can be a little scary coming up here on the stage. We understand that. Um, so if you would just move over here to where the podium
is and then we ask that you stay at the end so that we can take a picture with everybody. Uh, Leonard Landy is the pre kindergarten student of the month. >> There he is.
Here we go. >> Lenny has been selected as student of the month because he consistently demonstrates outstanding citizenship in our classroom and throughout the school community. His positive attitude and character stand out to everyone who works with him. He follows expectations
at all times while showing respect, responsibility, and kindness toward others. Lenny is a dependable helper who willingly assists classmates and teachers whenever needed, often going out of his way to support those around him. Across settings and with different staff members and peers, he continues to
show leadership through his actions and serves as a positive role model for others each day. Lenny's positive attitude and contributions have made a meaningful impact on our classroom and school community. We're very lucky to have Lenny as part of our program and we are proud to recognize him as student of
the month. Edgar Porter is our kindergarten student of the month. >> Congratulations that take one step forward. >> Edgar Porter is our kindergarten student of the month. Congratulations, Edgar, and thank you for being so responsible
in class, respectful to your teachers and friends, and safe in our school. You are a rule follower and like to get right to your work. Edgar, you have become such a creative writer, using your imagination to create such great stories with details and creative illustrations. One of my favorite
writings you did was in your autobiography when you wrote about your pet parrot, Flizer, you wish you could have as a pet and how you would let it fly around your room. Keep using that imagination of yours and reaching for the stars. We're so proud of you and all your hard work in kindergarten this
year. You made our kindergarten family complete. Our first our first grade student of the month is Link Winderview. Lincoln is our first grade student of the month. Lincoln is being nominated
for citizenship for being responsible and a great role model in our first grade classroom. He has been working hard consistently following school rules and and shows respect to teachers and classmates. Lincoln is a helpful classmate and assists others when asked. He has shown so much growth since the
beginning of the year in this area and continues to make positive choices each day. Lincoln is kind, responsible, and willing to help others. We are happy to recognize Lincoln as student of the month. Congratulations. Our second grade student of the month is
Vincent De Antonio. I am happy to announce Vincent De Antonio as a second grade student of the month. Vinnie embodies great citizenship in the classroom and throughout the school. He is consist consistently helpful to others and works hard to do the right thing every day. Vinnie is
respectful to those around him. He can always be found helping others without being asked and is a great role model for his classmates. I'm so proud of the positive example Vinnie sets for his classmates. Congratulations. You got the speakers in the wrong order. All right, our fourth grade student of
the month who already know, excuse me, third grade student of the month who already knows who he is, is Gavin Clinger. There you go. Gavin's teacher writes, "Gavin is an excellent example of good citizenship. He is always kind, respectful, and
caring toward classmates and teachers. He follows school and classroom rules, uses good manners, and makes responsible choices each day." Gavin is always willing to help others when they need support and works well with everyone. He treats others fairly, listens carefully,
and shows respect for different ideas and opinions. He helps keep the classroom clean, and takes good care of school materials and property. Gavin's strong character and caring nature make him a wonderful role model for his peers. His commitment to being respectful, responsible, and helpful
reflects the true meaning of citizenship. We are proud to recognize Gavin for his outstanding example and positive contributions to our school community. Congratulations. Our fourth grade student of the month is Levi Dugas.
Levi's teacher writes, "They consistently ly demonstrate kindness, responsibility, and respect for others. Levi is hardworking, actively participates in class discussions, and is always willing to help classmates and teachers whenever needed. They are
inclusive of everyone, and have the confidence to speak up for others, helping to create a positive and welcoming classroom community. Levi has shown tremendous growth this school year, becoming a true leader in our classroom community and continues to
pursue their passion for writing with dedication and enthusiasm, often crafting their own stories that connect to what we are learning in class with creativity and craftsmanship beyond their years. Whether caring for our classroom, completing work work
responsibly, or exploring meaningful passion projects, Levi is dependable, thoughtful, and a wonderful role model for their peers. Congratulations, Levi. Okay. Fifth grade teacher uh student of
the month is Fiser Croher's Melanch. Okay, I'm going to read this anyway for him. Fischer's teachers say there is never a moment when Fischer isn't doing what he is supposed to. He shows respect in his daily interactions with his peers and
teachers. That may be holding a door for someone, getting materials out without being asked, or just a simple thank you. He follows all expectations in the classroom and always does as he has asked. Fischer shows his respect by always being an engaged listener who
considers the ideas and feelings of others. He takes time to process his classmates contributions to group or partner work and respectfully responds. He participates and takes risks during class discussions and activities and is eager to share his thinking. Fischer is
responsible when it comes to his schoolwork and projects, always asking questions and getting everything in on time and even early. When he knows he will be out, he seeks out his work to take along with him. Fischer is a true role model for his peers, and it is clear that his
classmates look up to and respect Felicia. Congratulations, Sixth grade student of the month is Natalie Kendler. Natalie's teacher say throughout her time at Mansion and especially in sixth grade, Natalie has demonstrated
outstanding character and has contributed positively to our Mansion out of school community. Natalie shows up every day prepared for class and ready to learn. Natalie strives for excellence. She takes pride in her work and never settles for anything less than
her best. She is part of our gifted and talented program and has become a natural leader and role model for her peers. She is respectful to everyone and consistently does the right thing even when no one is looking. Not only is Natalie a shining star in
the classroom, she is also involved in many extracurricular clubs and activities. She has been a key contributor in various acts of community service and leadership as a student council member. She shows responsibility on the safety
patrol, fantastic writing skills in newspaper club, creativity and design in yearbook club and passion for performing in the historic musical. We are very proud of your accomplishments, Natalie, and we know that you'll be an amazing addition to the junior high community
next year. Keep up the great work and best of luck. The grade seven student of the month is Magnolia Quinn. I am happy to announce Magnolia as the seventh grade student of the month. Through hard work, dedication, and a
consistently positive attitude, Magnolia has distinguished herself as an outstanding student. She works exceptionally well with others, demonstrates a strong work ethic, and servi serves as a positive role model for her peers. Her commitment to excellence and willingness to support
those around her make her truly deserving of this recognition. Congratulations. Congratulations to Maria Garvin for the eighth grade student of the month. Congratulations to our eighth grade student of the month, Maria. Maria consistently demonstrates
professionalism in the classroom, serves as a positive leader among peers, and approaches every day with an outstanding attitude. As one of those top participants in class, they actively contribute to discussions, support others, and set an excellent example through their dedication and enthusiasm
for learning. Their positive attitude and leadership make them truly deserving of this recognition. Congratulations. >> For the freshman class, Harry What's up, Harry Yonziano is our ninth grade student of the month. Harry is an
outstanding ninth grade student who consistently demonstrates what it means to be a dedicated and positive member of our school community. Harry is an extremely hard worker who takes pride in his academic efforts and always gives his best in the classroom. Outside of
academics, Harry is an active participant in our unified track and bowling programs, showing great teamwork, sportsmanship, and school spirit. He is always willing to lend a helping hand with any task from around the building, making him him someone
both students and staff can rely on. Harry's positive attitude and kindness truly brighten the day of those around him. He goes above and beyond by arriving early to support the Surf Shop and Green Bean Express, demonstrating responsibility and initiative. Harry is
a wonderful role model to other students in the building, and we are proud to recognize him as student of the month. want to say this is the best student recognition ceremony I've been part of. Y'all bring it. It's been awesome. >> Awesome. So, here we go. Our sophomore
class student of the month is Andrew Pat. All right, Andrew. Andrew, your teacher says, "We are happy to have Andrew as our 10th grade student of the month. Andrew is an active and dedicated member of the Interact Club who consistently demonstrates a
commitment to helping others. Always striving to put service above self, he can often be found collecting and delivering donations, volunteering his time, and enthusiastically participating in a variety of service projects. Andrew's willingness to lend a hand, combined with his positive attitude,
makes him a valuable contributor to our school's community. His polite, respectful, and generous spirit does not go unnoticed, and his actions serve as a wonderful example for his peers. We greatly appreciate Andrew's dedic dedication to service and are proud to recognize him as student of the month.
Congratulations. Okay. So, if I'm understanding correctly, there was a little bit of a typo on our packet for student of the month. So, we actually have a second sophomore student of the month for this month, which is Evan Paxos. All right, Evan, your teacher wrote,
"Congratulations, Evan, our 10th grade student of the month." Evan demonstrated outstanding dedication to his learning by staying focused, actively participating in lessons, and consistently completing assigned work. He regularly seeks support when needed, and uses feedback to improve his
understanding. In addition to his own successes, he is always willing to help his peers, creating a positive and supportive classroom environment. Evan's responsibility, perseverance, and kindness make him an excellent choice for student of the month. Congratulations,
Our 12th grade student of the month is Kylie Taco. Thank you. Kylie has been an exemplary student in my class over the course of the past few years. Her teacher writes, "She leads discussion, shows kindness to everybody around her, and never fails to complete
all of her schoolwork on time, despite being deeply involved in numerous clubs and sports. This past week, even though Kylie is exempt from her final in my calculus class, she took the initiative to help other students study and prepare for their final exam. To me, Kylie is a
perfect example of what it means to be from Ottawa. Congratulations. All right. Next, we have some teachers and staff members of the month for May that we would like to recognize. From the preschool and from Havland Avenue, we have Mrs. McCarti and Mrs. Phillips.
They would come on I don't think I see um my teachers this evening. My name is Barbie Leard. For those of you who don't know me, I'm the preschool at Havland Avenue principal. Thank you for um taking time to come out tonight. I just want to say both of the educators that I'm recognizing tonight
would have absolutely and will be educators of the month regardless um of the current circumstances. But given our current um budget needs and adjustments that we needed to make, you know, we had to make some hard choices in the district this year. And both of these
teachers are being reassigned and we've we've worked through this together in in our buildings um as a team, but the exceptional professionalism with which both of them have handled it um really made me feel compelled to recognize them both at this time and just you know send
them off into their into their next role knowing how much we value um their support. So just wanted to share that with you um for Thank you. is hard and they're handling it like pros. It's great. Um, Miss Amy Phillips, um, her classroom, Miss Amy Phillips
classroom is one of creative problem solving, hands-on learning, and being a good friend. Students in her class practice independence as they apply skills learned during instruction. They are tasked with helping one another, making their best effort, and sharing ideas. Students know that they can ask
for help when needed, and they work hard to please their teacher. Because of Miss Phillips instruction and support, students are successful in the challenges that they apply themselves to. Outside of the regular classroom, Miss Phillips teaches enrichment for students who receive gifted and talented services during the day, providing
advanced learning opportunities for the top scoring students in our school. After school, she extends that enrichment even further during our afterchool enrichment club, which allows us to reach more students. She is the Havland Avenue book club adviser, runs Alex's lemonade stand, and is an active
teacher leader in professional development and building planning initiatives. This year, I have also had the pleasure of working with Amy in the capacity of A.E.A. liaison committee, further demonstrating her commitment to our school community. Miss Phillips is a dedicated professional who puts students
first and seeks opportunities to further her own growth as an educator. Amy, thank you for your hard work, support, and dedication to our school. And congratulations on being our educator of the month. Mrs. Joanne McCarti is one of the hardest working teachers I know. She is
frequently in the the first one in the building and the last one to leave. During that time, she is busy preparing lessons and materials, contacting families, reviewing student work, designing targeted intervention, and making sure that her classroom is decorated with current content and student work. Joanne models a growth
mindset for her students. She is a member of Havlin's PBIS team who collaborate to plan buildingwide spirit special programs and events. And she has a special knack for being both nurturing and holding students accountable for nothing less than their very best. Her students seek her help when they face
challenges because they know they can trust the support from Mrs. McCarti. During professional development and inservice time, she makes positive contributions, asks informed questions, and seeks ways to grow as a professional. Ever tireless, it is not uncommon for Joanne to attend virtual
workshops and conferences outside of her workday and then bring her learning back to the team so that we can all benefit. It is this kind of invested commitment to furthering education for all that makes Joanne a standout teacher at Havland Avenue School. Joanne, thank you for your work, support, and dedication
to our school and congratulations on being Havland Avenue Educator of the Month. >> For the Mansion Avenue School, we have Mrs. Fern and Miss Gentiel. Come on. Good evening everybody from Anchon
Avenue School. I'm very pleased this evening to recognize Jane Burn as our teacher of the month. Mansion Elementary School staff are pleased to recognize Jane Burn as teacher of the month. Jane cares deeply
about all students and works hard to ensure that each child feels supported, valued, and encouraged to succeed. She brings a positive attitude to everything she does and enthusiastically celebrates every student achievement, both big and
small. Jane is also an exceptional collaborator who generously shares her knowledge, ideas, and materials with colleagues. She is a dedicated team player who consistently supports those around her and serves as a model of professionalism and excellence for other
teachers. We are grateful for the positive impact she has had on our students, staff, and school community. Congratulations I would just like to say on behalf of Mansion Avenue, we wouldn't be as good as we are if it wasn't for our great
leader. Thank you. And also from Mansion Avenue School, Brady Jentilli, right? Mansion Avenue School staff are also pleased to recognize Brandy Gentilli as the staff member of the month. Brandy is a power professional
who consistently goes above and beyond to support our teachers, students, and school community. Brandy has shown exceptional dedication to the students. Whether implementing classroom routines or managing individualized lessons, she
does this with remarkable patience and professionalism. Bry's presence in the classroom enhances the climate. She is always there with thoughtful gifts and little pickme up snacks. I want to be in your classroom, Brandy. By building trusting
relationships with the students, she has improved student engagement and creates a safe space for learning. Because of her dependability, compassionate nature, and willingness to step in wherever needed, Brandy Gentilli is incredibly
deserving of this recognition. And for the Ottabon Junior Senior High School, we are recognizing Mrs. Wilty and Mr. Castro. Good evening everybody. I like to honor Miss Amy Wilty as our teacher of the month.
It is with great pleasure to recognize you as the May 2026 teacher of the month. You consistently demonstrate an exceptional level of professionalism, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything you do for our school community. As a math teacher and unified coach, you
bring incredible energy and passion to your work each and every day. You create a positive, engaging environment for students while always encouraging them to reach their fullest potential both academically and personally. Your enthusiasm is contagious and you have a
unique ability to connect with students and colleagues alike. You are the definition of a true team player. You're always willing to lend a helping hand, support your colleagues, and go above and beyond for students whenever needed. Your kindness, positivity, and
commitment to make others not only out makes you not only an outstanding educator, but also an overall wonderful person to work with. Ottabban Junior Junior High School is fortunate to have you as part of our team and this recognition is welld deserved. Congratulations and thank you for your tremendous impact you continue to have
on our school community. >> Is Hector in here? >> Where is he? All right, champ. Here we go. It is my pleasure to recognize Hector Castro as Autobon Junior Senior High School staff member of the month. Hector
is an invaluable member of our custodial department whose positive attitude, strong work ethic and attention to detail make a difference every day. He takes tremendous pride in his work and consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that our school's clean, safe, and welcoming environment for students,
staff, and visitors. What truly sets Hector apart is his willingness to help others. Whether assisting a colleague, supporting a school event, or tackling an unexpected challenge, he can always be counted on to step up. Recently, Hector demonstrated his dedication by recovering classroom books that had
accidentally been thrown out, saving vital resources for the teacher and their students. In addition, these books were actually placed um in a dumpster outside. He went outside and got them for us. In add in addition to his hard work, Hector is a great ambassador for our
school community. He enjoys building positive relationships with students and staff and is a good sport during our track team's preeie festivities, allowing student athletes to place their painted handprints on his work shirt. His participation reflected the sense of community and school spirit that he
brings to Ottabbon each day. Hector's kindness, professionalism, and commitment to excellence make him highly deserving of recognition. We are grateful for all that he does and proud to honor him as our staff member of the month. Congratulations, Hector, and thank you for your outstanding service
to Aubine Junior Senior High School. All right. Next on our agenda is recognition of our retirees. We have five retirees that we are going to speak about this evening. Actually, some of our administrators and supervisors are going to speak about them this evening.
