Call the meeting to order. >> Mary, roll call. >> Miss Pala. Miss Kennedy >> here. >> Missy Benedictus. Mr. Henry >> here. >> Mr. Malieri. >> Mr. Mesmer >> here.
>> Miss Ayanaron. Okay. The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Law was enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advanced notice of and to attend the meetings of public bodies at [clears throat] which any business affecting their interest is discussed or acted upon. In accordance
with the provisions of this act, the Bricktownship Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be posted on the [snorts] administrative office bulletin board, the official district website and channel BTV20, and sent to the Asbury Park Press, the Brick
Times, the Star Ledger, and the Municipal Clerk's Office. Can I have a resolution to enter close session? A >> motion and a second. >> Motion Ali. Second, Victoria, >> whereas [snorts] the Brick Township
Board of Education has been formed pursuant to applicable New Jersey status. And whereas the board is charged with the responsibility of performing all acts and doing all things consistent with law and the rules of the state
board of education necessary for the lawful and proper conduct, equipment, and maintenance of public schools and public school property of the Bricktownship School District. And whereas section seven of the open public meetings act permits the exclusion of
the public from a meeting of the board in certain circumstances. And whereas the board has determined the circumstances exist exist for such an executive session. And whereas the board has found the action described below to
be necessary and proper. Now therefore be it resolved by the board on December 18th, 2025 that the public shall be excluded from discussion of and action on the executive sessions herein set forth. The session will be approximately
20 minutes and the general nature of the subject matter to be discussed is as follows. Harassment, intimidation and bullying reports, student discipline and placement. It is anticipated at this time that the above stated subject
matter will be made public if and when it is deemed to be in the public interest to do so and the need for confidentiality is no longer required by the board. >> Miss Pala. >> Yes. Miss Kennedy. >> Yes. >> Mr. Henry. >> Yes.
>> Mr. Mesmer. >> Yes. Will everybody please rise to salute the flag? Thank you. >> Okay. Thank you, Dr. Pharaoh. trying to get myself situated. Okay,
we have the choir come. We have the choir coming in to set up, but we're going to start with our student representatives. Who went first last month? Erica, who went first? >> Erica from Bricktownship High School. Erica Pourney will go first. >> Good evening. I'm Erica Bourney, the
president of the BTHS student government. It is my pleasure to share this month's BTHS Dragon report with you. I'm excited to report that BTHS has announced this year's Governor's Educator of the Year at Bricktownship High School. Congratulations to our
teacher of the year, Darren St. Gene, teacher in the social studies department, and our educational service professional of the year, Dr. Christine Valardi, school psychologist and child study team member. This past month, Brick Township High School proudly recognized student
success through the National Honor Society and World Language Honor Society induction ceremonies, honoring selected students for their academic achievement, leadership, and character. We also celebrated our BTHS chorus, concert
band, and jazz band during the winter concert where students showcased their talent and expertise in a truly memorable performance. We are extremely proud of our students achievements. The BTHS Key Club and Chorus spread holiday cheer at the Town Square Senior
Center this past week. Together, students shared festive musical performances and participated in holiday themed crafts and activities alongside senior residents, strengthening connections with our community. The marching band held their annual craft
fair last Saturday. It was a huge success. Thank you to everyone that supported the event. The Ocean County Vocational Technical School visited BTHS earlier this month to provide our grade 10 students with an informative assembly outlining the many programs available.
Students gained a valuable look into the hands-on learning experiences, industry certifications, and career opportunities that OCVTS provides. Applications for the 2026 2027 school year open on Monday, January 5th. Now for the sports.
The girls swim team is starting off their season strong with a record of 20 and one. The boys team has been accomplishing personal goals and are looking for some wins in their upcoming meets. Congratulations to Ava Guano, Sophia Watts, and Aiden Reel for
qualifying for the short conference meet so far. The wrestling team had their first match yesterday against Barnagate. We are looking forward to a great season. Girls basketball faced Redbank Regional on Tuesday for their first game of the season. Boys basketball played Point Pleasant Beach on Tuesday and
played a great game. Both the girls and boys basketball teams will be competing in the Kevin Williams Christmas Classic tournament over winter break. Congratulations to the hockey team for beginning their season with an impressive record of 4-0. Last week they hosted their annual teddy bear toss
game. After Max Larson scored the first goal, teddy bears were tossed on the ice as donations received by the brick police department. The girls bowling team already has an amazing record of five and one. Boys bowling is working hard for future success.
Coming up our on Monday, our teaching students to teach class along with some other students are walking to Warren H. Wolf Elementary School to read the kids a holiday story and do a craft with them. Spirit week will be on Monday and Tuesday to spread school spirit and
holiday cheer. That's all for today. Be sure to stay connected to BCHS events and inside information by accessing our school website, SGA Instagram at BCHSS SGA, and our school Twitter at BTHS Dragons. You can always see our happenings monthly through Dr. Cinjun's
Dragon Review. Thank you for your time. [applause] >> Thank you, Erica. And now from Brick Memorial High School, Michaela Gorum. >> Good evening. I'm Michaela Gorhan, your 2025 2026 BM BHS SJA president, and
here's your monthly report for December. Rick Memorial is so proud of all the efforts of our fine arts program over the last few weeks. We've had an extremely successful and exciting run of Legally Blonde the musical on stage. We also had a great night last night from our band and chorus at our winter
holiday concert. Our students exhibited so much talent and skill on stage, and when you have the opportunity to showcase it, they always deliver. Bravo and jobs well done. We're extremely proud of all our athletic accolades and accomplishments from the from this past fall, including our state sectional
championship from our football team. This championship season culminated a great career for our head football coach, Walt Curry, who has decided to step down after his 19th and perhaps most successful season. We wish coach the best as he continues
his career as a math teacher at BMHS and thank him for all the success and memories he has given us over the years. Dr. Frell has list of all of our accolades in his superintendent remarks. We wish our winter sports season success as they head into the bulk of their
seasons. RSJ planned another great spirit week with days such as I believe in Santa and ugly sweater day and is stamping the finishing touches on next week's winter pep rally to carry us into winter recess. Thanks to Miss Stanbury and her crew for always figuring out
ways to keep our students full of spirit and pride. On behalf of all our Brick Memorial School community, we wish you a healthy and happy holiday season and a very happy new year. We hope you enjoy your break. Thank you. >> [applause]
