WEBVTT

METADATA
Video-Count: 1
Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=KtM7CuZC3I4

NOTE
MEETING SECTIONS:

Part 1 (Video ID: KtM7CuZC3I4):
- 00:00:05: Meeting Agenda Overview: Field Trips and Early College Academy
- 00:01:04: Introduction to the K Scholars Enrichment Program
- 00:01:38: Enrichment Program Details: Art and Science Collaboration
- 00:03:31: Student Experiences: Lucia Figeroa from Henry Harris
- 00:05:48: Student Experiences: Tim Kravolski from Robinson School
- 00:07:07: Student Experiences: Maximum Accross experiences
- 00:08:08: Video Presentation: K University Program Highlights
- 09:49:20: Highlights from the video presentation
- 00:13:48: Superintendent's Report: Hudson County Community College Graduates
- 00:17:54: Public Comment: Forensic Audit for Community Ed Programs
- 00:29:15: Closing Workshop and Call to Order Regular Meeting
- 00:30:31: Roll Call and Approval of Minutes
- 00:31:38: Superintendent and Business Administrator Reports
- 00:32:59: Student Representative Report: Culture Day and Fundraisers
- 00:37:48: Public Comment: Half Days in School Calendar
- 00:42:29: Public Comment: Dissolving Academic Coaching Positions


Part: 1

1
00:00:05.359 --> 00:00:21.119
begin. All items on the agenda were email home after committee saw speak also reailed home. I would like to bring your attention to one resolution. That's resolution A9 field trips.

2
00:00:21.119 --> 00:00:37.559
We have a couple of last minute additions. Um B1 was for our early college academy kids. uh will be community college and our special services department.

3
00:00:38.079 --> 00:01:04.720
Those are the two initiatives. Does anybody have any questions? Okay. All right. I will now turn it over to Dr. Brown for a presentation. Good evening everyone. Um last well in April I had the

4
00:01:04.720 --> 00:01:21.119
opportunity to attend a special program for our K scholars um where they received recogn recognition for engaging in scientific research and art experiences. And I first want to say thank you to the board for improving such programs for

5
00:01:21.119 --> 00:01:38.520
our students and superintendent for your commitment to providing these opportunities for students. Um, at this time I invite Lisa Gomez, one of our amazing instructional coaches for gifted and talented to come share more about the program.

6
00:01:40.079 --> 00:01:55.200
>> Good evening. >> Thank you. >> All right. Good evening. Um, board of education members and administration. I am excited to share some information about the enrichment program we offer to select gifted and talented students at

7
00:01:55.200 --> 00:02:11.840
Kane University. This Saturday, the enrichment program focused on both the arts and sciences, providing students with a unique and thought experience. During the art program portion of the program, students worked alongside keen

8
00:02:11.840 --> 00:02:27.599
professors and art teaching assistants to explore how stress affect. They then express their understanding creativity create creative through campus artwork which is displayed here along with a mask making project also

9
00:02:27.599 --> 00:02:42.560
displayed here. Students also had an opportunity to tour Kane University and their art gallery and the experience their exhibits were displayed there. For the science portion of the program, students collaborated with keen

10
00:02:42.560 --> 00:02:57.680
professors on an exciting researchbased activity. They selected concepts inspired by pop culture such as movies, songs, cartoons, or other forms of media and explored what those ideas might look

11
00:02:57.680 --> 00:03:15.360
like if they existed in real life. Working in groups, students created scientific posters, which are disappeared, and participated in a mock science conference where they present presented and defended their ideas and supporting dialogue. This enrichment

12
00:03:15.360 --> 00:03:31.040
program gave students the opportunity to think creat creatively, collaborate with peers and engage in both artistic expression and scientific inquiry in a meaningful way. At this time, I would like to invite some of our students who

13
00:03:31.040 --> 00:03:58.239
are here today to share a little bit about their experiences and what they enjoy most about participating in this enrichment program. So, our first student I'd like to welcome up here is Lucy Figoa from Henry Harris School. >> Good evening. My name is Lucia Figeroa

14
00:03:58.239 --> 00:04:14.480
and I was one of the students lucky enough to be chosen for the King Scholars Academy program. When I was first told, I was excited but also nervous since I had no idea what to expect. But even if I did, experience still would have exceeded all my expectations. One of the main things I enjoyed about the program was made to give the freedom to experiment with

15
00:04:14.480 --> 00:04:30.479
different art videos. Each session we learned new techniques and there was never any pressure to make aspies. Instead, we were encouraged to enjoy the process and let our creativity flow. Additionally, all the material we provided was also we can't just make art. We learned

16
00:04:30.479 --> 00:04:45.199
the science of time processes such as aging and stress. Making part ways of these processes opened up a whole new door for me in terms of finding inspiration and unique places. During the science portion of the program, we were able to make a scientific poster about the science

17
00:04:45.199 --> 00:05:00.639
behind their favorite pieces of art. I enjoyed my makeup each year's project and found it fascinating to jump down rabbit holes mechanics of my chosen. The best part of it all was repeatedly being told if you aren't out of you.

