Good evening. Today is April 23rd, 2026. Will the secretary please call the role? >> Anna Brown >> here. >> Timothy Cummings, >> yes. >> Anthony, >> here. >> Jamie Falco >> here. >> Lewis Figaro >> here. >> Lori Her >> here. >> Lee Wuhong. >> Wilbur Pan
>> here. >> Maryanne Tenos >> here. We have a quorum. Please rise for the pledge pledge of allegiance. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and
justice for all. The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Law was enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advanced notice of and to attend the meetings of public bodies at which any business affecting their interest is discussed and acted upon. In accordance with the provisions of this
act, the East Brunswick Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be published by having the date, time, and place thereof posted at the Board of Education offices located at 760 Route 18, East Brunswick, New Jersey. Written notice was also provided
to the Sentinel, the Newark Star Ledger, the Home News Tribune, the Alternative Press of East Brunswick, and the Municipal Clerk of East Brunswick. All board of education meetings with the exception of executive session discussions are videotaped for later broadcast. It is the policy of the board
of education that videotaped meetings are not edited for any purpose. Individuals who speak at the board's public meetings should be aware of these videotaping rules. Okay. We have a need for a closed session. Whereas the board of education must discuss matters which
are not appropriate for discussion in a public meeting. And whereas these subjects are within the exceptions to the open public meetings act and are permitted to be discussed in closed session pursuant to NJSA 104-12B. And whereas the board of education intends to discuss matters listed in the
agenda. Whereas the length of the closed session is estimated to be 1 hour after which the public meeting of the board shall reconvene and action will be taken. Now therefore, be it resolved that the East Brunswick Board of Education will recess into close session for only the A4 said subjects, and be it
further resolved that the East Brunswick Board of Education hereby declares that its discussion of the A4 said subjects will be made public at a time when the public's interest in disclosure is greater than any privacy or governmental interest being protected from disclosure in accordance with the Open Public
Meetings Act. Do we have a motion? >> Move. >> Second, Wilbur and Jamie. All in favor? I >> opposed abstensions. We are enclosed. See you in one hour. >> Okay. Good evening everyone. We are back
from closed. And uh before we begin, we just had some questions that came in from the community that we wanted to address so that uh in case you needed information, it's being provided. Um so Joe, can you let us know about whether
the budget is being posted online? I know there was questions regarding it having been um at the library many years ago. Um what do we do nowadays because people would also like to see the budget. >> Sure. Uh we haven't given the library
budget information on a while. Uh everything's online. Uh on our homepage of the website www.ebnet.org there's a tile that says budget information. You click on that it brings you to charts. It brings you to the budget. Um
all the reports that were part of the tenative budget, the the detail. Uh there's uh links to the videos of the board meetings that talk specific, you know, our conversations that we've had um and other information there. So, it's
all online on the homepage >> accessible to everybody. Yes. Okay. Thank you. And then as far as health care health care goes, can you please uh let the community know how our health care options are selected and um how often you review those?
>> Sure. So um annually uh we go out with our insurance agent and compare what the options are. So for school districts typically there's the three main options. The state plan, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield and Etna. Uh we are
self-insured uh through Horizon currently, but we always compare what those options are. Um we have to maintain a level of benefit according to our contracts uh and according to uh the chapter 44 uh law through the state of New Jersey. So we just can't say, oh,
you know, there's your deductible is x number of dollars. We want to increase it. That that has to be negotiated in in accordance with the chapter 44 law. So before we just go into the next year and we're doing it right now, I'm getting cost proposals and from Etna from the
state health benefit plan and we always go with the most coste effective plan. >> Okay. Thank you. Uh last question we received was uh regarding our multiple transportation vendors. Um can you please let the community know why we need so many and how that impacts the
cost? >> Right. by by state law, we have to go out to bid for a transportation contracts. Um, so it's the low bid if they can meet the terms and conditions of the routes. So, uh, it might be ideal to use one bus company, but if there's
other companies that are lower, that's and they they have all the insurance, all the requirements through the state of New Jersey, we have to go with them. Now, over the last couple years, we have seen a an increase in the number of bus companies. they've kind of splintered off uh and created smaller companies. Um
there's pros and cons to that as well um for the community and uh Anna, I'm sure you remember this, Lou, I don't remember if you were here. Um but there was a time when a large bus contractor a day before school said they could not do the
routes and we had to get charter buses and police escorts uh for a good three or four months uh to get kids back and forth forth to school. So, uh, it makes it a little bit easier if we're dealing with one contractor instead of 15 20.
Um, so again, pros and cons. Uh, just so the community knows, we're about 60% in-house and 40% contracted at routes. >> Okay. Thank you. And I just want to say I really appreciate the community reaching out to us with these questions. Uh, I know not everybody up here is
active on social media, so it helps us to know what it is that the questions are, and we're more than happy to address them. So, thank you. Um, with that, we'll jump right into our agenda and our superintendence report. >> Good evening.
