Happy. flowers. This is certific All right. You can use no problems here. I'd like to open the meeting. >> Not like that. >> Let's try that again. Uh, I'd like to
have a roll call, please. Mrs. Roberts. Miss Pala, Misty Benedictus >> here, >> Mr. Henry >> here, >> Mr. Malgi, >> Mr. Master Serio
>> here, >> Miss Kennedy, Mr. Mesmer >> here, >> Miss Pal is here, >> and Mr. Maler. Okay. On to the Open Public Meetings Act. Mrs. Roberts,
>> the New Jersey Open Public Meeting Law was enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advanced notice of and to attend the meetings of public bodies at which any business affecting their interest is discussed or acted upon. In accordance with the provisions of this act, the Brick Township Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be posted on the
administrative office bulletin board, the official district website and channel BTB20 and sent to the Ashbury Park Press, the Brick Time, Star Ledger, and Municipal Clerk's Office. >> Thank you. Uh, I need a motion and a second to enter executive session.
>> Motion, George. >> Second, Fran. All in favor? >> I >> Okay, thanks. Testing one, two. Testing one, two. Testing one, two.
I can't hear that. >> Yeah, we need to turn the audio on. >> 3 4 Testing. One, two, three, four. Test test test. Testing one, two, testing. As long as they're speaking up against the mic.
Yeah, but I think it was like just picking up else. the lesson. >> Oh, really? >> Testing. >> Testing one, two. >> Testing one, two.
Test test test. >> We just can't have you know when at least check check one two. >> It's not very loud. Testing one, two. Testing one, two, three, four. Testing one, two.
This is on. It's echoing against those. That's why. Yeah. >> Yeah. Yeah. Is that good though, Ross? Testing one, two. >> Testing one, two, three, four. Testing
one, two, three, four. Turn the sensitivity. I turn down volume. But it goes like this. That's at his school. I know. So yeah. So
yeah, always Where's the That's I wasn't trying to like >> do really well. I was having a great time with it. >> Yeah, it's fun. I I I like it because I don't take it too seriously. When I have a bad day, I don't like throw my clubs like some of my friends. I just don't
care. >> You don't throw your >> Oh, I'm sorry. >> You're welcome. Was at the seminar. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. I hope so too.
>> Just want to uh let everyone know we're going to start the meeting in about a minute. So, if everybody could just uh get seated. Thank you. ready. >> All right, we're back into the meeting. Uh, I'd like to ask everyone to please rise so we can salute the flag in a
moment of silence. I would like to ask everyone to take an additional moment of silence in memory of Jackson Mueller. Please keep the Mueller family in your thoughts and prayers. Please be seated. Okay. Uh, first off, we have Dr. Frell
with the student representatives. So we have a You learned something here. And you can always come back. So, thank you so much. >> My coaching voice didn't work. >> No, >> but I'm done. Now you're up.
>> Oh, I Well, it's easy now because I get to introduce Dr. Anderson to start our presentations, right? Are we starting them now? Dr. Anderson will start our presentations for our teachers of the year, our governor's education educators of the year, as long as along with our
support staff of the year. And uh this is truly great. Each year you look at all of our teachers and support staff and people here to celebrate. We really do have the best staff in the state and people that want to be in brick. Most of them either live in brick, went to
brick, taught, went somewhere else, came back because this is home to a lot of people. So I want to congratulate all the recipients tonight and thank them for their service to our district. Dr. Anderson You get to sit.
Welcome. My name is Dr. Anderson and as the director of curriculum instruction, I am thrilled to honor our recipients of the Governor's Educator of the Year program for the 2526 school year. The Governor's Educator of the Year
program aims to recognize educators who have gone above and beyond in their service to New Jersey's students. This program recognizes excellence, creates a sense of pride, and brings public educ attention to the work of outstanding
educators. The nomination process commences in November when each school community is invited to nominate teachers and educational services professionals. Using a rubric, each school committee evaluates the nominations and announces
their school representatives in December. Tonight, we gather as a community to honor these talented educators as May marks teacher appreciation month. First, I'd like to express gratitude to those important individuals who worked tirelessly behind
the scenes to create this year's Governor's Educator of the Year tribute. A big thank you to our principles, our administrative assistants, Chelsea Heptig, Don Skifo, and Sandy Byer. My elementary supervisor, Amanda Bey, the
tech team, and especially Janine Conland for capturing these special moments tonight. Above all, I want to extend my deepest appreciation to Fran Bristol, our TV teacher, who w worked with her students
to produce this year's video tribute. This video is not just amplifying the voices of our teachers and educational service professionals, but it also celebrates their unwavering commitment to our students and the teaching profession.
I would like now to ask the board and central administration to please relocate to the first row of seats so that you can enjoy our video tribute. And then we're going to do the lights. The community of Herbertsville Early Childhood Development Center is proud to
introduce Miss Brittany Flickinger as our teacher educator of the year. Miss Brittany is a phenomenal educator of preschool students, students who have all different kinds of abilities and she works with them with a group of talented
paraprofessionals and helps these students when they come in as three-year-olds grow. So when they leave us at four or five, they really have grown quite a bit. >> My educational philosophy would be um building strong relationships first and
teaching second. When I think back to my teachers that I had when I was younger, the ones who really stood out to me and made an impact were the ones who did just that. They made me feel loved. They made me feel safe. I felt cared for. And
that's what I want for my students. I want them to think back one day and think, "Oh, Mrs. Flickinger, like she really made me feel loved and I loved her classroom, loved coming to school." So that's what I want for my students one day. I feel like there have been so
many moments in my teaching career that really um when I think about it have molded and impacted me as a teacher. I can't think of just one that really has impacted me. I feel like all the
interactions um all the things that we do every day really have molded me to who I am today and how I teach in the classroom. The Community of Herbertsville Early Childhood Development Center is proud to recognize Miss Donna Miller as our educational
services professional of the year. Miss Donna is a speech therapist who works with our three, four, and five year olds and has done amazing work helping them when they come in as non-verbal to actually speak by the time they leave.
She is very patient and very kind and is willing to do whatever she needs not only for her students but also for the staff. She is a resource for us to help us with our young students and we are very appreciative of all she does for us.
>> Being recognized as educational services support professional of the year means a great deal to me here at Herbertville. It continues to motivate me to work with my peers, my students, and to continue to make a meaningful impact. What inspires me to come to work every day are the huge preschool smiles I see.
Definitely the big energy. That's a huge one. Most importantly, building communication skills and making them just love learning. I am honored to announce Miss Alicia as the Warren H. Wolf Governor Educator of the Year. She truly stands out
because of the incredible impact she makes on both her students and the entire school community. Every day she creates a warm and inspiring classroom where all children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Miss Alicia is not only an exceptional educator, but also a
leader and role model. Her dedication, compassion, and enthusiasm make her truly deserving of this award. The thing that inspires me to come to work every day is knowing that I'm helping the world's tiniest citizens
learn how to live in the world. I love being able to show children how to navigate their dayto-day. It's really exciting to know that I might be the first person that ever told them that the sun is a star. You know, it's very
cool to to know that each day that they come into school, they're experiencing something for the first time and I get to be the shepherd that helps guide them in that experience. >> I am honored to announce Mrs. Sharon Paramonte as Warren H.Wolf Wolf Educational Services Professional of the
Year. As a speech language pathologist, she goes above and beyond to design engaging, individualized therapy sessions that not only meet each child's unique needs, but also make learning joyful and meaningful. She supports students by tailoring interventions,
encouraging growth, and celebrating progress, while also supporting staff through strong collaboration, clear communication, and a willingness to share her expertise. >> It's an honor to be recognized by peers that um you work with every day that
work so hard themselves, and for them to recognize you for all of your hard work, it's very special. Every day I have the opportunity to make a small difference in my students lives. Some of them have very limited communication and we're, you know, learning how to use their
language and I get to be a part of that. >> From Drum Point Road Elementary School, we are proud to announce our governor's educator teacher of the year as Miss Tammy Helmstead. Miss Helmsteader is not simply just a classroom teacher. Miss Homesteader oversees our INRS process,
uh, works with all of our basic skills students, some of our most vulnerable students, and has continually created learning environments where those students are able to reach their full potential. She also oversees our afterchool tutoring program. She takes the lead as the coordinator in that. She's able to connect with students, but
she has a calm demeanor and a uh a deeply professional presence that really helps her set the tone for her classroom and to be a leader throughout our school community. >> My goal is to create a learning environment where students can reach their full potential. I'm inspired to
come to work every day to help students succeed and grow. As a reading interventionist and a coordinator, I love seeing my students gain confidence, make progress, take pride in their work. Knowing I'm making a difference keeps me motivated every day. My advice to a new
teacher would be to get to know your students. Um, work with them in small group, check in with them, have consistent routines, and um, catch those challenges early to give them the right support they need to grow. From Drum Point Road Elementary School, we would
like to say congratulations to Miss Mary Romanau, who is the educational service professional of the year. Miss Romanau is a par professional in our second grade classroom. She is the epitome of what it means to be a team player. Her teachers that she works with described her as calm, cool, collected, ready to
jump into any situation that the classroom needs. It's really that experience and that effort beyond her responsibilities assigned wherever she's needed. uh dismissal, staying later, making sure kids get on the right bus, uh helping out in the lunchroom. Uh Miss
Romano really is a a team player and a valuable part of our Drum Point uh family. She has helped me out uh in understanding uh as a new principal. She's helped me out understanding the Drum Point community uh what it means to be a Dragon, and we're thankful for her efforts there. >> What inspires me to come to work every
day is motivation, the staff that I work with, and especially the students. I build strong connections with my students by just being me. I live my life and my philosophy as treating people's the way people that I the way I'd like to be treated. Any student that
comes to me with an issue or problem knows that I will try to help them out in the best ability that I can. I also try to help them learn in the way they can learn, adapt the learning environment to their needs. Uh because each child can learn in their own way.