18
00:05:00.639 --> 00:05:16.720
Although the Although the previous points were important, I think the best part of the experience is connecting with kids from other schools who I share similar interests. Without this program, I might not have even met them and I would not have gained the projects I social value. Overall, I'm so grateful

19
00:05:16.720 --> 00:05:48.800
for this opportunity and I hope that many more future students to come are able to experience it. Great job. And now I'm going to invite Tim Kravolski up from Robinson School. >> Good afternoon. My name is Timolski from

20
00:05:48.800 --> 00:06:04.160
Robinson. Over the past Saturdays, I've learned numerous ideas I'd otherwise never recently. The King Junior SC was one of the most experiences I've ever

21
00:06:04.160 --> 00:06:19.680
friendship. The professors were great and give lots of valuable insight on everybody's problems. The idea of connecting unrealistic art to logical science is an idea that really

22
00:06:19.680 --> 00:06:35.840
the program is wonderful but one way of improvement is instead of only taking theories around we could actually experiment. I'm not that and even if we were not able to be so expensive, it would still be an upgrade

23
00:06:35.840 --> 00:06:59.960
from overall really inspired. Many of the lessons here will be inspired. Now I would like to invite invite maximum across from

24
00:07:10.720 --> 00:07:28.240
so being at the time was really quite an interesting experience. I loved how we were able to wear any of our assignment. We're able to in too many but with the darkness provided we were

25
00:07:28.240 --> 00:07:44.160
able to experiment and learn more about but I like to do my math science I knew about that before I really enjoyed people like me and have that in the

26
00:07:44.160 --> 00:08:08.160
future they're interesting Um, we also have a short video presentation that is ready to play. This is something that we showed at the final ceremony at K University that just uh

27
00:08:08.160 --> 00:08:50.519
has little clips from the whole week that we discussed today. So, this is the idea. Thank you. >> You too. Oh, he

28
00:09:49.200 --> 00:10:36.640
biology. >> This sounds like ecology and and biology. This sounds This You want to look at the energy that's coming off of each piece and see how you can use that in whatever art you're creating. They use so kind of like express the

29
00:10:36.640 --> 00:11:17.640
best. I love it. Is it possible to regenerate? >> Yeah. >> All right. So, that would be a more basic question. Is it possible to for living things to for organisms to regenerate? >> Yep. Very good. Awesome.

30
00:11:38.000 --> 00:12:49.399
When we're adding like different types of milk, do you want to add like the names of it? >> Uh, we probably should. What is I don't know what I'm doing. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat.

31
00:13:29.440 --> 00:13:48.880
Okay, thank you all. >> In addition to Lisa, just one last thing, I also want to recognize Terasto and Alicia Melee for also being supportive for this program working with students. Thank you everyone. >> Thank you. >> Great job, Lisa. I just wanted to congratulate all the

32
00:13:48.880 --> 00:14:05.279
students that were um lucky to participate. I can't think of anything more heartwarming in education than seeing a student engaged, motivated, inspired, happy, and very productive. I

33
00:14:05.279 --> 00:14:22.160
I looked when I came in. It's awesome. The work is awesome. both the artwork and these science projects. Um it's exhilarating to know that you are engaged like that and these programs are so important and they give another level

34
00:14:22.160 --> 00:14:37.040
another dimension to everything that you do. I I think it's awesome the teachers making the commitment the board of ed uh both administration and the trustees but supporting this there's nothing better. Awesome. Congratulations.

