Claire's not here though. Is he going to be late? >> Call to order. Meeting no notice statement. Adequate notice of this meeting of the Berkeley Heights Board of Education was given as required by the open meetings open
public meetings act NJSA 10 col 4-6 ETS sec in and in accordance with the updated regulations on January 7th 2026 notice of the board educations meeting schedule was posted on the Berkeley Heights board of education official
website posted at the administration building provided to all Berkeley Heights public schools PTO residents and BHEA president filed with the municipal clerk and provided to the public library for a public inspection. Miss Nicholson, would you please do a roll call?
>> Yes. >> Miss Airi, Miss Bradford >> here. >> Mr. Dylan >> here. >> Dr. Forger >> here. >> Mrs. Jolly, Mr. Morales >> here. >> Mrs. Stanley and Mrs. Terrarero here. We
have a quorum. >> Please stand for flag salute. To the flag of the United States of Americas the Berkeley Heads Board of Education seeks to adjourn to executive session in full compliance with the public the open
public meetings act NJSA 10 col 4-6 at SECQ end. Whereas the Open Public Meetings Act provides that a public body may exclude the public from that portion of the meeting at which it discusses matters related to those identified
below. Matters rendered confidential by federal law, state law, or court rule, individual privacy, collective bargaining agreements, purchase or lease of real property if public interest could not be could be adversely
affected. Investment of public funds if public interest could be adversely affected. Tactics or techniques utilized in protecting public safety and pra property. Pending or anticipated litigation. attorney client privilege,
personnel, employment matters affecting specific prospective or current employees. Be it resolved that the Berkeley Heights Board of Education adjourns to executive session to discuss matters related to students, legal, and personal matters. And be it further
resolved that the minutes of the discussion of any of these items will be disclosed to the public when matters have been determined and confidential confidentiality is no longer acceptable. Can I get a motion to enter into executive session? >> So move Bradford
>> voice. All in favor? >> Second. >> You need a second. >> Oh, sorry. Second. >> Okay. >> So, it's Miss Bradford and then Mr. >> Dr. Border. Um, all in favor? >> I >> I >> I enter into executive session at 6:33.
Motion to return to public session. >> So move Bradford. >> Second. >> Second. >> Uh voice vote. >> I >> I >> Okay. Thank you uh again for everyone everyone for having me as your board president. Um the goal here is to stay
on topic and to remain calm and respectful of one another. Um, and as we focus on the agenda items tonight. Okay. Um, so let's move on to the report of the superintendent. >> Thank you, Mrs. Terrero. Uh, first up,
I'd like to introduce I hope I say this right. Gissando, unless it's GL Isando. The second one. The first one. Gissando. All right. Thank you very much. They're going to perform for us. If the weather
holds out and we don't get snowmageddon, then they will have a competition this weekend. So, >> so they're going to dazzle us thing that way. So, if we want to go watch them, we can we're gonna come watch Thank you so much um Dr. Feltree,
President Terrarero, Vice President Jolly, all of our fantastic board of ed members. We're so excited to be performing to uh for you tonight. Um as Dr. Feltry mentioned, assuming Mother Nature works with us uh this weekend, we will be representing uh Governor Livingston again at the International
Championship High School AC Cappella in Northern Highlands Regional High School. Um this is our fourth year in existence and our first year as a officially recognized club. So, thank you so much for allowing these students to deliver great music to our community, to the
school, to everyone around. We really thank you for that. It means a lot. Um, we will be singing our trademark song, quote unquote, whatever you want to call it, our alumni song, the song that every member of Gissando learns. Uh, this is an old Scottish tune
by Scottish folk singer Douggee McClean. This is Calonia. We hope you enjoy. Oh, I should also mention this song also features a solo by sophomore Eliza Thomas. I forgot to mention. Thank you,
That's the reason why I seem about a stranger. everything. Thank you again so much everyone. We hope you enjoy your night. Thank you so much. Beautiful.
Thank you so much. >> Right. And at this time, we'll have the report of the student representatives. And uh Pipa has senior night uh with her swim team. So Howard's going to be doing both. So good evening everyone. Um this being
the first meeting of the new year, it's great to see both new and familiar faces at the table. This is the fifth edition of Happenings on the Hill. A lot has happened since our last update. On Friday, December 19th, we held our second annual Winterfest, which was an
absolute blast and a great way to bring school community together before break. On Friday, January 9th, the school hosted its super Saturday No, on January 9th, apologies, the school hosted it super Saturday pep rally in uh support of our amazing student athletes. I'll speak more about athletics later when I
read Pipa's report. Academically and extracurricularly, the students at GL have been busy and successful. On December 1st, members of the Future Business Leaders of America competed at regionals. And on December 16th, we received results. 11 members qualified for the state competition, including
myself, with several others advancing through moveups. States will be held this March in Atlantic City. Last Friday, the Society of Historians hosted a movie discussion for The Last of the Moheakans in honor of America 250. Pizza and snacks were provided, and the event sparked thoughtful discussion and strong
student engagement. Last Tuesday, the GL Science Olympiad team competed in the Union County Science Olympiad, placing eighth out of 29 schools and qualifying for states for the first time in six years. Uh we beat out both New Providence and UCVTS. I was
there and the atmosphere was genuinely electric. Uh notable achievements include first place in rocks and minerals and first place in remote sensing. Congratulations members. This Friday marks the end of the marking period and the end of the first first semester. While the school year is
nearly halfway over, test season is right around the corner, so it arrives faster than we expect it. Pipa un, as Dr. Felt stated, Pippa unfortunately can't make it because it's senior night for GL swim. So, she asked me to read a report. Uh, here it is. The winter season is in
full swing for sports. Here's a recap of the last month in the sports at GL. The boys basketball team outscored Morristown 54 to 50 in their season opener. The girls basketball team wins 20 over Elizabeth in their season opener. I think that score might be wrong. Um the hockey team also had
back-to back uh wins over lo after losses over the holiday. And with their four to1 win against Scotch Plains Fanwood hockey uh on Wednesday, GL is bound for the Union County Championship against Westfield. Puck drop is tomorrow at 6 p.m. Leading up to the winter
sports pep rally, we had a spirit week. Wednesday was jersey day. Tuesday was Hawaiian day. Wednesday was pajama day. Thursday was Adam Sandler day and Friday was school colors. The pep rally was a great success. We had many sports teams competing in fun games. The swim team competed in a scooter race. The
wrestling team competed in a bear crawl. The fencing team played a balloon knocking game. And the basketball team played knockout. Coach Roof, who coaches the baseball team, received his national high school coach of the year award at the ABCA National Convention. Much deserved. Congratulations, Coach Roof.