Um, I know that Mr. Delo was not able to be with us this evening, but um, I believe Mr. LeB is going to speak about Mr. Delos's contribution and then we'll move on from there. >> All right, I'm back.
>> So, I know Mr. Loach is not here, but it is my honor to recognize and celebrate the retirement of Mr. Lee Delo after 33 years of dedicated service to Ottabban Junior Senior High School. He's a graduate of Penn High School and Temple University. He also enjoyed an
outstanding baseball career. He played three years at Ruckers University Camden, earning all conference awards twice in team MVP. He later spent a summer playing in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization and became the first Ruckers Camden player ever drafted into Major League Baseball. In 1993, Lee
joined the Ottabon staff as an instrumental music teacher and quickly became a beloved educator, mentor, and role model. During his career, he helped countless students develop their musical talents, guiding many to all South Jersey, all state, and all Eastern
honors. As marching band director for 25 years, he led the program to nine championship seasons and created memories that will last a lifetime for generations of students. While his accomplishments are impressive, Lee's greatest impact has been the relationships he built with his
students, families, colleagues, and the Ottabban community. His passion for music, commitment to excellence, and dedication to his students left a legacy that will continue long after his final day in the classroom. Throughout his career, Lee has been supported by his
wife Sandy and their children Tyler and Elizabeth. On behalf of the Ottabon administration, staff, students, alumni, and community. Thank you, Mr. to load for 33 remarkable years of service. We wish you nothing but happiness, good health, and success in this next chapter
of your life. Congratulations on well retirement. Next is Mrs. Andy Collazo. It is my honor to recognize a career and honor a remarkable educator, coach, mentor, and friend, Mrs. Andy Galaza.
For 34 years, Andy has dedicated herself to the students and staff of Ottabban Junior Junior High School. As a social studies teacher, department chair, sunshine club leader, and cheerleading coach, she has made a lasting impact on our school community. No matter the role, she approached it with dedication,
professionalism, and a commitment to helping Ottabon succeed. Over the course of more than three decades, Andy has influenced countless students. Through her classroom instruction, leadership, and coaching, she taught lessons that extended far beyond academics. She helped students
develop confidence, responsibility, teamwork, and school pride. The impact she has had on generations of students will continue long after today. Andy has given so much of herself to Ottbon High School over the past 34 years, and we hope Audabon has given
back to you as well. This school became more than a workplace. It became part of her life story. One of the most special chapters of that story was meeting her husband, Luke, here at Ottabon. Together, they built a life connected to this community. Over the years, Andy shared both celebrations
and challenges of her family's journey with her school family. She's experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows of this community, and we are grateful to have been part of that journey alongside of you. And your legacy will be seen in your students you taught, the athletes you coached, the
colleagues you supported, and the traditions you helped build. You have made an everlasting impact on the Ottabon community. On behalf of the Ottabbon School District and the entire Ottabbon community, thank you for your 34 years of service, dedication, and commitment. We wish you happiness, good
health, and many wonderful adventures in retirement. Congratulations. Next we'll have Mrs. Ledger. Um, and she will be speaking about Mrs. Gisler. Mrs. Gisler is not here. Okay. U Miss Bissinger was um unable to attend
tonight and so I'm sharing on her behalf. Um I've had the pleasure of of working with her. Mrs. Gistler is a special education par profofessional um with 20 years of service in our district. I have been very fortunate for the past five to have the opportunity to work with this very gifted,
compassionate, artistic individual who spends time not just with the students who are in her care, but all of our students, our staff, and a lot of extra time um doing projects, murals, activities in our building that engage students, help them make our school their own. So, I too um am not just
appreciative for her, but congratulate her as she moves on to retirement and many happy travels. So, for Mrs. Gisticler. Not many people know the demands of being a special education paraprofessional. Even fewer know what it takes to give 20 years of service in
this role. Mrs. Gistler has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students. She has offered patience, encouragement, compassion, and unwavering support every day. Diane, your dedication has helped students overcome challenges, build confidence, and achieve success in ways big and
small. You have helped learn. You've helped make learning safe and fun and school a place that students enjoy. Beyond the classroom, you have trusted you have been a trusted colleague, a caring advocate, and a positive influence on everyone fortunate enough
to work with you. In addition to her devotion to helping students grow and thrive, Diane has left a lasting and visible mark on Havland Avenue School itself. Year after year, Diane has transformed hallways, classroom doors, and classrooms into warm, welcoming, and inspiring spaces through her talented
artwork. From class, crafts, and projects to staff Halloween costumes, we have been so fortunate to have her share her creative genius with us. And for all of these reasons, Diane is appreciated, celebrated, and will be greatly missed. Diane, thank you for your compassionate service to students and congratulations
on your retirement. Next we have Mrs. Smeltzer who will be recognizing Mrs. Murphy. Okay. Dearest Denise, today we celebrate you, an extraordinary educator whose journey has touched
students and colleagues throughout our district. Like Woody and the gang in Toy Story, you have been on quite an adventure, bringing kindness, wisdom, and heart. Everywhere you went, you
shared your talents in schools across the district, helping countless students grow and believe in themselves. And just as every great story comes back home, your journey led you back to the engine school where you finished your remarkable career. And along the way,
you've built friendships, inspired learning, and reminded us all that there is no limit to what we can achieve when we support one another. As a true mountain lion, you've shown courage, strength, and unwavering dedication to your students and
colleagues. Your legacy will live on in the lives you have touched and the lessons you have taught. As you begin this exciting new chapter, we borrow a favorite phrase from Toy Story to Mansion and beyond.
May retirement bring new adventures, new discoveries, and all the joy you so richly deserve. Thank you for your years of service, your passion for education, and the difference you have made throughout our district. Congratulations on your retirement, and remember,
you'll always have a friend at Mansion. And for our last retiree of the evening, we'll welcome Mr. Hollander to the stage to recognize Mrs. Larente. >> Good evening. My name is James Hollis director. Um I'd like to welcome Sonia
Luente. Sonia Quente, on behalf of everyone at Alabond Public Schools, we would like to extend our sincere congratulations on your retirement and express our deepest appreciation for your over 18 years of dedicated service at our as our night custodian at Mansion Avenue School.
Throughout your career, you have demonstrated exceptional commitment, reliability, and professionalism. Your hard work behind the scenes has helped maintain a clean, safe, welcoming environment for staff, students, and visitors each day. The pride you have
taken in your work has not gone unnoticed, and your con contributions have played an important role in your success for our school district. Your positive attitude, strong work ethic, willingness to go above and beyond will be remembered and greatly missed. You
have set an example of dedication and excellence that has earned the respect of admiration of your colleagues. As you begin the new chapter in your life, we hope your retirement is filled with happiness, good health, relaxation, and the opportunity to enjoy the activities
and time with your family and friends that you deserve. Thank you Sonia for your many years of faithful service and for le lasting an impact you have made. We wish you all the best your retirement future endeavors. A warm congratulations to all of our
retirees this evening and we thank them for their dedication. At this time we would like to ask all of our students of the month, our um faculty and staff of the month um to come on up here onto the stage. I think that's where we'll attempt to take our group picture, but I think it's a little
bit better if we use the steps over there. Thanks, Mr. William Wilson. Is there a clearer path over there? Great. Okay. So, all of our students and staff, please come on up to the stage and we will take a picture.
I can do it. I know. Thank you. See you later. Congratulations. Thank you. Test. One, two, three. Next on our agenda this evening, we are going to be conducting
interviews. news for a vacancy on our board. Um, I wanted to announce that Miss Lipsky, tendered her resignation effective May 13th, which left a vacancy on the board of education.
So, at this time, we are going to conduct interviews. There were two individuals who submitted resumes and letters of interest. So, I would like to ask the two candidates if you could maybe move into the front row here.
And while they're walking up, I just wanted to read a few things. The purpose of this portion of the meeting is to fill the board vacant seat, which was the result of Miss Lipsky's resignation effective May 13, 2026. The procedure for filling a vacancy can be found in
the Ottabon Board of Education bylaw number 0143. This position was advertised in the retrospect newspaper and on the district website. The candidates here this evening are the individuals who submitted letters of interest for the vacancy. I can't see you, but welcome to
both of you and thank you for your interest in being considered for a position on the Ottabon Board of Education. Please know that several of us have been in the exact same situation you are in this evening, albeit not in front of such a large crowd. Even our student
representatives have faced the interviewing process and all of us have faced the rigors of campaigning and being in the hot seat answering questions. We approach this interview process with you humbly and respectfully. We will draw names to determine which candidate will go first
and the other candidate will wait across the hall until it is their turn. Our board secretary, Mrs. Ron Casease will be asking the questions on the board's behalf to allow us the ability to concentrate on your responses. So at this time, Mrs. Ron Casease, would you please draw names to see who will go
first? First up is Garrett Guia. Close enough. >> Thank you. I'm going to need help with that last name. >> All right. Mr. Burke will escort our other candidate across the hall. And
would you come on up? It may be better to go the other way. It's a little tight over there with the podium. Thank you. >> Just try test. >> All right. All right. >> Just for the boards. um edification. You
have a folder. It's blue. Uh inside you have both resumes and you also have the series of questions. You have uh one for each candidate for you to uh gather your notes and scoring. So I will be asking you a series of
questions. There are 10. Um maybe keep them we we do have a long agenda tonight so um keep that in mind. Maybe one to two minute answers. Some only require a yes no also. So uh we'll just get
started. Is everybody ready on the board? >> Okay. All right. So briefly tell us about yourself, your background, experience, and your connection to the Audabon community and schools.
>> So my name is Gia, >> every single vow if you're looking at it. Um, uh, we moved to Audabon five years ago. I had no control over where I was being sent from my job and I just so happened to be sent to Audabon,
New Jersey. I'm from the shore from Long Beach Island. Um, I went to a very, very large high school. It's a regional school. My graduating class was 900 people and I think there was uh 4 to 5,000 people in my high school alone. And I was not the largest class to
graduate. So, it was definitely interesting coming to another small town because my elementary class was only 11 people big. So, it was quite a big difference. My wife grew up in Marlton, which is only 15 minutes away. When I told her we were moving to Ottabon, she
said, "Where?" So, it was interesting to see that such a small town along the railroad tracks could turn out such a big audience tonight. So, which I am actually very proud of everybody who showed up. I can't imagine being a high school
student and never coming to one of these. So, a little bit more about myself. I know I'm going to go over the two minutes. My kids are seven years old, 5 years old, and about to turn two. We have been blessed to be able to make it into the lottery system for Ottabon
Preschool, which I believe we are expanding and have plans to expand, which is, I think, amazing because it really helps families who need the extra support and care. Um, part of the reason why I want to be a part of and submitted
my resume for the board was to continue working for students. I've I youth group at church. I've worked with students and kids for the last 15 years of my life. I coach local sports and it just seems like this, I say small town, we're the
most patriotic small town in America has been a blessing for me and my family and I want to be able to continue uh supporting the students and children here for as um as long as I can. >> Thank you.
>> So why sort of maybe you answered a little bit of this, but why are you seeking a position on the board? Why am I seeking a position on the board? That is a very very good question. I think it boils down to my desire to
serve. I have a family who was a school nurse, my grandmother. My mother was a first year first grade teacher and a second grade teacher. I've been exposed to teachers and school nurses for my entire
life and I've been able to really dive into what it meant to serve other people, especially at a small school district and a big school district. And I just really want to be a part of my kids' lives. Um, that's what it really comes down to. Sure, I can do their
homework with them. I can go to the sports with them, but every parent does that. I feel called to be able to serve to be able to help younger families like you have a young family navigate what it means for their our fiveyear strategic
plan or what it means to help um develop an AI policy or what it helps families become more interested in serving their school district and I would like to be able to do that as well. >> Thank you. So, what are some of the strengths you
see in our district? >> Community. Everybody coming out tonight for something they believe in. I did not grow up close with my neighbors. Coming to Ottabbon has shown me that there's a whole other world to be close with your
neighbors, to close with people, other families in the school district. being able to share a common set of goals and values and want to see them through. That is that is why. >> Thank you.
All right. Next question. What are some major issues that you believe our school district is currently facing? >> That is a a good question. I'm going to leave the obvious one out.
Um, in preparing for this, I I made four sheets of paper just because my wife calls me an overachiever. So, um, I think we've done a lot of I say we, it's a royal we, but we've done a lot of great work as a school district to raise
a lot of our scores that have been lacking. But something that caught my eye and in preparing and getting ready for and looking at other things, our graduation rate doesn't seem as high as it could be or should be compared to the rest of the state. I believe our
graduation rate is around 80% down from 90 to 94% 5 years ago. The New Jersey state averages 91.3% for graduation. It is great that our our scores have gone up in ELA, our reading, our math consistently have gone up, but
there seems to be a lacking or a disconnect of scores going up in graduation. >> If budget cuts were to become necessary, what areas would you prioritize for protection and what areas might you consider for reductions?
That is uh good question. I try I prioritize different things in my life. I have I was never really one to prior prioritize sports. I um
prioritize prioritize other things in my life in my upbringing. Prior to prior I'm not going to stop I'm going to just stop saying that word for a second. My family focused on manual labor. My father was was a construction worker. My
father was a mechanic. So I believe we should also be focusing on bluecollar jobs and jobs that the rest of the world doesn't really want to do anymore because we focus on steam and athletics and mathematics and everything like that. So I would I would tend to keep
the trades over anything else. Prior prioritize trades over anything else. Um, have you attended or viewed any board meetings? >> Uh, yes. I try I have tried to make
every single board meeting unless I have not paid attention and it was moved from the third Wednesday to the second Wednesday. There's been a few times since I walk here every single Wednesday for the board meetings that I would pull up on my phone the board minutes or the the agenda and I'm like, "Oh man, I
missed it by a week. I'm glad I walked all glad I looked at my phone before I made it all the way out here, but I have tried to consistently make the board meetings ever since my uh my one-year-old sleeps. >> Okay.
Um what do you see as the primary work of the board? >> The primary work of the board uh the board doesn't it doesn't manage. The board sets a vision, adopts policy, improves budgets, and holds superintendents accountable. We act as a
collective body not as individuals. Uh we said policy as the what and the why. The administration is the how. >> Thank you. >> This is a three-part >> all right >> question. Um so this appointment
concludes on December 31st. So with that in mind, do you plan to complete this appointment? >> Yes. >> Okay. Do you plan to have your name on the ballot in the November in November for election for the board
of education for the next term? >> I do. I just got my appointment to work. I notorized today and I will be handing in tomorrow. >> Okay, great. And uh do you plan to seek any other elected position in November? >> No, this is enough.
>> Okay. The next two questions are situational questions. >> Okay. Um, first one, a community member confronts you about an issue they are having with a staff member. How would you handle that situation? >> Apologize firstly that they are having a
problem with said staff member and let them know I'm sorry I can't that's not my position on the board. I can try to find the right resource for you to reach out to. That's that's not what I'm doing. And then uh next question, another
situational. If appointed to the board, how will you navigate the balance of expressing your personal views and your obligations to the district in your social media postings? >> Uh I don't actually post on social media
that much. So only thing I post is for my for my church and that's a that's about it. So it'd be very very easy for me not to do that. Thank you. Um, so last question is, do you have any questions for us or would
you like to share any final thoughts? >> I do. I do. I have three questions if that was right. If you'd like me to do one or two or just one. Um, and this is for the entire board. I don't know if the board is allowed to answer or not, but as the district enters its year two
of its strategic plan, what does the board most need from its members right now? I'll field that question. We are actually having a board retreat on July 27th, which is a Monday. And at
that time, we will be taking a look at where we stand with the goals that were set to be accomplished for year one and then what is coming up for year two. And then over the summer, the administration is tasked with exactly how those
goals will be achieved and what the plans. >> Okay. Last question I will ask is I think um what qualities did the departing member bring that you'd most like to see continued to the next member?