On April 16th, along with board members, I attended the fifth annual butterfly effect kindness initiative presentation and awards night at Hammershold. This district-wide program, founded and advised by teacher Edith Weinstein,
celebrates the profound impact of small, selfless acts of kindness across our schools. The evening honored students from across the district for their passion projects initiatives ranging from assembling hygiene kits for those
in need to creating friendship bracelets to help elementary students build new connections. highlighting the program's growth. Two to three senior scholarships are awarded each school year for students who choose kindness throughout all four years of
high school. The gala featured moving performances by the high school honors chamber choir and talented high school student Vignette Chabra, a former contestant on The Voice. We are incredibly proud of our students commitment to leading with empathy and
demonstrating that even the smallest change can create ripples of positivity throughout our entire community. Funding for the Church Hill Project is provided by the Megan Schulman Foundation while a successful
partnership grant secured additional funding from our friends at the EBEF for our secondary schools. Thank you to the East Brunswick Education Association for sponsoring the trophies and refreshments through a pride grant.
On Friday, April 17th, I attended National Signing Day at the high school. We wish our 18 student athletes the very best as they pursue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Now, let you see. It's quite impressive.
Yeah, very nice. After the signing day, I stopped by Hammershold and saw our fifth graders proudly showcased their learning through engaging presentations on different types of energy. Shout out to the teachers. I didn't have a shirt, but I I
apparently dressed in the color code. Yeah. >> Even though I didn't know. Um but um through the research though and collaboration uh our students explored both renewable and non-renewable
resources explaining how energies produced and used in our world. This project highlights their hard work, creativity, teamwork and growing understanding of how their decisions impact our earth.
And then on Friday evening, yay, Jane. That was April 17th along with board members. We enjoyed attending the high school's drama production of Spongebob the musical. It was so good. We were so amazed, Jane, by the talent of our
students, you included, with your many roles. If you have not had a chance to see the show, I encourage you to do so. It is amazing. The set particularly was
very well built by our Dr. Pan here and his uh team. But the last two shows are this Friday, April 24th. Okay. Thank you for the applause. The last two shows are Friday, April
24th and Saturday, April 25th. On Tuesday, April 21st, I had the pleasure of attending the 17th annual night of jazz at Hammershold with Dr. Pan, you were there, I saw. >> Oh. Oh, and Anna, of course,
Dr. Brun. Oh, sorry, Anna. This wonderful event is made possible through our partnership with the East Brunswick Education Foundation and the Mario A. The Carolus Memorial Music Fund. The evening featured impressive performances by our talented jazz ensembles from
Hammershaw Churchill and the high school. The high school's we the people team represented the state of New Jersey at the we the people national fin um national finals in Washington DC where
25 students testified in front of a panel of judges including professors, government officials and other experts. The students were tasked with answering questions about the history and modern relevance of our constitution. After taking positions on controversial issues
and defending their opinions and after 12 outstanding performances, they won their division being they're being recognized among the top 15 schools in the country.
And then our little third graders at Frost Elementary School, they completed their uh research unit where they learned about the research process by studying animals. Each classroom studied animals from four various habitats. Working together in small groups, they
developed an allabout book and showcased their learning at their writing celebration where each classroom was transformed into that specific habitat for an immersive experience. As part of an ongoing recycling study, students in the early learning academy
class at Chittik Elementary School explored environmental responsibility through project-based learning. Using recycled newspapers, students created koala bear faces and constructed model recycling trucks, reinforcing the
concept of reusing everyday materials in innovative and meaningful ways. In the ELA at Central Elementary School, students participated in a hands-on pollution experiment to examine the impact of litter on water quality. I
just look at her face. This engaging activity provided students with a meaningful visual understanding of environmental issues, sparking curiosity and thoughtful discussion about the importance of protecting natural resources.
I am excited to share that East Brunswick Public Schools has again been awarded the National Association of Music Merchants Best Communities for Music Education recognition for the ninth year. Wow.
In sports, coaches Zach Gagga, Jessica Allen, Danielle Brio, and Mark Modizes along with GMC sportsmanship award winners Julia Rose, Noah de Jesus, and athletic
director Frank Molter accepted the 2026 Red Division GMC sportsmanship banner for the 2526 school year. This is the second year in a row that East Brunswick has been honored with the Red Division Sportsmanship Award. Congratulations to
the team. The East Brunswick Track Invitational was held on April 18th at the stadium. We hosted 36 schools, 1,400 athletes that competed in various events. The day was a great one and provided those
athletes the opportunity to compete against some of the best athletes in the state of New Jersey. My personal thanks to everyone who attended our inaugural advocacy stakeholder meeting this past Monday. We're excited and working on a shared
mission and a clear objective that will propel our collective efforts forward. I uh look forward to um updating the community as we go along. It's really exciting. Uh we have a lot of smart
people in the room. So, it was a good spirited conversation. And finally, I would like to thank everyone who participated in the strategic plan survey. We got over 1,500 respondents
and um for me as a new superintendent, it tells me what I need to do. So, I can't wait to dig into and disagregate that data. My we had over 56% of that survey coming from um our parents and families
as well as students. Students were not left behind. over 216 students did complete that um survey, our staff across the board, um administrators, everyone. So, it's good representation.
I look forward to um just really sharing that um result with you and disagregating that data with my um steering committee and we will be meeting next week. The high level of engagement though has just really
provided invaluable insights and the planning process is going to proceed efficiently thanks to everyone's continued collaboration. So, thank you very much. Thank you, Dr. Okay, we are moving on to our resolutions of appreciation and
recognition items 1 through five. Do we have a motion? >> Move. >> Second, Wilbur and Jamie. Uh, okay. Do we? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Bring them all. Yes. >> Vote now. >> Okay. All right. We can do the vote now.
