WEBVTT

METADATA
Video-Count: 1
Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=SGoXVW747RU

NOTE
MEETING SECTIONS:

Part 1 (Video ID: SGoXVW747RU):
- 00:00:00: Meeting Call To Order and Roll Call
- 00:00:17: Open Public Meetings Law Reading and Executive Session
- 00:15:09: Student Representative Reports: BTHS and Brick Memorial
- 00:22:27: Presentation of 2026-2027 Brick School Budget
- 00:33:23: Approval of Prior Meeting Minutes and Committee Reports
- 00:38:53: CNI Committee Invitation and Appreciation Announcements
- 00:44:22: Public Comment Section #1: Agenda and Budget
- 00:45:04: Curriculum, Operations, HR, and Policy Introductions
- 00:47:18: Public Comment Section #2: Open Forum
- 00:48:17: Board Comments: Budget, Frustrations, and Positives
- 01:04:42: Calendar Review and Adjournment


Part: 1

1
00:00:00.719 --> 00:00:17.359
here. >> Mr. Henry >> here, >> Mr. Malieri >> here. >> Mr. Master Serio >> here. >> Miss Kennedy >> here. >> Mr. Mesmer >> here. >> Ready.

2
00:00:17.359 --> 00:00:33.680
>> The New Jersey. >> Sorry, no internet. >> Good look for me. Right. The New Jersey Open Public Meeting Law was enacted to ensure the right of the public to advance notice of and to attend the meetings of public bodies at which any business affecting their interest is discussed or acted upon. In

3
00:00:33.680 --> 00:00:51.360
accordance with provisions of this act, the Brick Township Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be posted on the administration office bulletin board, the official district website and channel BTV20 and sent to the Asbury Park Press, the Brick Time Star Ledger and Municipal Clerk's Office. >> Thank you. Uh Mr. Edwards, can you open

4
00:00:51.360 --> 00:01:08.240
up executive session? I need a motion, right? >> I think we do that after you read it. >> Motion, George. >> Either way, it's okay. >> Okay. I need a motion and a second to open up executive session. >> Motion, George. >> Second, Fran. >> Second, Fran.

5
00:01:08.240 --> 00:15:09.680
>> Okay. >> All in favor? >> All in favor? Right. >> I >> I >> I. Any opposed? >> Yes. >> All right. Good. And we're off. To the flag of the United States of

6
00:15:09.680 --> 00:16:06.160
America to the standyice for Okay, we're going to start with our student representatives, Dr. Frell. >> Yes, I think we're starting with Erica this time, right? Erica from Rick. >> Good evening. I'm Erica Bakornney, the

7
00:16:06.160 --> 00:16:23.199
president of the BTHS student government. I'm excited to share this month's BTHS Dragon report with you. This past month, the BTHS band and course programs coordinated vertical articulation and collaboration across district schools. The Southside band day

8
00:16:23.199 --> 00:16:39.360
brought together students from Drum Point Elementary School, Emma Havens Young Elementary School, Lake Riviera Middle School, and Bricktownship High School where the district chorus day hosted by BTHS brought together all four secondary schools. Brick Tatchup High School, Brick Memorial High School, Lake

9
00:16:39.360 --> 00:16:54.560
Riviera Middle School, and Veterans Memorial Middle School. Each of these events offered students an opportunity to collaborate and perform alongside their peers, strengthening connections within each program. The Thespian Honor Society induction ceremony was on April

10
00:16:54.560 --> 00:17:10.559
20th, recognizing students for their dedication and achievements in theater. The Multicultural Club went on a trip to New York City last week to see the Buenav Visa Club on Broadway. Girls lacrosse had an impressive start to their season with a current record of 10

11
00:17:10.559 --> 00:17:25.520
and one. Congratulations to Risa Kelly for hitting the 200 goal milestone on Tuesday. Pen relays were last weekend. The boys and girls track team did a great job and put up some impressive times. Earlier this season, Kieran McHugh broke the

12
00:17:25.520 --> 00:17:42.160
1600 meter record with a time of 50348. Junior prom had a great turnout. Senior Brawl will be held on Thursday, May 14th at the Southgate Manor. We are looking forward to another successful event. The junior and senior classes begin

13
00:17:42.160 --> 00:17:58.799
practicing for Powderpuff, which will be held on May 26th on the football field. Class officer applications have been sent out. Elections will take place in two weeks for qualified candidates running for president, vice president, treasurer, or secretary of their graduating class. Student government

14
00:17:58.799 --> 00:18:14.559
executive board appointments will follow in late May. Our guidance department will be hosting the senior scholarship awards night on Thursday, May 21st, 2026 at 6 p.m. in the BTHS auditorium. Local donors and staff members will pres

15
00:18:14.559 --> 00:18:31.919
present scholarships and awards to honor the accomplishments of our seniors. Staff appreciation week is next week. Our staff members will be celebrated every day with goodies, including a lunchon sponsored by our PTSA and a student sponsored snack cart. SJA and

16
00:18:31.919 --> 00:18:48.400
Key Club will be visiting teachers on Wednesday with the snack cart, as well as staff shoutouts and reverse dragon skills. Teachers will be able to use their dragon skills to enter a raffle for a host of awesome prizes. That's all for today. Be sure to stay

17
00:18:48.400 --> 00:19:03.360
connected to BT BTHS events and inside information by accessing our school website, SJ Instagram at BTHSS SGA, and our school Twitter at BTHS Dragons. You can always see our happenings monthly through Dr. Casian's Dragon Review.