On Super Saturday, the boys and the girls basketball teams beat South Amboy and Milbour. Uh last week, Alec Noatne was named the Valer Rico Heating and Cooling Athlete of the Week. And at the Santineelli tournament, the GL girls fencing team earned a top 10 overall
finish in the state. We can't wait to see the postseason of the winter sports. Go Highlanders. I myself am going to end with a quote from uh Frederick Nichze. Um, I know of no better life purpose than to perish attempting the great and impossible. The
value of that idea isn't in the outcome, but in the effort itself. And choosing to strive, to challenge limits, and to aim higher than what feels comfortable. What is great or impossible will look different for everyone, but the willingness to pursue it is what drives growth. Thank you.
>> Thank you, Howard. >> So, January is also board member recognition month. So I at this time I would like to recognize all of you and all the service that you do for our community uh with the proclamation. Whereas Governor Phil Murphy proclaimed
January 2026 to be school board recognition month, a time when all residents can acknowledge the contributions made by our local school board school board members. And whereas the Berkeley Heights Board of Education is one of 580 local school boards in New
Jersey which sets policies and oversees operations for public school districts. And whereas the Berkeley Heights Board of Education embraces the goal of highquality education for New Jersey public school students. And whereas New Jerseyy's local school boards help to
determine the educational goals for approximately 1.4 million children in pre kindergarten through 12th grade. And whereas New Jersey's approximately 5,000 local school board members devote countless hours without renumeration for
their services acting as advocates for public school students as they work with administrators, teachers, and parents for the betterment of public education. And whereas school boards strive to provide the resources necessary to meet the needs of all students, including
those with special needs. And whereas boards of education provide accountability to the public, they communicate the need of the school district to the public and they convey to school administrators the public expectations for the schools. And whereas New Jersey can take pride in its
schools which rank among the nation's best in key achievement indicators such as the National Assessment of Education Progress scores and the preparation for college through advanced placement offerings and SAT assessments. Now therefore, be it resolved that the
Berkeley Heights Board of Education does hereby recognize the services of local school board members throughout New Jersey as we join communities statewide in observing January 2026 as school board recognition month. And be it further resolved that the Berkeley
Heights Board of Education urges all New Jersey citizens to work with their local boards of education and public school staff toward the advancement of our children's education. Thank you all for your service to our community. All right, couple of uh uh
announcements. So, we are aware that the community has been asked to support various sports fundraisers this year through the booster club of the athletic teams. I have verified that behind every fundraiser is a rationale that is screened by our athletic director, Mr.
Hendricks. The goal of the fundraising efforts by the booster club is to elevate the student experience and purchase items to be used by and kept by the students such as s shirts, sweat, sweats, backpacks, etc. as enhancements.
Equipment is typically a donation by a booster club that is board approved. The current dollar amounts are goals that are chosen on a platform and not necessarily the true uh target goal of the fundraising effort. Mr. Hendricks is working with the booster club to ensure
clarity of the source of the fundraisers and to identify specific wants and dollar amounts. Please know that no fundraiser is mandatory. The money collected from these fundraisers is under the opaces of the booster club. The board and the district are grateful
for the efforts of the booster club to support our students. At this point, Mr. Dysler um has a statement that has to be read. >> So, does everyone hear me? So, at the last board meeting at the um
recommendation of insurance council, the board approved a settlement agreement. In speaking with insurance council, I just need to read a recommendation that's found in that settlement agreement and then we can just move on. So there's four uh provisions. I'm just going to read each paragraph. The board should retain an independent expert
contractor that specialize in school security to evaluate and make recommendations to prove the school security system. Number two, the board should foster and promote cooperation between uh county local law enforcement of the schools to maximize the procedures used to secure student and faculty safety. Number three, the school
shall review the requirement of parental notification to show that notification is both prompt and accurate when any threat, real or proceed is directed towards a student paragraph. And number four, the board shall review and ensure that private emails and student information is not inappropriately disclosed. Um, thank you Dr. Felry.
>> Yep, not a problem. Uh, my last announcement is we have some upcoming referendum presentations across the district. Each PTO as well as the township and seniors have grac graciously agreed to host a referendum presentation
at their next meeting. The township and seniors presentation will provide an overview and the PTO presentations will focus on the projects being completed at each school. The MKM PTO hosted uh their presentation on January 12th and we had
a phenomenal turnout. We filled the media center and still had people online as well. Um, we're very appreciative of the questions asked and the feedback that we received. Upcoming res referendum presentation meetings will be February 2nd is the Woodruff PTO meeting
at 7:30 p.m. February 3rd is a senior's meeting at 10:30 a.m. February 3rd uh is also the town council meeting at 6:30 p.m. February 9th is the Mountain Park PTO meeting at 9:00 a.m. February 9th is
also the Hughes PTO meeting at 7:00 p.m. February 17th is the CMS PTO meeting at 7:00 p.m. and February 23rd is the GL PTO meeting at 7:00 p.m. If you visit our website, this is a popup that I
apologize, but don't really apologize. We'll probably be a little bit obnoxiously on every page so people have the information should they want to attend any of these um presentations. And uh we hope to be able to answer any questions that people have. And thank
you, Mrs. Terrar. That concludes my report. >> Thank you. Uh the report of the business administrator. >> Okay. So, the business office team has been working hard to keep operations running smoothly, meet deadlines, and follow best practices every step of the way.
And we are looking to the QAC walkthroughs of the buildings that are scheduled next week. Budget discussions with administrators and department leaders went well in December with board members attending to gain a deeper understanding of the district's priorities and needs in the upcoming
year. Thank you for everyone that participated in that. We continue to assess salary adjustments, monitor benefit changes, and evaluate the district's needs for the 2627 school year. Board members have voluntarily scheduled meetings with Dr. Feltry and myself during the first week of February
to receive individual budget progress updates as the bud as the budget continues to take shape. Uh I also want to recognize Rick Romano and the custodial maintenance staff for their dedication in keeping the buildings and grounds safe and operational during recent weather events. Their hard work
in clearing snow and preparing for potent this potential storm this coming weekend is greatly appreciated and we encourage everyone to stay safe as the weather approaches. Thank you. Comments from the public on agenda items only. During this portion of the
meeting, district residents and staff are invited to address the board of education on agenda action items only. The board requests that individuals state their name and town of residents or school of attendance for the record. Additionally, all inerson public commenters are asked to please sign in.
All comments should be directed to the board president and depending upon the nature and the complexity of the question. It may or may not be answered during the meeting by the administration. If so, the response would occur after this public portion of the meeting has concluded. Although the
board may not respond to all items raised during the public forum, all public comments will be considered. The board asked that members of the public be courteous and mindful of the rights of other individuals when speaking. Specifically, comments regarding personnel matters are discouraged and cannot be responded to by the board.