>> Well, for the holiday season, um, before I introduce our Brick Township High School choir and Mr. Capone, if you notice a lot of the decorations and we even have cookies again, Mr. Philippone, we got cookies for this board meeting. Um, the our best program at Vets L, uh,
Miss Henriquez and Mrs. Pankaitz's classes. We have from Brick High School, Mrs. Roselli's class that helped out. Uh, we have Miss Simone's class did the M&M's and the Holly pictures. Let make sure I get it. Both high school students
have helped with the cookies. I don't know if that means they made them or they were purchased or but there's a bunch of cookies we're going to be bringing around. I think Dr. Anderson and myself will be doing that a little later and sharing some cookies uh with us. And a big thanks to Mr. Apollo and
Best and Mr. Vine for helping the students put this together before and after school days and set up all the wonderful uh holiday decorations uh for us. Also, a shout out to two of our super soups, right? Chris Thompson and Jen Yui. I don't know if they're here,
but thank you for helping with the cookies, the arts, the ceramics. It's a little more festive. I know sometimes in December we're at one of the high schools because we may have a huge ensemble of our jazz band and things, but I think this is a little more quaint and a little more apppropo uh to kick
off the holiday season. Without further ado, our stellar Bricktownship High School choir and Mr. Capone. Uh so of So this is our audition. >> [singing] >> Beth
baby. Take [music] [singing] a star. Beth, baby, go to Beth. and seeing overth. [singing] sing. [singing and music]
>> I'm going to sing [music] happy. >> I'm going to shoutout hallelujah. [singing] When I see >> I'm going to shout hallelujah. I see that child. [singing and music] See that baby going
to see that baby's [singing] birth. going to be [singing] going to take a [singing] see that child. [applause] >> [applause] >> And now we're going to sing another
piece of piece called >> [singing and music] >> Baby [music] [music] [music] [singing] >> [music] >> children [music]
baby. [music] [singing] [music] [singing] It's [singing] a happy time [music] with you. Bon [music and singing] [music] [singing] Baby,
[music] [music] [singing] [music] keep on. >> [applause] >> uh before we sing our last uh song for you just to kind of close out the the holiday season. This is our last performance of like 15
this month. Uh so we're kind of closing out. Uh I would like to thank Dr. Frell and uh his much for everything you do. This last one is a really beautiful of the first Noel. Norally in the concert
all of my kids and all of 100 kids. [music] >> [music] >> The angels sing [music] with fear. They keep
their sheep [music] on a cold win [singing] at no [music] [singing] [singing] is the king [music]
of they look at [music and singing] and star shining [music] in [singing] the east and [music] and
the earth. [music] He gave great life. And so [music and singing] we contin [music] [singing] Noel,
Noel, Noel. [singing] Lord is [music] the king of Isel [music] [singing and music] to the northwest
over Bethlehem. [singing] [music] It took [singing] his first [music] and all [singing] and
right over the [music] place where Jesus [singing] lay. Noel, no. [music] No. El
[music] [singing] is the king of Isel. [music] [music] >> [music] [music] >> Let us [singing] with one
accord sing praisees to [singing] our heavenly Lord. Lord that [singing] heaven
and [music] earth and [singing] with it Noel. [singing] Noel, Noel, [music] Noel. Lord is [music] the [singing] king
of Isel. [music] [singing] I I I love kicking off. What it's all about. We have one more brief presentation. So much more probably I learned from I'll be saying in my comments a little
Always hope for the best. Constantly communicating has made it very very easy. Central picture celebration. >> [applause]
>> Everything gets shot. >> [applause] >> I got to give another shout out. I'm looking for the lights. Everybody's texting. That's a tough So, I'm going to ask for a motion and a
second for the approval of the minutes of November 20th executive session and November 20th regular Meeting >> motion Fran >> second. John >> Mary, can you take a vote, please? >> Yes. >> Miss Pala, >> yes. >> Miss Kennedy, >> yes. >> Miss Benedictus,
>> yes. >> Mr. Henry, >> yes. >> Mr. Maljeri, >> uh, he's on the phone and let's hear what he says. Mr. Maljeri, >> yes. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mesmer. >> Yes. >> Miss Ayanna, >> I'm going to abstain as I wasn't here.
>> Okay, we're going to move to reports. Okay. So, Mike, >> yeah, I'll handle the finance committee report with uh Mr. Edwards out. So, the finance committee met on December 8th at 4:45. Uh in attendance was myself, uh Mr. Edwards, and Mr. De Benedictus. It
was a rather quick meeting. We talked about state state aid legislation. Mr. Edwards informed the committee that he has not heard back from the attorneys, and he'll follow up with status. Uh Mr. Edwards informed us about our 2024 and 2025 audit. Um there were
no audit recommendations which is a great thing. Um there were a couple of uh things of note for us to look for in uh 20 2526 budget that we'll be considering when we work on that budget.
We looked at the 2627 budget. Uh Mr. Edwards informed the committee that enrollment projections have been completed and the staffing projections are going on uh as we speak. So, we're kind of in the thick of things with budgeting season for next year.
Uh couple more things. Uh we had some new advertising agreements. Uh one advertising agreement was from Renegade Heating and Cooling Bus ad on a three-year deal. Another is Jag Physical Therapy for a football banner for both high schools for a three-year
commitment. And uh third, we have My Guy Plumbing with two stadium banners and two arena banners uh at both high schools. So uh additional advertisements are a great way that we try to put some extra revenue in our budget. So that was
a big win. Uh besides that, the date for the next meeting has not been assigned and it'll be established after our reorganization meeting in January. >> Thank you, Mike Ally. Um the facilities committee met on
December 8th at 4:15. At the meeting was myself, Mr. Mesmer, Mr. Edwards, Mr. Pecurio, Mr. Kapor, Mr. Dubich, Miss Garlotti, Mr. Williams, and Mr. Eer. Um we discussed the Warren Wolf air
conditioning. Mr. Uer provided the committee an update um the completion of work, including a change order work for the roof drain, and he noted that all inspections passed. the Herbertsville air conditioning project. Mr. Eer um discussed the outstanding items and
specifically the need for pads and a condensing unit and the installation of a boiler pump over Christmas break. The Osborneville kitchen edition, Mr. Williams reported to the committee that the project is almost wrapped up. He noted a final
punch list verification needs to be completed before the closeout documents can be issued. the Midstream's air conditioning project. Mr. Williams provided the committee an update with the results of the electrical monitoring. Um he noted that the results show there's no need for a service
upgrade. However, the electrical engineer is doing one final review of the solar systems impact on the study to further understand what additional load is available for the district's future considerations. Mr. Williams also mentioned scheduling for punch list walkthrough and outstanding equipment
repairs to be scheduled over holiday break. Osborneville air conditioning. Mr. Williams informed the committee that the schedule for the punch list walkthrough and outstanding equipment repairs will be scheduled over holiday break and
long range plans. We discussed Mr. Edwards informed the committee that the New Jersey Department of Education longrange facilities plan system is still in beta testing with rollout being projected sometime in January to February. Our next meeting date will be established once we have our committees
after reorg in January. >> Thank you, Ally. Dr. Anderson, CNI, please. >> Thank you, Miss Ceron. So, the CNI committee met on December 8th at 4:30 p.m. In attendance were Mrs.