It is my honor to introduce Mr. Justin Fisha as governor's educator of the year. Mr. Fashina is an exceptionally dedicated, professional, and respected educator whose leadership positively impacts every corner of our school. He leads with humility and enthusiasm, and
he brings a sense of positivity to the whole school. In fact, he is known to send little notes to his colleagues to just recognize and congratulate them for things both in and outside of school. He's deeply respected by students, families, and staff for his integrity,
his approachability, and his genuine passion for teaching. EHY is fortunate to have such a dedicated, innovative, and inspiring educator. >> My educational uh philosophy builds around establishing strong relationships to start um because that's the
foundation of everything in my opinion. I believe that when students feel safe and supported and connected to you, I think that's where they perform the best. and just have that safety net that school is a is a safe environment for them and that they are happy to come to school. So, what inspires me to come to
work every day is honestly the kids. Um, all my life I've worked with kids from summer camps to youth sports. I just love working with children. Being a part of their growth and being a part of their educational experience, being able to have some sort of an impact on their
lives is very inspiring to me and it it's very rewarding work. and honestly hits the kids. >> It is a pleasure to recognize Miss Robin Collins as Emma Havens Young's educator service professional of the year. Miss Collins brings the positivity to Emma
Havens Young. She is known to always be there to welcome every single person with a warm smile and a big genuine welcome good morning. Her hard work and dedication and caring heart make a lasting difference upon everyone that she comes in contact with. We are so
grateful to have such a compassionate, hardworking, uplifting par profofessional as part of our Emma Havens Young family. >> I feel very proud. I've been in Emma Havens three years. I have worked with 13 um teachers in eight different rooms
and met so many wonderful people and all excellent teachers. So I was very proud to be in this good great company of people that work here at Emma Humans. I love when students can reverbally recite back to me the theme of a novel. They actually it's in their head. They may
not be able to write it down, but they can verbally tell me to see that growth and see that progress and see them learn. >> Jen Cornorfer is Lanes Mills Governor's Educator of the Year. As a first grade teacher, Jen Cornforfer exemplifies excellence in instruction. She's
dedicated to her students and she has an unwavering commitment to our school community. Miss Cornforfer creates an environment where young learners they feel safe, successful, and eager to learn. What truly sets Miss Cornfer apart is her passion for teaching and her deep belief in every child's ability
to learn and their potential. For these reasons, we love Miss Cornfer and we're so excited that she is our governor's teacher of the year. My educational philosophy is really um focused on the children and and their love of learning
and their love of school and and I feel like everything else falls into place if they have that that love of of school and learning. So I really try to um encourage the kids to uh to be themselves and to use their own their
own experiences in their everyday sentences and their stories and and I try to do fun things like play games instead of just doing workbook pages. Um I just want them to to to establish a lifelong love of learning. Actually,
>> Mrs. Jen Miller is our governor's educational services professional of the year. As a dedicated paraprofessional, she strives to provide consistent, compassionate, and highquality support to her students and the educators that she works with. Her commitment centers
on creating a safe and inclusive environment where all students are encouraged to reach their full potential. She takes pride in demonstrating reliability, respect, and strong communication with students and also being a part of the community. having both of her own children in our
building as well. Congratulations, Mrs. Miller. >> Receiving this recognition means that I'm doing a good job and they appreciate my work. When parents tell me that their kids love me and they send notes and they say I'm doing a good job and just
having kids give me a hug and letting me know that they know that I care. >> Midstreams Elementary School is thrilled to recognize Miss Jessica Markland as a governor's educator of the year. Miss Marklin is more than deserving of this award. She's a very hardworking and dedicated professional. Miss Marklin
inspires curiosity, builds confidence, and creates a classroom where every student feels seen, valued, and capable of success. I couldn't be happier to have Miss Jessica Marklin as Midstream's Governor's Educator of the Year Award winner. >> What inspires me to come to work every
day is trying to create that love of learning and that spark in my students. Waking up every day and knowing, oh, today we're learning about the Titanic. I know Bobb's going to love that lesson because he loves history. That drives me to get to work every day. I strive to create an environment where the students
feel valued and loved and they want to participate. There's a culture where it's okay to get things wrong because I think that's really really important especially in third grade. There's a lot of fear of being judged by your peers. So knowing that like our classroom is a family, some of us get things right,
some of us get things wrong and that's okay. And I think that usually by October they understand that and then once they understand that and their walls kind of come down that's where you see the the learning really transform. >> Midstream's Elementary School is thrilled to recognize Miss Lauren Old as
educational services professional of the year. Miss Odok is a very dedicated and hardworking guidance counselor. She does more than the typical counselor. She listens, she supports and guides students through some of the most important and sometimes most difficult moments of their lives. Her ability to connect with her students goes far
beyond her years of experience. I am more than proud to announce Miss Lauren Odok as our Midstreams Elementary School Educational Services Professional of the Year. >> Receiving this recognition is incred incredibly meaningful because it reflects the relationships I've built and the trust I've earned within my
school community. As a school counselor, so much of our work happens behind the scenes, supporting students through challenges, celebrating their growth, and helping them find their voice. This recognition reminds me that even the small everyday interactions can make a lasting impact and it motivates me to
continue advocating for every student's social and emotional well-being. Building strong connections starts with creating a safe, welcoming environment where students feel comfortable being themselves. I focus on listening without judgment and meeting each student where they are. I make it a priority to be
visible throughout the school day, whether that's in classrooms, hallways, or during lunch. So, students see me as approachable and consistent. At the heart of it all is authenticity. Students know when you genuinely care, and that's the foundation of every strong connection. Greetings from
Osborneville Elementary School. I'm excited to recognize Mrs. Terresa Keenan as our Osborneville Elementary School's Governor's Educator of the Year. Mrs. Keenan has served in a variety of capacities here, including in-class support, LLD, and pullout replacement.
She is literally all things Osborneville. She creates a positive and structured environment where all students feel valued, supported, and able to thrive. Mrs. Terresa Keenan is truly deserving of the Osborneville Elementary School's Governor's Educator
of the Year Award. >> I believe school should be a safe place for children to learn. I especially value building strong reading skills because I feel like reading is the foundation to everything and I want them to feel safe and successful coming to
school. Um I always feel very accomplished every day and I feel like making a difference makes inspires me to want to come to work every day. >> I would like to um introduce and honor Mr. Michael Mlelen, Osborneville
Elementary School's educational service professional of the year. Serving as a par profofessional, Mr. Mlen, known affectionately as Mr. Mike, has become invaluable and a beloved member of the Osborneville community. Though he joined our staff in October 2024, his impact
has been immediate, profound, and deeply felt by students and staff alike. Mr. Mike consistently goes above and beyond what is expected of his position. He willingly takes on extra duties, volunteers for evening and after school events, and supports staff with reliability and enthusiasm. For these
reasons and so many more, Mr. Mike Mlullen is truly deserving of the Osborneville Elementary School's Governor Educational Service Professional of the Year award. We are grateful for the heart, joy, and professionalism he brings to Osborneville each and every day. >> Receiving this award to me uh means that
I was recognized for the work I do and uh people appreciate it. The kids appreciate it. Um, and the school as a whole appreciates it. What inspires me to come to work every day is to make a difference in these kids' life and help
them grow up and mature. I build strong connections with my students by learning what they like. Um, being a help to them and just being there when they need help. And >> it is my honor to announce Miss Jenna Enriquez as our Governor Educator of the
Year Award winner. Miss Enriquez has been our art teacher for the past eight school years and in this time she has made a lasting impact on all of her students. Miss Enriquez in her role as our art teacher meets with each student weekly. Her art studio is a place where
students feel safe and valued and they are able to create and express themselves through various medias in the art format. We are thrilled having Miss Enriquez on our staff and we couldn't be prouder for her representing our school for this award.
>> So my educational philosophy is teaching the whole child. Um, yes, do I want to teach the standards? Of course. But I feel like for a child to be whole, we need to make sure that we're teaching every aspect of life. And art is the best place to do that, right? So,
teaching, you know, emotional stability, teaching how to be creative, teaching how to problem solve, making sure that they feel safe and happy in the space and environment that they're learning. And if I can teach the whole child, then I can help them learn and grow and reach
their full potential. I build strong connections by being authentically myself and that allows them to be authentically themselves and that's how we have such a great time in our class. >> And now it is my honor to announce nurse Katie as our educational services
professional of the year. Nurse Katie has been with Vetsowl for two years and in this role she provides medical assistance and support to all of our Mustangs. Nurse Katie is calm, cool, and collected at all times, and her medical
expertise is a valuable asset to our school. Congratulations, Nurse Katie. >> Receiving the award was a huge surprise because I haven't been in the school for that long, but it means recognition from a lot of the best staff that I've ever worked with. They support me in
everything that I do and are 100% behind me. I ask a lot of questions. I talk to them. I um acknowledge their feelings even if maybe they're not there because they're sick and they're just there for some TLC. I try to give them whatever they need at the time that they need it
and you know get to know them as a person whether they're five or 10 11. I like to know things about them. The kids inspire me. I love working with them. They're all special and unique and every day is completely different than the day before and I just have a lot of fun. And
I'm proud to introduce Holly Walker, our 2025 2026 Governor's Educator of the Year. She is a seventh grade teacher here for language arts and social studies and she's been teaching at Lake Riviera for 7 years. She inspires students of all different backgrounds. She has a great uh knowledge of pedigogy
and she truly meets every student where they are and grows them to their potential. She embodies what it means to be a Laker. She is compassionate, she's creative, and she's committed to the students of Brook Township. My educational philosophy is helping my students to understand and have
confidence in who they are as people and as academics. What inspires me to come to the lake every day is my colleagues. We all support each other and try to make one another rise to be the best that we can be for our students. And it's nice to be a part of a team. It's so hard for me to pick one teaching
moment that's had a lasting impact on me because it's every single time I see that light bulb go off in my students. from the first time to the one that happened about 20 seconds ago. They all just get tattooed on your brain and it makes it all worth it in the end. >> It is my pleasure to introduce Mrs.