Students and employees have specific legal rights afforded by the laws of New Jersey. The board bears no responsibility nor will be liable for any comments made by members of the public. Please note that if any member of the public becomes disruptive during the meeting, the board president may terminate the participant statement.
Continued disruptions may result in removal from or adjournment of the meeting. Each speaker's statement will be limited to three minutes in duration. Um, we will be taking in-person comments first. So I'm not sure was the statement that
you read part of the agenda. That was my comment. >> Yes. I have a superintendent report. >> Okay. Just want to make sure. Jared Weissell, Berkeley Heights. So the intent of the settlement agreement was to be read as a whole, which didn't happen. So I'm going to read it as a
whole now. Statement by the board. In furtherance of the settlement herein, defendants shall abide by the following stipulations hereto. The board attorney shall bring before the current board at an open public meeting and read the following statement. The parties agree that plaintiff's
description to the school board at an open meeting in November of 22 was not erroneous. As stated by then superintendent Vley, a student did bring a box cutter to school, which the board acknowledged acknowledges it defined as a weapon in the district policy book. The plaintiff's description of threats
in a failed lockdown drill were also accurate. B. The board attorney shall bring before the current board at an open public meeting and read the following statement. Plaintiff regrets the circumstances surrounding the events that give rise to this lawsuit, but found this action necessary to establish an accurate factual account of the
events. Superintendent Varley is no longer employed by the Berkeley High School system. C. The board attorney shall bring before the current board at an open public meeting and make the following recommendations. I the board should retain an independent expert contractor that specializes in school
security to evaluate and make recommendations to improve the school security system. Two, the board should foster and promote cooperation between county local law enforcement and the schools to maximize the procedures used to secure students and faculty safety.
Three, the school shall review the requirements of parental notification to ensure that notification is both prompt and accurate when any threat real or perceived is directed towards a student. The board shall review and ensure that private emails and student information is not inappropriately disclosed. D.
After a reasonable time, the board shall list these issues as agenda items and review its progress and action at a public meeting. That's the full statement. Thank you. Thank you. Is there anybody else in person?
Okay, at this time I would like to move on to online comments. There anybody on? Okay, great. Um, moving on to minutes. Resolution one, all board members. Do I have a motion first? >> So move.
>> Miss Jolly. And do I have a second? Second, >> Miss Bradford. Um, discussion. >> Okay. Madam Secretary, please take roll call. >> Oh, wait.
Am I moving too fast on you? >> Miss Bradford? Yes, >> Mr. Morales. >> I'm going to abstain from December because I wasn't here. >> Are you a yes for January?
>> Yes, for January. >> Mrs. Jolly. >> Yes, >> Mr. Dylan. >> I abstain from December and yes to January. >> Dr. Forger >> I abstain from December and yes to
January 6th >> Mrs. Terrero. Yes. >> Yeah. >> Motion pass. Finance. Do I have a uh resolutions 1 through 13? All board members resolutions 14 and 15 Berkeley Heights
only. Do I have a motion? >> So moved, Mrs. Bradford and second. I'll second. Uh committee reports. Uh the finance and facilities committee report.
>> Sure. Um so the finance and facilities uh committee met on January 14th. um we were uh in person with um some presenters that were online. So we covered um we had we we had a presentation from all employee benefits
um and there we were speaking about you know what we foresee you know happening in the 2026 and kind kind of the current state of the market now. So um from the minutes um we see that say align emphasized that Berkeley Heights is in a
much better position than other districts um in New Jersey um with the structure of our contract with Sigma and the use of the difference card and gap funding. Um they they gave us some data that kind of showed what the um the
double digit increases in insurance premiums versus the singledigit increases for the district based on the structure that we have in place. Um so last week of February is when we can expect to see the actual negotiated numbers increase for the district and
that will go into our budget. Um it's important to note that the actual cost the district uh will bear will be somewhat higher than the negotiated renewal action percent due to a contractual cap um on the increase of
the employee portion of the premium. Um and then with respect to the market, insurance costs are rising due to a number of factors including certain legislation, postcoid issues using AI and predictive modeling and in addition to I guess the general rise in
healthcare I think that we're all experiencing. There were some questions that came in subsequent um there were some questions that were raised at the meeting that the um allian had answered uh after the meeting. question. What has been the history of projections versus
actual increases over the past several years? The committee would appreciate seeing how anticipated increases have complete uh compared to realized costs and um the answer was every year we have been within two points of actual renewal. So this is good news that the
predictive um factors work and it's based on data at a point in time when your renewal is released it will have an additional two months of data um not previously accounted for. Um we noted that the difference card product um reflects in the data they showed us um
reflects declining enrollment. Um so we asked them to explain the factors that are driving that decline. Um and the response was this has to do with the garden state plan and educators plan introduction where employees had to move to those plans. The headcount is still
significant and continues to yield significant savings. Um so then the qu the another question was about open enrollment. Um what strategies or resources are available to better educate employees about their healthcare options so they can make
informed decisions? Um Alliant response was we can provide full scope of resources as needed in person telephonic or BA um web- based as well as communications and advocates and advocate support. um the present and there was some clarification between um
what it means when we see 718 members while we currently have 303 subscribers and that's meant to reflect family members of the subscribers. Um so then we also had a presentation from our um uh liability insurer um or
risk insurance um again discussed the market conditions um drivers of increasing costs, natural disasters and climate risks, aging property infrastructure, severe liability market conditions, cyber security threats. Workers comp um constitutes
approximately 30% of the property and casualty insurance premium. Um so we are still awaiting some additional uh numbers at the end of February um to better calculate what our portion's going to be. Um so then overall estimate
rate of increase is 17 and a half%. So this is obviously a large number but this is something that's not unexpected. Um then we also went through some of the items that you'll see on the agenda today. Um
so I think that um one one to note um is that the um there's a memorandum of agreement between education and law enforcement officials. Um that's an annual renewal. That's item number 13. That's an annual
renewal. There hasn't been any changes to it since 2023, but as you know board members change and you know people change, they just requires um a signature. Um there is um some uh just other updates
on the budget um as Jen mentioned. And by the way, I want to thank the uh business administrator's office because I've bombard been bombarding them with questions around budgets, this budget, current budget, past budgets, and um just to understand, you know, where our
spending is and they've been very responsive. So thank you so much for that. Um with respect to the 20 uh the 26 27 budget um as Jen mentioned um all the reviews are in progress across all of the departments and board members are
invited to sit and get an update um all throughout um February. Um as I mentioned, you know, there are some numbers that are still outstanding that we'll get by the end of February. So um I think that kind of sums it up. Sorry it's a bit long.
Um, athletics and co-curricular. >> Uh, there was no meeting since last time we met, right? >> And technology and communications. >> We have not had a meeting, but I I will schedule one soon.