So, this is a voice vote, right? All in favor? >> I opposed. Abstensions. I have to abstain from number five. Antonet. So, do you >> um I almost forgot.
Okay. You need the mic. >> I need the mic. Yes. >> Okay. Whereas since its inception in 1993, the East Brunswick Education Foundation, the foundation has fund has found funded 1,844
grants among amounting to over $3.3 million in funding for technology equipment, cultural programs, author's visits, schoolwide cross-curricular learning events, hands-on materials, and many books, and much more to complement teaching and learning throughout the
district. And whereas from July 2025 to March 2026, the foundation has awarded 63 grants amounting to 27,000 toward its ongoing mission to enhance and enrich the curriculum for the students attending the East Brunswick public schools. And whereas at its annual
partners and excellence dinner on April 29th, 2026, the foundation will celebrate this year's honores Alexia Duca, Megan Fischer, Dr. Renee Sokodado and Robert Zuckermanman as well as the induction of Dr. Samuel Blackman and Aditi Kinbawala into the alumni hall of
fame. Now therefore be it resolved that the East Brunswick Board of Education expresses its appreciation to the foundation and its supporters for the generous and continuing commitment toward excellence in education. And be it further resolved that the East Brunswick Board of Education recognizes
and applauds the 2026 Partners and Excellence honores and alumni hall of fame inductees on having been selected by the foundation this year. Thank you. Great. Thank you.
>> Thank you. Thank you. Oh, sure. Sorry. >> Thank you. Great job. Okay, thank you. >> Okay, so resolution of appreciation for our lunch hero day 2026. Whereas nutritious
school meals are vital to student well-being and academic success. And whereas our dedicated child nutrition staff provide these essential meals with commitment and care. And whereas the individuals who prepare and serve school meals help nurture our children through their daily interaction and support. And
whereas the day of Friday, May 1st, 2026 is school lunch hero day. Now therefore, be it resolved that East Brunswick Public Schools expresses its deep appreciation to these valuable employees and commends their good work on behalf of the children. Thank you.
>> Oh, wow. A lot of people All right. Resolution of appreciation for our faculty and staff. Whereas every member of the East Brunswick public schools faculty and staff is a vital partner in our students education and whereas their collective dedication
fosters a welcoming and secure learning environment enabling students to achieve their full potential. And whereas the dedication and commitment of all the members of the faculty and staff are directly related to the outstanding accomplishments of our students. And whereas the lasting legacy of a sound
education is built upon their contributions. And whereas faculty staff appreciation is May 4th through May 8th, 2026. And now therefore, be it resolved that the East Brunswick Board of Education expresses its profound gratitude and commend all faculty and staff for their
unwavering dedication to our student success. Thank you. Thank you. Okay. Resolution of appreciation for our administrative professionals day. Whereas administrative professionals are indispensable partners in the East Brunswick public schools mission to
educate our students and whereas they foster a productive learning environment, provide invaluable support to all stakeholders and ensure the smooth operation of our schools. And whereas administrative professionals provide valuable services to our students, faculty, staff, parents, and
other members of the community. And whereas they are vital to effective communication and con and contribute significantly to the district's excellent reputation. And whereas administrative professionals day was April 22nd, 2026. And now therefore, be it resolved that
the East Brunswick Board of Education expresses its sincere gratitude to our administrative professionals for their unwavering commitment to our students and schools. Double uh double appreciation today. Okay. It's resolution of appreciation for our parent teacher association. Uh
whereas our PTAs dedicate thousands of I know this is is this a conflict. Whereas our PTAs dedicate thousands of hours to our 11 schools and over 8,200 students serving as a cornerstone of our school communities and fostering a vibrant inclusive culture. Whereas through
extensive fundraising, our PTAs provide essential capital for technology, playground enhancements, and student scholarships while directly empowering our educators through classroom miniigrants. Whereas the PTAs generously arrange for and fund special programs, authors and illustrators, music and
dance, history and science assemblies and workshops that enhance and enrich the learning environment for our students. And whereas all those involved in our PTAs are wonderful examples for our students, modeling good citizenship and the importance of doing one's share to make the world a better place. Now
therefore, be it resolved that the East Brunswick Board of Education gratefully acknowledges the incredible support of the PTAs and their dedicated service and devotion to students and staff. Thank you to Bound Monroe PTA and President Nicole Jandernal, Central PTA and
President Allison Brower, Chidik PTA and President Jessica Schneiderman, Churchill PTA and President Christine Wall, East Brunswick High School PTSA and President Rachel Van Wagner, Frost PTA and President Aaron Satrin, Hammershelt PTA and co-presidents myself
and anonyw PTA and President Nikki IA Bear, Lawrence Brook PTA and President Angela Martinez Battel, Memorial PTA and President Felicia Mlosski, and Warren Stuffer PTA president Aaron Atsby. And further be it resolved that the East Brunswick Board of Education would like
to extend a very special thank you to the president of PTA president's council, Jamie Wasserman, who has supported and encouraged the PTAs in all of their efforts. Uh I don't know if everybody is here, but I
will. Uh, so Nicole Jandernal, everybody. >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Wait for a picture. Nicole, do you want to shake my hand? It's Allison Brower. Yay. Allison.