18
00:19:03.360 --> 00:19:21.679
Thank you for your time. >> Thank you, Erica. Now, Michaela from Brick Memorial. On April 1st, we welcomed over 60 local business representatives to our 2026 career day, many of whom were Mustang alumni. It was an insightful day, and we

19
00:19:21.679 --> 00:19:38.320
thank Miss Reinhardt and our guidance department for on organizing this event. By far one of the best days of the year for BMHS is when we invite our Mustang staff members to take their children to work. It was a fun day last week that saw over 60 kids come and take in some fun activities and games and even become

20
00:19:38.320 --> 00:19:54.720
a part of our Mustang family. We are especially proud of our students for being so welcoming and inviting to help brighten the experience for everyone. Our ninth graders just participated in the NJSLA over the last few days. All freshmen were tested in ELA reading and writing. Our 9th graders will test once

21
00:19:54.720 --> 00:20:09.919
again in a few weeks in math. While our 11th graders have one more round of testing, also this time in silence. Thanks to Miss Pierce, Miss Monager, and Miss Butler for meeting with our students and helping them prepare for our test. We are hopeful and confident

22
00:20:09.919 --> 00:20:26.640
that we did and will do well. Speaking of testing, last week we kicked off our AP exam season with our annual ice cream social. It was a way for our teachers and administrators to wish our students good luck and reward them for all their hard work and dedication throughout the school year. We look forward to start

23
00:20:26.640 --> 00:20:43.360
taking exams next week and wish all of our students well. We are looking forward to Chef Lebron and his culinary arts classes for another amazing lunch supplied to our staff in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. This time it will be part of our amazing week-long celebration for our teachers during teacher appreciation

24
00:20:43.360 --> 00:20:59.520
week. Thanks also to our amazing PTSA who is so many treats and surprises scheduled for our amazing staff. We are so appreciative of our stu teachers and all that they do for our entire school community at Brick Memorial. This weekend wraps up our incredible

25
00:20:59.520 --> 00:21:16.240
year for our Mustang players and our drama program with our run of Xanadoo. In what has become customary, we look forward to Broadway like performances and backstage work, including our amazing set design, choreography, and lighting. Shows run tonight and tomorrow

26
00:21:16.240 --> 00:21:32.159
night at 6 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Don't miss our opportunity to see all of our hard work in action. Congratulations to coach Evan Rzatello for his 200th career win as our baseball team earned its way to the semi-final round in the Ocean County tournament.

27
00:21:32.159 --> 00:21:48.240
They earned a rematch of last year's championship game as they will play Toms River East on Saturday. Congratulations to our sophomore Charlotte Kennedy for placing 17th overall in the short conference girls championship out of 61 qualified golfers. Charlotte qualified herself by placing

28
00:21:48.240 --> 00:22:03.440
13th overall in the Ocean County Championship. Also, congrats to our senior golfer Max Larson for qualifying for the short conference and state championships as well. Thank you for our continued support of our students, staff, and the entire Mustang community. Please be sure to

29
00:22:03.440 --> 00:22:27.520
stay connected by following us on social media and turning into our Straight from the Mustangs Mouth podcast. Thank you. >> I think we have our technician in the back. We're gonna cue the 2026 2027 uh budget presentation.

30
00:22:27.520 --> 00:22:59.440
It's only about an hour and 50. No, I'm joking. Brick Township Public Schools 2026 2027 budget. First, I'd like to thank the board of education, our central office administrative team, and all that has

31
00:22:59.440 --> 00:23:15.919
helped us navigate another very difficult budget season. This is my seventh budget here in Brick. To say that I feel that we are just keeping the ship afloat would be an understatement. This was one of the toughest budgets we had to manage in my

32
00:23:15.919 --> 00:23:31.280
seven years here. Last year, we were allowed to exceed the tax levy cap of 2%. And we are awarded additional stabilization aid. This is not the case this year. Last year was also the first year we were deemed a

33
00:23:31.280 --> 00:23:48.720
winner and slated to receive additional state aid through the funding formula. We've been lobbying the state for years to change the way they fund special education and switch from a census approach of 15.9% to an actual enrollment approach. And

34
00:23:48.720 --> 00:24:02.960
this positioned us here in brick schools as a winner and to receive an additional 3.8 million in aid. However, also last year they placed guardrails in effect and capped losers at 3% and winners at

35
00:24:02.960 --> 00:24:23.120
6%. Therefore, we lost $3 million. This year is similar as we've been capped at an additional 6% costing us more than $3 million. Once again, for the 2026 2027 budget, our tax levy

36
00:24:23.120 --> 00:24:40.240
is 2% plus a 3.84% health insurance benefits waiver for a total of 5.84%. which is lower than the previous year. In addition, our general fund is going up 3% which is also lower than last

37
00:24:40.240 --> 00:24:56.559
year's budget. Enrollment is static. However, at risk student populations have increased, and the cost to educate a student who is classified, economically disadvantaged, ELLL, or at risk in any other way is

38
00:24:56.559 --> 00:25:13.279
much greater than the average cost per pupil. Thus, the recommended budget has the 2% tax levy cap plus a 3.84% health benefits insurance increase waiver. This budget has a reduction of 40 plus

39
00:25:13.279 --> 00:25:28.080
positions and has an average class size of approximately 27 with four sections of 29 or more. Once again, we are foregoing capital projects, facility improvements, roofs, parking lots, etc.

40
00:25:28.080 --> 00:25:46.159
in order to retain positions. People, just to reiterate, according to the New Jersey Department of Education, brick schools is 30 million under adequacy. Still, the adequacy budget is what the state tells us is a thorough and

41
00:25:46.159 --> 00:26:05.919
efficient education, your T& budget. And we are also 70 million under our local fair share. The goal of this presentation is to review budget priorities as well as projected revenues and expenditures.