35
00:14:37.040 --> 00:15:09.920
>> Yeah. Congratulations guys. Great job. >> All right, I'll now turn it over to Mr. Nice. >> Hello. >> Official >> a little bit little little different. Um, first and foremost, I I'd like to say to the board of education, thank

36
00:15:09.920 --> 00:15:27.040
you. Today, we graduated another class, our third graduating class of the Hudson County Community College. That means a student from students from Bayon High School graduated college before they graduated high school. They are starting college with 60 college credits. This is a testament to an idea we had when we

37
00:15:27.040 --> 00:15:42.480
first came here. I I think some of you were on the board at that time, but to all our boards of education, that commitment is epic. It is changing lives. But not just for those students. Uh also your commitment to this kind of program. That's what we do. We bring

38
00:15:42.480 --> 00:15:57.680
ideas to you. You make some hard decisions and you support those decisions. Our children are doing phenomenal. Not only are we now a as as most of us know a high performing district, but over the last I think

39
00:15:57.680 --> 00:16:14.959
correct me if I'm wrong Dr. DS and uh Dr. Brown. But I think it's over the last seven to eight years, at least one graduating student from Bayon High School has gone on to an Ivy League. This year, two students, one to Harvard and one to Princeton. Quite possibly. No

40
00:16:14.959 --> 00:16:30.320
offense to Mr. Castles and Mr. uh where is he? Uh >> Jack Phillips who went to UPEN. But I I that is in that is absolutely incredible. Absolutely incredible. and the work that goes into that is amazing.

41
00:16:30.320 --> 00:16:47.279
Um, tonight we have some transfers that uh, you know, have to occur who are instructional coaches. That's an idea that I brought to Bayon. It's teachers teaching teachers, which is extremely important to me. Uh, I'm doing everything I possibly can to uh, meet with our legislators to ensure that Bon

42
00:16:47.279 --> 00:17:03.360
gets uh, more funding, supplemental funding over the year to make that happen. That's something that that I I spoken about with the Bayon Education Association and with all of you. Um, but in in any event, we're we're we'll get back to where we need to be. But most importantly,

43
00:17:03.360 --> 00:17:19.120
it's about the board of education and the support that they give us, which is absolutely phenomenal. So, with that, one of our teachers, Dr. Alexa Castello, came to us with an idea, and that's having a relationship with your with with your colleagues that you can come

44
00:17:19.120 --> 00:17:33.919
to us with an idea, with anything, and we'll support that. So, she came to us tonight with an idea and it's with great pleasure that I I say thank you to her tonight because she volunteered. She came up with this idea of uh the week of the young child. She had an idea. She

45
00:17:33.919 --> 00:17:50.840
brought it to fruition and we did it. We executed that in the week of uh April 13th. So, Dr. Castello, I I thank you very much for doing that and for bringing it to us. And I just have a little something here and something for your father and I.

46
00:17:54.559 --> 00:18:14.400
I'm going back to my home. >> Congratulations. >> Congratulations and thank you. >> Okay, that is all I have for the open workshop. Does anybody have any questions or concerns they want to bring up? >> I do, Mr. Castle. Um I think this

47
00:18:14.400 --> 00:18:32.960
question is for um Mr. N. Um, it goes back down to and it seems that I just want to know how do we do a forensic audit in community edems

48
00:18:32.960 --> 00:18:49.679
that community ed has become I don't know like I don't know how to say to you it's like a something has to be done with community ed and I think the amount of money we spending in community get and the way

49
00:18:49.679 --> 00:19:06.160
that it's kind of like you know Mr. Castle and Mr. Phillip it seems they they told us the right thing and they do the right thing but it seems that people that under them continues to think that they can do whatever they want. So I'm

50
00:19:06.160 --> 00:19:22.480
asking the question to the superintendent or to Mr. Castle, how do we go about doing an audit and community ed? >> Okay. >> Do we have to do a motion here? Do we have to be >> Well, there's a couple different layers to that. So, annually, every school

51
00:19:22.480 --> 00:19:40.480
district in New Jersey has to be audited and those audit reports are presented to the board. Funny enough, our audit is just was just completed for last year. So, it was a year behind and that audit will be made available to the board and voted on at the June 30th meeting. Um, a

52
00:19:40.480 --> 00:19:56.640
couple different things involving that audit. each enterprise fund and an enterprise fund is a self-sufficient fund that is outside the operating budget must be audited individually. Those two funds for us include the cafeteria fund which is an enterprise

53
00:19:56.640 --> 00:20:13.200
fund and community ed which is an enterprise fund. Uh I think the first step in what you're asking is for us to review our annual audit and then if there's any issues or concerns we can move forward. I do agree what you're

54
00:20:13.200 --> 00:20:30.799
saying, but I'm sorry. I just don't see I need somebody else to tell me that what's going on. I I I really believe that. Um because you look at the budget you present to us regarding community and athletics. It continues to

55
00:20:30.799 --> 00:20:47.760
become I I believe it's out of control. you might say is focused in it, but I believe I would love to see every PO um from athletics that we order, but also we would like to know who's working who because this is my problem that I have.