>> Congrats. Jessica Schneiderman. >> Not here. Okay. Would you hold on to that? Yeah. Aaron Satan. Aaron. Oh, there you are, Erin. Yay, Aaron. >> Oh, Aaron gets a hug. >> Yes. I mean, Nicole could have gotten a
hug, too, but And Allison. It's okay. Nikki a bear. Yay, Nikki. Mickey's actually hammershould president-elect. >> Uh, Angela Martinez Battel. >> Thank you, Angela.
Felicia McCloski. Yay, Felicia. Aaron Atsby. Aaron, I don't see Aaron. She's not here. This is me. That's fine. >> Yes, you are. >> Antonet Bola. >> Do you want a hug?
>> You're shaking your >> Yeah, I guess so. That's fine. Everybody shook my I'm like this is so awkward. Like Christine Wall. >> Okay, Christine. Hey, Christine. That's fine. I know it's it's so weird, but it's fine. Rachel Van
Wagner. Rachel. Rachel is not here. And last but not least, Jamie Wasserman. You want me to put those back carrying? >> Okay. Yeah. Are we
safe? Do we recess? Do we need a recess? >> People can sneak out. >> Okay. >> Okay. People are leaving. So, we don't need recess, right? Okay. All right. Okay. Uh, I'm just going to do a quick switch
on the agenda so that Jane can go first. So, you'll do your student representatives report. >> Thank you. >> It is a school night. >> Oh, I would love to. I always do. >> Hello. Good evening, everyone. >> Evening. >> Um, congratulations to every
appreciation given today. Um, I appreciate all of you. Um, I'm very happy to be back. I've had a busy few months, and I can't wait to share what's been going on at our school. Uh we had our annual college fair. This is a fantastic chance for students to explore
college possibilities, ask questions, and start envisioning their futures. Speaking of the future, our seniors are right in the middle of some major milestones. Many have already made their decisions with commitment day coming up on May 1st, and I'll find out where I'm going by the next board meeting. Well,
we'll keep it a surprise. Our PTA plans a full celebration later in the year to honor this important step. We're also incredibly proud of our seniors who participated in signing day where 18 student athletes officially committed to compete at the next level from swimming, basketball, and even track. It's truly an awesome that they get to continue
their sport in a whole new way. It's true dedication. Of course, senior year wouldn't be complete without prom, and that's just around the corner as well. June 5th, another moment to celebrate everything this class has accomplished together. Senior year has come and gone so quickly and I for one am excited to
bask in these last milestones. Now, let's talk about the arts because they've been absolutely thriving. Our spring musical, Spongebob, is wrapping up with its final two shows. If you haven't seen it yet, this is your chance. And we especially encourage you to bring the little ones. There's so much talent on that stage, and you can tell the students are having an
incredible time performing. I'm having the best time, and it's bittersweet to be doing the last shows. A music program continues to shine beyond the stage as well. The orchestra and chorus trip to Williamsburg, Virginia was a memorable experience for everyone involved with ghost tours and roller coasters. We're
proud to share that the orchestra earned gold first place, the next standing accomplishment and choir with silver in a tough division. And there's more to look forward to. The choir concert on May 14th promises to be another beautiful showcase of student talent. In other activities, our robotics team
wrapped up their final competitions this past weekend, demonstrating innovation, teamwork, and perseverance all season long. our new Relay for Life fundraiser which features teams of all grades raising the most money for the American Cancer Society which continues to bring our community together for an important cause reminding us the impact we can
make and when we work together collectively. We're excited for upcoming events like student council's movie night on May 8th showing my favorite movie Pitch Perfect. It's always a fun way for students to unwind and connect. We've also had some incredible achievements in academics and
leadership. Our group came home as national champions in their units and students in IPLE honors went to present their urban plan projects and compete at RMC. They've been doing impressive work tackling real world challenges. Proud to say my team Bright Sight Development were the winners this year.
Additionally, on April 29th, we welcomed Miss Kumua and Mr. Blackman to share their experiences speaking about their career paths to inspire students. And let's not forget um our fun and friendly competition that keeps our spirit strong. Our class of 2026 soccer tournament featured six teams and in
true underdog fashion, the benchwmers took the win. >> When you take a step back and look at all of this, the achievements, the creativity, the dedication, it really speaks to who we are as a community. We're driven, we're supportive, and we con we're constantly growing. Thank you for all for being a part of it. Let's
finish this year strong. Thanks, Jane. Uh, okay, we are going right into our finance committee of the whole 2027 budget discussion. >> Okay, so here we are again. Um,
one last time before the public hearing which will occur at the next board meeting. Next slide. So, our goals tonight, recap, um finalize what the board uh is going to do with the pay-to-play fees,
uh budget reductions to close the deficit, and then the deficit as of today. So, if everybody recalls, uh we started this journey back on May 19th. Uh we had a projected deficit of $5.5 million.