>> Okay. Great. Uh, discussion. So I think um based on I uh just the agenda items that we have um and this was something that was on the finance and facilities um committee agenda. However, I think at this point um I
would like to make a motion to table item number 12 which is the SER um grant application. Do I have a second? Mr. Del.
>> Um, so do we want to have a discussion about this? >> Yes. >> Go ahead. >> Sure. >> So, it's my opinion we don't need to table this. Um, we know what the grant is for. Um, I don't know what questions
remain. Um, so tableabling it means we need to find out additional information. It's unclear to me why we would table it and not just vote. Um the way I understand it, this grant is intended to do a feasibility study
around regionalization or consolidation of districts. Um that's a fact. So either we want to do that or we don't want to do that. And I think we just vote here tonight. As I understand it also, this um
resolution tonight is only to apply for the grant. It is not assuring us of the grant or giving us any other information. It's just to apply for it as a proactive move. So I think there was um so I I think I
still have some question um and I and there's also certain legislation that's pending that kind of ties into this as well that I want to review. Um so you know personal feelings like I you know
um aside about regionalization or not that I do have some outstanding questions that I would like to bring back into committee um and then we can certainly have a vote with um full information. Um
does anybody else want to go ahead? Um, I think this is an important thing and I I will be voting yes on the motion just to make sure that we take a look at this fully even though this is just a resolution for an application because I don't want to eliminate us from any type
of grant possibility. >> I I'll add a little bit to that. It also it's a stress on our staff and it's a matter of prior prioritization of activities in front of us. So whether or not we do the grant,
get the grant, um I I know all of our staff and employees are are overworked at best. um to to put this on their plate if we have no intention to explore regionalization or consolidation of
districts. I just think is extra effort and a distraction that's unnecessary >> vote on the motion to take. >> So this is a mo this the first vote will be on the motion to table. If that passes the motion's tabled if it fails then you continue with discussion and or
vote on the subsequent items. So, I'm going to read roll call. >> All right. Miss Bradford, this this is the vote to table the number 12. >> Yes. >> Mr. Morales? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Jolly?
>> Yes. >> Mr. Dylan? >> No. >> Dr. Forger? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Terrero? >> Yes. Motion passes. Moving on to the other resolutions. Um,
discussion. >> I have a question just on the PTO donations. I noticed there was only three buildings. Um, is this an incomplete list or are more I I don't remember recall seeing it this way
before? And I specifically, you know, I'm not voting so I I was curious if there was a geo version of this anywhere or no. Did the DPTO not provide donations or they'll come at a different time? >> Okay, I have an answer for you. So, CMS came in a couple months ago. I believe
that was a separate resolution. Uh, we've been working, you know, donations and, you know, fundraising has been a hot topic for us. We've been working with very well with the PTO and the BHF and other organizations to make sure that donations are put on the board for
board um acceptance during you know in a timely manner prior to them. So um there have been discussions and so each school building has a different representative submitting these. So so far we have four out of six
buildings. So, we're still going to have a couple more for you. >> Perfect. Thank you. >> Um I I just want to point out um one of the board members has questions about number six. Do you want to ask the questions for her?
>> Um I could So, um so this was um I don't think this was filled in on the finance and facilities committee agenda, so it's not something that we spoken about. Um, but I guess this is regarding the lingua translation services and again I'm
reading this question for another board member. Um, I guess why do we need this in the middle of the school year? What percent of parents require translation service in um and is there a different way we can address that like um maybe having a bilingual teacher or like using
an app or anything like that? Um, and is there um a possibility to have um an annual max on these services? >> So, I'm going to ask Crystal to speak to the first two. Um, as for the third, I
can say no. >> So, these service providers um provide services for CST evaluations in a student's native language. >> Can you >> better? Okay. They provide services for our CST
evaluations in a student's native language. Uh we ran into an issue last year finding someone who can do the bilingual uh evaluations and so this reserves uh and provides us access for this company to be able to do those.
While I understand the um want to move forward with more appbased or Google Meet like translation services because of the specificity of CST evaluations, the the language and the jargon are just
not sufficient and there's too much room left for miscommunication and mistransation. And as far as the uh number of families that utilize these services, I do not have that this evening. I can get that information. However, we do have a
growingly growing diverse population and we're seeing an uptick in need for this and that's the reason of the timeliness of this being on the agenda. >> So is so is the contract specifically in place as a placeholder so to speak? >> Yes, it is. If the need arises,
>> do you have any idea it would can I I guess one of the questions that was asked was can we have an annual maximum for these services? >> No. >> Okay. And I just want to note that I referred it to Dr. Maher, not Crystal. I don't
want to be informal at the table. >> Um, are there any other items in this section that anyone else wants to discuss? >> I just want to say thank you to the PTO's. Um, you know, the And I lost my No, there we go. um are very generous and you know and actually
seeing it broken out you could see just how much um you know they're they're doing. So I think having it in the agenda in a you know in a public setting also makes it very visible to the public and how much you know good work that they're doing. So thank you to the
PTO's. >> I agree. >> Madam Secretary, roll call, please. Okay, >> Miss Bradford. >> Yes to all. Mr. Morales, >> yes to all. >> Mrs. Jolly,
>> yes to all. Mr. Dylan, >> yes to 1 through 11 and 13. >> Dr. Forger. >> Uh, yes to 1 to 11 and 13 through what's the last one? 18. Something like that.
15. >> And Mrs. Terrarero. >> Yes. >> Motion pass. Motions pass with the exception of 12 that was tabled. >> Personnel resolution 1 through 16. All board
members. Resolution 17 through 26 Berkeley Heights only. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Mrs. Bradford's first. I have a second. >> A second. Mrs. Jolly is second. >> Uh committee reports. The personnel report. Uh the personnel committee did
not meet uh this month or yet this year. >> Discussion. Okay. Madam Secretary, may I have a roll call, please? >> Miss Bradford, >> yes to all. >> Mr. Morales, >> yes. >> Mrs. Jolly,
>> yes. Mr. Dylan, >> yes for 1 through 16. >> Dr. Mr. Forger. >> Yes. To all >> Mrs. Turo. >> Yes. Motions passed. Education resolutions one through four. All board
members. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Miss Bradford's first. I have a second. >> Second. >> Second. >> Mr. Dylan is second. Committee reports curriculum. >> So Mrs. Auri isn't here, but she
requested that I read her um minutes. So um so the meeting was January 16th 3 to 5:00 pm. Dr. Maher, Dr. Forager, um Mrs. Securi in person. Mrs. um Bradford remote. Um so committee reviewed grading
assessment practices emphasizing the need for consistent grading policies and timely grade entries. Discuss concerns from parents about delayed grading and missing grades at the high school. Committee discussed Columbia Middle School schedule highlighting the need for increased instructional minutes and better support for um special education
students. Committee reviewed the multi-ter system of support to ensure all students receive appropriate support. Discussed the importance of clear award criteria for eighth graders and the impact of uh second uh second chance learning on student performance.