42
00:26:05.919 --> 00:26:20.880
We have developed a fiscally responsible and balanced budget which we tried to minimize the impact of budget cuts on student programs, prioritizing class sizes and staffing while improving efficiencies with economies of scale

43
00:26:20.880 --> 00:26:38.400
wherever possible. Special education costs have increased as well as other atrisisk student populations such as ELLL and economically disadvantaged. As previously noted in this budget, over 40 FTEEs are being reduced with the hope

44
00:26:38.400 --> 00:26:57.440
that the majority of these job cuts are absorbed through retirements, attrition, and some vacancies not being filled. We are still not getting our equitable portion of state funding. Salaries and benefits make up 86% of our

45
00:26:57.440 --> 00:27:16.080
budget. Our atrisisk student populations have increased as well as operational costs have increased as well. Unfortunately, due to continued budget shortfalls, this year's budget again results in the reduction of positions

46
00:27:16.080 --> 00:27:32.320
within the district. As you can see from the slide, the budget includes the net reduction of minus 40 positions. The hope is that the net job cuts are absorbed through retirements, resignations, attrition, etc.

47
00:27:32.320 --> 00:27:54.159
Additionally, some vacancies are not being filled to help mitigate any loss of positions for staff. Reduction in state funding continues to have an impact on class size. The result is the average class sizes for the 26

48
00:27:54.159 --> 00:28:13.880
27 school year is approximately 27 students per class. At the middle school level, the average class sizes for the 2026 2027 school year is approximately 25 students on average.

49
00:28:15.279 --> 00:28:32.240
At the high school level, the average number of students per core subject area will be around 24. However, other courses depending upon course selection and number of sections available based on staffing could be higher than average.

50
00:28:32.240 --> 00:28:51.279
Again, it's important to note across the levels K to 12, the lack of funding continues to challenge brick schools in its efforts to provide for a positive educational experience in the best service to our students. The special education department budget

51
00:28:51.279 --> 00:29:06.399
directly addresses the needs of our classified students with all classified categories comprising almost 24% of our student population. This significant percentage drives increased budgetary demands with

52
00:29:06.399 --> 00:29:23.760
increased costs to support IEP required services, specialized programs to meet students needs, including out of district placements, specialized staff to address student needs, and programmatic and New Jersey Department of Education requirements for

53
00:29:23.760 --> 00:29:40.679
class size as well as space. Each year we work to identify areas where students require additional support and ensure that the money in our special education budget is being spent on supporting students where needed.

54
00:29:41.919 --> 00:29:57.840
We are so proud of our prek program. It is regarded as one of the exemplar prek programs in the state. This year we are excited to announce that we were approved for prek expansion through the New Jersey Department of Education PIA

55
00:29:57.840 --> 00:30:14.720
grant. This means an additional six sections for 90 new total students. Brick Schools is awarded over $9 million in this preschool education expansion aid grant, the PIA grant. And this helps

56
00:30:14.720 --> 00:30:30.880
provide full day preschool to our three and four year olds in 42 general education integrated classrooms at the Herbertsville and Warren H.Wolf ECDC's as well as some new additional classes this year in Osborneville Elementary

57
00:30:30.880 --> 00:30:47.679
School. The curriculum and instruction department recently secured a $400,000 grant specifically dedicated to purchase highquality instructional materials aligned to the science of reading. These funds will now allow us to move forward

58
00:30:47.679 --> 00:31:06.720
with an elementary reading program. Due to budgetary constraints, several positions have been repurposed to reduce class size at the elementary level. The general fund or operational portion of the budget will increase by 3% to support our educational programs. We

59
00:31:06.720 --> 00:31:25.679
anticipate grants and entitlements will increase by 18.36%. This large increase is primarily due to additional preschool expansion aid. The New Jersey School Funding Reform Act establishes an adequacy budget for school districts for brick. The New Jersey Department of Education

60
00:31:25.679 --> 00:31:42.240
determined our adequacy spending should be over 69 million. Our actual spending, however, is approximately 142.6 million. This means the district will still be operating 26.8 million under the state's projected adequacy level, which continues to be a significant revenue

61
00:31:42.240 --> 00:32:00.960
problem. The SFRA formula also establishes a local fair share amount. The New Jersey Department of Education determined bricks required tax levy is over 214.6 million. This figure suggests that brick can support 100% of its adequacy budget

62
00:32:00.960 --> 00:32:17.200
through local fair share. However, our proposed 202627 general fund tax levy is 142.6 million. This proposed tax levy is 71.9 million below the amount the formula suggests is needed to provide an adequacy funding.

63
00:32:17.200 --> 00:32:34.240
A change in state policy now calculates special education aid based on actual enrollment rather than a fixed percentage for all districts. This calculation should have provided brick with an additional $3,866,368. However, the New Jersey Department of Education limited our increase to only

64
00:32:34.240 --> 00:32:50.960
6% or 923,445 withholding nearly 3 million from brick. The New Jersey Department of Education implemented the 6% cap on districts so that a guardrail could be put in place for districts losing state aid so as to limit their losses to 3%. Thus creating

65
00:32:50.960 --> 00:33:23.120
a new category of adjustment aid and aid category that Bill S2 sought to eliminate. Over two years, brick has now been short changed 5,769,349 by the state funding these limits. I need a motion and a second for the approval of minutes from uh the March

66
00:33:23.120 --> 00:33:38.640
30th meeting. >> Motion George >> second. Ally >> Mr. Edwards with the vote. >> Uh Miss D Miss Den sorry Miss Benedictus. >> Yes. Yes. Tongue twister. Yes. >> Mr. Henry.

67
00:33:38.640 --> 00:33:53.440
>> Yes. >> Mr. Maljeri. >> Come on. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mr. Master Serio. >> Yes. >> Miss Kennedy. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mesmer. >> Yes. Moving on to committee reports. I

68
00:33:53.440 --> 00:34:13.200
believe there were only two committees that met this month. Uh, finance and facilities. Uh, Mr. Edwards. Thank you. Uh facilities committee met on April 21st. Um in attendance, Miss Kennedy, Miss Pala, Mr. Henry, Dr.