De Benedictus, the chairperson, Mr. Henry, Mr. Maljeri, Miss Huey, Mr. Thompson, Dr. Tuaru, and myself. Um, we went over the agenda items. I reviewed the items for approval, which included travel and training, field trips,
student teacher placements, a club, and grant. Um, and next, we went over the high school program of studies. Mr. Thompson, secondary math and business education supervisor, highlighted two new AP courses for the 2627 program of studies. Uh those classes are
AP cyber security and AP business with personal finance. AP cyber security will provide students with an in-depth study across domains such as physical security, network and system security, device and endpoint protection, data and application security and detection and
response strategies. The course is aligned to the national initiative for cyber security education workforce framework. In the AP business and personal finance course, students will explore entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, accounting, and management through real world applications, case studies, and project-based learning.
This course is aligned to the national standards for personal financial education developed by the Council for Economic Education and the Jumpstart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy. Next, Miss Huey, secondary science and VPA K to2 supervisor, provided an overview of the new science
pathway, which now includes environmental science biology and a choice between chemistry, physics, and a new course entitled integrated science. Integrated science is a broad science course that incorporates earth, chemical, and physical science standards. This is aligned with changes
to the science graduation requirements with the NJSLA science assessment. Miss Huie also provided an overview of the new creative media design course which allows students to explore both graphic design and photography. Next, I provided an update of the district goals uh for the 2526 school
year. Um and now I'd like um to project for you uh on the screen an overview of our attendance goal. I also provided an update of our um math goals. Uh Mr. Thompson provided an update on our district math goal as well as our
special education goal. Um, but for tonight I wanted to focus in on our attendance. Thank you, Aiden. So, um, our district goal is to implement projects, programs, and initiatives that
will improve student attendance by 2% or greater. Um, that's really important. It's an important goal because really the number of days a student misses is really important. It's not even important about how why they miss it, but the fact that they're not attending
school regularly has a huge impact on their success in life and in school. And it also is a primary cause of low achievement and a powerful predictor of when students may eventually drop out. So by the sixth grade along with GPA, absenteeism is is really an important
predictor of dropout rate. And so our number one goal is to improve student attendance. According to the New Jersey Department of Ed, students are considered chronically absent if they miss 10 or more school days in which the student um 10% or more of the school
days in which a student is enrolled. So if they're only there for uh say 90 days, then 10% would be nine days. But most students attend school for 180 days. So 18 school days would equate to a 10% um rate of chronic absenteeism. So
any student that has a rate of chronic absenteeism above 10% must create a corrective action plan and brick schools uses a multi-tered system of support to address absenteeism. And that is in alignment to our New Jersey statute. Um, which requires
schools to create that corrective action plan. And in that action plan, we need to include problems and barriers to school attendance. We have to develop recommendations to address the problems and barriers. We have to outline communication strategies to educate and inform parents. We have to establish
protocols on informing and engaging parents and also to review our school policies to ensure that they're aligned to improving attendance. And so there's three tiers and tier one or universal strategies is schoolwide. Our goal is really to create a culture of connection where school kids want to
come to school. And so we do that through a lot of positive reinforcement. We establish a system for monitoring attendance. And so we make sure that we are um flagging students that had been chronically absent the prior year and we're reaching out to them and
connecting with them and you know encouraging them and celebrating them when they're there. We also um identify students when they hit the five, nine and 15 day mark and we send out letters um and we connect with their families and with them. We have an awareness
campaign where we established this as a district goal. The first day of school, Dr. Frell went to every faculty and talked to them about uh attendance and and improving attendance. Um we shared slides about attendance at back to school night. we've included in our
school newsletters and at conferences which we had held in November. We shared some resources from attendance matters um about the importance of regular attendance with parents. Um schools do assemblies, they do rallies, family nights, PTA events, all the things that
schools do to uh create that culture of belonging, that culture of connection. We recognize and reward good attendance and perfect attendance. Um, we even recognize home rooms with with strong attendance. Um, and give them incentives
like Brick Memorial uses Mustang money mang, um, at Lake Riviera, they use Golden Laker loot and there's excellence in attendance awards. Um, we really try to work hard to implement and expand incentives like tickets and um, raffles
and we tell the kids you have to be here in order to win. So that encourages them to come too. um in fact making announcements over the loudspeaker recognizing them and their birthdays. Also, um some of the strategies we use to get kids to to come to school. Um in
terms of tier 2 targeted support, we increase communication and outreach. Um when students hit two days absent, especially if that occurs in September, we reach out immediately. Um we make uh those phone calls and we use our auto
dialer. uses the nurse. We reach out when kids have consecutive absences and we we, you know, check on them to see how they're feeling. Um because we don't want kids to come in sick, but we want to make sure that they know that it's important to us that they're here. Um we
send out personalized letter. I know one of our principles sends writes messages, handwritten messages on the letters that she sends sends out. Um, we have an attendance committee in every school that carefully monitors attendance and then makes adjustments based upon the
percentages each month when they review the data. We even have peer mentoring programs. Um, Osborneville has a program called Club Connect and the kids uh have mentors and um they celebrate once a month after school um the success of of
them being in school regularly. Um, we make contact to parents weekly, bi-weekly, and even our attendance team members. Spend time uh at 504 meetings, INRS meetings, CST meetings, talking about the importance of attendance. And when you get down to tier three and
you're really concerned about a child's attendance, when they hit beyond the 10day mark, um, we really create personalized action plans and we have daily student check-ins with counselors. Um, and we link families to community services and even have our attendance
officer visit home um, to see how we can support kids and get them to attend school regularly. And so in January, we'll be sending home a parent attendance survey to find out and identify some of either the barriers to why kids are not coming to school. um
whether it be a family responsibility or sickness or transportation issues or whether they're there's an aversion to coming to school because they're struggling academically or behaviorally or they have anxiety whether they're just not engaged because they lack um
pure or adult relationships and a connection to school or whether there's just a misconception that ah two days a month isn't so bad um because believe it or not that's what the kids feel like ah I got two days. I I used to hear from my own son and I'd be like, "No, no, no,
you don't have two days." Um, but they they tend to become lax if they if they're not monitored carefully. And so we use a menu. Schools pick and choose from the menu on how they're going to create their plan based on