um committee discussed multi-ter system of support for teaching persuasive writing involving cross um involving crosscurricular activities and tier support levels, tier one graphic organizer and doable dates, tier two additional support for fewer students and tier three pre-planned support. The
system was successfully implemented across fourth grade uh classes with some students moving between tiers. Mrs. secure requested documentation comparing this current and proposed systems for different age groups um and the consultants recommendations were
discussed um emphasizing the administration district's right to accept or veto them. The conversation also touched on the flexibility and providing small groupoup support for students struggling with math. Dr. Maher mentioned a visit to four schools to observe their schedules and gather ideas
for improvements. Um so this was Mr. Kablisa and um and the team, right? So Richdale Middle School in Floren Park, Franklin Lakes Middle School, Dwight Eisenhower Middle School in Woff and Mendum Middle School. Uh Mrs. Secure and Dr. Fora suggest comparing CMS schedule
with other schools to identify best practices. Um quality days and instructional time. Dr. Fora asked about the concept of quote unquote quality day with no interruptions for teachers. Dr. Moore explains challenges in creating a schedule that allows for quality instructional time. Mrs. Zakira shares
concerns about the impact of non-instructional activities on students focus and learning in the middle school when students are pulled out for taking pictures participating in PR activities. Dr. Maher agrees on the importance of minimizing disruptions during instructional time at all schools. Um
awards criteria and student recognition. Dr. Forager, Mr. Zakuri discussed the need for clear criteria for awards given to students in the eighth grade. Mrs. Mrs. Zakuri suggests accelerating the timeline for finalizing the awards criteria so students and parents can be informed. Uh Mrs. Bradford and Dr. Maher
discuss the role of small group support um at the elementary level and the importance of tailoring instruction to meet students specific needs. Action items. Um Dr. Mark to respond to parent um email regarding grades and re uh and to review the student's grade status and
gather specific follow-ups. Dr. Mar to check in with supervisors um uh and get back to committee and timely entry of grades at GL um target date Jan 24th um work with Mr. Marks to explore shifting power school assignment
usage and determine what can be changed mid year without disrupting gradebook categories. Provide the committee with a multischool visit report um comparison with the visited school schedules. This is for CMS. Um, and that is uh scheduled
um to uh be provided for or targeted to be provided for the next curriculum meeting. Um and then schedule Mr. Kabliska and presents some potential CMS schedules u findings, barriers, and implications at the February meeting, though I'm not sure if that's at the
February um >> curriculum committee. >> Curriculum committee, right? Or I didn't know if it was the board meeting. Okay. um request and uh and publish clear CMS awards criteria um and to aim to have uh posted by the end of the third marking period then
share with committee take the committee's uh request to accelerate the awards criteria timeline back to Mr. Kabliska and report whe the timeline can be moved earlier for communication to families. Um and provide committee ongoing updates on the um multi-ter
support system consulting work um and implementation plan and report on consultants uh start activity targeting consultant engagement by end of February. Sorry. And then arrange pullout sessions with supervisors and directors and schedules. use February 13th
professional development day and remaining articulation time for grading and assessment of commonality work. >> Yeah, >> it's a lot. >> Um Dr. Mar, I know you wanted to add to that. >> I did. Just a couple of clarifications. Um the committee discussed multi-tered
systems of supports. um when we're having the discussions about persuasive writing, cross-curricular activities, those examples of tiers and support were shared through the lens of p of persuasive writing and the fourth grade story was shared. Uh the tiers of support can be articulated as tier one
is universal supports for all students, tier two strategic small group support, tier three intensive support for students with defined learning gaps. And the second uh clarification is uh the consultants recommendations being
discussed. There have been no recommendations as this work will be completed in late winter and spring of 2026. We do retain the right to accept or veto any recommendations by the consultant and um additionally these supports are not subject specific and can be aligned to any content area.
>> Thank you. So Dr. Mark could can you talk a little bit about the consultants? I I um like who are they? Sorry. And we probably approved them at some point but >> Sure. Sure. You did. Um >> yeah, just refresh our memories. >> Sure. So we will be working with a consultant service uh through linkit
which is our data management company that we use and they will be coming in to do a variety of things partnering with the administration including but not limited to interviews with our staff about our current tiers of support and
the efficiency of which and the uh we provide students with these services. Additionally, they will look at our progress monitoring practices and help us to refine and make those more robust as we move forward. And then we will be working to create a district-wide
handbook on tiers of support. The consulting company will also be providing our administrative staff, interventionists, and key data leaders throughout the district with professional development as well. Does anybody want to discuss anything else?
Madame Secretary, roll call, please. >> Miss Bradford? >> Yes. >> Mr. Morales? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Jolly? >> Yes. Mr. Dylan? >> I'll abstain from one. Yes. On 234.
>> Dr. Forger. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Teruro. >> Yes. Motions passed. Policy resolutions one all board members do I have a motion so moved >> seconded >> Mrs. Bradford first Mr. Morales second
uh committee reports on policy >> yes I have those minutes for Mrs. Stanley the chair the meeting was held on Tuesday January 13th remotely from 11 to 12:49 attending were Mrs. Stanley myself Mrs. Jolly Dr. Feltry Dr. R and
Miss Nicholson. Um, we only have first read policy. So, in looking at policy 7230, this was added by the superintendent due to the fundraising challenges that we recently had in the district. It was revised by Miss Nicholson also and the
BA described some of the challenges we face with fundraising and procedures that need to be followed. We had a lengthy discussion on fundraising organizations. We discussed the need to better have better internal communication procedures since many of these organizations work directly with
the principles and administration. The committee added language that addresses the specific challenges around student fundraising. The committee has asked that language be shared with the principles and athletic department before our board meetings to mitigate any unintended consequences of this.