Next slide. From there, uh, at our March 25th meeting, um, we talked about $600,000 of additional reductions. At the April 9th meeting, we went over a million dollars
of reductions, bringing our deficit, uh, as of April 9th to $1.3 million. During that time, we've had lengthy conversations about um increasing club and activity athletic fees. Um
doing a cap for athletics. So um during our small group meetings, um we continued those discussions. Uh and it's being recommended that the option A, which was talked about last board meeting, there was an option A and option B. Option A included increase the
fees. um and then charging reduced students um 50% of those fees and free students 25% of those fees. We've come up with a cap for athletics, marching band, and color guard um of $800 per
family. So, just to make sure everybody uh understands what what that means with the increased fees, clubs uh will go up to $45. athletics $200 and prek um inclusive
program will be $482 with reduced students paying 50% of those fees and free students paying 25%. The club component will now include the um course component clubs uh that we've
talked about uh which were previously free. Now there will be a $45 fee on those. any conversation any any questions from the board >> because this you know
>> I do want to thank you because even though that was said really quickly there was a lot of work that went into that and a lot of questions that were asked to get to those details so I appreciate you >> thank you so um
next slide In order to close the the rest of the deficit, um we've gotten contract renewals for transportation back um less than the 3.58% CPI. Um last at last meeting we
talked about saving $90,000 there. I'm happy to report there's an additional $70,000 um in those contracts coming back at 2% uh raising the grand total to $160,000. Uh so that's a a huge help. I just want
to say appreciate the uh Lori Tagerty, the purchasing man senior purchasing manager. Um she's done a lot of work to to make that happen. So we appreciate that. Uh graduation transportation will be eliminated next year. Uh there will
be an offset uh in the budget for uh those students that can't provide their own transportation uh in making sure that our choir and uh other students that perform during graduation can get there and back. And then there's reductions in pressure
washing, parking lot uh striping, uh athletic banner updates, and uh board meeting supplies totaling $6,800. >> 16,000. Thank you. You know >> Yeah.
>> Yeah. Staffing reductions. Um well, we'll we'll start with an addition. We are going to be adding one elementary instructional coach to help with the implementation of the
new curriculum, um ILA curriculum. There are retirement regist uh resignations uh that will not be refilled. That includes one student assistant specialist position, one school counselor position, one high school teaching position.
Then there are reductions. There is a reduction of one central office administrator position, two student assistant specialist positions, two part-time uh SSO positions, one high school teaching position, one traveling teaching position and we are uh reducing
the number of clubs at the elementary schools from seven to five and that's based off of all these reductions are based off of participation. Um it it's not just reduce, right? We've gone back, we've looked at enrollment,
um what the students are are taking, what they're not, and we're right sizing that. I think it's important to note that the numbers we're looking at is not just from one year. We're looking at a
history of two, three years. How many kids are enrolled in courses and is it growing or is it not? are we seeing um more interest in other areas? And so we're want to make sure that the areas that we see more interest with kids, we
want to support that and not keep supporting areas where kids are not enrolled. Like we cannot I wish I could cannot run classes with 12 students, with six students, with nine students. I just I wish I could. I cannot. Doesn't
make any sense. Um and so really working towards alleviating and taking a look at what are the needs of our time and being responsive and flexible as an organization to make sure that we're
doing that. So >> and oh go ahead. >> Um so so I do have a um a question just for clarification. Um, so I understand we're uh losing some teaching positions, but the actual curriculum itself and the
course offerings are not being changed, right? >> No. No. So we're looking at if we have multiple sections and those multiple sections are not at full capacity. So say for instance, I I can't remember what course we were
looking at quite a number of them where we had nine and seven with two teachers. So nine and seven can come together with one teacher like that, but we're not necessarily um getting rid of a course
or a program. I said this earlier that this >> my our goal was not to deplete any one area is to shave. And that's been really hard because it's easy to just say, you know what, let's just cut this and get the number um money I need. I know how
hard we've had to work. I know how many evenings we've been here just trying to figure it out and do the best that we can. Can't make everybody happy. I get that. Um but I am not getting I heard that I was getting rid of a program. That is simply not true.
>> Right. And and um I I know this is a bit a bit of beating a dead horse. But if that was the choice that we had to make, we would have we would have heard about this a long time ago. Correct. >> Of course you would have. >> Transparency.
being transparent. >> How did you guys determine these areas? Was it just the administrators that decided these positions would be um eliminated or did you get feedback from it was everybody at the table? Um
obviously if I'm looking at elementary clubs advisor stipens when I'm not not going to talk to the principles and they show data of well in fact some of this course um some of the clubs moving from seven to five it's because some
buildings don't even have five or um they have four or they've not had seven. And um and we also made sure that we're not saying everybody has to have the same clubs, but you could have the most popular five clubs in your area and that
was fine. Same thing with teaching, right? When we looked at high school teaching positions, we did not arbitrarily look at that. We've of course pulled um information from Genesis where the courses are, but then we talked to the high school principal,
the high school administrative team, the supervisors of those areas. So, we didn't just um Joe and I didn't just lock ourselves up and just cut stuff. Yeah, we actually do talk to people and we met more than once um trying to make sure
that um we were not just cutting for now that we were also thinking down the road and we also saw what came before in order to make that decision. >> Yes. >> And just one question about the SSO positions. Was it because there was there's enough staff there already and
there was not a lot of >> I think the the concept with the SSOs is to uh be more efficient with the coverage. Um >> we had some overlap. >> Yeah. I don't Yeah, I'm not going to talk about the internal work.