69
00:34:13.200 --> 00:34:30.159
Farah, myself, Miss Roberts, uh Mr. Porio, Mr. Seagull from Speedel Architectural Group, Mr. Miss Kashman from Spiegel Architectural Group, Mr. Dubovich from FVHAD architectural group, Mr. Chaton from FED architectural group, Mr. Gapor from DMR Architectural Group,

70
00:34:30.159 --> 00:34:47.119
and Mr. Y from Neta Architectural Group. The uh first item of business discussed was the Warren H. WWolf air conditioning project. Mr. Y reported to the committee that the work has been completed. The final tab report submitted for the engineer review is currently being reviewed and performance standards being confirmed against OEM specs. The

71
00:34:47.119 --> 00:35:03.359
closeout documents have been submitted and the final uh payment application uh prepared and ready to be sent upon the tab report approval. Uh Herbertsville air conditioning. Mr. reported that the contractor advised all work is done, but that he has not received the final balancing report or confirmation of

72
00:35:03.359 --> 00:35:18.400
punch list completion. He also noted that no closeout documents have been submitted and there is still an open change order to resolve. Um I spoke to the committee about the discrepancies between the previously identified credits and the newly introduced cost. Uh Mr. and questioned Mr. Yur in regard

73
00:35:18.400 --> 00:35:35.040
to the change orders that um were not properly documented at the board level. The committee discussed approving change orders three, four, and five while holding six and seven pending negotiations of the credits and costs. OES kitchen edition, Miss Catchman, Miss Catchman reported that the project

74
00:35:35.040 --> 00:35:50.800
remains in closeout phase. She noted that additional coordination is required to finalize the documentation. Midstream's air conditioning. Miss Cashman reported that the biard requirements imposed by the township code officials have been agreed upon. The estimated change order for the Baliard installation across Midstreams

75
00:35:50.800 --> 00:36:06.720
and Osborneville projects is approximately $36,000. The committee agreed that the change order must be formally prepared and submitted for approval to allow the project to receive the final inspection. Osborneville air conditioning, Miss Cashman reported that the HVAC system HVAC systems components and insulation

76
00:36:06.720 --> 00:36:22.240
issues were reviewed, including coordination of the rooftop units and related infrastructure. She also noted that the replacement of the three-way valves for one section of room supplied by a rooftop boiler have been reviewed and approved at no cost to the district and the cost is being covered by Speedial Architectural

77
00:36:22.240 --> 00:36:37.760
Bricktown High School ADA chairlifts. Uh reported to committee that the ADA compliance and accessibility needs remain under review and the district has gotten back proposals from the design concepts and they'll be reviewed and discussed at the next meeting. uh referendum. The uh committee

78
00:36:37.760 --> 00:36:52.720
discussed long-term capital planning needs, significant concerns raised around aging infrastructure, including roof replacements at Vets Elementary School, Brick Memorial High School, solar solar panel degregation and replacement needs at Brick Memorial High School, ongoing HVAC systems, including

79
00:36:52.720 --> 00:37:09.359
the compressor replacements, more specifically at um the rooftop unit at Brick Memorial High School. Uh there was discussion for a potential district-wide referendum and the necessary mechanics to address deferred capital improvements. Uh we discussed the recent New Jersey legislation related to school

80
00:37:09.359 --> 00:37:25.040
solar funding opportunities and the recommendation was to continue advancing discussions on the referendum in both facilities and finance with potential inclusion in upcoming board discussions. Next committee meeting is Tuesday, May 19th.

81
00:37:25.040 --> 00:37:41.599
We then moved into finance committee. President was Mr. Mesmer, Miss Kennedy, Dr. Farrell, myself, and Miss Roberts. Uh, first item of business was the state aid litigation. Dr. Farrell informed the committee that the attorneys have interviewed the families to be added to the litigation. He noted that a draft of the complaint has been shared and is

82
00:37:41.599 --> 00:37:57.040
being reviewed prior to filing. 2627 budget. Dr. Farrell informed the committee that the budget is in the final stages of review and at that point when when we had this meeting, um, the current levy was at 5.96% as you saw tonight, it's at 5.84. uh due to health

83
00:37:57.040 --> 00:38:13.760
care cost increases. Um I noted that the budget reflected a reduction of at that time 43 uh positions including 24 retirements. Um I informed the committee that the budget also reflects bring the surplus back to the required level of 2%. Advertising. I informed the committee

84
00:38:13.760 --> 00:38:29.839
that Ocean Partnership of Children has purchased stadium banners at Brick Township High School, Brick and Moore High School, and Veterans War Middle School for $1950. Uh we discussed the postseverance contribution of sick and vacation pay for the business administrator having that be a employer contribution rather

85
00:38:29.839 --> 00:38:46.560
than an employee contribution as per the contract. Thus saving both the employer brick board of education and the employee social security taxes. Um that was on that the committee concurred that the resolution for the business administration should be on the next agenda. That's this evening and the next

86
00:38:46.560 --> 00:39:07.599
meeting is May 19th. So although the CNI committee didn't meet this month, um I would just like to convey a message. Pull up the slides, Christian. Um from our committee chairperson, Mrs. Bala. She would like to invite the community to attend the

87
00:39:07.599 --> 00:39:24.880
brick green fair on May 16th at Haven's Farm on Herbertsville Road at 10 o'clock. This begins at 10 o'clock. It lasts for about four hours. Um, we will be featuring our green teams and our STEM clubs and they're going to showcase their impressive studentled initiatives.