I I'll speak for myself. I don't want to um speak for the entire board, but for myself in this position, um the member that is leading us had a very keen eye for detail and was um exceptional in
their job when it came to being the chair of the governance committee. >> No, nothing else. I just want to say thank you for allowing me to sit up here. It's I find this kind of thing in joyful and fun and exciting. Um, even
with everybody coming in, I was talking to Ian before. I said, "What a night to be interviewed in front of everybody and being a change of venue." So, thank you guys for all the things you do for our town and our school district. Thank you very Thank you. Straight through the
While we're waiting for the next candidate to come in, um, after our second candidate answers the questions, I will open up to public participation to see if anyone would like to offer any opinions or insight
on the interviews that were just conducted. the board is going to be going into executive session to deliberate um on the interviews of the two candidates. So, we would open up to public participation to see if there is anything based on those interviews that
you would like the board to pay particular attention to. And again, the public participation will be limited to the interviews. I'd like to welcome our second candidate to the stage. Good evening. Thank you.
>> Good evening, Ian. Ringlinger. Rutlinger. >> Rutlinger. >> Rutlinger. Okay. Thank you for um your interest into the board of education this evening. So, I have a series of 10 questions. Um,
we have a lot on the agenda tonight. So, if you could probably keep them short and brief, one to two minutes, that would be great. >> Um, but and get all of your points in there though. >> Okay. >> So, um, I will be asking the questions.
So, I will start. um briefly tell us about yourself, your background, experience and your connection to the Ottabon community and schools. >> Sure. Uh I am actually in healthcare IT. I've been doing that for the last 20
plus years. Um as you know AI has become a big thing. Um especially in the last probably three to five years in healthcare. Um I have been leading AI governance on that. Um currently I uh do surgery optimizations
uh making it so that uh patients don't end up cancing. We have sort of a AI agent that will reach out to you, do some reminders on your surgical things and then also you can write out to it if for instance, hey, can I put creamer in my coffee the morning of surgery and
I'll actually tell you. Um, my connection to Ottabon is I actually moved here uh in 2023 uh whenever uh my son was going to be born here. Uh I had moved in with my
fiance at that time. Uh and since then we have gone ahead and done a major addition on our house. We have planned to go ahead and be here for many years and sort of made this our home.
Um, overall, you know, I I think I can do a lot of great things here and I see the opportunity of, you know, being even a further part of the community by being a board member. >> Thank you. So, why are you seeking a
position on the board? >> Um, I am one of the people that think that, you know, you have to put money where your mouth is. Uh, people talk about to make change but then they don't do anything about it. Um unfortunately
education and healthcare are one of the two industries where it takes a while for that to occur. Uh so I want the education system to be very strong when my kids are a part of it. So even though they're three years and 17 months right
now, um I think that you know it's going to take some couple more years to continue to strengthen this education system that we have here and I want to be a part of it. >> Thank you. So what are some of the
strengths you see in our district? >> Um I mean I can just look behind me and the community wants to be involved. uh you know, maybe it's just certain issues, but the fact is the community is there and they're trying to stand by
their beliefs. So, I think that's one of the strongest things that I've seen here. >> What are some major issues that you believe our school district is currently facing? I'm going to exclude potentially current
events, but looking overall at the statistics for the school district, you see sort of a major plummet as soon as you get to seventh grade. I mean, it's you see pretty good ratings up until then and then, you know, it decreases.
Whether or not that's because people are moving away, whether or not that's because, you know, there's some work to be done, I can't speak to that. But, you know, I think that there's a major problem that we need to eventually address so that people want to go ahead and send their kids here for sort of the
junior high and high school experience. If budget cut, excuse me, if budget cuts were to become necessary, what areas would you prioritize for protection and what areas might you consider for reductions? >> So, with to be fair, I don't know our
current budget here. Um, I mean, obviously, you want to go ahead and protect your teachers that are doing well. You want to also make sure that you're still having appropriate extracurriculars. Um, I know that there were, you know, tough choices even made
this year about having to reduce part of a music program, but with that, it sounds like there's plans to go ahead and revamp that and strengthen it in the next couple years. So, I mean, it's one of those things that you ultimately have
to see potentially what you have to do in the short term to make the long term better. Thank you. Um, have you attended or viewed any board meetings? >> Uh, I have viewed a couple virtually.
Um, I will say that I'm just now getting to the point where I can leave the house more uh with having younger kids. Um, so even if I don't get elected today, I'm planning on becoming more active. >> And um, what do you see as the primary
work of the board? Uh the board is ultimately they provide some balance with the superintendent by going taking in public opinion and also teachers opinions to go
ahead and provide that voice. >> Um the next question is three parts. It's yes or no answers. So, uh, this appointment concludes on December 31st. So, with that in mind, do you plan to complete this appointment? Would you
plan to complete this appointment till December 31st if you were chosen? >> Uh, yes. >> Okay. And then, uh, do you plan to have your name on the ballot in November for election to the board of education for the next term? >> Yes. And um do you plan to seek any
other elected position in November? >> No. >> Next question is a situational questions. There's two of them. So a community member confronts you about a issue they h are having with a staff
member. How would you handle that situation? >> I would absolutely need to refer to the bylaws. I don't know particularly if it's um the board can go ahead and take that grievance up or if it needs to go
through other channels. Um I hopefully would by the time this happens or if it happened would be able to advise appropriately but I don't want to say yes I would bring that right up straight to the board whenever it actually needs to go through a different channel. >> Okay. And then if appointed to the board
of education, how will you navigate the balance of expressing your personal views and your obligations to the district in your social media postings? >> Um, I think like most things they are
sort of separate. Uh, I deal with this sort of frequently knowing like occasionally specific patients and so forth. I'm not going to go post about so and so having a surgery. Um it's one of those things
that you know you keep your personal life personal and that doesn't need to transfer over to everything else you do. >> Thank you. Last question. Uh do you have any questions for us or would you like to share any final thoughts?
>> I don't have any specific questions for the board at this time. Um, I will say that being part of community to go ahead and make changes to go ahead and strengthen the school district as my kids grow up
in it is something that I'm going to be a part of one way or another. It's going to be either today or I will be up there later. Um, I will be part of the change. So, thank you all. >> Thank you very much. All right. As I mentioned uh before the
board goes into deliberations, if there's anybody that would like to make any comments about things that you would like the board to consider going forward um as we deliberate uh the choice of candidates. >> Yeah. Um
right there. Yes. >> Det Barnett. Uh Virginia Avenue. Um I wanted to comment first um about both board members. I really um liked hearing both gentlemen give their interviews and say that you know when you asked the question about the purpose of board
members. I love that they both said that they are here to serve the community and to basically you know kind of put a balance on the superintendent and between um you know the two two worlds. I thought that was really really awesome. I also loved how u Mr. going to
butcher his name. Guve um made the comment about steam and that's actually something as a parent that um I I was you know at the beginning of the school year when um your technology teacher left and it wasn't replaced um and some of the students that ran the classes
were rolled into like online learning experiences for steam. um technology is so so important and so many other districts are putting money into steam programs and building technology and I really do think that you know hands-on type of things careers Ottabon really
needs to um to think about that. So I just wanted to give Mr. Juveet um that acknowledgement. Thank you. All right. At this time, may I have a motion to go into executive session? >> All in favor?
>> Any opposed? All right. Uh we'll be approximately 20 to 30 minutes. access to Mr. I will win. I think you're
Yeah. a motion to reconvene the meeting. >> All in favor? Any opposed? >> All right. I I see one of our candidates here is our second candidate, Mr. Rutlinger. Are you back?
>> Okay, good. I just wanted to make sure. >> All right. Um, so, um, just to let both of you know, pending completion of paperwork and background checks, the person selected this evening will most likely be sworn in at our July meeting and will serve the remainder of the calendar year until December 2026.
Um, Miss Slipsky's term was set to expire December of 2026. So, the state will be on the ballot in November and it will be for a length of three years. It's open to anyone wishing to run who meets the requirements for the position and policy appropriate procedures. Um,
your petition would need to be completed and submitted to the county office by Monday, July 27th. And that is information not just for the two candidates this evening. That's information for any member of the community. And if you are go to our website, there is information there on how to become a candidate for the board.
>> At this time, may I have a motion for a candidate? You're going to make me pronounce the name. >> Yeah. >> Um, >> uh, I have a motion for Ian Wetlinger. >> Second.
>> All right. Any questions, comments, or discussion on the motion? >> Uh, I'll start. Um, I I think that his, uh, background in data will help us quite a bit with all the numbers that we work with. don't always understand.
>> To that same point, he noticed some of the issues of the district of the plummet in seventh grade. Um, and I appreciated that he said that he's going to put his money where his mouth is. And I just want to reiterate, anyone who meets the requirements can run, and you
just have to say you want to run by July 30th. So, do it. Run. >> 20 seconds. I don't hear you. >> I was particularly impressed with Mr. Ringer's experience in AI considering that's something we're deep in policy
discussions with right now. Uh and Miss Lipsky leaving that was kind of her expertise. Um so I think he will fill a role that we need on the board right now at least for the next six months. Anyone else? >> Okay. May I have roll call, please?
>> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> yes. >> Mark Gaddy, >> yes. >> Sarah Coen, >> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. Michelle Kennedy, >> yes. >> Allison Cox, >> yes. >> Amy Davis,
>> yes. Motion pass. Okay. Congratulations to Mrs. Mr. Rottinger. Mrs. Ron Casease will be in touch to discuss the next steps and uh Miss Allen and I will be in touch to schedule a meeting to give you a brief introduction. and then the members
of the new member committee will also be in touch uh to discuss things more in depth. Thank you to both of our candidates for their time this evening. >> Okay, >> it was Mr. Rutlinger. >> Okay, at this time um we have our
superintendent and district report. So we have the APS Triathon. So, we had a lot of students that were involved and excuse me, I would please ask you to be respectful. There's a lot of students that worked out that helped out with the trikeathon
over at the Ottabon Preschool as well as staff and some special recognitions that are listed on the agenda. Uh we're also very proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Leb as the new principal of Mansion High Avenue School as a blue
We are getting to the moment where public participation on agenda items will be forthcoming. Why are we >> Why aren't we already as a new school mansion longstanding tradition of excellence and with Smel
Miss Smeltzer's retirement we needed to find the right person to continue the outstanding work taking place there every I know members in the community have grown and appreciate Mr. work at the Ottabon High School and may have questions about this transition. I understand those feelings. However, this
decision was made after careful consideration, consultation with other parties and the best interest of the entire district. Mr. strength in the community is exactly why we believe he is the right person to lead the mansion avenue school. Great
news. >> We have a motion for recess. Yeah. Heat. Heat. Heat. This She don't want to line Got one. It is our sincere desire to be able to
continue this meeting, but we have to ask for decorum and respect. We want people that are here this evening to be heard, but we need to do that in an orderly fashion. And if
everyone is yelling and shouting, we can't hear you. So, I would like to have the board come back out again and have us resume our meeting. Next is public participation, which I know you have waited for and are
here for this evening. So, that is what I'm asking. If the board comes back out, we will resume our meeting and carry on with our orderly public participation. Here you
Thank you. May I have a motion to reconvene the meeting? >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Any opposed? >> Thank you. All right. At this time, we will be opening our public participation and this is for agenda items only. There
is a very lengthy explanation of how this is um conducted. I'm not going to read it, but um I have asked the board that if we need to extend the time limit of 15 minutes per topic that I will ask for a motion for that at that time. When
you do come up to the microphone, we do ask that you state your name and your address and if there is any group or organization that you represent. >> Hi, I'm Karen Alexander. >> Karen Alexander Nicholson Road. I am a senior and a freshman.
Um, thank you for your volunteer service. We can only pray and hope that our students would love their teachers and their administrators as you see here tonight. You have done an excellent job in hiring our administrators in the past
and we thank you for that. We are just asking that you would let our students keep the relationships that they have with this administrator, Mr. allow him to remain where he is, hire someone new for Mansion Avenue School,
which will be a very difficult job to fill following Miss Meltzer, who is also very beloved. With that in mind, listen to these students. They lost a counselor who they loved not too long ago. They've lost a band leader
now that they love, guess retiring, but not being fulfilled. They need to have this win. It is easy for you to just leave Mr. Lev alone. Thank you. >> Good evening, Board of Education. My name is Ryan Wyn. I live at 133 South Ko
Avenue. The decision to move the high school principal, Mr. Le, to Mansion Avenue School has brought me to this co microphone tonight. I was elected this past October to stand for my fellow students beliefs and bring their voice to the table as the student representative. This decision directly
affects the students that I represent and they have not held back their opinions and encouragement to stand before you now. Mr. Leb is a beloved member of the high school and integral to its function and its well-being. Aubon is a small town. Mr. Mr. Le embodies this small town as he himself grew up here, went to this high school
and is still a resident. Creating a strong positive school culture proven to promote student success is the goal of any school. So the best person for the job is someone who knows the Ottabon culture in and out, who knows what to improve and maintain. He's a consistent
supporter of all aspects at this school and his absence will be felt tremendously to students. This decision feels made without fully considering the effects on the student body and student morale, which is a pattern students have noticed. Mr. Leb's movement to mansion stands as one in a series of decisions
that have impacted the student body this year. First, it began with the firing of our mental health counselor, who many students leaned on and built a personal connection with. Then, it led just last month to a blow on our ban programs, resulting in a resolution that could have been avoided with more time for community input. These are just two
examples. I cannot in good conscience sit in the position of student representative to this board while the true issues that matter to students are seemingly disregarded and settled in the dark without consideration or answers to those who sit in the seats every day. I presume a decision about Mr. Lev's movement is final. There will be no
changing your minds, but I implore you to view the efforts that have been placed before you and truly understand our voices. We students are strong willed, determined, and driven to stand for our beliefs in school environment. Our efforts in the past have been ignored. And to those students who still have who still fight at any chance they
get and are here tonight or viewing at home, do not go gentle into that good night. Thank you for your time. to the students, please. Hello, my name is Elena Kman and I live on 4 Northwood Avenue in Ottabon. I'm a senior here at Ottabon High School. So,
in one week, the matters of the school will no longer affect me directly, but I'm deeply worried for the future of the students here. I'm standing here tonight to address the relocation of Mr. Leb from Ottabon Junior Senior High School. But first, I would like anyone in this room to stand if they are at this meeting in favor of Mr. Leb staying at
HS. I'd like you to get to know a lot of those people that stood up are students who have finals tomorrow. So add to the sentiment of them being here and staying at 9:13 p.m. on a Wednesday night. When I came to Aragon 9th grade, the
principal's advisory council, otherwise known as PAC, was the first club I joined. Like Mr. Le, this is my first year. that club. My first impression of Audabon was that is a very open and receptive environment for students. PAC is a club where the students are able to speak with Mr. Leb directly once a month
on issues they find important at the school. From the PAC, students have improved one true proudness, midterm schedules, and plenty more little changes that make our experience here better every day. It is evident from the improvements made from the principal's advisory council that Mr. Le is an approachable and
reasonable principal. As previously mentioned, I'm respect the was one of the few clubs I joined my freshman year and I wanted to be even more involved but I didn't know where to start. One year ago at the strategic planning meeting I attended concerned Audabon and money from residents and parents reached
a consensus that this was a common experience for many kids. At the meeting that night I approached Mr. Le about possibly creating a new club to promote the inclusion of incoming students from many without hesitation. He said absolutely and he worked closely with me and Elena Winship to make it happen.