their data. Um, and we are moving the needle. Um, we went from 22 23 school year from 47% of the kids out 10 or more days to only 18.7% and we're going to move that needle even more this year. We haven't gotten that data yet. Um, that's
data will come out on our school report card in April when that's released by the state, but we know that we're improving attendance. We're we're moving the mark. Um, and you'll be able to find our each schools has to create that corrective
action plan and it'll be linked under on my website in the curriculum department uh tab on the brick school's website um by school. So, you can take a look at the school's uh chronic absenteeism corrective action plan. Um, and that's
it. report. >> I did report out I you know just other than telling >> Dr. Ferrell policy and hear George clapping from the phone uh the policy
and planning committee met virtually on uh December 16th this past week on I think it was Tuesday. Uh president was our chair Mr. Benedictus, Mr. Aljiri and Miss Pala and myself and we reviewed the mandated policies up for first read only
this evening. I'll jump right into this month. You know I I have many people to recognize and congratulate but first I want to extend a warm congratulations to Mrs. De Benedictus and a sincere welcome to Mr. Michael
Masterio, our newly elected board of education members. So, congratulations. >> I look forward to working with both of you in the coming year. I also want to thank Miss Ayanna for her service to the board, especially her leadership as
board president this past year. As I said before, I hope you won't be a stranger to our schools, and I know you'll continue to make a difference supporting our district. Your commitment, dedication, and service to the students of our district is much appreciated. And I've said many times
before, serving as a volunteer board me member is demanding role that requires immense time and commitment. In fact, Mr. De Benedictus has putting in a commitment to New Jersey School Boards Association lately and was recently recognized by New Jersey school
boards. I think you hit all the required benchmarks for certified board member. So congratulations. I know. >> Yeah, I know that takes a lot of time. Mrs. Ballo has been very active with school boards and those meetings and uh
all the times and hours of commitment to get those certifications uh is really a commitment on your part. So thank you and the board I know and the school district thanks you for doing that. Uh and we've heard a little bit from our student reps, but I just want to recap.
You know, congratulations. Our fall season was very, very successful. Uh, Brick Township High School. I'll start with first, girls and boys soccer and girls volleyball division champs. Uh, Olivia Russell, Ocean County freshman
cross country champion this past fall. Um, BTHS cheer team got voted the fans choice for uh, best cheer squad in Ocean County. and the Brick Township Marching Band, region 7 champions, which is
Central New Jersey, and New Jersey state champions and Atlantic Coast Champions. So, congratulations. Congratulations to our co-op. We have a co-op between both high schools for our gymnastics teams. It's the first undefeated 10-0
uh gymnastics team, a South champions, state finalist, and finished ranked seventh in the state. Uh Liberty Kenny and Sheay Wagner receiving first team allstate honors. So, congratulations uh to them as well.
And congratulations to our Brick Memorial High School uh football team. uh most memorable and successful season, one for the record books, a south champs, Central Jersey group four sectional champions, uh state regional finalists, numerous Mustangs receiving
all shore and all state honors, as well as coach Curry, who recently announced he was stepping down, receiving coach of the year awards honors as well. And Brick Memorial High School boys soccer winning the division championship. I think it was B South for them.
and congratulations to them. [applause] Thank you, George. And of course, the last few weeks, you know, um we've been treated with very impressive fall drama productions. Uh a Midsummer's Night Dream at Brick
Township High School and Legally Blonde Jr. uh were both awesome. Congratulations to the cast and crew of both of those uh high school productions. So, thank you. Um, and kudos to our National Honor Society members that were recently inducted in both high schools. So, congratulations
to them as well. And just finishing up with the holiday season in full swing, I've been incredibly fortunate to attend uh a number of holiday coral and band concerts at many of our schools. Last night, I was at actually Brick Memorial
High School as well. Um there's no better way to get into the holiday spirit than attend a few of these performances. Each performance has been just fantastic. You see the dedication and the hard work of all our students, teachers, staff, and and the people
behind the scenes as well. You get a chance to see them. I walk around usually with the principal or Dr. Anderson to go up to either the coral director or the band director and I now know break a leg, not good luck, right? You don't want to uh jinx them. So, it's break a leg, but you see them preparing
up until the last minute doing uh mic tests and practicing backstage. And uh you know, I know we see for a glimpse, but the passion, energy, and the creativity on display uh during these performances is just awesome. It's a
celebration for our whole school community and and the spirit of the season. And you know, I know we talk a lot about test scores and they're very important and student performance is very important, but at our heart and
very important at the heart of it is what our students do co-curricular wise as well >> because we always look at educating the whole child, the whole student. And I for one have as a superintendent always
enjoyed that part of the job. It's the it's the easy part. Um, last week we announced our governor's educator of the year and educational services professional uh of the year awards for this school
year to 2526 school year to the PowerPoint Aiden. Uh, we sent it out on Twitter or X and uh, it's been on our website and we always honor them with a huge ceremony that Dr.
Anderson and the CNI department do a phenomenal job putting together in May. Um, and I don't know where it's usually at one of the high schools, right? I don't know where. It's at Brick Memorial. Thank you, Mayor. It'll be at a brick memorial this year at the May board meeting where we recognize our
teachers of the year and our educational professionals of the year. >> And then the educational services. >> So, congratulation to all of our staff that received these awards. Uh it's wonderful recognition uh for the time and commitment that our staff do put in
to all of our students uh in the district. Congratulations. >> And lastly, happy holidays. As we step into 2026, let's carry forward the kindness and resilience that defined our brick schools community. We owe a debt of
gratitude to our counselors whose dedication ensure that our families in need of support during this holiday seasons uh is is received. During the holiday season, you see it from our students to our staff to our parents to
our community members. It's a tough time for many. Whether it's a financially tough time worrying about gifts for your students, whether it's a tough time uh to put food on the table or a tough time emotionally and psychologically uh for maybe loved ones that are not
celebrating uh this time of year with us. I I ask all of us to recognize those because all of us uh during the holiday season can use that smile and use that support. And I know in our school district, we have staff members that do
that regularly. And we have alumni that I know that have donated time, money, and resources from Thanksgiving onto the Christmas holidays so that our community and our families can enjoy the holiday season. The new year is more than a
calendar change. It's an invitation for a set to set fresh goals and believe in our shared potential as a district. I know I speak for central administration and the rest of the district, but we remain deeply committed to working alongside our students, our
staff, and our families to make this year the best year yet. Happy holidays. Best wishes to you and yours for peace, happiness, and health in the new year. First public comment session on agenda items only. This will be the first
opportunity for the public to comment and will be for agenda items only. The board invites thoughts and reactions on agenda items. Each participant is asked to give his or her name prior to making a statement. All statements shall be directed to the presiding officer.