Nicole Kadigloo as the Lake Ravier Middle School educational services professional for the 2025 2026 school year. She brings warmth and positivity. She also has this bubbly personality that brings humor into lessons. She works with every student in the same
calm demeanor. We call her in for different situations and she can adapt no matter what we ask her to do. Miss Kadigloo is really dependable. Students realize that they can depend on her during home room. She always has a group of students that come to check in with her. She sets them off and a good positive start to the day and continues
that throughout. She's always checking in. She helps any student, any staff member whenever they're needed. Receiving this award to me was an honor because it meant that my colleagues um they understand what it takes to do the
job that I do and that they're there to support us and they appreciate my dedication to these students. I make sure that the kids know that we're always there for them and that, you know, they mean a lot to us and every year, you know, we want to make sure that they're, you know, happy and
comfortable in our classroom and that we're there for them and that they know that we're there for them. This year's Governor's Educator of the Year is Rebecca McNellis. She's a sixth grade math and science teacher that has been working in Brick for 12 years. Rebecca has positively impacted students by
creating a supportive and inclusive classroom where all learners feel respected, challenged, and motivated. Rebecca inspires students with her enthusiasm for learning while setting high expectations and providing the support necessary for them to succeed. Her willingness to mentor and
collaborate strengthens our entire school community. >> My educational philosophy is a full circle community. So I went to brick schools. I was a student and coming back and teaching here is full circle. So I
try to empower my students to know that they're a vital part of the community and try to empower them to know that they'll be the leaders of our next generation. I build strong connections with my students by getting to know them inside and outside of the classroom. So, showing an interest in their life, um,
their hobbies, what they're up to, I think builds long lasting connections and builds a positive relationship. If I could give advice to new teachers, it would be really to practice self-care because this job is very rewarding yet very taxing. So, making sure that you're
your best self first, you'll then in turn be the best teacher for your students. Congratulations to this year's BMS Educational Services Professional of the Year, Deb Skadski. Deb stands out in her role because of her unwavering dedication to supporting students with
special needs. With more than 25 years of experience in education and the past six years at Veterans Memorial Middle School, as a PAR professional, Deb supports a wide range of students with diverse needs, often adapting to different situations throughout the day.
Despite the challenges and demands that come her way, she consistently approaches her role with a calm, patient, and caring demeanor. >> Respect this means a whole lot to me because it comes from my peers who I admired and who taught me so much throughout the years. My inspiration to
come to work today is my peers are the greatest and my students who I love to see learn and gain confidence and grow. When I leave school and I see my students now in jobs and shop right at the beach, working the boardwalk and now
I have some students that are seniors and talking about going to college. So that makes it makes me very happy. >> B Township High School is excited to recognize Mr. Darren St. Gene as a 2025 2026 Governor's Educator of the Year. Mr. St. Gene exemplifies excellence education. His teaching blends
creativity, rigor, and excellence, helping students make meaningful connections between history, current events, and their own experiences. His dedication, professionalism, and lasting impact on students make him truly deserving of recognizing him as Township
High School's Governor's Educator of the Year. Congratulations, Mr. Steen. My educational philosophy is pretty much putting the students first, making the connections and um making the information um seem as realistic to them as I can. I always try to use a lot of
humor and sarcasm in making those connections and having students laugh is a really positive thing so that they leave here with a smile. The way I build strong connections with students is probably making a connection. Getting to know them on a personal level rather than just giving them the content and
things like that. Once they know that I care, then maybe they'll care about the uh class itself. One piece of advice that I could give to new teachers is always come in with a smile and expect the unexpected. You may have the perfect lesson planned one day, but something could happen, fire drill, evacuation, or
just a really good conversation. So, just be uh ready to expect the unexpected and just go with the flow. We are proud to recognize Dr. Christine Valardi as our educational service sessional of the year. Dr. Dr. Christine Valardi is a valued member of our child study team and an exceptional school
psychologist. Dr. Valard's calm, compassionate presence creates a safe and supportive space for students, while her collaborative spirit makes her an invaluable resource for colleagues. Her dedication to both her students and her own professional growth makes her truly
deserving of recognition as our educational service professional of the year. Congratulations, Dr. Valardi. What inspires me to come to work every day is making a meaningful difference in the students lives. As a school psychologist, um building strong connections with students starts with
creating an environment that is safe and nonjudgmental. It is where they can feel like they're seen and heard. I focus on active listening and I take the time to understand their challenges, their obstacles, their thoughts, their motivations and that really helps the
students feel genuinely heard. This recognition is an honor. It means so much because school psychology is very often behind the scenes. It is supporting students well-being. It is helping teachers navigate and partnering with families to ensure every child has
the opportunity to succeed. And to have that work seen is deeply affirming. >> Brook Memorial High School is proud to present our 2026 Governor's Educator of the Year, Miss Maria Lupo. Miss Lupo has been a pillar to the Brook Moral High
School community for over 20 years. She is passionate. She is compassionate. She is empathetic. And she delivers her message of school pride and success building like no other that we have in
every way, shape, and form. Mrs. Maria Lupo uh is a perfect example of what it means to be a Brook Memorial Mustang. My philosophy has to be flexible to every everybody and everything. Um being a physical education teacher, uh we get every student in the gym. Um not four
walls in a classroom. It's a little bit more difficult, but um reaching every student in their own individual way. What inspires me as a teacher, I would say, is um a per the purpose of being here. Um it's definitely different from you know 2001 when I started to now but
um the sense of community the sense of family the sense of um you know the relationships you build with your students um working together and the support that you have from everybody. >> Brick Memorial High School is proud to present our 2026 Governor's Educational
Service Professional of the Year, Mr. Curran Fallon. He finds solutions to everyday problems and he approaches everything with a great sense of reliability and positivity and real uh a real genuine commitment to our entire school community.
>> I think anybody who dedicates their their college degree, their certification to to be a part of education, um there has to be something that we all share that does it for children. I once heard like meet your students where they
are and I think that has been the basis for formulating relationships with them. You know, I don't judge students based on who they are in a file or the reports that are written down on them. I like to meet them where they are on a daily basis because we all face challenges uh
previously to coming to school potentially over the weekends, the night before. And I just try and meet my students where they are and and create a approachable environment for my students to come and speak with me that's comfortable and hopefully without judgment and also to try and build the
foundation that they can be successful from. Congratulations, Governor's Educators of the Year. Congratulations. That was what beautiful video really captured our student centered teacher-led
community connected vision. At this time, our board of education members will report to the stage to present our teachers and educational services professionals with their awards. An official portrait will also be taken with our board of education president, Mr. Mesmer, Dr. Farrell, and their
principal. So, when I call your name, you're going to proceed down the aisle closest to the wall and ascend the staircase located on the right side of the stage. You're going to send that staircase
where you'll be given your award, flower, certificate, and shake our board members hands from Herbertsville Early Childhood Development Center. Teacher of the year, Britney Flickinger. and educational services professional
Donna Miller. Unfortunately, Miss Janick wasn't able to make it this evening. Um, she had a retirement party for her aunt and who inspired her to be an educator and she was speaking. So she was unable but sends her regrets and
can't wait to see this video from Warren H. Wolf Early Childhood Development Center teacher of the year. Alicia Kora and educational services professional. Shannon Paramonte from Drumoint Elementary School. Teacher
of the year. Tammy Helmsteader. and educational services professional Mary Romanau from Emma Havens Young Elementary School teacher of the year Justina Fish Justin Fishina and educational services professional.
Robin Collins from Lanes Mill Elementary School teacher of the year. Jennifer Cornforfer and educational services professional Jennifer Miller. Fortunately, Jennifer wasn't able to make it this evening.
From Midstream's Elementary School, teacher of the year, Jessica Markland, and educational services professional Lauren. from Osborneville Elementary School. Did I say that excited enough? Jame
from Osborneville Elementary School, teacher of the year, Teresa Keenan, and educational services professional Michael Mlen. from Veterans Memorial Elementary School. Teacher of the year are Jenna
Henriquez and educational services professional Kathleen Fanning. Nurse Katie from Lake Riviera Middle School. Teacher of the year, Holly Walker, an educational services professional,
Nicole Kadagloo. from Veterans Memorial Middle School. Teacher of the year, Rebecca McNelis, an educational services professional. Deborah Skinesis Skinesis from Brick Memorial High School. Teacher
of the year, Maria Lupo and educational services professional Curran Fallon. from Brick Township High School teacher of the year Darren St. John St. Jean
St. Jean and educational services professional Christine Valardi. Please join me in a final round of applause for all of our Governor's Educator of the Year recipients. At this time, we'll be taking some group
photographs and then the educational services professionals and teachers of the year will return to their seats. And at that time, we will introduce the district teacher of the year. Come right down this way. I'm so glad.
Thank you so much. Not yet. We got teacher of the year district. Okay. So, if you would please take your seats. Now, I'd like to introduce the teach district teacher of the year.
And don't worry, after the district teacher of the year delivers his message, we will then take a brief intermission so everyone can take pictures. Each year, the teacher of the year candidate
undergoes a rigorous application process for the Ocean County Teacher of the Year Award. A district committee comprising teachers, administrators, and community members evaluates these applications to select the Brick Township District
Teacher of the Year. The committee thoroughly reviews each candidate's professional biography, teaching philosophy, message, and educational leadership qualities. This task is quite challenging as all of our teachers are
incredibly deserving of recognition. In alignment with our district's vision, student centered, teacher-led, and community connected, this year's district teacher of the year is a dedicated social studies teacher at Bricktownship High School.
Mr. St. Jean brings an optimistic attitude to his US1 and advanced placement United States history class. Mr. St. Gene ensures that every student feels supported and challenged to achieve
their best. He is a teacher leader whose impact extends beyond the classroom. He is a cornerstone of the school community who mentors his new teachers, volunteers his time to chaperone school events, and serves on district committees. For these
reasons and so many more, please join me in congratulating the 2526 Brick Township District Teacher of the Year, Darren St. Gene. Thanks everybody. Good evening members of the board of education,
administrators, colleagues, family, friends, and members of the brick community. Before I begin, I also want to congratulate all of our building teachers of the year and education services professionals of the year for being recognized. This profession is built on teamwork, dedication, and
people who show up every day for students in ways that often go unseen. I'm incredibly proud to stand alongside such talented educators and professionals who make a difference in the lives of students every single day. Congratulations to all of you on this well-deserved recognition.