88
00:39:24.880 --> 00:39:41.200
Um, also next week is teacher appreciation week and we are just so proud and appreciative of all of our teachers. We are so grateful for the work that they do. Um, in fact, our president of our teachers union is here tonight. We're thankful for his support

89
00:39:41.200 --> 00:39:56.160
and all of their support. They do such a great job in working with our students and helping them grow. Um, also in uh the May board meeting, can you click the next slide? Great. We'll be honoring the teachers of the

90
00:39:56.160 --> 00:40:12.560
year for each of the U buildings and um we'll be doing our special tribute that we do annually and uh our nomination committee for our district. It is at Brook High School. Very good. And our

91
00:40:12.560 --> 00:40:27.520
And our district teacher of the year will be announced. Um Dr. Frell and I will pay a visit to the school on don't tell on Monday. Don't tell the surprise. You don't remember? You remember? I know

92
00:40:27.520 --> 00:40:44.480
you remember. So um we'll be visiting on Monday. And so um here are here's the list of teachers of the year. And then on the next slide is our educational services professionals of the year. Um we will be providing a wonderful tribute. Our be our television studio

93
00:40:44.480 --> 00:41:02.160
Fran Bristol and her students created this year's video tribute video. It's it's amazing. U students had a a big part in the production process. Um and tomorrow next is principal appreciation day

94
00:41:02.160 --> 00:41:18.000
>> and we have a few principles there. If our principles in the audience, there's a few of them here. just stand up and please be recognized. Um, you know, having been a former principal, nobody wants to stand up to that. Well, thank you to our principles. We have an

95
00:41:18.000 --> 00:41:34.079
amazing group. Uh, probably the hardest position I've done in education is to run a building. You do everything from, uh, put out a grease fire and shovel snow, uh, to leading instructionally and spearetting, uh, spearheading tests and

96
00:41:34.079 --> 00:41:51.359
curriculum. So, thank you to our principles as well for that. Um, thank you. I also just want to add last night was an amazing night down at the Ocean County School Boards Association uh meeting uh dinner they had because not

97
00:41:51.359 --> 00:42:09.119
only was our county teacher of the year, Jacqueline Castellano from Brick Memorial recognized and spoke. Um but we had five board members also awarded and recognized certificates and appreciation. Uh I

98
00:42:09.119 --> 00:42:25.440
joked when they asked me to get up and speak and introduce uh Jacqueline that um tonight, which was last night, all great things run through brick in Ocean County. Um but the truth is the excellence that we were awarded and recognized for last night really is the

99
00:42:25.440 --> 00:42:41.359
exemplar in the county the last few years. And for our board members, Miss Pala uh received a 10-year milestone recognition. Mr. Henry, Mrs. Kennedy, and Mr. from Maljiri uh got their new board member certification and Mr.

100
00:42:41.359 --> 00:42:58.079
Benedictus got her certified board member designation. This takes a lot of time, a lot of off hours. Sometimes they do these webinars on Saturdays um for hours. Uh there was one woman there that got the master leader teacher and I was told

101
00:42:58.079 --> 00:43:14.400
that it was equivalent to a three credit uh college course, something over 40 hours uh in that. So, it's a lot of time and as I always say, it's a thankless job for all the volunteering uh that you have to do up here. So, it was a great night to be recognized. Thank you to our

102
00:43:14.400 --> 00:43:34.480
board members and congratulations again to Jacqueline Castalano on being recognized. >> Dr. Frell measure. >> So, uh, one of the things that I did forget about that we discussed in finance is on the agenda. You'll see the adoption of the final budget. A little

103
00:43:34.480 --> 00:43:49.839
confusing in the way the state makes us present it. They started this last year. You'll see that it's the tenative budget, which is the budget that we approved in March, which as I mentioned in March isn't worth the paper that it's printed on. And then next to it is the final budget. And then they make us provide a difference. And you'll see

104
00:43:49.839 --> 00:44:05.680
there's like, you know, some big variances. The reason for those big v variances is quite frankly the one that's done in March is for lack of better words fake. I mean we I don't know why they make us do it that way. Um and so the variances have no significance whatsoever. Um so if you're

105
00:44:05.680 --> 00:44:22.800
looking at them and thinking wow there's a $900,000 change between that one account. It means absolutely nothing because it was just a plug at the time that we adopted the tenative budget. >> Thanks for pointing that out, Mr. Edwards. Um, okay. We're going to move on to uh

106
00:44:22.800 --> 00:44:40.240
the first public comment section. So, this will be the first opportunity for public comment and will be for agenda items and the budget presentation. Uh, each participant is asked to give his or her name prior to making a statement. All statements shall be directed to the presiding officer. Comments shall be

107
00:44:40.240 --> 00:45:04.960
limited to five minutes. Does anyone have public comments? Seeing none. >> Dr. Anderson, can you please introduce curriculum and instruction? >> Thank you, Mr. Mesmer. Under curriculum and instruction, the superintendent recommends that the board approve the

108
00:45:04.960 --> 00:45:21.920
following items one through nine. >> I need a motion and a second. >> Motion joined. >> Second, Fran. >> Mr. Edwards with the vote. Mr. D. Benedictus. >> Yes. >> Mr. Henry, >> yes. >> Mr. Malieri,

109
00:45:21.920 --> 00:45:38.720
>> yes. >> Mr. Master Serio, >> yes. >> Miss Kennedy, >> yes. >> Mr. Mesmer, >> yes. >> Mr. Edwards, can you please introduce operations? >> Yes. This evening, the superintendent recommends items 1 through 29.

110
00:45:38.720 --> 00:45:55.680
>> I need a motion and a second. >> Motion, George. >> Second. >> Second, John. Mr. Edwards with the vote. >> That was Mr. Henry, correct? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Okay, good. Uh, thank you. Uh, Mr. Benedictus. >> Yes. >> Mr. Henry, >> yes.

111
00:45:55.680 --> 00:46:12.599
>> Mr. Malieri, >> I actually need to abstain on item number seven, but I do vote yes on all remaining items. >> Okay. Mr. Master Serio. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Kennedy? >> Yes. >> Mr. Mesmer? >> Yes.