Comments shall be limited to five minutes. The board will not during the public portion of this meeting discuss matters involving employment, appointment, termination of employment, negotiation terms and conditions of employment, evaluation of performance of
promotion or disciplining of any specific or prospective or current employee and or students. Would anyone like to get up? I'll ask one more time. Anyone like to get up and say anything? Okay, moving
on. Dr. Anderson, curriculum and instruction. >> Thank you, Miss Zaneron. Under curriculum instruction, the superintendent recommends that the board approve the following items one through five. >> I'm going to need a motion and a second, please.
>> Motion, Victoria. >> Second, Fran. >> Any board comments? >> Yes. I um [clears throat] I I was so thrilled to read about number four um about the mental health awareness club
at Brick Township. And I really want to um shout out the the uh new advisors um uh Shivak and Spanola because in Brick um we like to follow the research
for our students success and you know the mental health um crisis uh since the pandemic has been very impactful on our students and I think this is just a a fabulous
um leadership role for these adviserss to take to reach out to the kids to make that connection. And I suppose all those club members will be in school 180 days this year. [laughter] >> Let's hope.
>> Thank you, Victoria. Anyone else? No. Mary, a vote, please. >> Miss Pala, >> yes. >> Miss Kennedy, >> yes. >> Miss Benedictus, >> yes. >> Mr. Henry. >> Yes. >> Mr. Maljuri.
>> Yes. >> Yes. He said >> Mr. Mesmer. >> Yes. >> Miss Ayano. >> Yes. >> Dr. Anderson. Hum. Human resources. >> Operations. Oh, we doing operations. How am I not?
>> Sorry about that. Operations, please. Under operations, uh, the superintendent recommends that the board approve the following items 1 through 16. Any um I need a motion and a second, please. >> Motion. Ally. >> Second. Fran.
>> Any board comments? >> Yes. I just wanted to um thank VMMS PTA for their donation to um the school of the flat screen and the anonymous donor also to VMMS and to thank Hackinac
Meridian well mini wellness program for the grant number 10 11 and 12. Thank you. >> Yes. I'd just like to make the point about the PTO's uh PTAs, Kristen. Uh nobody can replace what our
PTAs do for us in this district and we are every month just blown away by your generosity and just so grateful for the role you play in our kids' lives. Thank you. >> Anyone else? >> A vote. Mary, please. >> Wait, did you say something?
>> Sorry, Fran. >> That's okay. and also the generosity of our parents when it comes to PTO's and PTAs because the money just doesn't like magically appear. It is a lot of hard work from our parents and our students as well who who sell the cookies and and
the wrapping paper and the popcorn and all the things and the grandparents who really don't want 9,000 rolls of paper. And we just thank you guys so much everybody who contributes. Thank you. Is that it?
>> A vote. Mary, please. >> Miss Piccolo, >> yes. >> Miss Kennedy, >> yes. >> Miss Steven, >> yes. >> Mr. Henry, >> yes. >> Mr. Maljeri, >> yes. >> Mr. Mesmer, >> yes. >> Miss Ayanna, >> so I'm going to have to abstain on
number four, item 11457. Number five, 216463 216589 216 477 216572 216571
216573 You're going to miss me, right? And the rest Yes. [laughter] Okay. Dr. Anderson, human resources. Thank you, Miss Sanon. Under human resources, the superintendent recommends that the
board approve the following items 1 through 33. I'm going to need a first and a second, please. >> Motion Frant. >> Second, Ally. >> Any board comments? Seeing none, Mary, vote, please.
>> Miss Pala, >> yes. >> Miss Kennedy, >> yes. >> Mr. Benedictus, >> yes. >> Mr. Henry, >> yes. >> Mr. Maljeri, >> yes. >> Yes. Mr. Mesmer. >> Yes. >> Miss Ayan.
>> Um, I have to abstain on number one, two, five, six, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 14. The rest, yes. Sorry. >> Okay. Dr. Aners, >> we want I think we have a couple of new
hieries. I know we have our new supervisor of special ed here, Miss Timmons. We want to welcome as well. and Mr. Fiser. We have a few more new hirees here we want to welcome and congratulate. >> Yeah.
>> Welcome. >> Are there any new hirees? Any other >> want to make sure we didn't miss anybody. Well, congratulations. Welcome. >> Y >> we're fortunate to have you all. Thank you. >> Okay. Dr. Anderson, policy and planning,
please. >> Under policy and planning, the superintendent recommends that the board approve the following item. One, >> I need a motion and a second. >> Motion, Aliy, any board comments?
>> Um, I just wanted to make a comment about the one uh library material policies. I know that we had to get a first read on the book by the end of the year. I look forward to the new policy
committee starting with us in January and really um you know working with that policy but I know we had to get it on the books by December 31st. >> That's all. >> Anyone else? >> Yes. Um
so this one yeah um so the the 25 35 it my biggest thing since I've run has been that
I believe that our parents should have a say and that my I I have this silly little saying and it is that I do not co-parent with the government. I don't do that here. I don't expect any of you to. I have two students in the district.
Those are my kids. Those are your kids. And it really upsets me, I guess, is the very like mild term to use. when we are supposed to have local rule and we are supposed
to as we always say keep brick brick and do as we think is best for our students and then we have others I mean our our own 10th legislative district voted this down and
it really just at my core makes me so upset that we cannot properly govern ourselves that we have to do we have to follow along and we have to do what the state says.
And I really hope that we can make this more brick. do what we what we feel is best because we all have to be able
to know that we we release our children. They are our most prized possessions and know that that they're going to be out and they're going to be able to be safe and and be able to do the things that we
feel are okay and that they're they're they're being watched over. And if we can't do that in the schools, where else can we? And it just I'm going to get off my soap box, but Oh, is that it? Okay. Sorry. Sorry.