Since last year, there now exists a club at Ottabbon called the money from open committee that allows incoming students to feel less anxious and mitigates the divide between money from an autobond thanks to Mr. Leb's open door policy. There are countless examples I could talk about, but unfortunately I have a
time limit. There is no doubt in my mind that Mr. Level will do a great job at mansion because that's just who he is as a person. But I think that he is far better suited at AHS. There are not many high schools whose students can comfortably approach their principal to change what they want change or express how they feel in a certain matter. In casual conversation,
talking to Mr. Leb is never a daunting task. In my extracurriculars like student council or senior c senior counsel, for example, organizing events is so easy because everyone is always glad to talk to him. He is non-judgmental and advocates advocates for his students. Mr. Leb encourages
leadership and instills pride and excellence that Ottabon wants from his students. I strongly encourage the board of education keep Mr. Leb at Ottaban High School. Thank you. I am Kyle Brown. I live at 206 Spruce Street. I'm a senior here at Arvon High School and I've gone to school here
since first grade. I'm now pre the president of the student council of the Interact Club National Honor Center. I hear these people talk every day. I represent them. I've sat in countless meetings with Mr. Le. I r have the rare occurrence to sit in a meeting with Miss
Allen, in fact. >> But as I appreciate the board, I want to turn to you guys because you are the community. In seven days, I have the fortune of speaking at graduation. >> Kyle, Kyle, I'm sorry. You do need to face the board for this.
>> Thank you. In seven days, I have the fortune of speaking at graduation about the community, about all of you. While the mic has to face the board, I'm looking at you guys because you are what build this town. Sandra Allen has came in a year ago.
Since then, we have lost a amazing English teacher in Melissa Chuchini, amazing English teacher, an amazing chemistry teacher in Mr. Marino, another amazing English teacher, and Katherine Wilson, all forced to resign
slash retire because they felt they weren't supported by the administration here. As a community, as a community, you have the ability to vote for her term of leave, which ends next summer. I know it's not now, but as
teachers, you have the right to vote for disapproval. If Mr. If Miss Dr. Davis was getting a vote for disapproval, why isn't she why have we lost? Why have we lost three teachers and a
mental health counselor who had girls and boys and students sobbing at the meeting last year? Sobbing. You were there. You saw your own board of representative Jane Pony sobbing on that table because she wasn't able to speak
on behalf of her mental health counselor which you unjustfully fired. Her her scores were pristine. Our scores were top of the top just as well as teachers that are the best of the best here. I mean, we have guidance counselors and we have math teachers and chemistry
teachers who are now being put in trouble because what like a senior ship thing, but we love them. If you listen to your students, you don't understand that Mr. Ireland, Mr. Thomas, and Mr. Harter are loved by your students. plan on showing up to Friday senior farewell, which I hope you do. You will
hear our belovedness, Mr. Ireland, speak on behalf of the senior class because that's how much we love him. We chose him to speak on behalf of us. He is our senior farewell presenter because he embodies Ottabban. He embodies this community. >> I'm now up against
I'm Jimmy Moran from 33 South Avenue and I'm representing the junior senior class. I guess I just want to say Mr. Leb needs to stay here. Mr. Leb is the best principal for the Ottabon High
School. He went to school here. He lives here. He knows the school and his community extremely well. He contributes to the school's culture by encouraging students to be on time and push themselves. He serves as a consistent and reliable role model and he attends
sporting events and musical performances and any other event for AHS. As a student, I feel comfortable knowing that Mr. Leb has things under control and I can speak to him with any issues I have.
Mr. Leb embodies the spirit of Ottabbon High School to a degree that nobody else can. And it's a shame that whoever made this decision to move Mr. has decided to fix what isn't broken. Thank you. Hello, my name is Nathaniel Woods. I
live for 42 West Greensboro. Um, many of you people on the board know me. I know many of you. You may know me through whether it be sports, the arts, whether you show up to the concerts every year. or um or to show up to football games
and track meets. Um but if you know me, you know I'm the middle child of five kids. I've seen I've seen where this school has been through my older brother and older sister and I want to see where this school goes through my little brothers and just where it turns from
here. And as as I truly believe there is no way that this school can go anywhere up without Mr. He is a necessity to the student body and to the faculty in general. Um he is
an alumni at the school. He played football. He did sports. He he's been around this school for a very long time. Um but yeah, the one one thing that's really resonated me through football is
something that my coach one of my coaches constantly says and it's we Not in not even as a football team, as a school, we are a family. And as a family, you should stand next to them whenever they're in a time of need, if
they're in trouble. And like he uses like an alley fight as a reference every time, but this is the entirety of our student body showing up today to stand next to Mr. Leb and represent what we want and what is the common good for our
school. He He makes our school a thousand times better. And you can tell that through the faces you see here. You see, because during the um during the ban proceedings, you only saw kids from the arts. You only saw kids who dealt with mental health troubles when this gave
up. But this is the entire school coming here to back one guy. And it's not just those kids who are going to be affected by it. There are seniors here who have no stake in the school next year. And they're here knowing that without Mr.
There is no future for this school. Thank you. >> Good evening. Sarah Barry, 34 North Lo. Thank you board for having this opportunity for us to come and present to you and for the students as a learning opportunity tonight. I want to
um let the students know specifically um why I resigned my position here at Ottabon High School. It was because of how this administration makes decisions and continues to. With that said, we the parents, students, residents, taxpayers, and stakeholders of the Ottabon School
District hereby express a vote of no confidence in Superintendent Sander Allen. for education. As stakeholders invested in educational success, safety, well-being, and fiscal responsibility of our school district, we have lost confidence in Superintendent Allen's
leadership and ability to effectively asserve the students, staff, and community of Ottabon. Therefore, we we respectfully request that the Ottabon Board of Education take the following actions. Conduct an independent investigation into concerns raised by parents, students, staff, and community
members regarding the superintendent's performance and administration of the district. Conduct an immediate comprehensive performance review of Superintendent Sander Allen. Review district personnel practices, staffing decisions, administrative hiring procedures, compliance with established policies of the New Jersey school code
of ethics, and all standards. Evaluate concerns regarding the superintendent's accessibility, responsiveness, and presence during school operating hours. hold a public discussion regarding these concerns and provide transparency to the community regarding findings and corrective actions. Based upon any of
your findings of such reviews and investigations, consider requesting the immediate resignation of Sander Allen or pursuing termination of her employment contract in accordance with applicable law and board policy. This vote of no confidence is submitted to formally notify both Superintendent Allen and the
board of education that a significant number of stakeholders no longer have confidence in her leadership and believe immediate review and action are necessary to restore trust, accountability, transparency, and stability within the school district. Do not stop coming to these meetings.
Continue, kids. Good evening, superintendent and members of the board of education. My name is Annie Hris. I live on 127 I am a rising eighth grade student here in Ottawan. I am speaking tonight to urge you to keep Mr. Leb as the allaround junior
senior high school principal. Under his leadership, Ottabbon Junior Senior High has become a place where people feel safe to talk to adults about things going on. Mr. Leb has even become a safe haven of sorts for many students such as myself.
The loss of our principal will leave so many students feeling unprotected and unheard of. Of course, Mr. Le would be an astonishing principal at Mansion, but the bonds he has formed and the abundance of students that will be affected by his departure will be much more significant on the students morale
rather than a newly hired principal from for Mansion. Miss Meltzer's retirement will leave many junior high and mansion students with a melancholy feeling, but she can be replaced with a newly hired staff member instead of taking away an administrator that has shaped Alaban High School into what it is now. Of
course, you most you'll most likely not take this in into consideration, especially coming from a small town 7th grader with small town problems. >> That that the public does have a say. They usually do not. Noting that what?
Noting that you said we'd have a vote on the music program if it should be touched and everyone said no. However, you still messed with it and more than likely messed it up with making it a part-time position. I hope that we can be on the same page
that keeping Mr. Le at Alaban Junior Senior High will be the best option all around. Thank you for your time. May I have a motion to continue the public discussion on this particular topic? >> Motion. >> Second.
>> And and we're looking at um potentially well we're looking at extending this for a total additional time of 45 minutes just to let you know. I just I have a procedure I have to follow. I apologize. Okay. I had a motion. I had a second. All in favor?
>> Any opposed? Okay. >> Um, hi, my name is Mary Fulton. I live at 113 Harding in Nan. I am currently a sophomore here at AHS. I am here to obviously talk about the relocation of Mr. Le to Mansion. I feel that I know
the um current principal there is retiring. I just feel that it would be easier to just hire someone new in that position because as you can obviously see Mr. Lab has made so many bonds here with so many students and we all would very much appreciate if you let him stay
here. Um, additional I feel like we aren't getting the entire story story of what is going on. All we really know is that Mr. Leb is being moved. We don't exactly know why besides a position is needed there. We don't know why you aren't just hiring um someone to fill
that position instead of moving someone or instead of moving Mr. Leb because again, Mr. Le has had so many bonds here and I feel that it's kind of an extra step to just move Mr. Bond or Mr. Leb down to mansion um instead of keeping
him here. Um, so I would very much appreciate if later we were told the entire story of what was going on and I would also very much appreciate if you listened to the voices of the students because in the past we have come here and we have fought for the band director
and for Miss CO and as you can see this is the biggest crowd we've gotten and I feel this is a very important topic for all these students here and I'd very much appreciate if you listen to us. Thank you. Hello, my name is Roina Mo. I live at 28 North Davis Avenue. So, as you're well
aware, final exams begin tomorrow, but instead of studying, we gather here to protest another convoluted decision. Once again, the superintendent is changing our school and undermining its students and staff. Mr. Leb is our principal, yet we didn't learn of his transfer until two days ago. Why is
that? We're the is being affected. Yet, we've barely been given enough time to process and fight this decision. Mr. Leb is the best principal we could have hoped for. He has transformed AHS into a place that values connection and creativity. He has built a positive learning environment. He has shown his
commitment to the students and staff at AHS. His involvement in everything from athletics to the arts proves that. Best of all, he encourages student driven feedback through his principal advisory council and he listens. Not only is it abrupt, the reasons for this transfer
are muddled. If the mansion principal is retiring, why isn't she being replaced directly, why is the high school student body being punished? We need Mr. Le's support. AHS is a much larger school than Mansion comprising of sixth grades with people from and outside of Ottabon.
Additionally, the majority of the people here found out about this decision through their parents, friends, and social media rather than an official statement. That's the problem. We don't know anything except that we are frustrated to once again have our thoughts and opinions swept under the rug. Your lack of transparency with the
town you claim to represent is concerning. Why can't you look past the numbers and see the people who are being affected by your decisions? Student after student has come up to this podium, shared their thoughts, shared their experiences, and yet every single one of their efforts has been fruitless.
We still lost our trusted mental health counselor. The new band position remains shrouded in mystery. Yet, the school year is almost over. And now, a week from graduation, we're learning that a highly regarded principal is being moved to another school with what appears to
be zero consideration for community opinion and a severe lack of communication on the board's part. It seems you treat student feedback like an accessory to look pretty on paper, but not much else. And we are tired of being overlooked and stomped on. Actions speak louder than words and your message is
clear. Public opinion is no longer valued. Instead of representing our community, we feel that you are eroding the very things that make AHS special. Look at this mutual townwide dissatisfaction and understand that your shortcomings have become too big to sweep under that rug. We implore you to
start instead ignoring because until you take those earplugs out, the community will will to lose faith in your ability to benefit the Ottawa district. Please stop disrespecting students, staff, residents, and taxpayers and keep Mr.
Lev at AHS. Thank you. Hello, Board of Education. I'm Emma Kelly. I live at 239 Washington Terrace, and I've been here before for the mental health counselor. I sent you an email for the band program and now I have to stand here again on behalf of so many students in regards to the replacement
of Mr. Le. Mr. Le is a core part of our community and he goes to countless community events. He goes to sporting events, concerts, and awards tables. You're placing a well-known face that makes our voices heard throughout the school. He meets with a group of
students through the principal advisory principal advisory council and he's often he's often present in in hallways or in the building in general. By removing him, it impacts both Mansion and Ottabon High School in one way or another by depriving us of proper
leadership that we can trust. We are familiar with Mr. Le and he's one of the most understanding principles out there. Will the new principal let our voices be heard? Will the Will they let students have a What happens in the school that they're learning at? Will they be on par
with Mr. Le? Additionally, why is the mansion principal not being replaced directly? The decision is more complicated than it needs to be. And now both a both AHS and Mansion will be losing critical community leaders. You would be stripping the high school away
of even more trusted adults they can talk to. Furthermore, we as students were not aware of this decision until Monday in which most of us were told through rumor. So many of us came here last minute to protest this. And we have seen this lack of communication before. This
happened with Miss CBO when we didn't know that she was being removed until she sent out late an email you later called unprofessional. We didn't know about the band director position was we didn't know that the band director position was being merged with Mansion's band program until River showed up about
it. More or less the problem at hand is that we are frustrated with you because you don't communicate with us. Why do you see teachers communicating with the student body as unprofessional? Students deserve to know the decisions you are making that affect them directly. We are frustrated because time and time again
you make decisions that impact the entire student body. And time and time again, we come and fight it at the board meetings. And even when we do that, no matter how hard we plead, you still don't listen to our concerns. So please listen when we all say, "Don't replace
Mr. Leb." We are frustrated and tired of asking. Thank you for your time. >> I'm Katie Cody. I Maple Avenue. I'm a junior here at Oklahoma High School. Miss Allan, where are you? Every single day. Cuz I can tell you where you're
not. You're not there when Mr. Leb sits with us in the hallways every day and greets us every morning. You're not there at every senior night. You're not there at every sporting event. You're not there. Mr. I ask you to look me in the eyes during this conversation. I really do not appreciate you continuing to look back
and forth between your computer and me. I would just I think it's >> I'm taking notes of everything that's being said from >> where are you throughout the day because you're not in these hallways witnessing these students. So I do not believe you have any authority to make any decision
for our school. You do not know what happens dayto day. You do not see our lives. You do not see what we go through every single day. You do not see the heart that Mr. Leb has. Mr. Leb looks at every single student and he just sees a person. He sees a person who is trying
their hardest. He does not care if you do not come to a single school day. He does not care how many missing assignments you have, if you are failing every class. He still wants you to succeed. He wants nothing more for than every single student at this school to walk that stage at graduation with a
smile on their face and knowing that they are going to do something great with their lives. You don't want that for us. You don't you cannot deny that you don't want that for us. You want to see us miserable. That is the only explanation for all of this.