112
00:46:14.800 --> 00:46:30.240
Mr. Edwards, can you please introduce human resources? >> Yes. This evening, the superintendent recommends items 1 through 26. >> I need a motion and a second. >> Motion, George. >> Second, Fran. >> And Mr. Edwards with the vote.

113
00:46:30.240 --> 00:46:46.640
>> Mr. Benedictus. >> Yes. >> Mr. Henry, >> yes. >> Mr. Meljeri, >> yes. >> Mr. Master Serio, >> yes. >> Miss Kennedy, >> yes. >> Mr. Mr. Mesmer. >> Yes. >> Okay. Moving on. Dr. Anderson, can you

114
00:46:46.640 --> 00:47:03.680
please introduce policy and planning? >> Thank you, Mr. Mesmer. Under policy and planning, the superintendent recommends that the board approve items one through three. >> I need a motion and a second. >> Motion. >> Second, John.

115
00:47:03.680 --> 00:47:18.800
>> Mr. Edwards with the vote. >> Misty Benedictus. I'm going to abstain on one and yes to the other two and three. >> Mr. Henry, >> yes. >> Mr. Maleri, >> I also abstain on item one and I vote

116
00:47:18.800 --> 00:47:38.640
yes on items two and three. >> Mr. Master Serio, >> yes. >> Miss Kennedy, >> yes. >> Mr. Mesmer, >> yes. >> Okay. This will be the second opportunity for public comment. Uh each each participant is asked to give his or

117
00:47:38.640 --> 00:47:54.319
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. Comment shall be limit limited to five minutes.

118
00:47:54.319 --> 00:48:17.520
Anybody have any public comment? Wow. Seeing none again. All right, moving on to uh board comment. I'm just going to go first uh this time just being the chair of the finance

119
00:48:17.520 --> 00:48:32.960
committee and going through this uh budget process. I just wanted to give my perspective on how things went. Um, so this is my third budget since being elected onto the board of ed and uh it was very frustrating.

120
00:48:32.960 --> 00:48:50.079
So last year brick was designated a winner under the state's funding formula and we lost $3 million. So as a result to last year uh we were supposed to get some increase in funding. We lost an additional $3 million again this year.

121
00:48:50.079 --> 00:49:05.760
It's pretty frustrating. Um because of this I did want to point out we are taking legal action. We are in litigation with the state. We are fighting it and I know all of us here think we have a really strong case. So

122
00:49:05.760 --> 00:49:22.000
so we're not just you know giving up and accepting this constant cut in funding. We are fighting this. Um same time everyone's aware you know costs have risen. Uh healthc care costs are crazy. I know, you know, I work in a

123
00:49:22.000 --> 00:49:38.000
different industry. Our costs increased like 30% this year. Um, so I mean, our costs in the district increasing 15% is pretty good comparing other districts, especially in Ocean County who are in a much tougher situation. So, if you can

124
00:49:38.000 --> 00:49:54.240
look for a positive in a 15% increase, um, so that I mean that that alone added $4 million to our budget that we had to account for. So, it's things like that that add up that really put administration and the board of ed in a tough spot as to, you know, where we're

125
00:49:54.240 --> 00:50:08.800
going to go with this. So, you know, it's another year. We tried to be as fiscally responsible as we can, you know, in limiting the amount of um positions cut as we possibly can, but we didn't even have any leeway from the

126
00:50:08.800 --> 00:50:25.920
state as to, you know, what else we can do here. So, we made the best of the situation as we could. Um, and as Dr. Ferrell mentioned, uh, you know, according to the NJ Department of Education, brick schools are $27 million

127
00:50:25.920 --> 00:50:42.480
under adequacy. So, I mean, for and we have phenomenal teachers in this district and I think our level of education is exceptional compared to where we're at. So, I wanted to point that out. But I mean, despite these challenges, the budget, uh, you know, we

128
00:50:42.480 --> 00:50:58.079
stay student focused, financially responsible, uh, Mr. Edwards has done a great job in his tenure here. So, it's going to be a tough loss when you retire, but, uh, we really appreciate your hard work and the entire administration's hard work throughout

129
00:50:58.079 --> 00:51:19.680
this process. All right, George. Or who's on the end? Sorry, >> I am. >> Sorry, Mr. Masterio. >> So, it's all good. Um, I just want to reiterate some of what you said. Um, and thank Mr. Edwards and Dr. Farrell. Um, I

130
00:51:19.680 --> 00:51:36.720
work in another district and we're actually our insurance costs have more than doubled what they're we're going to be paying uh here in Brick. Um it's it's just tough all over right now. Um I'm hopeful that in the future things

131
00:51:36.720 --> 00:51:56.559
will get better. Um but unfortunately it's seems like it's a situation that's getting worse throughout the entire state. Thank you. >> Thank you. Um Mr. Malier, thank you very much, President Mes. Thank you very much all for for all of you to come in. Good

132
00:51:56.559 --> 00:52:11.920
evening. Uh we're we're always happy to have you. see uh faces so that we could speak and see uh as a reflection of uh what takes place in this community. And frankly uh I I'm sure I'm not the only one. We are very sorry that we are in this particular position. Frankly would like to think we didn't do anything in

133
00:52:11.920 --> 00:52:29.040
particular um to be uh in a position of malevolence by any stretch of the imagination. Frankly, what you lose because we are members of this community as well. We lose. When you pay, we pay. whether it be in terms of layoffs or what you see in your tax bill when it comes every few months in your mailbox.