Sorry. Anyone else? >> Everyone's good. Okay. Mary, I'm going to need a vote. >> Miss Pollo, >> yes. >> Miss Kennedy, >> yes. >> Miss Benedictus, >> no. >> Mr. Mr. Henry. >> Yes.
>> Mr. Maljeri. >> George. How are you? Voting on policy and planning. >> Hello. Uh, we lost him. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Mr. Mesmer, >> I abstain. >> Yes, I
>> am abstaining only because I'm not going to be here for the second reading. So, I don't think it's fair for me to say yes or no or put it an opinion in for the board. So I am abstaining for that reason. That's it.
>> Passes 31. >> Okay, here we go. [sighs and gasps] Ready for our second reading. This is the second public comment. I'm sorry. >> I know. Reading on my mind. This is the
second opportunity for the public to come comment. Each participant is asked to give a her his or her name to make a statement. All statements shall be directed to the presiding officer. Comment shall be limited to five minutes. The board will not during the public portion of this meeting discuss
matters involving employment, appointment, termination of employment, negotiation terms, conditions of employment and evaluation of performance, promotions, disciplining of any specific or prospective or current employee and or students. Does anyone
have a comment? Anyone like to get up and say anything? Say it one more time. Oh, good. Go right ahead. >> I got shocked. Sorry. Um, so my name is Kristen Sts and uh I have three opportunities for our PTAs to get some
money. Two are guaranteed. One is >> really good. I think the odds are good. Can you hear me? >> Okay, you're pointing at me. >> Got a big grant. Give me a second. I'll tell you about it. [laughter] I said, well, the first one I wanted to
talk about, I didn't put into the the air here, and maybe I should have. We would have won, but the National PTA did have a new um product partnership with Happy Coffee. They were giving away a million boxes of K Cups. I was hoping we were going to win. We did not, unfortunately. But, um,
a school district in our county did. Uh, so Bayville did win. I'm very jealous. The pictures are great. So, we've applied for a lot. To only lose two so far is pretty darn good. The one we did win though, however, is the uh safer internet day grant. They just posted
this one on December 7th, which I believe was last Sunday. Uh it's a partnership that they have with Connect Safely. They're offering grants up to $1,000 to implement. It can be either a student program, uh classroom activity, a family night. You could do it during your announcements. The deadline to
apply is December 31st. All you really have to do is give them your contact information and how you want to implement internet safety with your students. I applied the 7th. We found out the 11th we were approved and the checks in the mail. And you can do it however it's best for your schools. So
everybody should apply. It's [cheering] really easy. I've never written a grant in my life before and we're winning them all. So when I tell you they're easy, they really are that easy. >> Um two other ones. I know I spoke with you Dr. referral about this one, but the New York Life Insurance Company, they have a grief sensitive schools
initiative. I met one of their ambassadors at the convention and they've followed up with me since. Um, and it's to raise awareness about childhood bereavement and connect educators with free evidence-based resources. It could be in person, it could be a virtual staff presentation that they will give you this all the
tools that you need um to help support those students. It could be in person, it could be virtual, and there'll within a week of having your presentation, they'll mail you a check for 500 bucks for your PTA. So, it's something to consider. And then the last one I just This is more so for the high schools,
though. But Empowerly is also a national PTA program uh partner. They provide free college uh admission webinars for families. And they create everything for you. A website, landing page, flyers, email templates. All you have to do is share it. And for every PTA member that shows up to your event, whether you do
it in person or virtually, they'll give you $15 to your PTA for every family that attends up to $3,000. So they're all all three of these are on our website. It's occas.org. Everything's there. If you have questions on how to apply, I will gladly
help you through it. And closing out, uh, Founders Day, don't forget about it. What are you waiting for? Buy your tickets. >> February 18th. February 18th, right? >> 17. >> 17. He would have been a day late. >> Day late. [laughter]
>> Anybody else have any comments? >> Oh, no. That's a good point. Our brick high school band is performing at the founders day down in >> what is that? The com what is the name of that? Clarion Hotels. Thank you. >> Okay. No one else. Closing that and I'm
going to board comments. John Henry, do you have any comments? >> I do. So, the students were amazing. The performance, it's just another example of the talent that is roaming the halls in brick schools. Every time I see a performance or I go to a play or I see
other artistic uh performances, it just is amazing. Equally as such, athletics as well. You can see that again I believe the arts, the athletics in our school runs parallel to the academic success and and
and performances in our school and it's credit to the teachers, the staff, the support staff that is helping the students achieve those goals. So amazing jobs that I see. I'm also want to comment on the curriculum instruction committee that I'm I'm serving on and every single time that I'm on the
meeting, I hear great things. I see the needle moving further and further in a very positive direction. I am definitely impressed and I wish that everybody can see what's really going on to in the public because it's just an incredible staff here. I'm so proud to be on that
committee and also serving on this board in Brick Schools that I think is an excellent place to be. So, uh, congratulations to the the new staff members. Okay. Sure. You're going to do an excellent job because it's a great school. And for the folks who are leaving, the staff members, I wish them
well in their new adventures and and everything else is I think has been said here in terms of congratulations. So I just want to wish everybody a a very happy holiday and a very safe ride home tonight as well. So thank you
>> Fran. Yes. Um, welcome to all the new hires. We are so so excited to have you. Um, and uh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh, you guys. I am so
elated with how awesome that the um, Brick Memorial um, Legally Blonde was. I got to I know I if I never hear that song again, it will. my daughter was on the um
on the crew and she was amazing. And I just want to say a huge thank you because their last performance was supposed to be snowed out and I am so grateful to how awesome everybody was that they were able to pivot because
some of these some of these kids they're graduating early. So that was their absolute last performance ever and they were so upset because some of their people couldn't be there and I am so grateful that we have
amazing staff members who were able to pivot and we were able to have it on Monday instead of the Sunday which should have been snowed out. So huge thank you to everybody to Mr. Saluca to like to everybody who made it happen. Um
as a and I'm super grateful because I would not have been able to see it. Um, so thank you. And um, I also I feel like I have to explain myself a little bit. Um, I as a parent I was sitting in those
seats. I I came to all the board of ed meetings and I read everything and I still to this day consider myself a bit of a nerd. I like to read everything and they like to understand. I read all of
my kids books that are assigned. I check all of their Google classrooms and their Genesis. I look at everything and I make sure that I know what they're seeing, what they're reading, and what is assigned because that is, as I said,
that's my that's my kid. Um, and we have to do that as parents. Thank you, George. Um, as parents, we have to do that. We can't always just
as as amazing as our teachers are, as amazing as our staff is, we can't always just leave it to them because my okay might not be your okay. And we need to all understand that we have different
levels and we need to do our due diligence as parents and we need to understand that we we can't just assume because when you
assume you know what happens you know um but we also need to make sure that when things like like this bill and I I urge you guys to read it. I urge you all to read what it is that the problem that
personally I have is that if if a parent, a student, whomever complains about some sort of reading material that they have found in a library that there is a committee which is amazing that is that is made up. But
that that reading material is to remain on the shelves for 5 days. Well, I'm sorry, but we all know what's going to happen. That is going to be the absolute most famous book for for whatever that
distance that that duration of time is. And I'm working to see if we could possibly have that removed for that time that we pull it from the shelves and that we all discuss and if
it is deemed acceptable, great. If it's not, great. But we we can't just we can't leave it there and and let kids see things that they shouldn't. And that is my big issue with it. Um,
agree or don't, that's fine. But, um, that was why I voted the way that I did. Um, so, thank you guys. Merry Christmas, happy new year, happy Quanza, and happy Hanukkah. Thank you guys.