I'm truly honored and humbled to stand here tonight as the district teacher of the year. If you hadn't known me growing up, you probably would be absolutely stunned that I voluntarily stand in front of people every day for a living. I used to worry about everything. What people thought of me, did I say the
wrong thing, do I fit in? Am I good enough? Anxiety has a funny way of convincing you that everyone else has life figured out except you. I thought confidence was something people were born with. But I began to realize something important. Confidence isn't usually built through uncomfortable
moments, awkward moments, even embarrassing moments. And believe me, I had plenty of those. But looking back now, moments like that that matter to me because they remind me how far I've come. I learned that courage is not about being fearless. It's about moving forward anyway. My senior year high
school history teacher had this ability to push students beyond what they thought they were capable of. He expected us to speak up, think critically, and step outside our comfort zones. Even when someone, some of us clearly wanted to disappear and avoid eye contact. I was definitely one of
those students. But he saw something in me before I saw it in myself. He taught me that growth doesn't happen when you stay comfortable. It happens when someone challenges you, believes in you, and refuses to let you settle for less than your potential. That lesson stayed with me today. During my first couple
years of teaching, there were days I was more nervous than my students. I'd overthink lessons, replay conversations in my head, and wonder if I was doing enough. Teaching is not about perfection. Students do not need a perfect teacher. They need a real one. They need a teacher who admits when they
have when they make mistakes, a teacher who understands frustration because they've experienced themselves. A teacher who knows what it feels like to struggle with confidence. A teacher who listens and cares. shows up every day, even on the hard days. Students don't connect with perfection, they connect
with authenticity. Sometimes the best lessons are not the perfectly designed activities or flawless presentations. They come from seeing someone continued forward despite stress, mistakes, setbacks, or self-doubt. I think students need to know that they don't have to be perfect
because honestly, none of us are. Every student who walks into my classroom carries something with them. Some bring struggles nobody else sees. I understand those students because I understand self-doubt. That's why the mission of brick schools means so much to me. With brick schools being committed to
providing student centered instruction through teacher-led practice in learning environment that fosters interpersonal and academic growth to also promote student success by cultivating their unique talents and preparing them for the future. That mission is not just a statement hanging on a wall. It's
something I see every day happening in our district. Student centered instruction means students where students where they are. It means helping students recognize strengths they may not even see in themselves yet. It means understanding that success looks different for every child. Some
students find their voice through leadership, athletics or academics and others through finally answering a question in class after pretending not to make eye contact with me for an entire semester. teachers. Teaching humbles you quickly, but it also changes you. When you watch a student realize
that they are capable of more than they they thought, those moments are the reason why I love what I do. My parents taught me the importance of hard work, humility, kindness, and staying grounded. My sister taught me character is not something you turn on or when people are watching. It's how
you live every day. And my wife, who is my anchor, she supported me through every challenge, long night, stressful moment. She reminds me to keep going, keep taking risks and believing in myself even during moments of when I doubt myself. Also, becoming a father deepened that purpose even more. My
daughters, Delaney and Darcy, changed my perspective on everything. They made me realize that courage is often built in the smallest moments. Being willing to fall and get back up again, and being a dad has been the greatest joy of my life and also the greatest exercise in patience and negotiation skills.
Uh, I've had historical debates in my class. are easier to manage than bedtime discussions with a five and six-year-old and 8-year-old. Being a father reinforced the same lesson that drives me as a teacher. Young people need someone who believes in them before they fully believe in themselves. To to my fellow colleagues and administrators,
thank you. Teaching is never an individual accomplishment. The strongest schools are built through collaboration, trust, mentorship, and community. Exactly what our district mission mission represents. I'm incredibly fortunate to work alongside educators who care deeply about students who give
everything they have to this profession every single day. And finally, to my students, both past and present. Eric's one of them here. They are the reason this work matters. They've challenged me, inspired me, humbled me, and reminded me why education is so important. They have
taught me that growth is rarely perfect. Courage often looks quiet, and every student has the potential that's waiting to be discovered. So being named teacher of the year is an incredible honor. But more than anything, it reminds me how lucky I am to work and matters alongside people who care about kids. And tomorrow
morning, just like every other teacher here, I'll still walk into my classroom, answer questions I definitely wasn't prepared for. Because at the end of the day, education is just not about what students know. It's about who they become. So, thank you again for this incredible honor. I'm proud to be part of a district that believes in students,
values community, cultivates unique talents, and inspires lifelong learning every single day. Thank you. And so, thank you. Thank you so much for that inspiring message. Thank you all our governor's educators of the year. We
are so proud of you. Thank you for representing all the teachers who aren't here tonight but are in our classrooms who are working hard every day. We appreciate all of you. In honor of them on in May, it's teacher appreciation month. So, thank you everyone. And we're
going to take a brief intermission so you can take pictures and then we'll reconvene. Five five minutes. Uh five minutes. Thank you. This mic is hot. Good. Oh my god.
Hold on. Okay, we're going to get started in about a minute. Um, so this is the last time our student reps will be reporting out. Uh, so we wanted them to have the full attention of everybody, right? And yes, you could
keep your name plates. our assistant business administrator allowed that. That's a little parting gift. And I think we're starting with Michaela from Brick Memorial. Michaela, >> good evening everybody. I am getting over cold, so disclaimer, I might start coughing in the middle, but I will try
to get through it as quick as possible. I'm Michaela Gorhan, your 2025 2026 SGA president, and here's the BMMS report. BMMS would like to congratulate everyone being honored tonight for Governor's Educator of the Year and Educational
Professionals of the Year. During March Madness, VMMS students and staff compete competed in 32 team bracket based on weekly attendance percentages. Miss Pluscono's home room was the winning class. Congratulations to the following students.
Tegan Brennan, best fine art winner of the women's history month contest. Fire prevention contest winners Ryan Terrell, Sydney Dusac, Christian D'Angelo, and Natalie Farre. Saw conversation conser conservation poster
contest. Olivia car Carlson and Maline Janick. Tegan Brennan represented VMS at the eighth grade dialogue. The following seventh grade students received her certificates for participating in the Women's History Month art contest hosted by the Ocean County Department of Human
Services. Alli Rufino, Haley Month, Haley Fisco, Anthony Compost, Tien, Reagan Smith, Liam Rossy, Angel Chavez, Jamie Hernandez, Daisha Areza, Olivia
Watkins, and Emily Peterson. The math team finished up their final Sigma math competition of the year. It is worth noting that two VMS students received honorable mentions for having cumulative high scores in the nationwide contest. Congratulations to sixth grade
S Scott Aldorf and eighth grade Glen Corey. Third marking period PBSIS winner was team one. Mustang Madness attendance winners Miss Manka's home room one. Sale into summer is the next
attendance contest that will run from the middle of May to the middle of June. Congratulations to Amelia Pastor whose film entry for the New Jersey PTA reflection project made it all the way to the state level and won an award of excellence. Congratulations to Tegan and Brennan who represented VMS at the Ocean
School Boards Association 8th grade dialogue. On to the activities update. Sail to Summer is the next attendance contest that will run from the middle of May to the middle of June. 8th grade dance will be held on May 29th. Good luck to our Excel students for the upcoming
cardboard canoe competition at OC on June 5th. BMS promotion ceremony is on June 17th at BMHS at 6 p.m. Now on to the club updates. Congratulations to all the new NJHS
members who were inducted at the NJSHs ceremony on May 20th. The drama. The VMS Drama Club proudly presented Alice in Wonderland through the Looking Glass, the whimsical and imaginative sequel by Louisis Carroll. This magical production starred our
talented sixth grade student Jenna Caster as Alice who comes as a dazzling world filled with curious characters, surprising twists, and unforgettable adventures. Our students worked hard to bring this enchanting story to life with creative energy and theatrical flare. Both shows
were sold out. Congratulations to M Palonsky and the drama club. On May 12th, the VMMS band and chorus performed at the spring concert to a standing room only crowd. The students did an amazing job performing crowd favorite tunes.
Thank you to Miss Mr. Cidleman and Miss Plumara for all their hard work in preparing the students for the extraordinary performance. Now on to the PTA update. Thank you to the MMS PTA for all the things they did for the staff during teacher appreciation week. We
greatly appreciate all that you have done to support our teachers and students throughout the year. Now on to our sports. The girls track team finished their season 5 to2 coming in second close in their division. We were we have school records that have been
broken by Lily Perollis and shot put 767. The girls 4x 400 relay with a time of 4 minutes and 21 seconds. Mia Terello, Ryan Terrell, Lily Payton, and Kayla Francis.
Kayla Francis had had a big season, breaking her own school records in the 800 meter with a time of 2 minutes and 27 seconds. Hurdles 16 minutes and 8 seconds and mile 5 minutes and 17. The sophomore team is currently 8 and three, 5-2 in the division on the
season. We have had a solid year and will be playing for the blue division championship on Monday, May 18th at Lacy. We have a great group of kids this year. Two of the seventh grade pitchers have carried us this season. Brooklyn Memorial, Brooklyn Morillio, and Dallas
Capelli. Our eighth grade class has been led by Maline Carlay, Madison Leiden, and Liz Gorman. We are hoping to bring home another division championship for VMS this year. The baseball team currently has three seasons on three wins on the season.
Although we fell short of some of our team goals, every player was locked in from first pitch to last, coming with four runs or less in each loss. The team has been led by allstars Logan Zaher, who is batting 500 on the season, and Chris Croser,
the team ace on the mound. Other eighth grade contributors are Brody Zer, Anthony Ferno, Dylan Mesler, Dylan Prenas, Jimmy Talty, Jorge Torner, Brandon Chicetto, and Shane Scardelli.
Now, on to the BMHS report. As this is my final board of report before graduation, I first want to say thank you for allowing me this opportunity to serve as student government association president and as a student liaison for the board of education this year. It has truly been an honor to represent the students of
Brook Memorial High School and I am incredibly grateful for the support, guidance, and experiences I've gained along the way. As always, this has been an extremely busy and exciting time of year at BMHS. Our students recently showcased their talents during several outstanding cumulating concerts
for both our brand band and chorus programs. These performances highlighted the dedication and hard work of our student musicians and directors and were a great source of pride for our school community. We are also looking forward to many exciting senior activities in
the upcoming weeks. Our senior ball will take place next week at Southgate Manor and immediately following that will be senior week filled with traditions and celebrations that our graduating class always look forward to. Activities include our annual Powerpuff game, senior awards tonight, senior
walkthrough, the elementary schools, and of course our senior picnic. In addition, we are excited for our annual SGA Grasso color run and our highly anticipated unifying game versus the Dragons. events that continue to bring our entire school community together in positive and meaningful
ways. And of course, all these events lead us toward one of the most special days of the year, graduation 2026 on June 18th. It is hard to believe how quickly this year has gone, and our seniors are looking forward to celebrating the milestone together. Our athletic program
also continues to make us proud. Many of our teams are having outstanding seasons and are preparing to make strong runs in their respective state tournaments. We wish all of our student athletes and coaches the best of luck. Postseason play continues. Finally, on behalf of
our entire school community, will be remiss if I did not acknowledge the incredible strength and compassion shown by our entire community following the tragic loss of our friend Jackson Miller. The support shown by students, staff, families, alumni, and community members have always been truly
remarkable. Jackson represented the very best of what it means to be a Mustang and we will continue to honor his memory and ensure he's never forgotten. The Mueller family remains in all of our thoughts and prayers. Thank you again for the privilege of serving this role this year. It has been an experience I
will always value and remember. Thank you. >> Good evening. Erica, >> good evening. I'm Erikica Vornney, the president of the BTHS student government. I'm excited to share this month's BTHS Dragon report with you. But first, we will start with the LRMS
report. As we move through an exciting and busy spring season at Lake Riviera Middle School, the administration is proud to share the following highlights celebrating the many successes and upcoming events happening throughout our school community. Thank you to the LRMS
PTA for sponsoring a fantastic teacher appreciation week and our upcoming eighth grade happening. We appreciate all you do to support our Lakers. Congratulations to Jacob Burggess who represented LRMS at the Ocean County School Boards Association 8th grade
dialogue. Ava Weiner, a Holocaust survivor, shared her and her family stories of being on the SS St. Louis, not being allowed to disembark to safety, living in England during World War II, and eventually immigrating to the United States. Her
message to stand up to hate was heard by every student at LRMS yesterday. The baseball team had a final record of 9 and two. The team went undefeated in the division and won the white division title. Two athletes will be selected to participate in the eighth grade all-star
game on June 2nd at Central Regional High School. The softball team had a final record of eight and three and has also won the white division title. Two players will also be chosen to play in the eighth grade all-star game. The boys track team finished with a record of
5-2. The boys worked hard all season and improved tremendously. They concluded their season with the Ocean County Middle School Meet of Champions where John Bolan placed fourth in the discus with a throw of 85 ft. The girls track team had an impressive record of 7-0.