>> Am I wrong? >> Am I wrong? Hi, my name is Kate Rag 515 Washington Terrace. I am up here because we created a petition knowing that everyone else in this community felt the same way that we
felt. the parents and I had already sent in an email and I wanted to make sure that this email was on record here. So, go ahead. >> Hi, my name is Kate Schmutz. I live at 145 South Logan. I'm here tonight not just as a parent, but as one of the 1600
now. >> Yeah, we're at >> 1,600 plus community members that have signed a petition asking the district to reconsider the reassignment of Principal Jack Le. Mr. lab has built relationships with students, supporting staff, and has earned the trust of families. The
overwhelming response to this petition demonstrates that this is not concern of just a few individuals, it is a communitywide concern. We understand personnel decisions are complex. However, when a principal has a full support of students, families, alumni,
and community members, that support should matter. Leadership continuity matters. Relationships matter. stability matters, effective and positive school leadership matters. We respectfully ask the board to explain the educational
rationale for this decision and to consider the impact it will have on culture and stability of Ottawan High School. Our message is simple. When something is working well, the community deserves to understand why is being changed. We understand that you don't have to answer any of these questions
here, but in in the interest of transparency from the district to community, I ask you the following. If this decision is truly in the best interest of students, can you explain specifically how students at Ottabon High School were better off because of it? One, what educational needs are
being met by reassigning Mr. Le? Can the board explain specifically how reassigning Principal Jeff Le benefits a student students Two, was community input considered given that more than 1,600 community members have signed a petition supporting Mr. Lab. What role did
stakeholder feedback play in this decision? Three, how will a student success be protected? Mr. Lev has built positive relationships with students, staff, and families. What plan is in place to ensure that momentum and stability are not disrupted? Four, what metrics were used? What objective
criteria was used to determine that leadership high school is necessary. Five, why change what appears to be working? If the school is performing well academically and maintaining a positive climate, what problem is this reassignment intended to solve? And
finally, six, has the board considered the impact of morale? What consideration was given to the effect that this decision may have on staff morale, staff confidence, and community trust? Thank you. Hi. Uh, my name is Jessica Wilson. I
live on Wyoming Avenue. Um, I do not have a child in uh, the Alan school system anymore. He has graduated out. But, um, I am a Paul 6 graduate. So, I'm going to speak to you and hope that you can give me the same respect back. Um,
because this is being recorded. you absolutely can take notes afterward and I'm going to ask for that. Um um Mr. Leb has been a fantastic addition to the school system and I'm also not going to forget Mr. Miller. He is wonderful as well too. But Mr. Leb is
amazing. Um being a principal is a super challenging job in education. Um he has demonstrated a commitment to the Ottabon High School through his leadership, his visibility within the school and as many of the kids and parents that have come up already. He is at everything. He
shows up day in day out. He comes out to things where kids are doing uh where they are going for whether it is band, whether it is choir, whether it is sports, he shows up and he supports them. I can't say the same for whatever
else is going to happen, but strong schools require strong leaders and strong leaders create stability. Um, especially considering, as you can see, and I know there are a ton of kids in this town because we survived CO. Um, we need mental health. And with that being taken away, Mr. Leb is actually there
for kids to talk to, to speak to, and he listens. And I hate to say it like I'm not seeing the full-on respect from everybody else where he does give that respect. Um, under Mr. Leb, there has been so many things that have continued
to go on where there is a focus on academics, student involvement, school culture, and preparing students for success beyond graduation, which is super important because obviously we're here for our kids. While no leader is perfect, what matters is that he is there to listen and he learns and he
shows that and he continuously works towards making sure that this school has improved. Um I believe that it is um important to recognize that leadership should be um the overall reason why we are here. Um and that every
every um administration will go through things, but he has committed to being here and to addressing um the needs and moving forward with the school. Um I believe that Mr. Leb shows that with his commitment. Ottabban High School deserves a principal who understands our
students, knows our community, and has invested his time and energy into helping our school succeed. And Mr. Leb is that person. He's built relationships with not just the students, with the parents. And I know for a fact that he's done that. He has done that with our community as well. He's gained valuable experience and he's developed a vision
for the future of the Ottabbon High School and this town. These things can't simply be replaced and especially with someone that doesn't know anything about our town. Um I respectfully ask the board of education I respect I and you guys too consider the value of the continuity. Okay. Well hopefully you'll
listen. >> Hi my name is Mary >> Hi my name is Mary Mcuire. I live at 550 C road. I actually live in Cherry Hill and grew up going to Cherry Hill schools my whole life but my freshman year I transferred to Ottabon. I lacked a sense of community at Cherry Hill which I
proceeded to find here and I was really welcomed with open arms. Love the amount of support that I had and most of that support came from our principles Mr. Le, Mr. Corley, Mr. Miller. They all were there for me through this transition and stuff and
they were there for all the students. Every single track me I had or my had they he was always there Mr. any student event always there like see him in the hallways and everything. Um he's not just a principal he's a friend
to all students. I was president of student council, president of National Honor Society and I never felt scared to ask him or talk to him about anything. I always knew that he would listen to me and that my voice would be heard which
is not something that most students have felt here. I know last year my class was extremely frustrated around graduation time because of what happened with Miss CO. Our voices were not listened to. Everyone was frustrated. So instead of
being sad about graduating and being sad and missing all of our friends, we were frustrated because we felt like our voices were stripped from us. And that is not the feeling that you would have as you enter the world and become an adult. It's not a good feeling to feel like you
don't matter and that's how we were treated. You said that you justified getting rid of mosquito after our class spoke that we would be gone in a few weeks
which is really dehumanizing almost because Miss Ko was there not just for our class but for younger classes and so many more people and without her the only sense of support the students have now since you guys are nowhere to be
found is Mr. Le Mr. and Mr. Miller. So, Mr. Le is please just don't strip the students of what they have left because there isn't much if you take him away from a high school. Thank you. My name is Alex Brown and I live at 23
North Logan. As an eighth grader, as an eighth grade student, this administration directly affects my future high school career. Although I've only been here for a year, I can still feel the support and community that Mr. Le has created at our school. He has built a relationship with our students that cannot be replaced by a woman who
has not lived here and has no relationship with our community. You spoke about how we are being disrespectful, but we're sitting here pouring our hearts out while you're staring down at your computers. So I'm asking as a student and on behalf of my fellow students, teachers, and administrators that you don't disregard
our passion for the great principle that we have now and put as much effort into considering our thoughts as we put into expressing them. >> Hey Don, my name is Bob Tilpot. I live East Fasher Road. Uh I have a fourth grader, fifth grader and the
third grader the next year. Um, one thing I've been hearing all night and I'll tell you my story. I graduated from here. Very proud to be from here. I left in the first town that I wanted to come back to is this town. The reason why I want to come back to this town is for
the people like Jeff Lev. Jeff Lev is Jeff Lev is an example of what every Ottoman person should be, right? We we say pride and excellence, right? That's the best example of pride and excellence back there. He's very proud to be from here. He's a great principal and he's an excellent person, right? The fact that
he's going to Mansion, which listen selfishly I love, is very disrespectful to all these kids up here that sat here the entire night to pour their hearts and guts out to you guys. From what I gather, they had no say and there was no thought behind that. I give these kids a ton of a ton of you know what they they're wasting their time right in
front of you guys. Some of you guys haven't even looked up from your computers once and it took them reminding you to do it. >> It's the third hour, right? At least give these kids the time and energy, right, that they're giving you guys. And guess what? None of you guys cared. None of you guys were there with them.
When they asked you to stand up for Jeff Lev, all you guys sat down, right? >> Nobody stood up. from here, right? You see all these people from here, right? All these parents, none of their some of their kids don't even go to this school no more. They're here for Jeff Leb.
I was so pumped when I heard Jeff Leb was going to be principal at this high school for my kids cuz I know what kind of person he is. And I'm pumped. He's going to be a mansion. But these kids need him more. My kids are 10 and eight. That's awesome. He's going to be a mansion. All these kids standing here and they're saying like, "Listen, he
made an impact on my life." Listen to them. Don't listen to me. We need a parent outlook. Right? This guy, this guy cares. Not somebody talking Hawking, right? You see a lot of your best. There's a reason for that. Because they care. And if they didn't care, they
wouldn't come back. Not saying there's not good teachers other spots, but he's awesome. He's the best. And these kids know it. This community knows it. And it's a shame that that he's leaving. Thank you guys for your time. >> Good evening. My name is Nicholas Council. I live at 224 Hampshire A. I
came to speak in regards to the decision to relocate Mr. Le to Mansion Avenue. This decision has obviously been controversial to the community because By taking Mr. Leb away from the school, you're removing a compassionate person who cares about the well-being of AHS. Mr. Leb supports every activity around the school. On his Instagram, you can
see his overwhelming support for the clubs and sports around AHS. Mr. Leb is someone who was present in AHS, unlike you, Sandra. >> This board has shown that they do not care about the students voice. We've been left in the dark with information gatekept. We've been deprived of
transparency for far too long. This may be a small school with small problems, but it also features the most prideful students in the world. Sandra, you're not a leader. You're not present. You're the problem. >> Hi everybody. Uh my name is Pat Witz.
from 428 West Graceberry Avenue. Um, Miss Allen, welcome to the Audabon Auditorium. Um, I'm the the father of five children. Um, my oldest is now going into her junior year at St. Joe's. Uh, you would have
met her, but you weren't at commencement. Um, My my youngest two are going to be freshman this year. You would have met them, but you didn't come to the seventh grade welcoming ceremony. >> I had a whole speech that I was prepared
to give tonight, but I think everything that happened here this evening is representative of exactly the problem and the solution. Okay, everybody who was in here tonight earlier when Jeff Leb got up and Hector got his award, did
you see the interaction with Hector? >> Yes. >> That is just one tiny example of the connection that Mr. Leb brings to this entire building. Everybody in this room can have the same personal interaction
with Mr. Le. I don't think anybody in this room at all can say the same thing about yourself. No. >> But I can't just leave that at Miss Allen because I look around at the board and I look around tonight at the
leadership that when the going got tough, they got up and walked away. They did not stand. I also heard one comment earlier about how anybody can run for the board of education. Anybody can do that. Just sign up by the 30th of July or the 27th
or whatever it is. Obviously, no one seems to know it, including myself. Well, guess what? Not all of us can. That's why we vote for you. We vote for you. All the parents in this room, the voice
of the parents is begging you to take a look and listen to the children. You are not listening. We are living with it every single day. Listen to the children. Hear all of our voices.
Thank you. Hello again, Die Barnett, Virginia Avenue, Ottabon. Um, I wanted to take a minute to speak directly to the members of the board. I've listened to you. I've been at several meetings. The only time
you see me out here, I I have a complete I moved back to this town. Graduate of Ottabon 93. Moved back to this town. so both my children could attend this school. I believe in Ottabon High School. You're about to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ottabon High School
and Jeff Lev has been one of the people planning to do all of these things to celebrate the hundredth anniversary. and you, the board of education, are about to rip him out of a building months before he celebrates this 100th
anniversary, leading the students to celebrate this beautiful school that has been around the true tradition of of pride and excellence. Um, I asked the board to really think about what's happening if it makes sense. Okay, Bonnie Smeltzer is a fantastic
principal. My youngest daughter attended Mansion. She's fantastic. her shoes will be hard to fill. There's already going to be a challenge and instability in one school in the district. Why would you upset the high school and create another unstable?
Now, I I can say this because I have a teacher in a local district 29 years. I have worked for seven principles. My current principal is the best, by the way. I love her. And you know what happens when you love a principal? This
is what happens when you love princip I asked the board of education to really really consider every time I've come before you and others have come before you. It's been oh it's budget. We can only afford two top part-time positions. Budget grow the program for the band
teacher. Oh it's cut the position for the mental health because of budget. We're going to replace it with and then ironically stick in a six figure position of an assistant superintendent. But again, it's always a reason. I get it.
Budgets are tight. I know how it rolls. But here's the deal. What budget sense does it make? What money does it save you to upset two school buildings? You you only have to hire one principal at at Mansion. Leave Jeff Leap here. Let
him lead this building. Let him continue. You Why would you bring in someone in the most highprofile building in the district? Sixth grade, 7 to 12. High schools are high-profile. Why would you bring in somebody that's not an
unknown factor when you know you have the best? Hello. Uh, my name is Can you hear me? Can you hear me, man? My name is Andy Manning. I live at 34th Thompson Avenue and I'm currently a junior at Ottawan High School.
I'm here to address the the limited transparency of this board of education. I one of my favorite subjects at school is history. So, I constantly paying attention to current not only like past events but current events as well. And this all this all this limited
transparency has reminded me of an event that happened not too long ago where a a nation has sent soldiers over to to fight in another war in another country. And those those soldiers when they were captured they were captured by the
enemy. And when when they were captured they they were they seemed confused. They did not know where they were. It is suggested that they were in sorry that they were sent there as a training
exercise and therefore were easily mauled by the enemy forces. That that country sent their soldiers there blindly is pretty almost sounds pretty similar to what's going on here, right?
And >> and that country, that certain country is North Korea, >> which has been infamous >> for the restraint they put on their citizens. >> North Korea is a known dictatorship,
>> which is what this board of education seems like it is heading towards. One more thing. One more thing. Mr. Leb is the most democratic person I've ever met.
He He listened to us. He listened to us. Unlike the board of education. Thank you. Hello. Small here. Melissa Vanderlice from 263rd Avenue and Mount Ephram Strong.
Um, I've had an older boy here already. My son and my daughter go here as well. I just want to say to the board, really, really understand here. I know a lot of people are upset with you right now. You can do the right thing. You don't have
to listen. I know there's rumors. I supposedly what Sandra wants. I don't know if she knows that this is not Pen Fulen. We are Audabon High School people from what I'm hearing. If this is true, I don't know. But look into it.
The no confidence thing is a real thing. I mean, Sandra, I don't even know you, but the rumors and the things that's going on, it's so upsetting. This school is wonderful. I just I honestly can't believe how wonderful. If this board can really sit together and talk without
Sandra in your ear and really pay attention, you need to fire her, get someone else. And isn't there such a thing as like seniority? He's been here already. Why take him? Just because he's so wonderful, you want to have him over
there. You don't want somebody else going there. That's too bad. Now, I I supposedly somebody she knows, Sandra, uh from Pen Sulken is getting this job. If that's the truth, why are you letting her surround herself by Pen Sulkin and
friends? >> Why? You're giving her a strength. You're not. I believe in you and I know you're going to do this. Listen to everybody tonight. Pay attention. Get rid of her. Hire someone else. And everybody will be
joyful about it. Please listen. >> Hi. Most of you guys on the board obviously know me. I was the student rep last year. I graduated last year. currently employed by the district district district as a substitute teacher. Um, I would just like to say
one how big of a mistake this is, but two, I want to comment on just the way that the board is run. I would like to make it clear that both with this and with the issues with Miss CO and as I've heard Mr. Delo, there is a clear issue with communication. There is no
communication whether it be between board members, but also between the board and its admin at the school and between the board and its teachers and between the board and its students. I am in the school three or four days of the week. I sub five days a week, whether it be at this school or at one of the other
schools. Every single time I sub, I hear something from a student about rumors they're hearing from this, rumors they're hearing from that. I heard a rumor about LE before it was even announced to the teachers. Like, I just don't understand how the communication can be this bad. We are not a big school
district. We are not a big school district. I think we have less people in the school district than we do in my entire college. There is no way the communication can be this bad. But also like to talk about the way that we speak to each other on the board because when I was on the board last year, the way that the issues
that I would brought up were handled was a serious issue. And I really want you guys to just take a look at it and think about the way that you're treating your students. the fact that I sat up there for a meeting and cried for an hour and a half and I think three of you came to comfort me. Miss Cox, you specifically
came to comfort me and I appreciate you for that cuz I would like to make it clear there is no reason why you should have a 17-year-old girl sitting up on stage with you crying for an hour and a half. And that's all I have to say. I think you guys should seriously rethink the way you talk to each other, the way you talk to your
staff, the way you talk to your students. And that's all I have to say. Thank you. >> I no longer have students in school, but I still I respect and appreciate every single one of you sitting up there. I really do. You take you put a lot of time in.
Um I raised three kids that came through this school and it was a wonderful experience. Uh in my I do have a question. What is appropriate protocol? You asked the two candidates earlier. If the
uh resident has an issue and talks to a board member, what is appropriate protocol to resolve that issue? Can you answer that? I mean, you both of them. >> And I apologize. It's not a question answer period. This is for the board to
take in what you're saying. >> Okay. >> All right. The issue is Mr. L. He's in a he's in a high junior senior high school, grade seven, 8, 9, 10, 11, public, sixth grades. Correct. And sounds to me like he's getting demoted to an elementary school where there's
three, four, five, four grades. Is that correct? >> Yes. >> Sounds like a demotion. From what I hear tonight, you praise a wonderful community here, the board members, many of you senior board members. Maybe Mr. Leb should get his superintendent, sir.