56
00:20:47.760 --> 00:21:05.440
Okay, you have individuals that are volunteer coaches in this district in every sport. Then they also are in community ed. So I just don't want All right. So, I'm I'm volunt Let me

57
00:21:05.440 --> 00:21:22.000
give you an example. I'm a volunteer coach. Community is going to assign me to work as a support staff or security whatever to the the type of sport they um you're getting paid to community, but

58
00:21:22.000 --> 00:21:39.120
the sports wise you're the volunteer. You getting what I'm trying to tell you? Like >> I do understand what you're trying to say. So and and and we last month we we working with something and but I just believe that we need an independent individual. They

59
00:21:39.120 --> 00:21:56.000
come here, look at the books, present to us what they found and not only to us but also to the public to come here and tell them what they found in those things and just and just being honest. It just it needs to happen and I I don't know what the other board members think.

60
00:21:56.000 --> 00:22:12.080
I'm just an individual here. I'm only one vote, but it that's the question that I have. Anybody else has a a question regarding it? Do you think we believe to have an audit, independent audit? Just it's a >> anyone. >> Mr. Castles, are are these independent

61
00:22:12.080 --> 00:22:29.200
audits costly? >> Um, well, yes, they're going to cost money. Um, it depends on the type of audit audit that you would want to do. Um I I have no issue if you you know if the board decides that they want to do a forensic audit or whatever type of audit

62
00:22:29.200 --> 00:22:46.080
that is fine with me. Um we can go out we'd have to bid this project out to auditors. Um again I just think the most costefficient method of this would be to review our annual audit that we already have in place and then move forward from

63
00:22:46.080 --> 00:23:01.919
there. That would just be my advice. But if the board wants to move forward with a forensic audit, you certainly >> So it it's your recommendation that we look at what we're going we already have. Am I right? And then from there move forward with what with what Hector is asking?

64
00:23:01.919 --> 00:23:16.640
>> Yeah, certainly. If there's questions or if there's you want a deeper dive. Um >> will we be able to get that information in a timely manner instead of a week before when we're supposed to vote though? >> Oh yeah. So the caffer just came in. That's the actual audit. That's the name

65
00:23:16.640 --> 00:23:33.120
of it. Um, I can email a electronic uh copy of the caffer to all board members. >> Um, and then we can discuss it, you know. >> Can we then have a meeting to discuss the concerns before we we're asked to vote? >> Absolutely. >> Cuz I'm sure it's reader friendly to

66
00:23:33.120 --> 00:23:48.640
you, but to anyone else that does not see this budget every single day, we might have some kind of um questions that we would want answered. And maybe maybe they'll they'll they'll satisfy his questions, but maybe they won't. Is >> Yeah. So, one thing I can do is have not

67
00:23:48.640 --> 00:24:05.120
just my explanation, but also the auditor's explanation, okay, to the board. Uh, just so it's coming from, you know, a different voice and you can ask whatever questions you seem to >> who does the audit. >> Excuse me. You can, um, you can look at

68
00:24:05.120 --> 00:24:19.840
past audits. They're on file and look, there's a summary. There are recommendations made. There are findings that are, um, stipulated. There's the audit is not just of the numbers but

69
00:24:19.840 --> 00:24:36.240
also of process. Um perhaps looking at an old one before this one even is available gives you a reference point. But if you read in the summaries it is a um an overview of what was done, how it

70
00:24:36.240 --> 00:24:51.520
was done, what they found, recommendations for change, improvement, corrections, uh it's all in there. and it'll give you a heads up to >> All right. Thank you. >> Yeah. But the question that I have is the process,

71
00:24:51.520 --> 00:25:07.760
>> you know, is we know in this district and everybody that knows in this district stays, you know, oh, they doing I just want to make sure that the right people are getting rewarded, not the get overs are getting rewarded and that's going to happen. It happen in every district and every school district. But

72
00:25:07.760 --> 00:25:23.039
I would love to have the individual who did it come to us and tell us from his point of view what he sees that to reading it because I can read this. I can break down what power I can break you know the data that you gave us. I can break up budgets. I can I data I

73
00:25:23.039 --> 00:25:38.400
know data I can read it and write but I would love to have that individual that did the audit that gave us the you know and say to hey guys this is what it is. I understand that Dan and Mr. Phillip you guys are wonderful. I don't have no issue. is just the process of how we got

74
00:25:38.400 --> 00:25:54.880
to that audit that needs to be have and that's what I believe. So I don't know if that person can come and talk to us Mr. Castle. I would appreciate it and I think we know >> that's not a problem. I can set that up. >> Thank you. >> Is the I'm trying to understand the part

75
00:25:54.880 --> 00:26:10.480
of the concern beyond process is it when you said get over is it >> it is internal personnel. >> Yeah. you >> that you're getting to >> you you you

76
00:26:10.480 --> 00:26:28.159
I just don't want to like I don't want to create things but you have people that could be volunteer coaches and getting paid to community ed at the same time. That's what I'm trying to tell you. So it just everybody go to community ed.