Strauss Easme recommended the word of funds and agreed with the added language on student participation in the fundraisers and we are eternally grateful for those in our district who do a fundraising without them so many other things couldn't be possible. So
this is ready for tonight first read. The second policy we have a policy and we have a regulation 8451 control of communicable diseases. This policy was added by the superintendent want to add language about our lice procedures. We
made small trouses updates but added no language and in the regulation we did add a change that the last item in the regulation to address the concerns of the nursing staff. Teachers will not be allowed to contact parents about sorry
uh about diseases in the classes. All communication should be done through the nursing staff and their updated procedures can be seen in a link below and that's in the minutes that was provided to the board for policy 9270 homeschooling equivalent education outside the home. This was Strauss
estimate provided language at our request to add an option for homeschool students taking AP exams in our district. Board sentiment has been that the board pays for the extra fees incurred by the district for the additional proctor approximately $120
per test. Policy 0155 board committees the mountainside committee has been added to the policy and the liaison positions have been changed to what we were covering last year. We'll need to look to the future about any change of negotiations and strategic planning to ad hoc committees and policy 22000. And
I just want to thank Mr. Morales. He reached out today as a board member with some um questions about this and we were able to answer them ahead of time. So, thank you Mr. Morales for reaching out. The committee had recently updated the regulation. We were following through with also updating the policy. All
changes were those made by Strauss Esme Esme. Updates include the current New Jersey learning standards that replaced the core curriculum that we had and strike out that language. There was a lot strike struck out in that and that was redundant and was found in other
policies. Mrs. Stanley, hi. Did you have anything to add? >> No, but you guys uh made it pretty far tonight without me, so I'm glad to see that. >> Yeah. No. Um Tom did reach out uh yesterday and today with some concerns,
and I said I will bring it to the policy committee um at our next meeting. Um Tom, do you want to discuss your concerns or do you want me to say it? >> Um are you talking about uh the communicable diseases or the gifts,
grants, and donations? >> You can talk about both. It's up to you. Or I can say what you said. >> Okay. Uh yeah, I uh let's see. How should I do this? I have uh some an addition that I'd like to make to the gifts, grants, and donations, and I
wrote it out. I'll just send it around. >> Yeah. So, S Tom sent me to this to me yesterday. Um, and like I said uh in my email back that I think that it's something that the policy committee should discuss um and look at, but that it wasn't going to be
ready for tonight. Um, so up to the board members obviously, but if it goes back to policy, right, if it passes, it can go back to policy. And if we add this language, it would go back to first read next time. If it doesn't pass tonight, that's fine. And then it would go back to first read anyways. Um,
depending on what happens in the policy committee meeting. >> Well, I was I was trying to bring it to your attention tonight because of the first read, second read kind of stuff. If we just do it tonight then we we can do first read tonight with this and then
>> well I do feel that right there was a lot of language added and I would want to get feedback from the administration before we ever added such language >> also I know that you changed the um price amount >> um which we did talk about in policy already
>> which one >> um so you put in so we're adding language except that the superintendent may accept on behalf of the board any such gift less than >> Oh, yeah. Yeah. I changed it to 50. >> The policy committee had discussed because this is new language for us, but
it is in the stress estate policy. We discussed the amount and the amount that we came to was 1,000 because we felt that anything under that um would just cause a lot of extra work. Um it wouldn't necessarily be necessary. Um but anything over that would need um not
just the superintendent, but would also need the board. Um, so we already kind of discussed the price. Obviously, we can discuss it again. Um, but we did discuss going lower and we were against it. The other language that you added,
again, this I would want to um look more into and since it was only yesterday, I didn't feel comfortable bringing it forward tonight, but we can definitely look at it. Uh the other language though that was added like um Gail Bradford said was that in 7230 gifts, grants and
donations, we added language that says all fundraising activities involve the student body must be communicated in advance to the superintendent's office to ensure the district awareness and coordination if needed. Students shall never be required or mandated to solicit donations for any group or organization.
And parents, guardians must be notified in advance of any voluntary fundraising activities involving students. Um, this isn't your response of some of the issues we've seen re recently and we just want to make sure that everybody's clear and on the same page. Um, so I do think that's important. I don't think
that your language is awful. I just want to make sure that we have time to discuss it. Um also in the gifts, grants and donations uh in the minutes it was updated to um later on it says that there's monies and
there was some discussion on it was the incorrect uh language right monies is not spelled that way. Um when I reached out to stress Esme they did not want to change it to the correct way they wanted to change it to funds. Um because I think
right we don't realize this is legal language um and so they just were like well if you don't like monies that's fine just change it to funds. So I did go ahead and do that. So the one that came out tonight does have funds in there. Um but we did reach out and give the
language um to stress EMA as well that the all fundraising about students language and they agreed. They said they had similar language um if we needed it but that they felt that our language is okay. I did want to ask, we were supposed to be reaching out to the administrators, the principles, and the
athletic department. Did any of them ever come back with feedback? >> No, they didn't. >> Okay. >> So, and it was shared. >> Yeah. Because we just wanted to make sure that um we didn't make it hard difficult for anybody to do fundraising.
>> Yeah. So, Tom, question for you. So, um based on handed out, the language you propose, is that the language in green? Yes. >> Okay. >> Yes. Okay. Can I respond? Uh I'm willing to have this, you know,
my language. My my version of this go back to policy, of course. Uh but uh I was just going to take a second here to look up monies. I think that's a legitimate word. I think it's a proper uh connection. Maybe we should just
consider getting rid of Strauss as me if they don't want to go along with it. Thank you. I think it's legal language, right? But I mean >> funds is more >> it's I think public funds the typical way it's said. Yeah. >> But I don't think if you put in public
monies or funds I think the intent of the policy. >> Yeah. So yeah. So that's that's the only change since the policy meeting. And then Tom, you had a question which we did ask the administration. Um I don't know if it was in policy or regulation,
Tom. I don't remember which one. 8451, the communicable diseases. He asked why we have Summit Health Department in there, and I know we discussed it and the administration said that's who we report to. Um Tom wanted to just make
sure that that was accurate because he thought we might report to Westfield. >> I mean, we have our own board of health, so I don't know what it means to report to another one. Uh maybe Sabat provides services. I know Westfield does. Um, we
have our own regulations in the municipal code. Uh, I just didn't understand it. So, um, just maybe something to look at a little more carefully. >> I mean, the administration can double
check. Um, but that was in the current policy that was not added by us this time. Um, so that's what we currently have. If all the policies we have are absolutely correct, then we have no need for the policy committee. >> We did ask the question, we can ask it
again. >> I will say if if that changes made on second read, I do not think that would be material. >> Okay. >> So, I think the board can bring that back as a second read if that's just the only change. >> So, I have a question. Um
would the policy committee prefer to take this policy back and modify it according to what Dr. Forager has provided. I mean what and so that we're not doing through two you know another first read
>> as the policy chair my opinion is always that we pass it through first read and then if the policy committee changes their mind they bring it back to first read if they don't at least we have it already done right because we did discuss this policy and we did have a
really like if you read the minutes we did have a really big discussion on fundraising um and what we do want to do with our uh PTO's and BHFs and athletic booster clubs, right? And we did talk extensively about that. We've probably
spent half an hour on that. Um so it's not like we didn't discuss this kind of language. Um so my personal opinion, which I, you know, is why it's on the agenda tonight, is that uh we move forward. Um obviously people can vote no
and then it will go back to the committee. Um, but if you vote yes and it and we go to policy and we decide that we're going to stick with the language we had, then at least we're one step closer. >> So the question for Mr. Distler, um I
mean the the I I don't know if you have a copy of this like so the language that Tom proposed in green, right? Um I guess does that would that constitute a significant change requiring going back
to first read because or um I I understand it's right um and I do do agree with Pamela that we want to move you know kind of keep moving things moving forward um because there is language that um gives the board and the
super like and I guess gives the board the right to refuse um a particular donation. So um you know, but I also don't know if we want to dictate to parents what they can and cannot buy, right? So if they buy
something and they want to donate it, we have the right of refusal. >> It's also important to keep in mind that we need to get this policy in place. So I think unlike my opinion with regard to Westfield or Summit, if the board
passed the policy as is and then the policy committee decided to add the two paragraphs listed here, I think that would probably be a material change just based on the number of verbiage, the implementation with regard to Title 9. I I think it likely would be considered a material change. That's a decent amount
of verbiage to change to a policy on a second read for not to be considered more of a material type change. Okay. >> Um, does anybody else want to discuss anything else under policy? >> So, I'll just make a comment, right?