>> Good evening all. I'm Olivia Bazinski. I used to live on East Nicholson. I'm no longer a student here. Audabon, but I have family in the district who deserved Mr. Le. I have been I was a student at Ottabban from fifth grade to freshman
year when Mr. Leb came in. I have met him once. He remembered my face. And there was other students here at Ottabban that was at my dance studio. He saw me at my recital. He said hi. He congratulated me. He was a great principal for having for the one year I
was here at the high school. Removing him, that's a horrible choice. I'm a senior over at Conwood and we're going through something like this right now with our own board. Seeing this happening with districts so close together makes me really think, do you guys communicate with each other to make
your students lives miserable? A general question because this should not be happening two districts close and with somebody from Penn Stalken. Is she your friend? There's no communication. There's no communication with the students here at Otting. There's no communication with students
at college board with their own board. There's some very similar set makes me makes me confused and makes me question do you guys really have the privilege to be a superintendent because from what I'm hearing just sitting in this meeting and from the meetings I have listened to
Collinswood and before any of you guys get on mic I know this isn't Collinswood but there's a lot of similarities here. You guys need to learn how to communicate more because your students deserve it, your staff deserves it, and your community deserves it. Thank you very much.
My name is Lisa Mlan. I'm from 230 Barrett Avenue in Mount Ephraim. No disrespect, I cannot I have vision issues and I don't know which one of you is the superintendent. Can Okay, my daughter is a student here and she
didn't know who the superintendent was. So, you know, she has two kids and I would just like to say that I think the timing on this is really poor. I mean, this we just got this notification and every one of these kids sitting in
this forum here in this auditorium should be home studying for finals instead of standing up. I just want to say please let this public forum be what it exactly is and not just a rubber stamp for the board
members to go ahead and rubber stamp a decision that was already made. Okay, this position as board members you see this entire community is out here. This position isn't owed to you. It is elected to you election after election
from the people and do your job or else these seats won't will be held by other people next time. >> My name is Jonah Jordan. I was on Richmond Street. I've been in this town probably like four generations now. And
Mr. Webb, I'm about to get emotional. He's like like genuinely my guy. >> I can't describe the things that he's done for me, my family, everyone in here. Like
when I think of the man I want to be when I grow up, I think of Mr. L. Hi, my name is Qu9 and I'm a freshman of high school. Sorry for my mess. I just ran here from home cuz I wanted to show you guys that I care about our principal.
I I can speak for almost every person in here when I say that we want this man to stay. He should not be moved. He should be here. We are all here fighting for him. We are all here. We showed up. We had to move rooms cuz there were too many people. We showed up for him. There's never been a time that man hasn't saved almost every one of us
because he cares. And us tonight, we are proving that we care for him. So please, I know I am just a freshman, don't have much of a voice, but I'm here tonight to say that man should stay. I have known him for a long time and I I'm here speaking saying that that man has cared for my family and helped us through our
most difficult times. I am honestly concerned with my voice, the little voice that I have to say please keep that man for he cares for each and every single person in this room. >> Thank you. Hello, my name is Noah Serno. I'm a senior. I'm going to be graduating next
week. Uh, four was great. Uh, I'd just like to say a few words to you, Miss. This town is a community and Mr. Le is a perfect example to show how strong we are. Look at how many people are here tonight. I want to know where your support is. This is a pens, a large school where some people don't know each other.
That's not the case. Everybody's seen some people walk by. It's a problem that students know what you look like. Everybody here knows Mr. Le. There's no reason to have to rebuild a community at both schools when you could just replace the position at man. Mr. Le belongs here at this school and
everybody here knows that. Clearly you guys don't. I don't understand why. We don't we should have to fill two. Have a great day. >> I'm sorry. Go ahead. >> Just start. Okay. Hi, my name is Erin Moran. I live on South Lo. I just wanted
to ask Sandra Al if she knows why Jonah is upset and emotional. I'm guessing you don't, but Mr. Leb knows why. We all know why. I want to thank you all for what you do and I want to thank you for listening to all of us and I want to ask you to
please make the right decision tonight. Please, you haven't approved it yet. It gets approved tonight. Please don't approve it. Please, please, please. Trisha Martell, president of the Oddbine Education Association.
As always, I'm so grateful to the community members for making their questions and concerns known. Your involvement is so critical. Our students are the reasons that we are here, that we are all here, the reason that drives us and motivates us to be here for our
students every day. I want to thank the board for continuing to extend public session so that everyone who wanted to make their thoughts, feelings, and concerns known had an opportunity to do so. It's an important part of what we are trying to do as we educate our students
to give them a point of engagement to see how civics work in real time and real action not just discussing it in the classroom. So thank you for allowing them that opportunity. I am going to shift topic regarding human resources. Item 19. Item
nine. The association would like clarification on why a 12-month administrator is being given an additional stipend to perform administrative work related to the master schedule. At a time when the district is experiencing significant financial strain and making cuts to
staff, it is difficult to understand why duties that appear to fall within the scope of an administrator's regular responsibilities, particularly those covered under other duties as assigned, are in instead being compensated with extra pay. I would ask the board to consider what specific justification
supports paying an additional stipen for work that aligns with core administrative functions. Why this task is not considered part of an administrator's existing job description, especially given the district's current budget constraints. How does this decision align with district's stated priorities around
fiscal responsibility and the equitable treatment of staff? Thank you. Heat. Heat. Good evening, guys. Uh, it's down to zero, so I don't know how long I get. Uh, literally came up here, um, a little
emotional. Joan, as you can hear, took a seventh grader to a hitting lesson. She got home at 9:30. Now she's working on a science review for her father. On the way home, that seventh grade girl said to me, "Dad, Sen, isn't that 9 through 12?" And I'm
thinking number of students. And I said, "Well, babe, you know, it's it's a bigger school, though." And she says, "Yeah, but we're 7 through 12. We're going through different times in our lives. Mr. Lead knows how to cater to all of us. He makes all of us feel important."
And I hope you guys understand that. Another thing I'm going to say is, you know, Miss Allen, I'm not context and not sure where you are. Um, how you doing? There you are. Uh, I I was the guy who ap sought you out one time for uh parking in your parking space by
accident. Um, but you know, you sit up there very gracious, very professional because it's your obligation. It's part of your professional duty, right? I don't know how much you want to be here and deal with this. I don't know who would. Um,
but I can tell you one thing. Every event I've seen Jeff Leb at, I can't tell whether it's an obligation or a voluntary >> because he's the same way. It's a dance or a wrestling match. His daughter goes here. He's invested in the
community. My kids go here. I'm invested in the community. I treat all these guys, and I hope they'll tell you the same, like they're my own. I've done so many things for these guys like they're my own and I know he does the same for them. And that's why I thought how lucky I was when when Jeff, you know, when I
found out he was the principal, I thought how fantastic it was for these kids. And honestly, I watched on YouTube and if you sit here and listen to the testimony of all these people and the fantastic things that they've said and you just ignore it, I mean, what the
hell are we doing, guys? your your elected officials at some point have to be held accountable to the people who elected you. No. >> Yes. >> So, like I said, I literally rolled in two minutes ago and and I want to thank you for your time and I beg you, beg
you, beg you selfishly as it may be to reconsider this, >> please. All right, we have reached the end of the extension time for this public participation session. I would like to take a moment to
acknowledge everyone and the comments that you made tonight. We appreciate everyone who took time out this evening to come and speak. Community engagement definitely matters and we do understand especially those of you that have exams
tomorrow night or tomorrow um how difficult it was to to be here this evening and to stay with this meeting. Um it's obvious that our students and our families care deeply about our schools and our staff and that's a good
thing to see. Um, we understand the strong feelings that you shared this evening and I can assure you that everyone um has listened to your your comments and your thoughts and your opinions. So again, I thank you
for being here this evening to share that with us. So, as you can tell from the agenda, now it's time for us to resume our regular business of our meeting. So, we're going to continue with the meeting. And next on our agenda is governance.
Um, Robert Wait, shouldn't Excellent. Excellent. >> Motion is a flex flexible agenda. Can you motion to Make the agenda flexible.
>> Can you motion the flexible the agenda? Could you move up the vote? >> Can someone motion make it a flexible agenda? Okay. Um, can I have a motion to approve the following minutes from April 29th public session, May 13th executive
session, and May 13th public session? >> Roll call, please. >> One second. >> Sure. Mark Gaddy. >> Yes. >> Sarah >> Cooling. >> Yes.
No. Okay. >> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> yes. >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Michelle Kennedy, >> yes to April 29th, the May 13th. >> Allison Cox, >> yes.
>> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> yes. >> Amy Davis, >> yes. Motions pass. All right. Um, moving on to governance. In light of the resignation, um, Miss Mrs. Coulen has graciously volunteered
to assume the role of the governance chairperson. Um, that will be starting with the July meeting on the 21st. Until then, I'll do my best to report out to the board on the work of the governance committee. Um you can see on the agenda
this evening there are two um items under number one regarding um the AI policy and regulation. During the meeting in April the governance committee reviewed the sample
AI policies that we received from Strauss Esme and also from the New Jersey school boards association. We largely preferred the one from school boards, but um we looked at both of them and used them as a guide when we were
making several selections that would uh inform how the policy would read. The opening paragraphs are largely the same as the recommendations. Um we added the addition of considering the environmental impact um that AI
tools carry. Um, also under general guidelines A, B, C, and D are largely the same as the recommendations. Obviously, we added and changed where it needed to say Ottabon Board of Ed or the Ottabon AI plan or TE where it was
appropriate. Um, under staff guidelines when it came to academic uh, integrity, the committee thought it was important to note that the AI detection tools wouldn't be the sole indicator of a breach of academic integrity. Teachers
always have the best knowledge of their students voice. So um between hand writing samples that are done in school and in class um those would be used to identify the students voice not you know
necessarily an AI detection tool because of all of the um issues surrounding that. And then under guidelines um for the students um the closing paragraph comes from St. Essme's suggestions just because of the fluidity of AI that
we needed to have flexibility in the policy in order to be able to change and pivot wherever it was needed for regulation 2365. This was a yearslong collaboration with many stakeholders. Um there was a
community survey administration weighed in staff, students and um board of ed members. I I mentioned um that Helena was in on the early stages of this and um Ryan has been involved in it in the subsequent
years. Um we looked at the draft at the May 19th meeting. The handbook is that is linked is 12 pages long. I'm not going to read it to you, but I will highlight provision one. um which kind of lays out the overall tenants of the
um handbook in terms of grades preK to two. There will not be any student interaction with AI. Grades 3 to five um really still continuing that um tenant will be mostly teacher operation of the
AI tool only and there'll be a focus on digital literacy and citizenship. six to eight, there's going to be very limited use under direct teacher guidance during instruction. And again, 9 to 12. Um
staff will will receive training in this. There will be a presentation to the public in the fall because I know based on the survey results, there's a lot of concern um surrounding this issue. And one of the things that we talked about was we almost have to we
almost have to take a couple of steps back and make sure that our students in 6th through 12th grade are really caught up on the digital literacy and make sure that they they understand what that means and all the implications of it. So
there's a lot involved in that. Um there are other policies listed under governance on for a second read and I believe that Miss Lipky did give a detailed explanation of them at the meeting in May. So I'm not going to um say anything more about them. Um, Miss
Allen, do you have anything to add? >> So, under number one, policy 2365 and regulation 2365 should both be new. There's nothing in the box there. Those are new. All right. Um, any questions, comments,
or discussion on items one to two? Mrs. Is your mic on? Hang on. Mrs. Davis. Um, so a couple of points for the AI plan. I just want to be really clear uh for members of the board and the public that
what you're talking about acceptable use does not mean a forced use, right? It just means that these are the parameters under which AI is allowed at all and then each individual teacher can determine um based on what they feel the
benefits would be if any to use AI in their classes again just at those upper levels. But we're not talking about turning the teaching over to AI and any means at all. There's actually language in the AI plan that specifies that we
really believe that human interaction um and critical thinking are the most important things. And yes, AI tools can help in some cases and we do have to think about preparing students for going out into the world and you know changing
technologies and circumstances. Um, so we don't want to deprive them of that entirely, but we want to make sure that any use has an actual benefit and reason to it in addition to really highlighting the digital citizenship, ethical use of
AI, all of that. So, we're not running like roughshot into the the AI landscape here. It's all very considered and thoughtful. Um, with that in mind, uh, Mrs. Davis and I did speak a little bit earlier today about the policy 2365. So
basically we had worked on the policy first before the AI plan was finished and coming back to the policy after finishing the plan. Just noticed that there's some some differences in tone uh where the policy um really speaks very
generously and highly of AI. It does it does mention some of the drawbacks and concerns as well. Um but we would like to maybe add some language about you know giving consideration to appropriate developmental stages of the students and
making sure that any access or use of AI is reflective of that which the plan does very well. But we just want the policy to kind of match what the plan is saying as well since the plan the policy essentially is kind of setting those overall um goals or vision from the
board in terms of what we'd like to see from the district. So we just possibility of maybe making some um slight revisions to the policy compared to what it says now just to be a little bit more clear about really valuing that
humanto human interaction not just kind of giving things over to AI instruction and things like that again for some cohesiveness and consistency between the plan and the uh regulations. So, I don't know what that means in terms of first
reading for tonight. If that's something that would maybe be tabled um or if we pass the first reading but make some revisions for second reading. I don't know the particulars of that weigh that for us. >> Good. Do you mean the um difference
between a first reading and a second reading? No. If if so, if it's a first reading, can it be approved at this point and anything still changed or added to it? >> Yes. If you put it out for a first read
and desire to make changes between the first read and the second read because now it's out there in the public and you're taking in comment, you can certainly make changes. Okay? >> And then have a final vote, note those changes at the next meeting and have a final vote on the second read of the next meeting.
>> Okay? So I think I mean I think that sort of sounds like what um what you are asking for Mrs. Koolen so that we can discuss it a little bit further maybe at the next governance committee and you know work to make sure that the two
tones of the policy and the regulation match. Okay. Any other questions or comments? Yeah, there's another government meeting. But that's a good question. >> Okay. Um, can I have roll call, please?
>> Um, sorry. Motion second. >> Now, may I have roll call, please? >> Sarah Cohen, >> yes. >> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> yes. >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Michelle Kennedy,
>> yes. Alison Cox, >> yes. >> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> yes. >> Mark Gaddy, >> no one won. Yes. One, two. >> Amy Davis, >> yes. >> Motions pass. Thank you.
>> Next for operations, I'd like to recognize Mr. Gaddy. >> Sure. Um, okay. The operations subcommittee met on June 2nd. Uh we started the night at the mansion of gift gifted and talent showcase which was a lot of fun and very smart kids. Um most
of the discussion was about the health insurance RFP submissions. District administration met with our brokers Brown and Brown on May 27th. Approval for the district to join the winning plan, the New Jersey solutions joint health insurance, excuse me, fund is on
tonight's agenda along with a motion to leave our current and more costly plan, the state employee health benefit plan. We are also asked to approve Brown and Brown to be our 2026 27 agent broker of record for medical and prescription and dental and vision insurance. We
discussed putting out request proposals for our architect of record for the next school year. Once those go out and get received, we'll have to have an interview process set up for the prospective candidates. Tonight's operation agenda is quite packed. We have the usual fiscal items
of April's secretary's report, cash reconciliation report and transfer and May's bill a list. We have the safety drill reports for May. We have a motion to void three small checks that have gone on cash for several years. Um a
motion to collaborate with county special services McKinley Vinno program for supplemental instruction and support services for children and youth experiencing homelessness in the next school year. Motions to approve our ESY, summer speech, and summer occupational
therapy providers for the months of July and August. A motion to approve next year's school bus service providers. A motion to approve participation in title 3 consortium on next school year. Several state of assurances or SOAs are
needing approval for the current school year. Lead testing, school security drill, and New Jersey high school voter registration. Motion to approve the submission of the comprehensive equity plan SOA for the 26 27 school
year. A motion to withdraw 44,000 from the maintenance reserve for repairs and maintenance around the district. Motion to authorize transferring current year funds to the maintenance reserve and capital re reserve. I'll let Miss
Bron case answer any questions about that. very deep in the budget there. Um, finally, there was a note for the board's edification that lists the contractors whose contracts have been renewed for the next school year. We had approved renewing these contracts at last month's
schoolboard meeting. Our next uh operations meeting is scheduled for July 7th. And that is it. >> Thank you, Mr. Gaddy. Miss Allen, do you have anything to add? Any questions, comments or discussion on
non-aggenda items for operations? All right. Um then on the agenda it says motion for items 1 through 25. Is 26 not included because it's just for edification? >> Yes, 26 you don't need to vote on. Got it.