The girls won the blue division title and placed third in the meet of champions. Congratulations to all the LRMS athletes on a great spring season. The annual green and white night was held on May 13th where Laker families and our future fifth grade Laker families attended and participated in
games and arts and crafts stations run by our club adviserss. Fun was had by all. As our clubs have their final meetings for the school year, the advisers would like to share what a wonderful year it has been. Students were able to participate in Sigma math contests, create masterpieces and art
club, dissect owl pellets, and engineer a device to land two marshmallows, two marshmallow astronauts safely in science club. Students read with friends in book club, planted trees, and attended the green fair with the green team. Keep an eye out for the summer edition of the
student led newspaper, the Laker Ledger. Great job to Mr. Muro, the junior band, senior band, and Mr. Mr. Predia, Mrs. Predia, and Voices from the Lake on a wonderful performance at their spring concert. Thank you, Mr. Capone and the
BTHS choir for joining the performance. Congratulations to Mr. Murdoch and the junior and senior bands who won gold ratings at the Six Flags Pack for a Day Festival. On Wednesday, May 20th, new candidates were inducted into the LRMS chapter of the National Junior Honor
Society. The induction ceremony formally welcomed those candidates into NJHS and also recognized those current members with exemplary hours of community service. At this ceremony, the 2026 you touched our lives award was presented to
Miss Alabello. NJHS students are also preparing for fifth grade tours next week. They will conclude the year with an eighth grade tribute which celebrates eighth grade members who are transitioning from Lakers to Dragons. LRMS would also like to congratulate Real Norman who has been awarded this
year's NJHS outstanding achievement award. Congratulations Sel on her accomplishments. Looking forward to our upcoming events. Good luck to our eighth grade excel students competing in the cardboard canoe race on Friday, June 5th at Ocean
County College. The eighth grade dance is Friday, June 5th at 6 p.m. Eighth grade student leadership day is Monday, June 8th. And finally, eighth grade promotion is Wednesday, June 17th at 6 PM at BCHS.
Now, back to Brick Township High School. Earlier this month was staff appreciation week. Our staff members were celebrated every day with goodies, including a lunchon sponsored by our PTSA and a student sponsored snack cart. SJA and Key Club visited teachers with a
snack cart, as well as staff shoutouts and reverse dragon skills. Teachers were able to use their dragon skills to enter a raffle for a host of awesome prizes. Congratulations to the newly appointed SGA board for the 2026 2027 school year.
Kian Foy will serve as our president. Anna Coian is vice president. Andy Lorenzo treasurer, Jade Huary, and Olivia Dolan public relations. The seniors recently enjoyed their senior ball on May 14th as they celebrated the conclusion of their time at BCHS.
The Computer Science Honor Society held their induction ceremony on Thursday, May 21st. New and current members were recognized at the event, which honored students for their academic achievement dedication to the field of computer science, a commitment to excellence in
technology and innovation. BTHS also hosted its annual military recognition ceremony honoring seniors from the class of 2026 from both high schools who will be entering military service following graduation. BTHS proudly congratulates John Barry,
Jonas Wood, Sophia Dos Santos, Robert Keller, Yaviet Valarde Cruz, Mey Dogen, and William Thomas. Last Thursday, the senior scholarship and awards night was held to recognize and celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of our graduating
seniors. A total of 85 students were honored as scholarship and award recipients with students collectively receiving more than $140,000 in scholarships and awards. Congratulations to Frankie Civotano, Dennis Haynes,
Zachary Hans, and Robert Scott, our class of 2026 STEM graduates. They were recently recognized during the STEM and art recognition ceremony. ETHS hosted our annual science symposium. Students were given an opportunity to present their research
projects and experiments to their peers and teachers. The senior senior and junior classes competed in powderpuff earlier this week. The seniors captured the win and broke the all-time powderpuff scoring record with a score of 49 and seven. Our girls softball team secured the
Patriot Division Championship and qualified for the NJSIA playoffs for the second consecutive year. The boys and girls track and field team both finished the season strong with several impressive performances at the short conference and sectional meets. Congratulations to the girls
lacrosse team for achieving the first division championship in school history. Boys lacrosse and baseball ended a successful regular season by qualifying for the NJSIA playoffs. Congratulations to our short conference sportsmanship award winners, Erica Bourney and Matthew
Goodfellow. As the school year comes to an end, the senior class is beginning their celebrations. The celebration walk will take place on Tuesday, June 2nd at Drum Point Elementary School, Emma Havens Young Elementary School in Osborneville Elementary School. Senior breakfast will be held on Wednesday,
June 3rd, and senior picnic will take place on Thursday, June 4th at Brick Beach 3. Our graduation ceremony will take place on June 18th at 2:30. That's all for today. Be sure to stay connected to BTHS events and inside information by
accessing our school website, SJ Instagram at BTHs SJA, and our school school Twitter at BTHS Dragons. You can always see our happenings monthly through Dr. Cajun's Dragon Review. Thank you to Dr. Cajun, Dr. Frell, and the
entire board of education, and the brick school's community for supporting me in speaking on behalf of Bricktownship High School every month. This was a highlight of my senior year and I'll miss it. Thank you again. >> Thank you guys for everything you've done over the past year.
Yeah. So I need a motion and a second for the approval of minutes from the April 30th meeting. >> Motion George >> second Brand >> Miss Roberts with the vote. >> Miss Pollen >> abstain.
>> Mr. Benedictus. >> Yes. >> Mr. Henry. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mjerry. >> Yes. >> Mr. Master Serio. >> Yes. >> And Mr. Mesmer. >> Yes. Moving on to uh superintendent comments.
>> It's on here. >> No more comments. >> Okay. All right. Moving on to committee reports. Uh we'll start with Dr. Anderson. >> Thank you, Mr. Mesmer. The CNI committee met on May 11th at 2 o'clock. In
attendance was Miss Bala, the chairperson. Mr. De Benedictus, Mr. Henry, Dr. Farrell, and myself. Uh we reviewed the items on this month's agenda. Uh we also um I talked about the fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students
uh would be celebrating America's semi quint semi quincentennial. Yeah. Semiquincentennial with an activity book published by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and
Ocean County Parks and Recreation. This activity book helps students discover the revolution in Ocean County through fun activities and games and coloring pages. Um I highlighted the Growing Beyond Earth NASA Symposium, which is a program that Brook Memorial High School
students have participated in uh through Mr. Shy program. Uh Allison Kennedy and Eric Adams presented virtually on April 11th and Brook Memorial was recognized in the top five of schools in the entire country. Their research and presentation
revolved around studying how bacteria concentrations can impact and potentially benefit plant growth. Alison and Eric presented and they this was the fourth year in a row that Brick Memorial has placed in the top 10 in the country.
Yay. Since then, I also had other news. So, I just wanted to share because Mrs. Bey emailed me this. And so, Emma Havens, we we participate in the Ocean County Math League contest. and
Emma Haven's fourth grade team placed first and Drum Point's fourth grade team placed second. So Brick had the two top teams in grade four for the county. There you go. And Drum Point fifth grade team also won
fourth in the county. And two of Emma students on the grade four team placed first and second as individual winners. There you go, Mrs. Bey. Well done preparing our students. Mrs. Bey is our elementary math and
science supervisor. Um so in terms of an ESL update, I gave um the committee an update about how the program what the program enrollment is looking like and the expansion for the plans for the 2627 school year. Also
gave an update about NJSLA testing. Um it's we have a new platform. It's adaptive. It's called Cambium and that spring administration is going well. Um the testing window has been extended until next week. Uh in terms of family engagement, I
highlighted the many year-end events that'll be occurring at the end of the year, such as our spring band concerts and chorus concerts, induction ceremony, senior awards, scholarship nights, seminar nights, fifth grade tributes, eighth grade promotions, and high school
graduations. um many of which of those I've been lucky to attend with Dr. Frell and with our board members and it's been a great month of celebration for our community. Um, one last thing I'm proud to announce
on tonight's agenda that my team applied for and was awarded the high impact tutoring grant will receive $320,000 to pro provide high impact tutoring for at the elementary level. So, um, the
state uh accepted our preliminary plan and we're making some revisions, but we're really excited. It will certainly help us uh support our students and their needs. Uh our next meeting is June 10th. >> Also, I'm sorry.
>> We got another grant in sustainability from Brick High School. >> Is this like the third year in a row? I I think it might be. How much money do Dr. Case? >> $2,000 to Brick High School.
Did D did Dell submit that? Is Oh, Dell Godc Johnson an amazing job. Thank you. >> And then that's it for me. I think I've done enough tonight. >> Thanks, Dr. Anderson. Moving on to
facilities and finance, Miss Roberts. >> U both the facilities and finance committees met via email this month and all actionable items are on the agenda. Thank you. And Dr. Frell, policy and planning.
>> Similar policy and planning uh met via email. Uh really discussion action items. There was un one item added to policy and planning recently because of the NJSIA and short conference deadlines and that was the co-op for the uh female
wrestling for brick and brick memorial. >> Thank you. This will be the first opportunity for public comment and will be for agenda items only. Each participant is asked to give his or her name prior to making a statement. All statements shall be directed to the presiding officer.