>> No, we're not going to caught myself. >> Yeah. >> I I just I just want to add that for the elementary club advisors, they uh they were already different at some of the schools to begin with, right? So, this isn't a change. This is just instead of >> efficiency >> seven, you get five, you pick your five.
So, they still have autonomy. >> Yes. >> Okay. Yes. >> Okay. >> Okay. Next slide. So, as of today, we have a balanced budget.
So, this is very similar to earlier in the slide deck. um adding in the additional revenues that will come in from the clubs and uh athletics, marching band and color guard and the additional reductions we just talked about. So at the next meeting we will be able
to present all the you know the whole package and and submit the budget uh with the board's approval. Um it's been a daunting task. I appreciate all the work that's gone
into it. It has not been easy, but uh we are legally required to have a balanced budget and we do. This slide de uh slide just shows the impact. Uh unfortunately the tax increase is at 6.16%.
um the impact if it was reduced um and at this point the unsustainable you know thing to come up with another $1.5 million uh in reductions. So next slide
again our next board meeting is May 7th. Uh it will be the public hearing and final adoption. >> Okay. Any board questions, discussion? Wilbur. >> Um I I I just wanted to express my appreciation for everybody up here with all the thorough um and lively
discussions that we've had. Um you know, those of you here or at home watching this on on on uh video um will know the true extent and effort and commitment and thoroughess and thoughtfulness I
think we've all brought to the table in this in in in this process. you know, despite what you might uh see in terms of an AI generated summary of what happened here. Um but uh uh uh and granted, you know, we um were coming
from different positions, you know, many times. It's fine. You know, this is what a good a a good thorough discussion by people who are committed to doing the right things do. And um just wanted to say
thanks to everybody here for that. Thank you. Yeah, thanks everybody. >> Um I I just want to add that if this is your first budget meeting with us, I encourage everyone to go back and watch since February to understand what's happened at the state level to get us
here. Um and to have to understand how we came to the decisions that we came to as well. Uh and as always, you can reach out to us. You have until May 7th. Okay. Uh we are moving any any other
further discussion on the budget. Okay. So we are moving on to our public hearing on the student safety data system report. Uh NJSA18 18A uh 17-46 requires school districts to report on
all acts of violence, vandalism, harassment, intimidation, or bullying that occurred during the period of September 1st to December 31st of 2025. Okay. So I thought I would start with explanations that um
in reporting this we report in a in a school safety data system right and it um includes a few areas. The incidents
include violence, vandalism, substances, weapons, HIV that is confirmed. All of those constitute incidents that we have to report. And
when it's violence, I have examples there what violence is, assault, fight, kidnapping, and so on and so forth. vandalism, computer trespassing, damage to property, etc. HIV that is alleged means
that it did not meet the criteria or the threshold basically that it's unfounded. And then incident categories totals may differ from total incidents because sometimes um HI involves violence as well. So you could count multiple offenses under one
incident if that makes sense. But you will once I show you you'll see. And then there another area that we have to outline is other incidents that lead to removal. So sometimes an incident does not meet the incident type definitions
for violence, vandalism, harassment, intimidation or bullying, weapons offenses, substances offenses and so forth. But that result in a disciplinary removal for at least half a day has to be reported. So even if it doesn't fit the explanation there but if we remove
you for a disciplinary issue for at least half a day we have to report it. And those disciplinary removals are defined as any instance in which a child is removed from his or her educational placement. So for disciplinary purposes for instance when we call including ISS
in school suspension out of school suspension expulsion or removal to another educational setting. So having said that these are our numbers. Our numbers of total incidents at bound
is zero. Central 0 Chidik 0 Frost one Irwin zero Lawrencebrook zero memorial zero onduffer zero Hughes five
Churchill 17 I know I'm going to come back Churchill 17 high school 18 for a total um district total of 41 incidents Now if we go back to the first slide
when I said frost was one if you go across you will see what type it was an HIV that was confirmed. In addition, the next column tells you that there were three other incidents that led to removal even though they
didn't lead to they didn't meet the threshold. And we had an HIV that was one HIV incident that was alleged but was unfounded. Right? So that's how you read it across. So when you look at Hughes for instance
where we had five total incidents we had two violence four were HIV confirmed and remember I said sometimes it would not add up because multiple incidents and you're um it falls into um two things might fall into one category
that's the case there there were 14 incidents that led to removal and five HIV alleged um incidents and that's how you get your total
for Churchill. similar. You see that we had a total of 17 incidents. Nine had to do with violence, two vandalism, one was a weapons and we had six HIV confirmed. But the other
incidents that led to approval were 28 and we had three HIV alleged incidents. high school, 18, five violence, two vandalism, nine substances, three HIV confirmed, but
there were 53 incidents that led to removal and eight eight HIV alleged incidents. And so you see the district total there, 41, 16
for violence, four for vandalism, and so on and so forth. That total that says 35 really is just Church Hill and the high school. Should have taken that from there. Okay. So if we're comparing and this report is
a form report by state, we have to report it this way. Just so you know, we have a two-year comparison. Um, we have a total instance for 2526 at 41.