>> Okay. I just wanted to make sure. All right. Can I have a motion for items 1 through 25? >> Second. >> Any questions or comments or discussion on items 1 to 25? >> Okay. Roll call, please.
>> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> yes. >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Michelle Kennedy, >> yes. >> Alison Cox, >> yes. >> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> yes. Mark Gaddy, >> yes. >> Sarah Coolen, >> yes. >> Amy Davis,
>> yes. >> Motion's passed. >> Next, I'd like to recognize Miss Robinson for education. >> I'm sorry. >> Oh, can I have a motion for items 20? Just item number 27.
>> Um, any questions, comments, or Discussion for item 27. All right, roll call, please. Bill Wilson, >> yes. >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Mark, um, I apologize. Michelle Candidate, >> Steve.
>> Allison Cox, >> yes. >> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> yes. >> Mark Gaddy, >> yes. >> Sarah Cen, >> yes. >> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Amy Davis, >> yes. >> Motion's passed. Now I would like to recognize Miss Robinson for education.
The last education committee meeting was on May 27th and at that meeting we had two presentations by instructional council. One was on social emotional learning at each of the four schools. Um, and then one was on the roll out of
MTSS and how things are going to everything's just going to be united under that common term of MTSS. Um on tonight's agenda there are
the um employees having their children come to this school district. There's conferences and workshops. um the clinical practice experiences
um homebound instruction and that's it. Thank you, Miss Robinson. So on page 14, we do have one item in red. Uh staff member ID 850. It should be the
junior senior high school 7th grade and the student ID is 10475. Okay. Can I have a motion then for items one to three under education?
>> Any questions, comments, or discussion on agenda items one through three. Roll call, please. >> Steven Wilson. >> Yes. >> Michelle Kennedy. >> Yes. Items one through items.
Alison Cox, >> yes. >> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> yes. >> Mark Gaddy, >> Sarah Coolen, >> number one. >> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> Amy Davis,
>> yes. Motion's passed. >> Uh, may I have a motion for items four through six under education? Any questions, comments, or discussion on those agenda items? >> Okay, roll call, please.
>> Michelle Kennedy, >> Alison Cox, >> yes. >> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> yes. >> Mark Gaddy, >> yes. >> Sarah Coen, >> yes. >> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> yes. >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Amy Davis, >> yes.
>> Motion passed. All right. Uh, moving on to human resources. I would like to call out on page 19. Um, a couple of items in red I want to make sure that we are clear on. So, page
19, number 21 should read motion to approve the allocation of two comp days. And then it should say for a building assignment change for the 26 27 school year. And then the following language should be struck where it says in accordance with
the 2024 2027 negotiated contract between the Ottabon Board of Education and the Ottabon Education Association. Then it should continue to say the days are to be used at the teachers request with administrator approval per the agreement at the recommendation of the superintendent of schools. And then
we're adding the language. This does not set a precedent or create a practice for any future transfers. Also on page 21 number 35, uh the second line says they're building principle in coordination with all
district nurses for up to 20 hours. Then the word each needs to be struck. On page 22, uh item number 37 where it says whereas Lee de Lo has
served it should say 33 years and then in the paragraph below that it should read um and the betterment of the school system since 1993. And is there any other red? All right. I would like to recognize Mr.
Steven Wilson for human resources. >> Thank you. The committee met last night in the high school. We had a pretty brief meeting discussed openings for the next year. uh preschool teacher, AHS special ed teacher, ELA preferred,
AHS social study teacher, the two part-time music teachers, one at AHS, one MAS. We've gotten good in candidates. They've started the interviewing process on that. Uh an LDTC, which is on the child study team, four pair of professionals, three in the pre-K and one in the kindergarten, and
uh custodians. Um apparently we have a good pipeline of potential custodians, which is good. Uh we discussed general staffing, job descriptions, admin contracts, and review the agenda for this evening. So on the agenda for this evening, we have a motion to accept
resignation of Miss Colo, who honorably served as social studies teacher. Motion to accept letter of recommendation from Miss Wheel, who honorably served as administrative assistant HS. Motion to approve Mr. Moran to oversee the work of the student maintenance workers over the summer, as well as a motion to approve
those state student maintenance workers. Uh thank you to them for freshening up the school while it's closed for the summer. Uh the hot topic for tonight, the motion to approve the transfer of Mr. Lev to become principal at Mansion F. The motion to approve FMLA, motion to approve new substitute custodian, a
motion to approve staff for new teacher support and mentorship. These positions are key to the learning and growing of new teachers and we thank them for stepping up to do this. Uh motion to approve a stipen for providing professional assistance with developing and rostering a master schedule and
schedule alignment at high school. Uh motions to approve 2026 summer writing curriculum summer curriculum revisions. A motion to approve MTSS summer committee members. Motion to approve extracurricular contracts for the 2627 school year. Motion to approve the
payment for administration of the seal of bitacy assessment. Motion to approve the updated assistant principal job description. Um the motion to uh approve the letter of resignation from Miss Smeltzer of Miss Smeltzer from Mansion. Um she has earned this retirement,
served the district honorably and left Mansion Avenue School in excellent hands. Um we will miss her dearly and hope she enjoys her retirement. Motion to approve letter of resignation of Miss McCauley. Motion to resend a staff member for uh special ed extended
school year program for classified students. A motion to approve first year tenure track at Mansion. Welcome, Miss Castro. Motion to approve lead custodian Havland. Welcome, Mr. Slashinski. A motion to approve two comp days for building assignment changes. Uh motion
to approve another mentorship. Uh new teacher support PBIS at Mansion. Uh SCIP skip committee members at Mansion. A motion to approve pacing guide committee members. Motion to approve elementary extracurricular contracts, elementary NTSS summer
committee members, summer hours for building level MTSS planning. Um motion to approve Havland and mansion guidance counselor for summer hours and motion to approve summer nursing staff members for all schools. A lot of motions today. Uh motion to approve resolutions
recognizing the contributions of Andrea Colo, Lita Loach, Diane Gistler, Sonia Larente, and Denise Murphy. Thank you for your long service to the children of Ottabon. You've consistently striven for professional growth, for the enrichment of students and staff, and the betterment of the school district.
You've no doubt meaningfully touched the lives of countless students through your time in the district, and we honor your contributions tonight. So, thank you. And then lastly, we have three addendums. Motion to approve submission of contracts for the assistant superintendent and business administrator to the county for review
and approval. What happens is we're not approving those contracts. We send them to the county. county reviews it sends it back to us and then we approve. Um and then a motion to approve a stipen for the community ed director. And that is it.
Apologize for that. Um, Miss Allen, did you want to add anything? Uh, the item number nine that Miss Martell had inquired about, uh, that is a supervisor that's working on the, um, scheduling. We sent her to to specific
training. That'll be things that she's doing outside of her administrative responsibilities, extra hours to work on the schedule to make sure that it's uh ready to go for September. >> All right. Any questions, comments, or discussion on non-aggenda items under
human resources? Oh, >> okay. Um, then can I have a motion for items 1 through 15? >> Any questions, comments, or discussion on items one to 15? We're number nine. who would normally do
that job. Um, Mr. H was currently building the master schedule. >> Okay. But there were so many things that we wanted to make changes on, things that we've been talking about through the years. So, we sent Miss Cole to a training as well. So, we wanted her to
bring back her what she had learned from it and see what she could do if we could do some of the things that we were talking about over the >> with the changes. I know. I'm sorry. I imagine you're probably sick of hearing my voice, but uh just one one final plea to to hear
the voices of the students that came here tonight. There is finals tomorrow. I am not one of those people finals tomorrow, but many of them do. And I just I I really just cannot say enough how much their impact here tonight should be felt.
Really really I' >> questions on items 1 to 15. I'd like to say that regarding number five in the outboard, um I uh I'm I'm encouraged and and
really uh I teach civics and if my students did what the students here did tonight, I would just feel um honored and and extremely proud and I hope that your
teachers and your parents, your civics teachers, your social studies teachers, your public speaking teachers, your parents all know um how amazing it is what you did and how um how how that kind of advocacy I think
is appreciated and testament to what we're doing. So um thank you all for for coming out and speaking. Uh I would like to say that it's hard sometimes to speak up. Uh, I'm just going to say I have not been a
fan of this since the first time it was I have not supported the idea, but I feel like I don't support a lot of ideas and I I don't know if >> you should be superintended. >> I I don't need that headache. I don't need that. But the um I'm not supportive
of the idea and um I I just hope that Mr. Love has been growing in the position. He still has more growth to do and I feel like he uh should be given some more time to to grow in this position where he is now
>> and that we should focus on the search for mansion. That's my position. one. So hearing from students and community members tonight, I think was a good reminder that there's a lot of facets to
the jobs that each each professional here um in the district does. there's the parts on paper. Um, you know, the different responsibilities and things like that, but also the
connection and the feeling of safety and agency um, and all of that. And as an Eagles fan, I have to say that I was reminded of Nick Serani as people were talking about Mr. led us in terms of the um
inspiration that um he brings to the students here. Um that real team cheerleader and supporter. Um I know that there are potential reasons
and benefits for the change. Um and I also see where there are detriments uh to that same decision. Um and so I appreciate everyone coming out to speak tonight in such an impassioned way um to really help us see the human impact of
um decisions that sometimes can look good on paper and then you know when you connect more um more broadly maybe question or or have a difference of opinions. Thank you.
Anyone else? >> All right. Uh, roll call, please. Oh, Miss Miss Robinson. >> Are you sure? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Um, roll call, please, then on items 1 to 15.
Allison Cox. >> Yes. >> Danielle de Franchesco. Yes to all. No to number five. Mark Gaddy. >> Yes. >> Sarah Coen.
>> No. >> Andrea Robinson. >> No to five and nine. >> Bill Wilson. >> No. To five and nine. Steven Wilson. >> No to five. Yes.
>> Michelle candidate. >> Five and nine. Yes. >> Amy Davis. Yes. >> Oh my god. >> So >> all motions passed except number five.
Let's go. >> Great work. >> May I have a motion on items 16 to 35, please? >> Any comments or questions on I What did you say? >> Oh, you second it. Thank you. Any
questions, comments on item 16 to 35? >> I have a question about 24. >> Hang on, Miss Miss Robinson. Let's wait so we can hear you. All right. Apparently, I misspoke. Items 16 to 35 is what I need a motion on.
>> Thank you. All right. Questions, comments, or discussion on items 16 to 35? >> I had a question about 24. Um, it Will there be motions on other agendas for Havlin's PBIS or is I I just don't
understand the there's only mansion but other schools have the PBIS. So are those siphoned? >> They are. I just don't think they have them together for this board agenda. >> Okay. So they're coming. >> Yes. And it this seems this is 184 hours
>> for a program that's pretty well established. Um it just that seems >> it's what she had budgeted for within range of what she had. >> In the future maybe that's just one area
that we could save some money on. Anyone else? >> Okay, roll call, please. >> Neil D. Franchesco, >> yes. >> Mark Gaddy, >> yes. >> Sarah Cen, >> yes. >> Andrea Robinson,
>> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> yes. Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Michelle Canada, >> Steve, >> sorry about that. Yep. Um Allison Cox, >> yes. >> And Amy Davis, >> yes. >> Motion's passed. >> Thank you. Um next, I need a motion on
items 36 to 40. >> Second. >> Any questions, comments, or discussion on item 16? No, 36 to 40. I just want to acknowledge the literal decades of service these folks put into
the district and how grateful we are as a board and as a district. Um to them for pouring their lives into our kids and devoting themselves like I said for decades. Um,
we appreciate the time they put into it and we hope they enjoy their retirements. And I just wanted to say that again as the chair of the HR committee that we we love you all. So, thanks. >> Anyone else? >> Okay. Roll call, please. Then for items 36 to 40.
Mark Gaddy, >> yes. >> Sarah Coen, >> yes. >> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> yes. >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Michelle Kennedy, >> yes. >> Alison Cox, >> yes. >> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> yes. >> Amy Davis,
>> yes. Motion motions passed. Thank you. Next on the agenda, you can see our HIV reports and our student enrollment report. U moving on to special programs. Mr. Steven Wilson. Anything for ED services? >> Oh
>> The um items 41, 42, 43 in HR. I don't Did we >> Is that what you just pointed out? Miss Cooland pointed it out to me and I'm closer to the mic. So >> yes, >> we need to go back to that. Thank you. >> Yeah. All right. So, we need a motion then for items 41 to 43 under human
resources. >> Do we got a second? >> Second. >> Okay. Roll call. >> Okay. Sarah Coen. >> Andrea Robinson. >> Yes. >> Bill Wilson.
>> Yes. >> Steven Wilson. >> Yes. >> Michelle Kennedy. >> Yes. The items 41 and 42 that are related to Alison Cox, >> yes. >> Danielle D Franchesco, >> yes. >> Mark Gaddy, >> yes. >> Amy Davis,
>> yes. >> Thank you for catching that. Um, all right. Now, Mr. Steven Wilson for Ed Services. >> Much to report. I missed the last meeting. I got held up at work. They voted for the board for the next
year. Um, I put my votes in. I was assumed was not voted on because I was not alerted or got an email that said I was and I didn't run for it. Um, outside of that, I have no favor. >> Did you say did you say you got elected or something? >> Oh, okay.
>> They ran the elections. I missed the meeting because I got up >> and I notified that I want. So I assume I did not >> someone at the Mount from Board of Education made the same >> the same comment but okay. All right. Um
>> next we don't have another meeting until September 30th. So I think I'm off the hook till then. >> Sounds good. U Mrs. Coolen Ed Foundation. >> So similarly
for. >> All right, Mrs. D. Franchesco for ed community or yeah, community outreach. Sorry. I just wanted to say thank you to um Sarah and Helina and your mom and your daughter for coming out for our pride
parade in Adden Township. Um it was a really awesome event. Um it was just beautiful. I tried not to cry the whole time. Um was mainly successful, but we still have candy um left over if anybody needs any to get through the rest of the meeting. Um but I did send out an email
I think this morning. Um just to remind everybody, we have a couple more events to get through. Um if you can please register or sign up on there so we know who's going to be at what. And thank you all for um doing so much participating this year.
um for the mounting from ad hoc committee, Mr. William Wilson. >> Yeah, we had a skill productive conversation from we discussed a number of of items of of trying to bring the uh not only the
schools together but maybe uh help bring the community together. Um and we plan to meet again not Next month. Next month. Uh,
we talked about having a fun spot dinner, >> a break. >> Yeah. Yeah. So, um, and that's it. So, we'll meet again in July and hopefully uh we'll have have more plans that we can hopefully unfold in the coming year
of joint efforts to bring our kids together and towns together in a really great way. >> Okay. Thank you. um for board member orientation committee. As we currently stand right now, um with the resignation, we're
going to need to fill that position. And since we will have a new board member coming on, we're going to need um to make sure that we have some outreach for him and also um some mentorship for him as well. All right. Uh any board member
comments? >> I have comment. Um I had um mentioned before the meeting that I would you know like to make a comment about the AI vote my no AI vote um because of the time and the um kind of temperature of the room I
held off and also um I did put a no for now but I am encouraged that perhaps it will change before the second reading and and I'll reconsider but otherwise I'll just leave my comments till then. Okay. Let me just also say, you know, I I I'll start my first comment about it.