Comment shall be limited to five minutes. Does anybody have public comment on agenda items? >> Yes, we got one. Hi, my name is Bren Swanson and I also serve as um the CPAG chair for this district. I am so thrilled and happy I
could kiss you, Dr. Farrell, because Rachel Goff is coming back to this district. We might have like a big road and a mountain to climb, but it just got a lot better. Thank you so so much.
>> Thank you. Any other public comment on agenda items? Seeing none. Okay. Dr. Anderson, can you please introduce curriculum and instruction? >> Thank you, Mr. Mesmer. Under curriculum instruction, the superintendent
recommends that the board approve the following items one through five. >> Can I please have a motion and a second? >> Motion, George. >> Second, Fran. >> Miss Roberts, with the vote. >> Miss Pala, >> yes.
>> Mr. Benedictus, >> yes. >> Mr. Henry, >> yes. >> Mr. Meljeri, >> yes. >> Mr. Master Serio, >> yes. >> Mr. Mesar, >> yes. Moving on to operations. Miss Roberts, can you please introduce? >> Sure. The superintendent recommends
operations items 1 through 36. >> I need a motion and a second. >> Motion. Victoria. >> Second. George. >> Miss Roberts. With the vote. >> Sure. Um, Miss Pawa, >> yes. >> Miss Benedictus, >> yes. >> Mr. Henry,
>> yes. >> Mr. Malieri, >> yes. >> Mr. Mr. Serio. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mesmer. >> Yes. >> Moving on to human resources. Uh, Miss Roberts, will you please introduce? >> Sure. Um, the superintendent recommends
human resources items 1 through 42. >> Can I have a motion in a second? >> Motion Victoria. >> Oh, no. You could go. Motion, Victoria. Second, George. Miss Roberts with a vote. >> Uh, Miss Pulla.
Miss Pala. Well, I'm struggling with item number one. Uh, I suppose yes to all. >> Miss De Menedictus. >> Yes. >> Mr. Henry. >> Yes. >> Miss Mr. Meljeri. I need to abstain on
items number 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, and yes to all remaining items. >> Okay, Mr. Master Serio. >> Yes, >> Mr. Mesmer. >> Yes. >> Well, first I I'm still in denial, but
Miss Ven Odell is uh leaving us. I wasn't prepared tonight. I was hoping we would do this maybe in June. Uh Jane Manazdale has a long distinguished career in ed education starting I believe in a teachers brick going to Ocean Township as an administrator where
I knew her in my path a little bit at Shore Regional coming back here uh as an administrator and really taking the leadership uh on the Osborneville school. Um, I could tell you that in many of the conversations I have with principles,
her thoughts, her conversation with parents and students are so from the heart and so real and sincere. The empathy that she shows for each of them. I think all of our young administrators can learn from not only her experience
and career path, but how she does lead with the heart. Uh, as I said, I'm still in denial, Jane, but all the best wish you are, too. All the best wishes. Uh, you will be sorely missed. I know you won't be a stranger because I know Mr.
Philippon's not here, but they seem to come back sooner or later in some capacity back home to brick in a lot of ways, but congratulations and best wishes. Thank you. And I I am so happy to announce and
welcome back home Miss Rachel Goff as our new director of special services. Um Rachel spent I believe 19 or 20 years uh starting here in Brick when I first came here seven years ago. She was a
supervisor, I believe, for about five years here and left us um or was recruited uh uh to Freehold Regional where she became another supervisor on the high school level for five more years. And I always say it's great, you can always come back, but it's always
great to get someone that has institutional and historical knowledge and then fresh perspectives from other districts at different levels. That really is something that we're so excited about. And uh I guess you know I convinced her a little bit come back
home where she belongs. And uh I am so happy. I'm so excited. I know I will learn as much uh from her and I know she's going to say a few words and I know her family's here. But welcome back Rachel. Uh we are so happy to have you.
Would you like to say a few words please? Thank you, Dr. Carol. This is a very emotional night for me. Um, like Dr. Frell said, I started in Bricktown Public School District in
2003. That was 23 years ago. I was at the Laurel School Pathways program as a young aspiring professional in education. And it was that year that I met my
director of special services and supervisor of special services. And I thought to myself as I was alone in my office, one day I want to be the director of special services for Prick Township Public School District.
It took me 23 years of preparation and intentional decisions that were not easy in order to feel prepared to lead and support a district that I love.
I couldn't express more gratitude for giving me this opportunity and privilege to lead a department of professionals, families, and children that I love from
my heart. And I am so incredibly grateful to be back home. So, thank you. >> Thank you, Rachel. And welcome back. That's tough to follow. Welcome back. We're lucky to have you.
>> Okay. Dr. Anderson, can you please introduce policy and planning, please? >> I'll take that, Mr. Mesmer. >> You got it. >> Thank you. The superintendent recommends policy and planning items one through three. >> Can I have a motion in a second? >> Motion, John. Second George.
>> Miss Roberts with the vote. >> Miss Pala. >> Yes. >> Mr. Benedictus. >> I'm going to abstain on one and yes on two and three. >> Mr. Henry. >> Yes.
>> Mr. Melgiri. >> I also need to abstain on item number one, but I do vote yes on all remaining items. >> Mr. Master Serio. >> Yes. Mr. Mesmer. >> Yes. >> Okay. This is the second opportunity for
public comment. Each participant is asked to give his or her name prior to making a statement. All statements shall be directed to the presiding officer. The board is not required to respond to comments during this session, but may address them during the board comment portion. Comments are limited to five
minutes. Does anyone have public comment on anything? Good evening everyone. I'm Cheryl Dyer and I'm here tonight representing the Women's Club of Brick Township. I just wanted to take a few minutes to share with you some of the ways that the Women's Club supported the school
district this past year and also tell you about a fun free summer experience that we have prepared for the residents of Brick Township. First, I'd like to thank the counselors from various schools who reached out to us and let us know about needs in their schools that
we could assist them with. We donated school supplies for 40 children whose families did not have the means to purchase them. In keeping with our mission to prevent domestic and sexual abuse and support the victims of such abuse, we paid for a program at Brick
Township High School called Consent 101. We donated over 300 articles of new clothing to students in need at an elementary school, books for their little free library, and food for their food pantry. We participated in the
healthy lifestyles fair at Veterans Middle School, and provided students with a healthy snack if they could correctly answer one of our Jeopardy type questions. We worked with counselors to select four girls to attend girls career institute at Douglas
College for four days which starts next week. All of their expenses associated with their participation have been paid by the Women's Club of Brick Township. We are in the process of awarding four $1,000 scholarships to brick graduates
who are continuing their education and two $1,000 skip scholarships for non-traditional students who are continuing their education. Over half of the money that we raised was used to support students in Brick
Township. And I wanted to let you know about some un upcoming fundraising plans that the community could support in order to help us meet our goals. These include mocktails and majest
homicide murder mystery in October. We'll also be participating in the Brick Craft Fair in October. And all of these events are posted on Facebook and Instagram. So, I invite you to follow our page to keep informed and hopefully
support us so we can support you. On August 9th, we have an event planned at Icarus Brewery with live music where we will be collecting school supplies for students at our schools. And I hope you will stop by and donate.
The summer fun program that I mentioned is being launched now. It's called Brick Adventure Quest and it uses an app called Adventure Lab. When you download the free app on your phone, either Android or iPhone, you can participate
in Brick Adventure Quest. The Quest has four categories: history, civics, parks, and trails. And each category has five locations. Families can travel around Brick and visit each location. And when they visit the location, they will be
prompted on the app to answer a question about that location. If they visit all 20 locations and turn in their completed Quest passport to our email address, they will receive a certificate of completion from Mayor Crate. And I have
cards for the large audience that remains um with QR codes for our website and for the app that will make it easy for everyone to participate. Again, this is a free activity that we are providing to the community. Um you'll see signs
around town, banners um at the at Winward Beach. Um we'll be handing out information at the farmers market on Saturday. And I know if we don't get at least 2,000 participants, our um
committee will be very disappointed. So brick's a big place. We want folks to be able to learn about it and know about the town in which they live. So thank you very much. Thank you. Any other public comment? No, I knew there was one more.