134
00:52:29.040 --> 00:52:45.680
Uh the pain that you're experiencing, we all experience in one fashion or another collectively, whether it be in the classroom as a teacher or as a student. Uh particularly if you're with a special need, for example. Frankly, I have a very big um bias in this case because I

135
00:52:45.680 --> 00:53:01.440
was in the special education program as a student in this district uh and I was an out of district placement for a period of time and I can certainly attest to how it could certainly be costly but frankly very worthwhile. It's a long-term it's a long-term matter and uh nearly one in every four of our students fall under that category. It is

136
00:53:01.440 --> 00:53:18.000
a commitment that we certainly need to keep um given the nature of the uh demographics of this community and given the socioeconomic reality of this community. Frankly, I find it quite rich that um whether it be people who work in the office of the governor or uh members of the state legislature of the belief

137
00:53:18.000 --> 00:53:32.559
that we're under adequacy, that we're not contributing our fair share, the idea that we would simply not have an interest in doing so or that we're not doing enough from the same people who in many cases they probably do not even send their children to public schools. I just think frankly that's quite rich.

138
00:53:32.559 --> 00:53:48.400
But uh I'll uh digress from that for a period of time because I don't want to be uh too uh or rather not diplomatic enough that diplomacy is not my specialty. Uh my fellow board members and members of central administration could attest to that. But anyway, uh

139
00:53:48.400 --> 00:54:03.599
thank you for the sake to that and um it it's just frustrating. So, uh, you could certainly take into consideration, frankly, you're educated people, intelligent people. You work, you live here, you have students in the district, you work in the district, whatever the case may be. You pay taxes here. Uh, you

140
00:54:03.599 --> 00:54:20.079
know what's going on in many cases in one fashion or another. Uh, we have faith that, uh, you understand what it is that we're attempting to do. Uh, and we certainly appreciate, um, your patience and understanding and consideration, uh, and how we are doing

141
00:54:20.079 --> 00:54:35.520
what we can. And I'd like to think collectively uh in the best interest of this community in one fashion or another for all of our parents, students, residents, taxpayers alike, employees in the district, teachers, so on and so forth. And um I could end on a more positive note by saying, for example,

142
00:54:35.520 --> 00:54:50.319
there are a number of different wonderful events taking place in the district and that have taken place for tomorrow. Uh you could go to Xanadu or on Friday at Brick Memorial High School. Uh I was at um an event with Dr. Anderson. I thought I was going to see you. actually thought saw Jennifer Huey

143
00:54:50.319 --> 00:55:05.839
at um Honk Jr. I meant to mention that at the last meeting and completely slipped my mind. I I I go in and out in terms of functioning in my brain with my allergy pill because that half asleep but for that but anyway and certainly in that regard Dr. Anderson will certainly miss Dr. Waru. Hopefully it's not a

144
00:55:05.839 --> 00:55:22.480
goodbye but to see you later and uh I could say so many different things but you probably all like to go home. That's pretty much how I end whenever I end board comments. So thank you all very much for listening. Thank you. Thank you, >> Mr. Henry. >> So, Mike, your comments earlier, I

145
00:55:22.480 --> 00:55:36.559
couldn't agree with you more. They were well said. Frustration is what comes to mind. However, I want to remind everybody and not not so much remind, but just take a look around the district on the positive things that are going on. There's incredible work still being

146
00:55:36.559 --> 00:55:53.359
done given not our ideal budget. every time I'm just blown away. The teachers, the administration, the work that the board does, the PTA, everybody else in the community who's really supported the school. So, let's just focus on the positive. Given the circumstances, they

147
00:55:53.359 --> 00:56:10.400
are not ideal by any by any means. However, what I see when I go into the schools and I attend plays or I attend other events, it's just amazing to see that and that keeps my spirits really high. So, you know, just let's focus on that, too. And even going through some

148
00:56:10.400 --> 00:56:26.160
of the the agenda items tonight, I'm looking at some of the folks and the teachers who write grants. Everybody's trying. And trying is, you know, you can you can put a definition on what the word is trying. They're actually accomplishing. They're still moving forward every day. No one's backing off

149
00:56:26.160 --> 00:56:40.960
at all. And this is what makes Brick a great district. It has always been a great district. We have always been innovators and front runners. And we will continue to do so. And I just want to thank everybody for showing up tonight and being part of this meeting.

150
00:56:40.960 --> 00:56:56.480
And everybody have um a safe night and safe travels home. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Benedictus. >> Ditto to what everybody said. This kind of stinks, but um I guess we do have to

151
00:56:56.480 --> 00:57:13.520
really focus on what this is all about, which is our kids, and we need to make sure that they get what they need. And something I was really struck by when I was looking at all the slides was I remember as a parent completely freaking out at the numbers that were going to be in the

152
00:57:13.520 --> 00:57:28.160
classroom. And if you remember last year, one number really stuck out to me and that was 37. 37 were going to be in a class. And even though our budget still is horrendous,

153
00:57:28.160 --> 00:57:45.280
we are nowhere near that. Are we exactly where we want to be? No. But we have to look at that and we have to understand that it could be so much worse. And I look at so many other districts around us and they are closing schools. They are just completely bare bones stripped. And we're not there yet. And I do

154
00:57:45.280 --> 00:58:01.200
believe that it's because we have so many people that are working so hard like these grants, the the PIA grants and the impact grant th that does so much. And especially the PI, I am a huge proponent for starting early. When you

155
00:58:01.200 --> 00:58:17.680
get a kid in here at three, four years old, they develop an absolute love of learning. They want to learn. They get excited. And when you get them in young and they you you build those foundations, that is so much better for us in the long run. And I am so grateful

156
00:58:17.680 --> 00:58:33.839
to everybody who has written these grants because it is, oh my goodness, such a long, arduous, tedious, horrible thing to do. So, thank you to everybody who does those and everybody who, you know, the the $1,700 there that you give

157
00:58:33.839 --> 00:58:49.599
us, the $2,000 there that you give, every little bit, every little bit that each person gives. It doesn't seem like much, but it does add up to be so much. And and every little thing just kind of snowballs and it turns into this amazing little thing at the end. So, thank you

158
00:58:49.599 --> 00:59:06.079
guys for all of that. And um I will be attending on I don't usually say this stuff but on um Saturday there is a save our schools funding rally in Bayville and it is such a good thing. This is not about

159
00:59:06.079 --> 00:59:23.280
either side. It is about going and trying to get people to listen that our schools are underfunded that we deserve more these children. You saw how much holy guac $70 million. It's insane. But we shouldn't have to go on such a

160
00:59:23.280 --> 00:59:41.200
shoestring budget. So I will be there at 1:30 in Bayville if anybody wants to come. It's at um the Veterans Park. So go out and support our kids and have a great rest of your day. >> Thank you, Miss Kennedy.