Just reading through this version. It's first time I'm seeing it. The the the additions don't seem out of line. I I think they're good ads. Um, I questions around how we would police hit things like Title Nine and groups and things like that. Um,
but again, not to hold it up, I think, you know, let's let's have the committee do the work. I I'd prefer getting through this read and even if that is we we pass version A of this and then come back and do a version B. Um, I'm not opposed to the language, but just in the
interest of time, I I think getting at least the original version that's on the agenda through, I'm supportive of. >> Dr. Forger, I know you wanted to say something. Um, I think uh it's it's possible we could
do pass uh the committee uh proposal as is and um send it back to policy and then next time we could do uh this one 7230 second read. So now you've got it in place, but
we could also do first read with these changes, right? Okay. So if that's the way you want to go, fine. Did they really they Strauss Esby really objected to the use of the term monies? Is that right? >> So they objected to the
correct spelling. >> Correct spelling. >> Right. Because they have it M O N Y with an S. And there was a discussion on it should be monies with anes. >> Yes. >> And when I reached out to them, they said, "We would rather you just use the
word funds then." >> Okay. When when there's a a dispute like that, I always turn to AI. AI ai is my friend. I'll just read you what AI has to say about this. Monies in quote is the formal plural of
money used in legal, financial or official context to denote separate sums sums, funds from different sources or distinct types of currency like federal monies or disposed monies.
But generally plain money is used for the uncountable general concept. Separately, monies is also a Danish luxury jewelry brand. known for I'm sorry >> avantgard natural and bold designs using
unconventional materials. I don't think we're talking about the Danish stuff. >> I think I think funds actually sounds better. So I'm I'm I'm good with the change >> and that way we don't have to worry about legal issues language >> and in order to get this through tonight
uh we'll go with funds but maybe next time we can reconsider that. This is Bradford. >> Yes. I would like to send this back to the committee after uh first read uh to see from the administration any implications on anything that we would
like to possibly change the language on and uh making sure that the students um should not be required or mandated to solicit donations still stay. So I would like to send this back to our whole committee um after first read.
Trey, um it might be worthwhile um because you haven't got a response, you know, but it hasn't been that long. So maybe we, you know, you kind of follow up and resend it just to make sure we've, you know, >> satisfied >> done it.
>> Does anybody else have anything to add? Madame Secretary, roll call, please. >> Mrs. Bradford, >> yes. >> Mrs. Stanley, >> yes. Mr. Morales, >> yes. >> Mrs. Jolly,
>> yes. >> Mr. Dylan, >> yes. >> Dr. Forger, >> yes. >> Mrs. Teraro, >> yes. >> Motions pass. Strategic planning. Is there any report?
>> Okay, moving on to negotiations. >> No, we have a meeting um for Let me just pull up my uh my notes. the facility. >> Uh the Mountainside Committee um
negotiations met internally on Tuesday, January 13th. The committee is preparing to meet in person with the Mountainside Committee in early February as negotiations continue. >> Thank you. >> Uh liaison reports. Does anybody have any liazison reports?
>> I actually Oh, go ahead. Go. You have to go. >> Yeah, sure. >> Berkeley Heights Town Council. The Berkeley Heights Town Council met on January 6, uh, 2026 and January 20th, 2026. We have a new chief of police, uh, Frank May, who is an alumni of our Berkeley Heights school system and town
resident. The township is continuing negotiations with Connell on zoning ordinances. There will be a happiness and well-being retreat sponsored by the mayor's wellness committee, a happier you in 2026 on January 31st from 11 till 1:30 p.m. Please register in advance on
the township website. There's also an upcoming free rabies clinic for the community for dogs and cats. Check the town's website. The Berkeley Heights Education Foundation met on January 13, 2026. Discussions took place on grants including student wishes and future
fundraising. The deadline for the student witch wish program has been extended to February 6 of 2026 and there will be a fundraising basketball game with the Wizards on Wednesday, March 11th, 2026. There's
more information and details to follow. Okay, I'm going to be giving an update on the technology advisory board. The technology advisory board committee met on Wednesday, January 7th. The group opened the meeting by reflecting on the
MIT study your brain on chat GBT accumulation of cognitive debt when using an AI assistant for essay writing task. This study prompted a thoughtful discussion about the dual role of AI and learning. How AI can be meaningful
support sorry how AI can meaningfully support students while also posing risk. Participants noted in particular the concern that frequent AI use may reduce students cognitive efforts over time, potentially weakening critical thinking
and independent writing skills. Building on this conversation, breakout groups examined three AI related tools, school AI, Brisk, and Grammarly to understand how each might help stu teachers detect or interpret AI
generated work. Each group identified two guiding prompts. This can improve student learning by and I have these concerns. Across all groups, school AI emerged as the most promising tool for further investigation.
Participants appreciated its potential for instructional support and AI use monitoring. However, the primary concerns centered on students altering their writing to appease the AI detection system, which can undermine authentic learning and expression. The
technology staff will contact school AI to request trial accounts. Once access is granted, staff and teachers can explore real real world use cases, evaluate detection accuracy, and assess how the tool impacts student writing behaviors. findings from the trial can
inform future adoption decisions and any needed guidelines for classroom use. Does anybody else have any other reports? Moving on to comments from the public on any topic. During the portion of this meeting, district residents and staff
are invited to address the board of education on any items. The board requested individuals state their name and town of residence or school of attendance for the record. Additionally, all in-person public commenters are asked to please sign in. All comments should be directed to the board
president and depending upon the nature and complexity of the question, it may or may not be answered during the meeting by the administration. If so, the response would occur after the public portion of the meeting has concluded. Although although the board may not respond to all items raised during the public forum, all comments
will be considered. The board asks that members of the public be courteous and mindful of the rights of other individuals when speaking. Specifically, comments regarding personnel matters are discouraged and cannot be responded to by the board. Students and employees
have the have specific legal rights afforded by the laws of New Jersey. The board bears no responsibility, nor will it be liable for any comments made by members of the public. Please noted any member of the public becomes disruptive during the meeting. The board president
may terminate the participant statement. Continued disruptions may result in removal from or adjournment of the meeting. Each speaker statement will be limited to three minutes in duration. Um I would like to take comments from in person first.