I got 10 minutes because I didn't talk last time, right? Is that better? Can you hear me? Okay. Um First, I wanted to start with some good stuff. So, the New Jersey PTA award season open today. Um, it's a meaningful opportunity to recognize the incredible
work in our schools. Um, anybody can submit a nomination. It could be a teacher, a parent, a PTA member, board members, um, whoever wants to. The categories include for outstanding partnerships for administrators, educators, superintendent, uh, community
award, and then our local PTA categories. our president's recognition. If you have any events for advocacy, DEI, family engagement, health and safety, student champion, excellent volunteer, I should say the student champion, there is no age limit, so it
could be any age can be nominated for it, and exceptional local unit, which I am trying to do a back-to-back win with that one. So, the competition is going to be tough. Uh, but the winners are going to be announced at our convention on August 1st and 2nd. Uh the I'm sorry, the awards breakfast
is on the second, but the convention is all weekend. Um the ladies at the NJPTA are hoping that George will come back. He did come to our reflections uh event and they had him working. He was taking things out of people's cars and helping everybody get across and stuff. Um so
thank you for coming because it was all the way in tabernacle. It was a hike and he came out on a Sunday uh to recognize our students. So thank you, George. Um all right. And then on a more personal note, and I'm a crier, so I'll try my best, but um I wanted to speak about the
grief sensitive schools initiative. Uh back in November with at last year's convention, I had met this woman, Lavana. She was a PTA president and she also um works with the New York Life Insurance Company and we had met and she was telling me about the grief sensitive school initiative. I know I've sat not
this podium, but you know, back at uh your regular location, I've talked about it before. there was a $500 grant um that you get awarded if you have them come in and give, you know, information um presentations. They have booklets and all these great resources for our
teachers to be, you know, even more um prepared for situations because unfortunately, you know, and I can speak for myself, I've already had to very one of my children and my husband. So, I know what it feels like. It sucks. Um four days prior to Jackson's accident, we held
that at our school and we didn't know that. Oh, sorry. Um, the teachers were very thankful that they had that opportunity. You know, you hope you never have to use it, but you do. I encourage all the schools to um, sorry,
um, to take advantage of it as well. It was really great. We got a lot of positive feedback with it. Um, I felt like I was kind of falling on deers talking about it for quite some time, but I have to give major kudos to Miss Rachel Marcato at our school um, schoolbased services. she really like
took the you know hit the ground running with getting that happening at that. So I can't thank her enough um for all of that and Lavana and feel like it's almost destiny when you meet people at things it kind of all comes together. Um and then so me where she me and Bren are
on a mission um to make school safety better. Um she talked first at the town council meeting the other night. I'm like so confused of what days but so it was my turn to go first tonight. Um, I know it goes without saying. I know you we have your support in whatever we
needs to be done. Um, but you know, we're going to be going to town council meetings. We're going to the county council meeting. What day is it? June 10th. If you guys can be there and support, we're going to be there. Um, Bren and I have also reached out to our state legislators and we do have a
meeting on Tuesday. We're going to do whatever we can to make safer schools and we hope that you guys support us in any way possible. That's all I got. I did good. I'm still so happy that I'm like it's hard to bring some like, you know, bad
news. Not bad. This is not bad news. Well, it really is because for years a systemic issue has been happening. I know it's not just happening in front of my house. I know it's happening all over, which is people are running the reds. The bus the buses are stopped. The reds are on and people are running the
reds. It got brought up at the council meeting and it's been something I've tried to I mean it literally happens and I live on Lans Mill weekly. my child and the but the bus beeps and he goes, "I
like my bus driver. He's nice. Why is he beeping?" He thinks he's asking him to go faster and he's not. He's just honking at the cars that are running through the reds. It makes him get frantic and run out faster into a
dangerous situation. Um it there's also a law. I mean, this whole thing with getting things safer is going it's a big puzzle and you we we came here tonight to speak about it because it's partly the school, it's going to be partly the
town and it's going to be partly the the county because it's a county road and it's also going to be part we're hoping to our assemblymen are very receptive to making some changes. There's silly things like you have these kids walk in a two and a half mile radius but they
don't have to have sidewalks. That's crazy on a road where they're flying. So that's a state thing that we're going to bring to the stem assemblymen. Like hopefully they can lobby to change that. If if you want the kids to walk, they should have a safe place to walk on. Um,
I know that the rule is really crazy with the running the reds. Unless a police officer, because we've got it on video and we showed a police officer, unless they see it in person, it is a law that they cannot give a t a ticket out unless they witness it firsthand.
The only thing around that, because I know that in Jackson they do this, if a bus a bus driver can call it in. So, they're obviously stopped when they run the reds. If they just tell, you know, transportation on the radio, hey,
someone just ran my red, then they can tell the police station. Okay? So, I'm just asking you, even if nothing gets ticketed, we need to start finding out how many reds are run in this town on a daily, weekly basis.
I mean, safety in general, just that's that's where we're at. Thank you. Thank you. Um I appreciate all those comments. Um look, the board of education is open open to helping any possible way we can. Um I can say that
we're already working with the county um as it was a county road. Dr. Frell actually met with the county yesterday um to see how we can help to expedite any sort of processes or anything that can be done. He can elaborate further, but Yep.
Thank you. Yeah. And I I personally live two blocks away from uh the you know where everything happened and people speed down that road. I have a 5-year-old that you know plays right there. And um it's scary there. You know there's some crazy drivers out there. Um
and I mean we're looking to you know brainstorm, do anything possible to help with that. >> Yesterday Mark Jen I got look up his last name. He uh he's the Ocean County Engineer contacted me directly. He's
getting all parties from police, town council, county commissioners, school districts. He actually had an acronym about I think it was like three E. And one of them in there was education and more that we could do with our high schools, middle schools, not only for young drivers, but for walkers and
bikers. And we do some programs. We constantly do them throughout the district. but we're going to kind of ramp that up and uh and work with him and give our support in any any way uh that we can. I also spoke with the superintendent of Jackson just this morning on that same issue which I
actually was unaware of. Um but I have talked to our director of transportation and we have some of the best bus drivers around were very diligent uh with that. So yes, you know, 100% support in any
area we can. Anybody else for public comment? Seeing none. >> Okay. Uh now we'll have board comment. We'll start at the end. Mr. Masterio, >> thank you. Uh, first I want to uh thank
our student representatives. Um, it they do a phenomenal job giving us information about their schools. Um, and good luck in the future. Uh, I also want to congratulate all of our uh, ED governor educators of the year. Um, they're excelling in probably one of the
most difficult professions. I think I'm a little biased on it, but I do think it is the most difficult. And last, um, I'd like to send my deepest consolences to the Mueller family on the passing of their son. Uh, it is my only hope that
something good can come out of such a bad tragedy. Unfortunately, I've had the experience of having to bury at this point in my career uh, 10 uh, former or present students, and it is one of the most tragic things that you can go
through. with that. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Maljeri. >> Thank you very much, President Mesmer. Good evening. I hope that you all are doing well. Thank you all for coming. I'd like to certainly congratulate all of our uh governor's educators of the
year and educational service professionals of the year. Uh each and every single one of our employees in this district. Thank you. to our volunteers, our donors, individual donors, uh business owners, organizations. The Women's Club, for example, we have a representative from here tonight. Thank you for all that you
do. Chamber of Commerce, for example. Um parents, family, friends, neighbors, uh residents, taxpayers who make everything that we do possible in this district. Thank you very much. Um I I just can't express enough all the wonders of what
can be done in this district. For example, uh the notion the donation of books by Manisquan Bank, the Drumoint PTA, the Veterans Memorial Middle School PTA, uh the $1 vehicle uh facility vehicles in the town of a brick. We got six of them uh for our facilities. We
have that. Um Kristen Stirs, you're here at virtually every single meeting. Uh thank you for coming uh as always to to all of you really. Thank you. It's just uh I had so much fun with you uh and all of the lovely ladies at the state PTA at the reflection awards ceremony uh in Burlington County. It was a lovely
drive. It was a very very eventful, colorful Sunday. I really enjoyed my time. So, thank you for having me. Be more than happy to go again. Um and congratulations to uh Jacqueline Costalano and um my fellow board members. When we were at uh a dinner, Dr. Frell actually saved a spot for me.
Uh I was running late like I constantly do because I do a thousand different things throughout the day and he got uh dinner for me because I was getting there and I was starving for the event we had at the Clarion. So Dr. Frell, thank you for that. And um it's just wonderful what takes place in this district among administration, fellow
board members, uh for example, uh Drum Point Elementary School Chorus concert and uh whatever takes place in terms of uh different um bands and uh ceremonies, celebrations. Uh for example, Mr. Shotwell. I got to meet with him. He's
been in the district for over 40 years. I spoke with him. Lovely gentleman. Puts together wonderful productions as do every uh every person who was an employee and a volunteer of this district. Uh happy uh teacher appreciation month and belated because it was actually the day after our last board meeting. Uh principal's day to our
principles and administrators who happen to be in the audience or listening tonight. And that I could go on on so many different things here, but um congratulations to Mrs. all to bell on her recognition from uh the National Junior Honor Society ceremony. She was my language arts and social studies teacher in seventh grade when I was at
uh Lake Graier Middle School and I certainly enjoyed my time with uh Mr. Henry uh when we were at seminar on Tuesday uh at Brick Memorial High School and um I loved watching the concerts yesterday at Brick Memorial High School in Emma Haven's Young School. And um I'm looking forward to more uh concerts,
awards nights, ceremonies, games like the Brick United kickball game, uh fifth grade tributes, eighth grade promotions, high school graduations. Um I don't believe we have any more DARE graduations, but I was with uh Miss D. Benedictus at uh the one at Midstream School uh along with um uh Councilwoman
Rea, and we got to see her daughter graduate uh through um the day of graduation. So congratulations to you and your daughter again and it was wonderful, very wholesome, very worthwhile and um to Miss Go uh or Miss Goff, I apologize if I'm messing up your
name. Um this is a bit new to me, but welcome back to Brick Township. Uh I had conversations with Dr. Frell and Dr. Anderson, we all did in board of education, but I was told by Dr. Anderson specifically because she was my principal in middle school. She and I started there at the same time uh that uh you she spoke very highly of you as
did Dr. Frell uh and uh sang your praises and uh I feel very safe, secure and reassured uh in your position uh to be in this district uh as someone who is on the autism spectrum and who has received special services from this
district from a very early age from early intervention before my time even in preschool when I was an out of district placement to uh ultimately high school graduation and then going on to uh college and then business school and hopefully looking to go to law school in the fall. I cannot express enough the wonders that could be done when you have
the proper steady hand leading in that particular department. We have all the faith uh possible in your faculty. So, thank you very much for coming back. We really appreciate having you. Thank you. Thank you very much. Very welld deserved and very much needed
and um we're happy to have you back and uh please uh for all of you please not simply just prayer because frankly faith without work is dead. We there are things that we could do tangibly individually and collectively whether it be uh we ourselves on the board of education or central administration uh
our mayor and township council, our county commissioners like the meeting that was mentioned prior uh by um Kristen Stitz um and uh I I can never remember your name. I apologize because I met you a few different times. A lovely lady in blue from uh SPAG um who I got to meet at prek family fair um for
uh Jackson Mueller and his memory uh and what can be uh manifested from that. and please consider contributing to his scholarship fund. Uh I was able to go to his vigilant lake and learn about that through uh his family, lovely people. And uh I could go on, but I'm sure you'd all like to go home and some of most of
you would like to go actually speak. So thank you. Thank >> Thank you, George, Mr. Henry. >> Uh good evening everyone. Um as always, thank you everybody for coming out here and coming up to the lect turn and always appreciate your comments. they
are heard by the board and central administration and we do what we can to address those issues as we hear them. So last week I attended a dinner, an awards dinner for five of our brick schools but
put on by the UNICO Italian-American organization. Five of our students were awarded $1,000 each for the scholarship. I had the honor of being in there and attending a dinner. It was very nice. um each one of the students their resumes so to speak was actually what their
accomplishments were that they that they did were announced and it was impressive. So I was glad that I was in attendance for that. And yes, I attended the seminar with George and every time I go to this the seminars and I see the amazing innovation and creativity of our
students, it just kind of blows me away because you there was dozens and dozens of projects that could have been patented. Like they were just outstanding. So I of course that happens to be in my wheelhouse and I love that stuff. but just to see the students and
their accomplishments and where they're going to go to colleges and I'm sure they're going going to do great things. I also want to thank the teams that attended on May 16th our Bricktown's green fair. I'm sure uh Miss McCall will also talk about that a little bit, but it was a great day. We had perfect
weather. I think we had five or six teams, the schools there that were in attendance. the the theme was uh wildlife wellness and well-being and the students really represented in in in an exemplar way that day. So it was I was happy that they were there because they
were under the tent with other individuals and organizations that were representing our theme very well. So it was a great day. Um let's see. Congratulations to all of the educators that were recognized tonight. It's always a pleasure for me
to see that being a former educator myself and knowing how difficult education and being a teacher and being in a classroom no matter what position you are in is very difficult these day and they're dedicated because they love what they do and and I just want to say congratulations to them. And thank you
and everybody have a safe trip home tonight. Thank you. >> Thank you. Uh, one more thing. >> Sorry. Um, for those of you who haven't seen uh, Mayor Crate's um, minutes, she has a post on Facebook what they're
doing already with the tragedy that had occurred last week. Um, so if you get a chance, just check that out on Facebook. Um and and again what George mentioned it that and June 10th is going to be the meeting of the county um where you'll
have an opportunity to talk about it but Mayor Krat is also she also in the Facebook post did talk about what they're already doing what they plan on doing for example going out with the town planner to look and see what sidewalks or if sidewalks are possible things like that. So I'd suggest that if
you get a chance, watch that as well. >> Thank you, George. John, thank you, >> Mr. Madictus. So, welcome, Miss Gooff. As a parent of two special needs children, you are so
welcomed. We are so happy and excited and cannot wait to see all the amazing things that you're going to do for our district. I'm so excited. Um, thank you to the Women's Club of Brick. Thank you so much. It takes a village and
especially with all of our budgeting issues. We thank you so much for all your help and every little thing helps. It takes a village, right? And thank you for being part of this amazing village. We really appreciate you and all the other women. Thank you so much.