>> I just want to thank you, friend Natalie. Everybody should know that that policy is still in committee. It's just a first read. Uh France got many edits read it. Miss Pal McCallen, Mr. Maleri, we are all that's the process that has
always been uh at a board of ed. It goes through a myriad of girrations as far as changing language and looking at what fits brick schools. So I want everybody to understand it starts with a statute that you have to do some and then you build down to your own policy. You have
to discuss it with committee with board attorney and we look at what's best for brick. So I am very confident this committee and the new committee that established after the reorg meeting will adjust and amend that policy to fit so
that we are compliant as a public school district and that it fits the needs of everybody uh at the board of education. So, I want to clarify all the governor educators of the year. When I used to be on that committee, I
used to call you gooey. Did that make sense, Elise? Governor's office, right? and to the support staff. I really appreciate all the time that the committee takes to review your
applications and um gets privy to all the special special projects that you all do throughout the um school year. Um speaking of governor's teacher of the year, u Mr. Capone from Brick Township High School is a former governor's
teacher of the year and he just brightens up this room every time he walks in. and I really appreciate him and the kids tonight. Speaking of governor's teacher of the year, um, uh,
the Brick Township Green Team, Shade Tree Commission, Pickup Brick Conservation Commission, one other group. >> Ah, okay. Um, got together for our bianual townshipwide meeting on December
8th. And I'm very proud to say, speaking of governor's educator of the year, uh Mr. Tim Brennan was the uh joint commission's uh guest speaker and he talked about a program that he brought
to brick schools as a club many many years ago which has become part of our curriculum um which is the name of the program is uh hooked on fishing not on drugs and [snorts] as we look forward to
the next green year uh green fair next here. Um it's really exciting to know that our kids are um uh have an opportunity at school to really celebrate brick to really
understand our wildlife and our wilderness and to really have a great leader in Mr. Brennan, uh, who constantly works to get, um, grant funding and donations and all kinds of
other things to contribute to our kids. And that's the way it happens sometimes. We start as a club, we end up in curriculum, but whatever it is, it's great for our kids. And I'm glad uh that that happened in December with um the
green team. And the last thing I want to say besides merry Christmas, happy happy holidays, looking forward to 2026 is that Trenton has recently oaed uh a huge amount of grant funding to make
upgrades to municipal recreation uh property and to public school playgrounds. So, that's money out there. Go ahead, go get it. Thank you everybody. Enjoy your holidays. Ally. Okay. Um, I wanted to thank
everybody for coming. Kristen, you're a rock star. Steph, I'm stoked to see you out there. We haven't seen you in a while. Happy to see you. Um, uh, I wanted to say kudos to the drama BMHS drama players. I did get to go to
Legally Blonde. I'm sorry I didn't make Townships, um, play. Legally Blonde was amazing. Um, I wanted to thank Matteline for your time and your energy the last few years and thank you for your guidance this year as our president. Um,
I wanted to congratulate Fran on your certified board member um, appointment award whatever it's called the stat certified board me status. That's it. Thank you. status. Um we recently
attended Fran and myself and John Henry. We went to in the beginning of December the three Rs um the for roles responsibility and responsibilities and resources um a New Jersey school board's
meeting meeting and training. It's always great to go there and listen to get like a refresher of really what our job is and and it's actually quite appropriate tonight because it really our main role as board members is
policy. So to have something that we really want to discuss and dig our teeth into um it's it's really why we're here and um you know we we need to stay legally compliant which we do by passing
a first read and getting it on the books by December 31st and then we can jump back into it and really sink our teeth into it and um do what you've all put us here to do. So, um, it actually fit really well. Um, with the kudos that Dr.