I appreciate um that the questions I've had you um you've answered uh quickly and very thoughtfully and I do appreciate that. >> And that is one reason, well, one reason we're glad that Mrs. Ken has volunteered
to chair the governance committee. Anyone else? >> I I just have a comment. Um I I also was just really proud to see our community come out tonight and talk about something that they were passionate for. Um I
it just it stands to why I um came out to campaign to be on the board and it makes me proud to be a part of a small community and to have such amazing board members to be able to kind of go through this process with because it's not easy um to sit up here and uh to be able to
balance what's going on um with all of these really topics. Um, and I also just wanted to um shout out to the district. Um, my family um has grown recently with um students in our town who went through
a a recent tragedy and um lost uh someone close to them and the entire community has reached out to my family. um coaches, teachers, counselors, principles, um the athletic director, um
staff um came to the services for um our family's um loved one who passed and continue to come out and have sent us messages and have sent us care packages. And I just can't say thank you enough to the community for um loving each other
the way that you do. And um it makes me proud to be an Ottabon uh community member. I had two comments. One was um first off the the ladies that the Hav PTA did an amazing job again this year at the Black Top Bash and uh it feels like forever
ago, but that was a great event and um and it was a lot of hard work. So I appreciate that they put that together. Uh it was a great time for the families that were able to attend. And uh the second thing is uh lost in all this a little bit tonight was that we are
losing a really great principal. Uh and I know there was some mention but she has made my my child's experience wonderful. Uh, and I'm sure many people will would, you know, want to speak to her just how amazing Miss Smeltzer has
been for that school, rising it up to be just a beacon of excellence, uh, and just just being a caring principal. So, um, I just want to thank her for her service. I know she still has a little bit of time left, but, um, accepting her resignation tonight, her retirement
tonight. Uh, just want to just just say how how wonderful she's been, and she'll be sorely missed. I I just wanted to say she actually was going to be on the agenda for this evening, but because she's not um retiring until for to be recognized, I
should say. >> Yes. So, we're going to do something something she will definitely be acknowledged at a board meeting. I'm thinking mid-occtober, closer to her actual retirement date. I I want to thank the I want to thank quite a few people. The community for
coming out and speaking passionately about something that you believed in. Um I want to thank the board members for sitting up here and listening to this and and taking it. Miss Allen, I want to thank you too. You that must have been very difficult for you and I'm extremely proud of the work that you do for the
district. I know you care passionately passionately for the children. Um, so I hope you don't take the comments too personally. I know that's hard. Um, but I do believe in the work that you're doing. I know the board does as well as difficult as this evening was. Um, you
absolutely have my full support. You know, we didn't agree on this tonight. The community did a good job of convincing, you know, enough of us on the board. Um, but honestly, that's democracy in action, right? You all came out and spoke and we listened and we all have the right to do that. you have the right to speak your mind. And that's
what makes this country so wonderful. And um it's not always easy, right? But we got through it. And um you know, we're going to move on and we're going to continue to strive to make this district as excellent as we can and to create best experience for the children
that we can because I know that everyone out here and everyone up here, we all share that value, right? We all want to make this a better district for the kids. We may not agree on the strategies to get there, but I truly believe that we all have the kids best interest in mind. So, um, thank you the community
for respectfully speaking and respecting the time and respecting our meeting. And thank you to the board members and thank you definitely to Miss Allen for your hard hours, long hours you put in the district. Thank you. >> You probably should have gone last. Um, I wanted to offer a different
perspective on the community. I think we talk a lot about community, but what happened here tonight didn't feel kind. It didn't feel helpful. Um, we people assumed the worst and and there was definitely a lack of goodwill
towards the people on the stage, towards Miss Allen. Um, some of our students spoke very disrespectfully. And I think that that shows that there are things that we still need to work on. We're not perfect. AHS isn't perfect. Leadership's not perfect.
Um and and that's it. It it there's definitely some good points, but it's not perfect. And so that's why decisions are made. Um and they're made in the best interest of the school and the student or what someone thinks is the best interest. No one's
coming to say, "Oh, let's mess up the schools. Why would we do that? Why would Miss Allen do that?" But that felt like the sentiment and and I just hope that people will reconsider that and um put put their trust back in
the people that they say they have elected and want to be here. From a student's perspective, um I know me and Ryan were very visibly pleased of the decision made tonight. Um, but I
want to say that I'm very thankful for that. Um, from a student from as a student here who tends to advocate for myself, it's not easy for everyone to be able to advocate for themselves and come here um, a lot their time when they have test the next day. But for the students
at Ottabbon who are probably not awake because it's 11:13 before finals, um, never stop being passionate. Never stop Don't let your voice be lessened and always stand for what you believe in because even though we may have some
losses in the past here at Ottabon, the board is receptive and will listen and though it may not feel that way, make your voice heard and never give up in what you believe in. So, thank you
tonight, guys. So, I just I keep hearing this and I I just need to say it. I believe we're as transparent as we can be without affecting those people that the trans the the the transparency would harm.
There are certain things we cannot discuss in public and it's a perception that we're trying to hide something or a shell game or a cloak and dagger. That is not what we're here for. We all make very thoughtful, very mindful uh
district-wide decisions and don't want to impact or harm anyone that further transparency may. So, I just I know not everybody's here, but I I heard it time and time again from the people who came to the podium. Passionate. Love passion.
I've been here for 26 years on the board. I'm passionate. But there's a time and a place where we cannot speak uh to the transparency of certain things and I just want the public to know that you know we're not
we're not here to harm it. I'm sorry. Anyone else? >> All right. Uh just a couple of housekeeping notes. There is a meet and greet scheduled on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. Uh we will be in the media center.
The main topic for that uh session will be the AI plan. Um but of course it you know it's that's an open Q&A opportunity. The board retreat is scheduled for Monday, July 27th from 5:30 to 9. Um, I want to publicly thank
the chairpersons for their work. We had a committee meeting on Sunday, May 31st. I appreciate uh the committee chairs and the almost committee chair um for for being there and for their contributions as we look ahead to the next school year
and goals that the uh committees want to accomplish. and I have not had a chance to put that document in a summary, but I will uh hopefully this weekend and then share it with everyone as well as Miss Allen. Um we were planning to go into a
second well actually what would it be now? >> Another I've lost count. Another um Yeah, yep. Yep. I know. Thank you. Um we were scheduled to go into a final
executive session um for um evaluation discussion. But I think given the hour we need to um postpone that and we I will send out um a doc where we can come up with another date where we can have a
special meeting and go into executive and have that discussion. I don't think any of us would be great. It has to be accomplished before June 30th. I don't think any of us is much good right now at 11:16.
Um, okay. Any other board comments? >> Mr. Steven Wilson. No, it's okay. It's a long time. >> Mr. Ringer and Mr. Gia close enough for first of all for coming tonight staying all night because
they're not usually this long. but for putting yourselves out here, for sitting up here on this stage with hundreds of people out here. Um, I look forward to seeing you run again. It was a very difficult decision. I mean, you guys were both awesome. It was kind of a hard decision. Um, but thank you both. I just
wanted to put that out there. >> All right. Um, we do have a second public participation on the board agenda. Is there anyone that would like to comment? >> Question and answer. >> Can I still It's a comment. >> Oh, it's a different time. Okay. Well, let me know when that is.
>> There actually there is no actual question and answer. The opportunity for that would be at the meet and greet on Saturday morning, >> but we are we follow Robert's rules of order. So, it you're welcome to make
your comments. >> I just have the same question that you asked the two candidates. If you want to chat after Thank you. Hi again. Do I need to do name and address?
>> Pat Witz, 428 West Graberry Avenue. Um I first off, I want to thank the uh student representation on the board. I I think you did an exemplary job uh in organizing the voices tonight, but also
um controlling what could be a uh a temperamental crowd earlier. So, excellent job. I I thank you for that. I I also thank the board for listening to what everybody had to say. And I know it's not easy and I know I was up here
railing about do your job and this is what we voted for, but this is why have a voice and this is what we vote for. And I I do appreciate taking the time uh being here until however late it was and uh hearing everybody out. And u Miss
Allen, I do want to say that I everybody has the the want to see you succeed. I don't want you to take from this meeting uh anything other than what
it was just the the passion and to Miss Cox's point about the the lack of transparency. You got to understand that that passion is also a timing function when it comes to how much reaction time there is to these things, right? But there there is
that that almost like a hair trigger point and it it can come off that way and Everybody in this room wants you to do well for not just yourself, but for everybody. And just to reiterate the
point where I think we were at earlier in the night, um I I think you seem that there's probably no better ambassador than Mr. Le for that. And I look forward to seeing you two working together. So, thank you.
>> Third time's a charm. Bernett, Virginia Avenue. Um, I gonna keep it short. I just want to say thank you. Thank you for listening. Thank you for listening not just with your head, not just crunching numbers, but listening with your hearts, listening with your minds,
thinking about the logic and realizing that that, you know, sometimes decisions look better on paper than they're going to play out in real life. And if enough of you were able to be convinced of that, then I think great conversations can come from that. And maybe moving forward, we won't have to get to the
point where these crazy rumors on Facebook like drive 200 people into here with like, you know, moving the LMC, you know, moving the whole like board meeting because of that. Um, this is a very passionate town. Like I said, you know, I've been in town a long time and
I went to school here and I feel like that part of the passion though is what makes us great. and your passion tonight and your ability to see past the differences in you know in your views through the tough feelings through the
hurt feelings through the me references of past things that have happened sometimes your hands are tied I understand that as a parent and as an educator but when your hands are not tied and you can bend
a little and give a little and find some middle ground That's that's when beautiful things can happen. So, thank you for letting this be one of those apps. >> Jim Blubenstein, 136 West Pine. I have a fifth grader, two third graders. I have
a couple things I'd like to talk about. The first thing is the AI policy. Full disclosure, I don't think there should be any AI in the class at all. Beyond that, I like screens in the classroom. I've been teaching for 20 years. Anecdotally, started teaching no
screens. I've seen screens go to one to one. This year, I got rid of screens in my classroom. I saw student engagement, process, learning, growth, and achievement skyrocket. Kids were fully engaged because the screens were gone.
So, uh that's just where I'm coming from. Looking at your policy, um I thought that it was very thoughtful. clearly some strong guard rails that are there, but there are some things I would like you to consider. Um, first off, it
mentions enhancing critical thinking. Again, I'm coming from a place where I don't think AI enhances anything. Um, critical thinking is productive struggle, kids thinking on their own. The minute they have a tool that aids them in that, it's a crutch and it's
something that helps them get through that. It skips the process of learning. for what? So, I would like you to consider that. It's also highly subjective language, and I realize that it's sometimes difficult to uh as a board to create policy with less
subjective language, but it's something to think about. It mentions research that AI could be helped used to help support research efforts uh or and development. Again, kids should be doing this on their own. They should be finding and evaluating sources
on their own. Using an AI tool to help quote unquote help with research, it skips the whole process of researching to begin with. It also mentions that in middle school could be used to enhance projects. I think it even goes so far as to say not create or develop, but
enhance. The minute you you use AI to enhance something, it is no longer authentic to them. We should be encouraging our kids to create authentic things in the classroom to the the largest degree possible. And the minute
we entertain using AI, it's no longer authentic. And I teach kids who feel the need to be perfect, who feel the need to get it just perfectly right. And that's not what we should be striving for. The kids should be creating something that's theirs. It's imperfect. And they should
work on their own to make it better, not use AI. Um, So, I would like you to to continue to work on that policy. It sounds like you're going to and I really appreciate that. I know I only have 15 seconds, but I also wanted to say that tonight I heard a lot about what goes on
in this district and how things are spent process. It's it comes from a place of misunderstanding. And I've been fortunate enough to be given space on June 23rd to invite people to the to the media center here to talk about um how
the school funding formula works and to engage with the people in this town about, you know, how it works, why it's failing and why our property taxes went up so significantly this year. Um, it's not the school board's fault. You're you're you're dealing with a stacked
deck of cards. And I would like to invite people from town to come talk about that, to get better educated about that, and to also talk about solutions, how we can push back against our state legislators to make the process work fair. So, I invite board members to come
to that. I'll be putting out information shortly to to people in town to invite people to engage in that conversation to help people better understand. Thank you for your time. Tonight was a very difficult night. I've been there with some of you on nights like this and uh
so thank you. Thank you for your time. >> Martell, president of Education Association as the has made changes this evening to the vendor for our health insurance um with in this district that was done with very little fanfare due to the other great concerns this evening. I
have appreciated the opportunities for open conversation with Miss Alis, but I want to charge the board to look further than just this change and look away from reducing costs by reducing coverage and
transferring costs onto employees because this is our earned compensation, not just our salary, but our pension and our benefits. In recent months, you passed resolutions provided by New Jersey School Boards Association which utilized langage that used in the past to place financial
burden on the employee and avoid the responsibility of the state to be providing the compensation that was promised. I would encourage you all to take a look at recent legislation S4438 that has potential to provide
significant benefits to both management and labor while maintaining the earned level of benefit. Thank you. >> I'm sorry. Hold on a second. Could you repeat that again so I didn't get no s S4438.
>> Okay. >> Yep. Senator Bogle, >> I'd like to say um that I appreciate both what Mr. Blumen and uh M. Martell said the I will be in attendance at
Jim's uh event. And I'd also like to say that that the day before that you're you're on the 23rd. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. So the day before I'm meeting uh I'm doing a a lunchon with lawmakers, state lawmakers. Uh I'll be in
attendance to discuss uh cost of health care on state employees and school districts. Uh and and hopefully a lot of these a lot of these issues get raised and um we have an open dialogue with the state lawmakers and push that forward. Uh there's a lot of action going on.
Ruckers is is holding a rally on the 18th. Uh they're inviting all state employees to attend to help drive down the cost of health care for for colleges, state uh state union workers and and school district employees. Uh that's on the 18th in Trenton. And uh
the the lunch in lobby uh the lawmakers is the following week. And u so I hope they report back some great information from that. Thank you. I know it's really late. Appreciate it. Luke Bader, 217 Edgewood. Thank you all for your service. That
looked like it was brutal. Thank you. Um I I wasn't going to say anything, but they're mentioning AI policy and I just felt like I just wanted to say my thoughts and one is I think AI has great potential. I'll give you an example at work. recently switched systems and I
had to learn a new programming language for something to query. I don't know the language. I know the syntax of it, but I know generally logic program. They have this genie where you can translate a query. Now, if I just rely directly on that, I'm never going to
learn the new syntax. But like how I used it was I use it to show you the general syntax and I don't rely on to write these new queries for and with educ I think there's huge potential if you have something that can explain a
process like a math problem like a kids home late at night their parents don't understand the problem and it can tell them the general logic behind how to solve a problem not anything where you can put a problem in and get the answer back not anything that you can cut and
paste out of it I think there's huge potential in that if a child can put their uh essay into an AI phone and it tell them uh 30% of your sentences are using a passive voice. That's not a
strong writing language. And give an example, but it will not generate a retype essay that they copy paste. Huge potential. So just I I wanted to say like I think there's a lot of potential as long as
it stays far back. There's not a copy paste type thing that a student can ever do. There's never a put it in and get the answer back from it. And just a general caution that right now AI is huge. There's big money going into it.
There's very compelling, flashy sales pitches from companies that are trying to sell AI software and AI solutions. So, just keep that in mind that I don't think you need to move real fast any, but there's a ton of potential. Thank you. All right, it looks like we have no
other comments for that second public participation session. Um, as I said, we're not going to go into another executive session. Uh, would like to note that the next regular meeting of the board of education is scheduled for Wednesday, July 15th. Just note, it
seems a little bit early, but there's three Wednesdays. There's first first and then 15th uh at 7 p.m. in the Ottabon Junior Senior High School Media Center. Um and again, the meet and greet is on Saturday,
excuse me, at 10 a.m. And everyone be on the lookout so that we can reschedu and hold special meeting. Uh may I have a motion to adjourn the meeting? >> All in favor? >> Any opposed?
Thank you everyone. Good evening.