Um, all the congratulations to all the governor's educators award winners. Such an amazing group of educators. I I cannot begin to say how awesome these teachers are. Um,
this school district is so amazing that I moved my family clear across country and picked where we lived in the schools based on all the amazing things that I read. And it is seriously so true and I know my
kids are thriving and I know so many others are and thank you guys so much um for all that you do even though it's really difficult some days I'm sure. Um O yeah I can't look at Kristen.
Um, yeah. What happened with Jackson? It's just as a mom, I can't I can't. Um, and
I am just floored at how this town and the surrounding towns and it just everybody has come together and just put their arms around this family and
around each other. And it is just such an amazing thing to watch everybody truly care and come together. And yes, there's more that we need to do. Um I talked to Kim and she's like, I I
don't I'm tired of hearing thoughts and prayers. And I get that. And thank you so much to Bin and and everybody else and Kristen and everybody else who is just trying to figure out how we could do
better so that this never happens. It should never have happened. But it can't happen again. And thank you. Thank you ladies. And thank you anybody else who has done anything to help cuz we need to keep our kids safe as as when
they're safe then they're going to learn better. They're going to feel like they can they can do it. They're going to feel more secure. So we need to do that for our kids. Um and on a lighter note um congratulations
to everybody who is moving on. All of our preschoolers who are going to kindergarten, our kindergarteners who are going to first grade, and fifth graders who are going to middle school. Fifth grade mom here losing it a little bit. Um, and especially to all of our
seniors, congratulations. I cannot wait to see all the amazing places that you will go. And thank you all for being here. Have a nice evening. >> Thank you, Miss Polla. Uh, first I'd like to offer
my condolences to the family of Jackson Mueller, his parents, brothers, and sisters. Say his name. Say his name, Jackson. I would like to thank Dr. Farrell and all the other academic leaders who will
continue to console Jackson's family, teachers, and fellow students. um the leadership we had in this district. You know, you prepare but you're never ready. And I really thank um Mr. Sar Luca and all the
administrators and teachers who came out and just spoke so highly of how important it was for the community to be one community. Um, I really appreciated the video tonight for the governor's education
educators of the year just to tell a story about how nerdy I am about serving on the curriculum and instruction committee. I I'm a member of the committee that evaluates our teachers for teacher of
the year. And this year I was riding in the car with my husband for several hours. We were on a road trip and I took out the binder and I said, "Joe, you'd never believe what this teacher's initiatives have done for this school.
Joe, you would never believe the dedication it takes for a teacher to support her fellow teachers doing this and that." And God bless him, he's not in education. He's put up with me all these years. and he was like, "Wow,
that's doesn't everybody know that? Why doesn't everybody in Brick know that?" And I think that's what tonight is about and I really appreciate that. I had a um a number of opportunities this month to advocate for the brick schools and um
our students. Um, I started on May 14th, uh, on a Thursday at the state house annex where the New Jersey Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee had a hearing just dedicated to um, education
funding and the new commissioner was there and the head of the SDA was there. Some school board and teacher members were there from Cherry Hill. Um, Mr. Blime was there from Brick. I was there
from from brick. Um I learned so much at that meeting and with over 400 school districts and you know I've been down to Trenton before. I've been to the DOE before, but
some of the things that you learn when you actually are there are things that we have in common in the state. one of the state senators on the budget committee uh called for a bonding
um uh issue for our local school districts and how badly that's needed in our state. It's not just us. It's not just Newark. It's not just
Ocean Gate. Um, and I really hope that um, my fellow board members can um, pay extra attention this year. Um, the New Jersey School Board Association sends
out letters on legislation and advocacy that school boards are doing across the state with legislation. And it's really really important for us to granted I'm retired but I find the time and um it's
not easy. It's a big commitment but our voices really need to be heard up at the legislation. Um on May 16th the green fair was held and I have to thank Mrs. Mary Beth Prince who's also a member of
the green team with us and um uh Mrs. Lane and all the other uh school teachers and leaders who support our kids green teams. Um uh last minute we
needed extra volunteers. Dr. Anderson picked up the phone. Next thing I know, these kids are coming out of the woodwork. Um, I had a little signin sheet for them. I thanked them. I gave them some, uh, green team swag. I think
they had a good time. Um, uh, it just really showcases what the brick schools are doing for sustainability efforts. Um, on Wednesday, May 20th, which was a very significant day for our school district, at noon, I went to the annual
military recognition ceremony and Marie Walling did a fabulous job. again. Um, Dr. Cajun was a great host. Uh, thanks to the students, recruiters, parents, veterans who attended. Um, um, Mayor
Crate was there with her a resolution from the township. It was really a a a day where all the kids that walked in that this auditorium uh, walked out uh, better, happier
kids. And that's a great goal. Um, the Brick Township High School vocal group. What are they called? Hearts of Fire. >> Yes. >> Voices of Fire. Unbelievable. Unbelievable. Um, thank you, Mrs. Dyer, for coming out
and explaining to us. And um, I'm going to have to follow you on Facebook because I I got to get to Icarus with some of those um, school supplies. Um >> um on May 20th I also went to the National Junior Honor Society at Vets
Middle induction and I haven't seen something like this in a long long time. It was the entire ceremony was completely studentled and um Porsche Amber Amberino who was the president of
NJHS at Vets Middle, she and her officers just um went from one explanation, one honoring, one explanation to another. It was seamless the evening and um uh Mrs.
Nolasco, is that the name of the coordinator? She was fabulous. Then I headed over to Brick Memorial. I just want to thank everybody who came out. I know the Mullers felt the love. I know the teachers needed to talk and the kids
needed to talk and um Dr. Farrell was there. Um uh there was a minister there. It was it was very touching. And then when we went on to talk later about um
seeing everything about the one district and the one um family of brick schools was was was really very reassuring to me as a board member and to our faculty and students.
Um, I wanted to say thanks to the first place recipients in the Ocean County Math League. Go Mandy. And um, on the 27th, yesterday, the the Lake Rev Green
team planted native red oaks with their supervisor, Mrs. Burn, outside of Lake Riv. And it was so cool because a representative from the New Jersey Forestry came out um who happens to have
a son at um at Lake um came out and they collected all these acorns. Like I'm telling you because you don't know this. Uh they collected all these acorns and they brought them back and they were able to raise 300
red oaks and they brought dozens to Lake Riv and um we went out and the kids dug the holes, did the planting. Um it's very exciting to see, you know, a Tree
USA. Are we a Tree USA city? I don't know, but and I remember Freehold was where I raised my kids. Anyway, I'm looking forward to the scholarship nights, the unified sports. Um, Jane van
Nostdale, thank you for uh cutting your teeth on on me and teaching me to be a good board member. Um, and two two schools, we stand united together. Thank you. I'm looking forward
to all of our end of the year um uh festivities. The last thing promised the last thing the New Jersey School Board Association started a civility project a couple of uh year about a year
ago and they're asking each school board to adopt a civility resolution and for each member to sign a civility pledge as part of this civility project
across the state. and more informations are going to come out about that. I just read about it today. Um Mike, I'm sure you'll get lots of information about that and and Dr. Farrell. So, I just want to say as a schoolboard member, I'm
grateful to represent this town. I'm grateful to work with these wonderful administrators and teachers and union members. and it's not the end of the year yet, but um thank you for a good
school year again this year. >> Thank you, Miss P. Um yeah, you can't say it enough. Obviously, deepest condolences to the Mueller family. Um got to speak with the family, you know, multiple times at the visual. Um met
Jackson's brother. Um, they're just great people and it's just horrible, devastating tragedy and I know I'm personally going to do anything I can to help and I seeing, you know, how many people showed up at the vigil, you know,
we live in a great town where people care about each other. So, so if we take one positive out of it, you know, we'll all be there for the family and we'll, you know, help them move forward as as best as we can. Um, with regards to tonight, this is
always a great event. Um, being on the board three years now, all we do all year is struggle to get money from the state to hire teachers, not lose teachers, fight for lowering our class sizes, and a night like tonight really
just points out how amazing our teachers are in this district. uh for the challenges we've had losing I don't know has it reached $30 million yet 27 $30 million over a seven-year period seeing
the success every year year after year of the teachers we have is just very uplifting to me so just proud to be part of this district uh proud to be part of the board and I just want to thank everyone so
uh all All right. Uh moving on to the calendar of events. Uh so we have early dismissal June 17th 18th. Uh then we're into graduation season on June 17th. We have the middle schools. June 18th, the two high school graduations.
Uh last day of school, early dismissal is June 19th. And June 25th is our next board meeting at 6 PM at our regular location. So, thanks everyone for coming out and have a good night.
>> Sorry. Motion to adjourn. >> Motion, George. And thank you to the student representatives and military recognition. Mr. saying