Jared Weissfeld, Berkeley Heights. Good evening. Just over three years ago, I stood before this board and then Superintendent Dr. Melissa Varley and told the truth about an occurrence involving a weapon and threats in school by one student against others. An occurrence that impacts an issue that
should be at the forefront of this board's agenda, school safety. At that time, the district refused to acknowledge the accuracy of my statements or otherwise correct the record about what had transpired and its actions in response. As a result, as a result, I was forced to file litigation
against Dr. Varley, the Berkeley Heights Public Schools, and this board of education. Last April, that litigation was seemingly resolved through mediation. A signed memorandum of understanding was executed. The core point of that agreement from my perspective was that the board would undertake efforts to address the safety
of our children and school faculty. Recommendations we heard earlier this evening. That agreement also confirms that my statements were true. It provides quote, "The parties agree that the plaintiff's description to the school board at an open meeting in November of 2022 was not erroneous." As
stated by then superintendent Vley, a student did bring a box cutter to school, which the board acknowledges is defined as a weapon in the district policy book. The plaintiff's description of threats and a failed lockdown drill, were also accurate. When papering the memorandum of understanding into a final
settlement agreement, one phrase, threatened to kill, was removed at the board's insistence to a more bland statement that there were threats. I approved that change solely to resolve the matter, not because the underlying facts were untrue. Here are those facts. On September 28th of 2022, a student
brought a box cutter to school. A box cutter is a weapon, including pursuant to board policy, not merely an inappropriate item as it was publicly described. After the weapon was confiscated, the student later that same day repeatedly poked another student with a pencil in class. When a second
student intervened, the student who brought the box cutter wrote on schoolwork, "Bucket list kill," and named the two students. Later that same day, the student typed into his schoolisssued Chromebook, Not Killing People. Two current board members, Miss
Pamela Stanley and Dr. Forager, personally saw schoolwork that read, "Bucket list, kill," and named the two students. Miss Stanley and Dr. Forigert, were not merely informed secondhand. They were present. They saw the written threats themselves. Miss Stanley was
also aware of a documented police report in which a school principal contacted law enforcement and reported the same threatening and alarming language. Despite this, despite the weapon, the written kill list, the not killing people, the search on the school's Chromebook as well as the police
involvement. It was withheld from the parents of the child who intervened and was placed on the kill list. Those parents learned the truth from their own child. In a private meeting involving police, the principal, the superintendent, and Miss Stanley as a sole board representative, the parents asked a direct question. If this were
your child who was threatened, would they be in school right now? The police response was no. Dr. Varley is no longer with the district. It is now acknowledged that her public account of my original statement was itself erroneous. And for what? Why wouldn't she acknowledge it in a meeting like
this? And why did she dispute it to the media? She also forwarded my unredacted personal emails to the media, including information identifying where my children attend school. But Dr. Varley did not act in a vacuum. The board at the time, and Miss Stanley in particular, knew these facts and chose
silence. Silence is not neutrality. Silence is a decision. I spoke then and I speak now because I believe in parental involvement, empowerment, and consent when it comes to their child's education and safety while at school. If something serious happens in a school, parents must be notified. It is not the
role of administrators or board members to decide whether a threat is real, imminent, or unlikely. Ultimately, whether a child is in fact safe, that decision belongs to parents always. I hope this board genuinely reviews the recommendations that came out of this me uh matter and learns from the failures
that occurred. Student safety must come first and accountability does not end with administrators. It applies to this board. Oversight matters. Silence matters, the truth matters, and leadership matters. Thank you. >> Thank you.
>> Moving on to participants online. >> One, can you please promote them? >> Can you hear me? >> Yes. >> Uh, hey, John McGuirez, Berkeley Heights, New Jersey. Um, I just wanted to I want So, I know you're not If you can answer this question, that would be
really helpful. Has this has the state reached out to you guys yet with any updates regarding the changes to adaptive testing since uh since I think they did a companion guide in December or November? November rather. Uh, has there
been any new information on sort of the accountability standards or the adaptive testing? Not to my knowledge. >> All right. So, I I was hoping that I mean, I've been emailing them and I have an open request that's about 30 years old trying to get this information. Um,
so there there are a few things that I was hoping if if maybe the a board member or or the administration can reach out on uh that include, you know, indicator definitions, waiting, cut scores, tables, crosswalks.
Uh they've they're changing the chronic absenteeism inclusion to 90 days from 45 days, which is crazy. um they haven't really gotten back to me on how parents are going to determine
whether how those test results are comparable to prior years. Uh and there hasn't been a plain language timeline um you know on a lot of this stuff. So I is someone from the board or the administration communicating to the
state on this stuff or or trying to get clarity on this? is I I don't know if there's a design or a committee that's responsible for this. >> No, there isn't. >> Okay. >> There's no committee or designate that's responsible for this. We we take our
direction from the DOE. >> Is is there a feedback loop? >> Uh that feedback loop would have happened prior to them doing the or assigning the adaptive tests. I don't know if anybody from our district that
would have happened prior to me joining the district. I don't know if anybody from the district was on any of those feedback committees or >> to be honest with you. They keep us as much in the dark as they do you unfortunately. >> Oh, I don't think that's true. They keep
me in the dark. All right. Uh I I mean I if if possible if some you know I I you know I I I email them. I mean, I reach out to them if some, you know, maybe the district can do the same. These are really big changes that there aren't a lot of details on and it may be a good I
don't know. I think it might be a good idea if they heard from um, you know, from districts as well. All right. Thank you. Have a good night. Oh, I'm sorry. Go ahead. Go ahead. >> I said they have heard from districts. Weed our feedback. Yes. Do
>> do would you mind sharing I mean, would you mind sharing what that feedback was? Well, it wasn't positive. I mean, I haven't I didn't do it directly, but they um was it a survey that they gave? There was a survey. So, I don't have any of those results because they collect
the survey and we don't see them. So, but they they reached out for feedback and and we gave it to them. >> Okay. All right. Thank you. >> Yeah. Thank you. Um moving on to new business. Um hold on one second. Sorry, guys.
Um, this was my item um that I added and I no longer need to discuss this. So, there's no need for a vote or anything for that. I'm just going to remove it from the agenda. Um, moving on. May I
have a motion for adjournment? >> So, moved. Second. >> Okay. Wait, who was the first one who said that? >> Bradford. >> Oh, Bradford and Jolly was second. Uh, voice vote. I I