77
00:26:28.159 --> 00:26:44.640
You need a favorable, you go to community ed. You go to this, you go to community ed. Everything's community ed and everywhere we see is community ed. So I would love to see how many people in total working in community ed, how many of those people are volunteer coaches. At the same time, it just I

78
00:26:44.640 --> 00:27:01.520
would like to ask questions and I think that being the since I've been here for the past four years, community has been the monster of this district. These two gentlemen right here, one and two, you should be commended because what you guys are doing, you aspect the the issue

79
00:27:01.520 --> 00:27:17.600
that I have also is the people under you under you guys, you have put criteria to for budgets and they do whatever I have. I'm going to give an example. We have a person that was put as a community at and whatever doing volunteer works and

80
00:27:17.600 --> 00:27:33.840
whatever whatever whatever they didn't follow the proper channel. So now, thank God to Mr. Fugu and thank God to Mr. Castle, they dealing with it. But we need to hold our directors, our supervisors, they assign people there

81
00:27:33.840 --> 00:27:50.480
over time, hold them accountable a lot of things because you told me, "Oh, we're going to write them up. You have to discipline people and you need to start doing it because these people running like a wild west in this district." And that's how seen it. People have said it. School has said it. You go to event and they tell you what's

82
00:27:50.480 --> 00:28:07.039
going on. So overall, that's my belief and that's you know and I wish it and that's what it is for me. >> My text >> I'm sorry. Are you speaking to favoritism

83
00:28:07.039 --> 00:28:23.440
>> because that's not going to come out in a >> favoritism. You said you I never said favoritism. You said it. So >> no, I'm asking is >> no I I don't I'm not going to say that word because that word is not just saying overall we need to see the audit. We need to see how everything is paid out. >> My point is that will come out in a

84
00:28:23.440 --> 00:28:40.080
forensic audit. That is num it's about numbers and process but it's not going to >> I think I'm understanding what you're trying to get at and there might we might have to come up with another plan that's not going to get you what you want to know. I think we'll start with

85
00:28:40.080 --> 00:28:56.720
um we have to anyway so it doesn't even matter. We have to review our annual audit and we'll have our auditor here so that you guys can ask whatever questions. >> Okay. Thank you. I appreciate it. >> Dan, who does the audit? The annual >> PK O' Conor Davies. >> I'm sorry. >> PK O' Conor Davies.

86
00:28:56.720 --> 00:29:15.480
>> Thank you. >> Name of the firm. >> I have a question. is community ed is self-sufficient whereas it's and that money has to be spent for community ed correct >> can't be transfer to another line item >> that's correct >> okay thank you

87
00:29:15.840 --> 00:29:34.240
okay is there any other questions okay it is actually six o'clock on the dot so we are going to close the workshop portion and Everyone is ready. We'll roll right into

88
00:29:34.240 --> 00:29:54.279
them. >> All right. I uh now call to order the regular meeting of the Bayon Board of Education. Can everyone stand for the pledge of allegiance? We have some members of the uh student council of the Robinson School that will lead us.

89
00:29:55.840 --> 00:30:12.399
>> We will now pay honor and respect due to the flag of our country. Ready? Begin. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation

90
00:30:12.399 --> 00:30:31.840
under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Please be seated. >> Thank you. >> Thank you guys. >> Okay. For the record, this is a public meeting of the Bayon Board of Education. It is

91
00:30:31.840 --> 00:30:46.880
6:01 p.m. the 19th day of May, and we are meeting in the Walter F. Robinson School Auditorium. The meeting is now open to the public. I'll now do a roll call.

92
00:30:46.880 --> 00:31:03.039
Trusty Basher, Trusty Burke, >> here. >> Trusty Geski Rodriguez. Trusty Gonzalez >> here. >> Trusty Sanola >> here. >> Trusty Scofphane >> here. >> Trusty Young

93
00:31:03.039 --> 00:31:21.200
>> here. >> Vice President Majio >> here. >> President Desmond >> here. >> So I can now get a motion for the approval of minutes. >> I move. >> I second. >> Trusty Young. >> Okay. >> Trusty Burke.