161
00:59:41.200 --> 00:59:56.799
>> Um well, first and foremost, I wanted to thank Dr. Frell and Mr. Edwards, um your central office administration and all of our building administrators. um for putting together the best budget possible with the funds that we were allotted. Do we like what we have here?

162
00:59:56.799 --> 01:00:13.599
No. Is it the fault of this administration? Absolutely not. Trenton has been failing us for years. And they take our taxes that we pay, our hard-earned money, and they send that money, your money, and my money to other towns to educate and elevate the

163
01:00:13.599 --> 01:00:30.960
learning experience for other children. While the children of Brick Township are learning in bigger classes with less electives and less specialized secondary classes, it's not okay. I commend our team for making some very difficult choices. They have once again postponed

164
01:00:30.960 --> 01:00:46.720
improving our buildings and properties in order to keep our people the priority. We should not have to choose one or the other. As taxpayers, we deserve more. Our children deserve more. and we thank the taxpayers and brick for your

165
01:00:46.720 --> 01:01:03.599
continued support of this board. Um, then I have some other good stuff, but that's my my comments on the budget. Um, first off, I want to welcome our new staff members and congratulate the staff members retiring. Um, our one of close

166
01:01:03.599 --> 01:01:19.119
to me, our legendary um, soccer coach, girls soccer coach at Brook Memorial, coach Billy Caruso will be retiring December 31st from teaching. Um, I am so grateful at the timing because you can finish up our fall 2026 season,

167
01:01:19.119 --> 01:01:34.559
hopefully with a a good uh a good result and then um retire with plenty of rest before preseason for 2027. So BC, you're not going anywhere. Um, thank you to the anonymous donor who donated to the VME

168
01:01:34.559 --> 01:01:50.559
Community Cares Pantry. Thank you to the Brick Township Education Association, the BTEA, for your banners at both of our stadiums. Thank you for always supporting the students of Brick Schools. You support our board. You are

169
01:01:50.559 --> 01:02:07.119
the backbone of this district is our BTEA and we appreciate the heck out of you. Which leads me to next week is um teacher appreciation week, staff appreciation week. Please don't forget to spoil your teachers. And that does not mean that you need to go to the

170
01:02:07.119 --> 01:02:22.720
store and spend a million dollars on them. I like to sit the Kennedy kiddos down and they write notes to their teachers. And that I think to most educators would mean more than anything. Tell that educator what they mean to

171
01:02:22.720 --> 01:02:39.599
you. And don't you write it, mom and dad. Let your student write it. If it says, "I like your pretty sweater." Because they're eight, that's okay. That means something to that educator. So sit down, put pen and paper together, and give your teachers a gift that they really want during appreciation week. So

172
01:02:39.599 --> 01:02:55.680
do not forget your teachers next week. It's important. Um, I would like to congratulate our prek team, Mrs. Janick, Miss Osborne, and Mr. Hersenko for a very successful prek lottery draw. We are so fortunate that we received this PIA grant and we are

173
01:02:55.680 --> 01:03:11.520
able to provide a free prek full day education for so many of our littlest learners. It is so exciting that we were able to add another 90 seats this year for our um lottery draw. Thank you so much for your hard work and your efforts

174
01:03:11.520 --> 01:03:27.200
of coordinating this program. Now, if your number was drawn in our lottery, you should go and buy a New Jersey lottery ticket because it is the hottest ticket in town apparently. So, um, congratulations to our seniors.

175
01:03:27.200 --> 01:03:42.079
Tomorrow, May 1st, is decision day. Um, I know that the kids are all planning to wear their shirts to school tomorrow to show everyone where they are headed next year. Um, I really enjoy looking at all the posts on Instagram. It's BTHS

176
01:03:42.079 --> 01:03:59.920
Decisions26 and BMH Decisions 26. Um, and they do a great little post and show pictures of the kids and where they're headed. And then I saw this on social media and it really stuck me with me. Um, and it says, "Senior parents, we've reached the

177
01:03:59.920 --> 01:04:17.440
home stretch, the last semester of school. We've spent 18 years preparing them for this moment. Yet somehow we forget to prepare ourselves. I'll just be crying over here through the smiles." So, class of 2026, let's

178
01:04:17.440 --> 01:04:38.359
go. You're almost there. have a safe and fantastic May. Thank you to all of our educators um next week and every day they should be celebrated. So, thank you. >> You You got two months left. You got to hold it together.

179
01:04:42.400 --> 01:04:58.720
>> All right. Uh reviewing the calendar of events. May 22nd, early dismissal. May 25th, schools are closed for Memorial Day. May 28th is our next regular meeting at Brick Township High School where we'll be celebrating the teachers of the year and uh service professionals

180
01:04:58.720 --> 01:05:14.079
of the year from our different schools. Uh so that's a fun meeting to come to. And that's it. So thanks for everyone coming out. Uh I need a motion and a second for adjournment. >> Second, George. >> I don't know who said what. >> Favor.

181
01:05:14.079 --> 01:05:21.000
>> All in favor? Hi. >> Hi. >> Thank you.