24 25 we're at 46. Now, this year isn't done yet. This is just literally from January um September to December. So, um it's almost not kind of like a fair um comparison yet, but because um like I
said, it's a form um this is something we have to do. It's the state literally gives us this template and we have to report this way. So, you could take a look at um just across what the comparisons are.
And so just isolating the number of HIV investigations here, we had six that were alleged and only one was confirmed. In elementary school, we had five alleged at Hughes, four were confirmed.
Um at Churchill, we had three HIV alleged, six confirmed. Um, at the high school we had eight and three were confirmed for Yes. Go ahead. Um, so
>> it's not relative. I know what you're going to ask. >> What? >> The Churchill one. >> Oh, I was going to ask. >> Yeah, because how can we have three alleged and six confirmed? >> Yeah. How does that happen? >> It It just means that of all that we that were reported, three were alleged.
That means they were unfounded, six were. So you're not looking at of the six alleged, it doesn't mean one was confirmed in the elementary. Okay. It's not like it doesn't quite follow like that. Yeah. >> All right. >> So you can allege as many or confirm as it doesn't quite correlate. Yes. Yes.
>> I'll be able to ask question. >> Absolutely. >> Thank you for the presentation. >> I'm not done yet. But >> no, no, no. I'm not done. But go ahead. >> I was just curious for do we know if it was fifth grade or sixth grade? We do know
I have that but I can get back to you. Um so low and that's why I'm wondering if it's sixth grade. >> Yes, I'll get back to you with that. But I do have that >> and because Yeah, I do. I can get back to you. I don't want to report.
>> My other questions. My next question is >> Sorry, I didn't realize I didn't have that on. My next question is um what are the substances that they're finding on the children or is it weed? >> Yeah. Okay. >> Marijuana.
>> Marijuana. >> Okay. And then my next one I see compared from 2025 2026 compared to 2024 2025 an increase in violence and an increase in substances. >> That is true.
>> And the do we see a connection of those students? is is have have they looked at that data to see if it's those specific students or is it just >> I cannot say for sure but I can look into that. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> I would give you the right um numbers.
>> Yeah. And if you could just let me know if what age group was it was for Hughes I'd appreciate that too. >> Okay. >> Thank you. Now um for the next slide I think it's important right that for us is not just um reporting
what's happening what's an HIV confirmed or not. It's also important to address the things that we're doing to prevent some of these um obviously it's a different world. Marijuana is everywhere, you know, so there is that.
Um, the world is an angry place. Uh, but it's important for us to extend that community of care all around. So, not just academics, but for their whole well-being. So, there are lots of programs that we have and we
will add more. I'm really looking at an SEAL program for next year and see how we embed that into every classroom in a systematic way. But so far we have a lot of activities that are available during the school year to prevent violence
violence and highlight importance of school safety and our administration and staff review policies and regulations um safety crisis procedures and topics promoting safety annually. This is a
joint combined. I know that um it's a multidisciplinary coming together where we have Kevin over there um Kevin working with uh Louise's people with the SAS people like
everybody coming together um to run and promote safety. Some of the things that we do have, we have the sources of strength peer and adult suicide prevention programs. We have the great kindness challenge. We talked about it earlier in my um report.
Erin's law lessons. We've talked about the bullying, the PBSIS, live like a unicorn. I've reported on the school spirit days, butterfly effect, violence prevention week activities, autism awareness celebrations, respect week activities. There's a lot of district-wide clubs and
activities as well. This is just a few highlights. There's a whole lot more that happens. Um, but I'm looking to do more with um with seal particularly especially in light that we have no money but we'll
see what we can do. there is that um but I think it's very important you know um our kids are growing up in a different world and um we have to wrap our arms around them literally and figuratively
and so um it's an it's going to be an area of focus for me um if I make it to next year. >> You didn't just say that. >> Well, things are hard out here. Um but no, but seriously though, I think um ultimately
a lot of this starts in the home and I'm looking forward to really partnering and collaborating with families to address some of the issues because the school cannot be the panacea that ails, you know, society. Um we have them for a bit, but some of these things start from
the home. So looking at ways that we can partner with our family or communities um to really offer support and just together as a true community and a village raise our children. So >> yes, >> sorry just one more question about the
substances. Do do we offer programs for the students that are found positive for these uh substances? >> Of course. Okay. >> It's counseling. It's all sorts of things. Yes. Yes, Tim. Um, >> oh, sorry, Tim. Tim.
>> Oh, okay. Uh, there two uh two question. So, the other category um >> which one? >> Uh h >> what category? >> Oh, the the one where >> you said the other category. >> No, no, sorry. The the one that actually says other >> Oh, compared to
>> other incidents other Yeah. Yeah. Other incident. >> Yeah. So, so, so, um, you know, by my count, um, from last year, because that's a full full school year, um, there there's like three times as many incidents in the other category. >> Um, and and all of those represent um,
students being removed from school for at least a half a day. So, we're talking for this year that's like 40 almost 50 student days that um, that's impacting. I know that these uh reports are based off of state guidelines. Would it be
worth it for us to try to disagregate that other category to help us understand our schools uh better? >> Absolutely. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Absolutely. Right. >> I think so. Um to see what kinds of things I know um Dr. Busher and I were just kind of doing some of that work and
disagregating that data in his building and really looking at subgroups and disproportionality and what kinds of things can we do? Um so yeah we can and we are >> okay cool. Um and then one other thing again I know I understand this is uh
this report is driven by state uh guidelines but um can we take a look at a more than two-year comparison because I think that would be more useful than the two-year thing that we have up here. >> Yeah, we can. Okay, absolutely. >> Thanks. >> Okay.