94
00:31:21.200 --> 00:31:38.399
>> Yes. >> Trusty Gonzalez. >> Yes. Trusty Siola, >> yes. >> Trusty Clefane, >> yes. >> Trusty Young, >> yes. >> Vice President Mio, >> yes. >> President Desmond, >> yes. >> We will now move on to the

95
00:31:38.399 --> 00:31:54.640
superintendence report, which consists of items A1 through A13 and B1 through B24. Can I have a motion? I'll move

96
00:31:54.640 --> 00:32:10.480
>> and a second. >> A second. >> All right. Trusty Burke. >> Um, yes to everything, but I abain at the 11th. >> Okay. >> Trusty Gonzalez, >> yes. >> Trustee Sanola,

97
00:32:10.480 --> 00:32:26.600
>> yes. >> Trust Clefane, >> yes. >> Trusty Young, >> yes. >> Vice President Magio, >> yes. President Desmond, >> I abstain from page five and yes to all others. >> Thank you.

98
00:32:26.720 --> 00:32:42.880
>> We will now do the business administrators report which consists of C1 through C11. Can I have a motion? >> I'll second. >> I'm sorry. Who is that? >> Me. >> Trusty Saniel.

99
00:32:42.880 --> 00:32:58.519
>> Trusty Burke. >> Yes. >> Trusty Gonzalez. >> Yes. Trusty Sanola, >> yes. >> Trust Clefane, >> yes. >> Trusty Young, >> yes. >> Vice President Majio, >> yes. >> President Desmond, >> yes.

100
00:33:00.240 --> 00:33:27.120
>> That is all the business we have, but we do have some cards. I'll start with Oh, I'll start with our student representative. Uh, >> okay. Good evening. Culture Day, which was

101
00:33:27.120 --> 00:33:44.960
held on May 5th, had a great turnout and everyone enjoyed showing off their cultures and flags. May 20th, tomorrow, will be Bday where students can wear yellow, black, or anything else be themed to celebrate World Bday and raise school spirit. Our spring dance was held

102
00:33:44.960 --> 00:34:00.320
on Friday, May 15th with the theme of Rio from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Students enjoyed it greatly and we heard great feedback from our student body. Stuga members visited elementary school student councils at Lincoln and Mary J.

103
00:34:00.320 --> 00:34:15.839
Donahghue community schools on April 29th and May 7th to share more about our BHS student government and how it differs from elementary. Freshman ambassadors Emmy and Zara shared their experience in Stuga to inform and

104
00:34:15.839 --> 00:34:33.119
encourage elementary students in their student councils. For the 2026 to 2027 school year, student government students have been campaigning the last two weeks and voting will be held this Thursday on May 21st. The new student government will be

105
00:34:33.119 --> 00:34:49.359
announced on Friday. We are holding a fundraiser at Magic Fountain on Friday, May 22nd from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. where 10% of proceeds will go to Stuga. With the warmer weather and the half day, we are hoping to have a great turnout and raise significant

106
00:34:49.359 --> 00:35:04.480
funds. In the past, Stuga members, including myself, have had the amazing opportunity to attend New Jersey Association of Student Council's LTC leadership training conference, where we learn different leadership styles, how to work

107
00:35:04.480 --> 00:35:21.440
collaboratively with others, how to improve communication and public speaking skills, and how to effectively plan events and delegate tasks. It is truly an unforgettable experience and an outstanding opportunity where we are also able to meet and bond with

108
00:35:21.440 --> 00:35:38.079
student leaders from across New Jersey. We hope to be able to send more Stuga members to LTC this summer. The student government would like to request the board if they would consider investing in our students by providing funds for us to send student government members to

109
00:35:38.079 --> 00:35:55.920
LTC. The cost is $450 per student and we hope to send at least four students, making that 1,800. LTC has in the past equipped our students with the skills needed to work together as effective leaders. Our

110
00:35:55.920 --> 00:36:12.800
student government president, Evelyn Martinez Pena, has attended LTC for two years and has been invited to return as a junior counselor this summer, representing BHS and imparting imparting her leadership knowledge among other high schoolers from around the state.

111
00:36:12.800 --> 00:36:28.960
Attending LTC is a tradition among Stuga that has lasted for years and I myself am so grateful that I had the opportunity to attend as it has given me lifelong friendships and made me a better leader and a better person overall. We will be able to improve the

112
00:36:28.960 --> 00:36:46.040
effectiveness of our student government and leave a more profound impact on Balon High School. Through this opportunity, we are planning fundraisers to defay costs as well, but would greatly appreciate any funding the board would be able to provide. Thank you. >> Thank you.