Farrell was giving to all our sports teams, I did want to just shout out our um, >> what? No, no, no, no, no. You got all our schools teams, but the brick cheer and football AYF teams. Um, I'm I
apologize. I'm not as into the football for AYF as I am um, for the cheer. And uh I know that the the brick tier girls, I believe U8 and U10 girls are national champs. They won first place. I believe
the U12 and U14 girls came in second place. Um so all of those are our kids. Those are all brick girls. So kudos to them. Great job girls. They they did not help the attendance rates, however, because it is held for a week in Florida
during the school year, which I don't understand, but at least they brought home. They didn't go there to lose. I mean, they go there and they they come home winners, so you know. Um, okay. So, as a firsttime mom of a
senior, I want to wish everyone a happy new year. Welcome to 2026, which is the year my baby graduates high school. I cannot even believe that we are here in 2026. So, if you see me and I'm crying, I'm sorry that it's already like this is
crazy. Um, but merry Christmas to everyone. Happy Hanukkah. Happy whatever you um celebrate. Happy 2026 and thanks for coming. I'll see you in 2026. >> Every month, >> it's a mother's job. But I'm crying on
the corner. That's really embarrassing, but it's okay. Mike, >> I'll be quick. Um, happy holidays to everyone. Welcome to all the new hires. Look forward to working with each of you. Congratulations to all of our educators of the year, anyone who's won
an award. If you haven't come to the meeting in May, Dr. Frell, it's phenomenal meeting. And which high school is it going to be at? >> Brick Memorial. >> Okay. Brick Memorial in May. It's an awesome event. A lot of teachers come out. It's really It's great. Um, last
thing I want to say is Meline, it's been an awesome Don't cry. It's been an awesome two years serving with you on the board. You're one of the reasons I decided to run for the board of education for I if you don't work on the board, you don't really you can't
appreciate how much work uh Matteline's put in to this role. a lot of long conversations, a lot of heartfelt decisions, but everything you always made the decision with the kids in mind and the district and the parents and the
teachers, and I just applaud you for everything you've done. >> Thank you. >> And that's it. Happy holidays. >> So, so I have Mr. Meljerry on the phone and he still wants to speak. You ready, George? George, you there? >> Yes, please. Thank you very much,
President. Go ahead. >> I'll try to make this quick on the account of shoddy signal. Can you hear me? >> Yes. Make it quick. >> Okay. Thank you. Yes. Thank you. Um, >> first of all, I think it was missed. I apologize. I actually do on a related note voted yes for policy and planning
and Dr. Frell, thank you for the meeting that we had and I echoed the sentiments of Miss Kennedy and uh that Misty Benedict is for the policy as well. And um I guess the main thing that I could say aside from thanking everyone because I try to make a point about every meeting. Uh parents, teachers, residents, taxpayers alike, all that you
do, donate, uh those who made donations to the district, those who volunteer, those who work for the district, so on and so forth. U tying back to you quite frankly, Maline, uh President Ayan, thank you very much for all that you've done, and I'm sure that you'll continue to do uh in one fashion or another in
our district, in our community. Uh, I know I'll be seeing you across the street as I always do because uh because I've kn we've known one another since I was 5 years old. Uh, so I would say that I would miss you, but I know I will continue to see you and I look forward to it. And I'm sure this is not the last that Rick has seen of you. I'm sure that
we'll see more and better from you going forward and I look forward to giving you a a great big hug when I get back home. I apologize that I couldn't make it to the meeting uh in person. I'm in Peru with my grandmother actually. she uh for her health with my mother uh for the holiday for Christmas. And in that
spirit, merry Christmas to all of you. Uh happy Hanukkah uh in Quanza. Please pray for the people of um Bondi Beach, Australia for what manifested over there, the tragedy over there. And um trying to think of what else I could say, but I don't know if the signal is working. So, thank you for the
opportunity. Congratulations to everyone who won. >> Thank you so much. Okay. Um, Matt, do you just me? Anyone else want to say anything? >> Okay. First, I want to say congratulations, Fran, in three years. That's crazy that you made it that far.
I'm very proud of you because you ran with me and that's really a nice goal that you reached. I'm very, very proud of you. Three years is a short time to reach what you did. I also went to Legally Blonde and it was so darn cute. Those kids are so good. I mean, I didn't
make it to Brook High School, but I did make it to that one. And to see some of our special friends in it and doing such a great job. I It was incredible. Incredible. But now I have a little something I want to read. Hopefully I go through it. If I stop then it's done or
he's going to hit me with water. As I stand here tonight, I do with a full heart and deep sense of gratitude. Serving as president of the Bricktown Board of Education has truly been one of my greatest honors of my life. While my term on this board may be coming to an
end, my commitment to the children and the families and the educators of this district will never end. First, I want to extend my sincere thank you to our superintendent and our business administrator. You know, they've won all kinds of awards this year because they
are fabulous. We are not send selling any buildings. We are not um in in disarray. We He's gone and spoke at different forums for us. I mean, it's incredible how our fight has been and it
has worked so far. So, that was just a little side note to what I wrote, but and our administrator the same. Your leadership, professionalism, and steady guidance have helped navigate both calm waters and very challenging times. Your dedication to fiscal responsibility,
educational excellence, and doing what is right for the students has not gone unnoticed. I am incredibly grateful to have served alongside of both of you. To every member of our school staff, thank you to our teachers, principals,
administrators, secretaries, custodians, m maintenance crew, staff, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, counselors, nurses, and support personnel, which sometimes all get forgotten, but not for me because of a special reason. But um without your hard
work, dedication, and care for our students, our schools simply could not function. And this is so true. You show up every day, often going far be beyond but what is required and you make a lasting difference in the lives of our children. One of our greatest
successes during my time on the board has been to continue to focus on keeping parents actively involved in their children's education. When families and schools work together, students thrive. Brick Township has consistently demonstrated strong partnership between
parents, educators, administrators and lead to a stronger outcome for our students. And that's something that we should all be very proud of. At this time, one of my greatest challenges remain the lack of appropriate and equitable state funding for our students
of Brick Township. Our children deserve the same opportunities as students in other districts across New Jersey. While while the process has been made, the fight for the fair funding continues and it is essential that we remain strong advocates for the resources of our
students needs and and what they deserve. Although I'm stepping away from my role in the board of education, I'm not stepping away from this district, I will continue to remain active, particularly in supporting the children with disabilities,
a cause that is deeply personal to me. I also look forward to watching my grandchildren continue their education right here in Brick Township Schools experience the same dedication and care that has defined this district for so many years. Thank you to my f fellow
board members. I really do love all of you guys and I want to thank you for the support and times got rough for me past and present for all of your collaboration and comment uh commitment. I'm sorry I can't see. [laughter]
Um, thank you for thank you to the community for your trust and support and most importantly, thank you for allowing me the privilege to serve the students of Brick Township. This may be farewell from the p the board and the public
table, but it's not goodbye. Brick Township will always have my support, my advocacy, my heart, and I thank you all. God bless and merry Christmas. Thank you. [applause] Sorry. Sorry.
Okay. Um I'm going to read the calendar of events. December 23rd, 2025, early dismissal. December 24th, 2025 till January 2nd, 2026, winter school break, schools
closed. January 6, 2026, reorganization meeting at 6 PM. Um I do want to say one thing. Um, Victoria gave a really good comment. I did contact Dr. Ferrell because a lot of our public playgrounds are our playgrounds for the schools are
in disarray and uh there are grants out there and I found out about that exact same grant, Victoria, and told them. So, I that was one thing I was going to say, but we got to get them because we got to get our playgrounds fixed because the public also uses our playgrounds, you
know. So, let's do that. Okay. I need a motion and a second. Motion [snorts] Ali. >> Second for an >> and a vote, please. Mary Pala, >> yes. >> Miss Kennedy, >> yes. >> Miss Steven Addictus, >> yes. >> Mr. Henry, >> yes. >> Mr. Malerie,
>> yes. He's off. >> Oh, yes. Yes. He's still here. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mesmer? >> Yes. >> Miss Ayan? >> Yes. >> Thank you. Good night, everyone. Merry Christmas.