113
00:36:47.839 --> 00:37:05.200
>> We'll have someone reach out to you. This is something that the board will be able to handle. >> Thank you. I have um flyers on what LTC is. >> I'll come up after and I'll grab them. >> Okay. >> Do you want to pass them out? >> Yeah, I can do that. >> June meeting, too. You have one more

114
00:37:05.200 --> 00:37:29.800
meeting and then Okay. a girl. >> We'll put the good word in for you. >> You've done a fine job. >> Great job. >> Thank you. >> Thank you so much. >> Great job.

115
00:37:48.960 --> 00:38:28.079
Okay, up next is uh Laura Wilds. >> Thank you. So, good afternoon, good evening, Laura Wilds. This is now the the second meeting of the board of education that I've gone to. I'm here to talk about the same thing, though, um which is the

116
00:38:28.079 --> 00:38:45.040
number of half days in the calendar. So, I referenced last time I was here the 12 days that the board approved in 2019, which is a much more reasonable, appropriate, and normal number of half

117
00:38:45.040 --> 00:39:01.119
days for public schools in New Jersey and I assume other states also, but certainly New Jersey. I'm here. I was struck by Superintendent Nie's um how he started his comments today which he said we bring you ideas

118
00:39:01.119 --> 00:39:17.680
and you make hard decisions. I appreciated that superintendent and I think an idea that is worth consideration, discussion, deliberation and ultimately board approval is the school calendar. A few of you may be aware if you live in

119
00:39:17.680 --> 00:39:33.839
Bon about a popular Facebook group, Bayon Talks. The school calendar got a lot of discussion today both from a woman who start the day started when a woman was trying was actually asking for community advice on what she was supposed to do with her two children who

120
00:39:33.839 --> 00:39:51.599
won't have school nor afterare for the 15 days at the end of the school year. So she was she was asking for help. I made my own observations about the calendar and this dramatic change that we've all seen going from 12 half days to 19 days. Most people for a

121
00:39:51.599 --> 00:40:08.000
variety of reasons can't get to this meeting. There's so many so many empty spaces here and so many strong opinions about this topic. I'm just going to share you know you've heard from me once. You don't need to hear from me again. I'm going to share a little bit about what other people were sharing about the impact of the school calendar.

122
00:40:08.000 --> 00:40:23.839
So, one one woman wrote, "Honestly, it's really frustrating. 10 days of half days with no afterare is a lot to expect working parents to just figure out. Not everyone has flexible jobs or family nearby to help. I really feel like the Bayon Board of Education should either

123
00:40:23.839 --> 00:40:40.079
continue afterare during those two weeks or at least shorten the half-day schedule to just a few days instead of stretching it out for nearly two full weeks. It puts a lot of unnecessary pressure on family. That was from Nora S.

124
00:40:40.079 --> 00:40:56.960
This one really struck me when uh parents described taking their kids out of school because they weren't able to figure it out. What am I going to do with my kid in the afternoon? Jessica E said, "When my older daughter was in elementary school, she always missed the last week of school because of that. I'll be

125
00:40:56.960 --> 00:41:13.119
seeking information about absenteeism by school and by day going forward because clearly there I would expect a relationship between half days and absenteeism. We'll find out if it's true. Um there was an interesting comment from Jenna R who's a teacher herself though not in

126
00:41:13.119 --> 00:41:30.160
Bon. She wrote the amount of half days most especially at the end of the year is completely overdone and I have worked in four school districts in this state. I've never seen anything this excessive. minutes, ma'am. >> Yes. Uh just one if I can just these are these are all comments from others. I

127
00:41:30.160 --> 00:41:50.240
think it's valuable to to consider. >> I keep the time. That's right. >> You keep the time. May I finish this from Jessica with the president? >> I say yes. I have to do it for others. I'll say that's your choice.

128
00:41:50.240 --> 00:42:08.800
There's rules. I'm sorry. You did say it was on. >> Yes. And uh I would just say that she adds the amount of days is excessive. Parents work many as teachers as well. As a teacher myself, the last three days of school is customary as early

129
00:42:08.800 --> 00:42:30.640
dismissals, not the last 12 days. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> All right. Up next, uh our BEA president, Miss Tracy Tigu. Good evening. I'd like to acknowledge and appreciate

130
00:42:30.640 --> 00:42:46.319
although many teachers are being moved at this meeting and it is a lot the fact that these decisions were communicated prior to the August 25th meeting because in the past that's when most of the moves were made which only gives teachers just about six

131
00:42:46.319 --> 00:43:01.599
days to prepare not only go clean up a classroom and possibly move a building move a grade level move a content area. So, I appreciate the communication was sent out in May and not August. So, thank you for that.

132
00:43:01.599 --> 00:43:19.200
Um, and I did speak earlier with Mr. Nice and Mr. Castles regarding orders because I don't know if you're aware, but when you place a classroom order, it stays with the school. So, with all of these moves teachers have to put in orders right now, they don't get classroom supplies for September. So

133
00:43:19.200 --> 00:43:34.160
they will be starting the school year without it if ed data isn't fixed which I was assured it will be fixed. So these teachers are being supplied through the board of ed and not being funded by themselves. However, we were very disappointed to

134
00:43:34.160 --> 00:43:49.920
learn that the remaining academic coaching positions are being dissolved. Um the academic coaches were in each major subject as well as special services. In August, they started slightly moving some of the academic coaches back into the classroom.

135
00:43:49.920 --> 00:44:06.319
Academic coaches have had a significant educational impact within our schools. They have consistently provided teachers with valuable resources, instructional tools, and guidance that directly supports classroom instruction. And ultimately, the students succeed because

136
00:44:06.319 --> 00:44:22.960
of this. It's a way for teachers also to collaborate and share ideas as you know you have the coach that's able to go and be with a teacher and help them especially our early career teachers in years one through five. Their support has strengthened teaching uh teaching practices and help staff

137
00:44:22.960 --> 00:44:38.560
meet the needs of all their students. The loss of these positions does raise concern on how this level of instructional support will continue moving forward. You saw a wonderful presentation about Kain that was from our G&T coaches and

138
00:44:38.560 --> 00:44:56.400
we just went from three to one. Uh you can correct me if I'm wrong, Dr. Brown, but I believe G&T services just about 900 students within the district. Is it close to around that number? You had three fabulous teachers in the G&T

139
00:44:56.400 --> 00:45:12.160
program servicing these students through all 11 elementary schools. This is now being reduced to just one academic coach. My concern for these students is will they still receive effective and meaningful services. They're going to still receive services

140
00:45:12.160 --> 00:45:27.520
because our teachers are professional and they're going to do great things. But the program has has evolved and has grown and now you have so many students taking part in so many different activities such as cane and psycho motor day and lessons at the metal lands and

141
00:45:27.520 --> 00:45:43.839
all of the wonderful things that impact our students. And we have one person that will be doing that for all of these students. In addition to daily instructional support, the department currently participates in five countywide competitions.

142
00:45:43.839 --> 00:46:00.720
These students participate in forensics, battle of the books, geography B, academic bowl, and an early childhood math contest. The G&T coaches develop lessons and meet with students in their respective schools. G&T students participate in learning beyond the

143
00:46:00.720 --> 00:46:16.720
classroom. They spent Saturdays at Kain University. With the department not now operating with only one teacher, will these opportunities and services continue to be available to all these students? It's difficult to understand how one teacher can reasonably be expected to

144
00:46:16.720 --> 00:46:32.640
provide the same level of quality support and enrichment that three once did that job. These changes raise concern about maintaining standards that we set. The last one is our our title interventionists.

145
00:46:32.640 --> 00:46:49.040
We have with the exception of I believe one or two buildings have been reduced to one title interventionalist per building. teachers are required and please correct me if I'm incorrect with NJTSS where interventionalists would help tier

146
00:46:49.040 --> 00:47:05.280
three students. Now without all of that support those tier three students will be will remain in the classroom to get their services from their classroom teacher along with tier 2 students who also need services.

147
00:47:05.280 --> 00:47:19.839
So with these reduction, classroom teachers are now being tasked to manage tier one, tier 2, and tier three all within their classroom while completing progress monitoring for those students. This significantly increases teacher

148
00:47:19.839 --> 00:47:37.040
workload, but also it's a concern for the services for the kids in BAM, for the students of BAM. We would love to respectfully ask the administration and the board to reconsider the reductions in these areas and hopefully we can continue to meet the needs of all of the students from

149
00:47:37.040 --> 00:48:00.839
G&T to tier three and um hopefully these students can get the services that they deserve. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Okay. >> Any questions from the trustees?

150
00:48:01.920 --> 00:48:21.760
>> Okay. Can I have a motion to adjourn? >> Second. >> I'm sorry. I missed the first >> Lisa. >> Okay. >> Okay. Trusty Burke. >> Yes. >> Trusty Gonzalez. >> Yes. Trusty Siola, >> yes. >> Trusty Sclfane,

151
00:48:21.760 --> 00:48:35.559
>> yes. >> Trusty Young, >> yes. >> Vice President Mio, >> yes. >> President Desmond, >> yes. >> Okay, it is now 6:19 and the meeting is a