>> Thanks. I just want to confirm um on the reporting period one slide just back a couple that we're looking at the same window of time correct for the this it's a fourmonth window on the top row and fourmonth window on the bottom row >> is it no I I thought 2425
is a whole year that was a school year no >> so that's September to June 24 to 25 and then 25 to 26 is September until April >> I think it's But on the front I think it says till December.
>> Okay. So it was then that was my mistake >> that it's comparing this time last year. So we are lower in certain instances it looks like. >> So it's September to December
>> September to December of 2425 and September to December 2526. >> Gotcha. And the next report that I would do will be after June and that would be January to June 2526 and compare it to January.
But when I do that, I would do a multi-year to your point longer than two years and see where we are. >> Thank you. >> Yeah. >> Anybody else? More than two years. Hello. >> Thank you for your report, Dr. Mman. Um, just for the people out there who aren't
sure, excuse me. We have HIV alleged. We have confirmed HIV. Obviously, there's a follow-through for the confirmed HIV, which is pretty rigid in what you have to do for those HIVs that were alleged. So, the people don't think we it's just dropped. >> Could you just give us like the process
so that the people realize that even though it's alleged, but it may not be fit the the criteria for HIV, there's still work. >> Yeah. it's not ignored because often times I almost want to say 99% of the time there's a a code of conduct
violation and so our code of conduct really does speak to what happens when that is um it is like you said Lou you know this it's so rigid to be able to call it an HIV and a lot of times people like my child is
being harassed intimate but they have to have those distinguishing characteristics and often they don't it's three of them But if they don't, but it could still be this is not how you behave in school and it violates our code of conduct. And so then that
triggers what does the code of conduct say we have to do? Sometimes it's mediation. And I know our um counselors are heavily um involved there and our administrators and um making kids, you
know, okay, so you cannot be where you are until you prove you can come have lunch here or that type of stuff depending on what it is. But we don't just um leave it alone and say it was not an HIV, so good luck. No, >> ma'am. Thank you very much. I think that's a really important distinction
for people to understand and I get that a lot like oh you know wasn't HIV what happens but there's a lot that does happen and there the school continues to follow through um and that's um you know our our staff our administrators our counselors everyone >> so that's really important so thank you
thank you for clarifying that >> and and also you know if people are you should say okay so it's not HIV what are you doing though I think um I have found that our administ ministrators are open and they'll answer questions and are happy to tell you what it is that
they're doing or what they can and cannot do. But um just really um sharing and communicating especially with you know the families of the child who feels they've been hurt. So there's remediation that happens there's a you know the counselor's attempt to repair
the harm that has been caused. So there's so much that um that we can do and that we do do. Yes, >> we do do. Dr. Mman, so these some of the trainings and programs um >> those are great programs and I know this
a lot of the students in them and they're not the students who probably need them for those reasons. So >> are the programs being recommended to the students when you know they they are hibbed or it's found to be a code of conduct violation or anything? um in is
that yes in fact sometimes it is a condition that you know you have no choice now you have to participate in something like that. >> Um and you know to to your point about it's not the kids who participate in this that the kids who really need it.
It's one of the reasons why we really want to look at um seal like schoolwide stuff like PBIS. I know Lawrence Brookke is doing something in that vein and other schools have different versions of of doing something
like where it's like a whole school affair. So everybody whether you are you don't have a choice but to participate right so what one of the things we want to look for look at doing next year um still trying to figure out how we will
pay for it but um is just embedding some so social emotional learning habits into class every classroom right you know the way we talk to people and the way we wait like just things that tend to escalate to become um bigger issues So,
if we can address them earlier, um what what might that look like? And just really having like um there's an SEAL for New Jersey and they have a lot of activities, those types of things and how can we embed and incorporate them even in academics like truly having an
SEAL curriculum um that goes in line with what we're doing in the classroom and what might that look like to address some of these issues. >> Yeah. Thank you. And and just to clarify, that's not to say that the students that aren't in them aren't doing a great job in them. It's just to say like the to encourage the students
who aren't to be a part of them for that reason. Um last question, the restorative justice, how does that play into this? Does it play into this? And if so, how and when? >> So, it depends on restorative justice. Is it like the canned program or are we
talking about how do we restore justice? How do we repair harm when something has been done? So there's always uh when kids have been put at there's always like a coming together re-entry meeting um re-entry meeting where everybody gets
a chance to sit down and talk right so in true restorative justice fashion um harm has been done. We mediate a time where the ch the person who caused the harm and the person the harm was done to get to have a conversation about what
that looks like to me and what are we going to continue to do or um to foster better relationships. So restorative justice in that sense is happening. Um is it happening consistently and in a very canned way? I couldn't say um
because at different levels it looks different there. I know there are um in the elementary school they pull groups together. They have like groups that come together and really talk about um conflict resolution, those types of things. Um but it would be nice if I could have no money.
>> You have no money. Yes. You know, >> I have one other quick question. What are the um like the community service requirements for our students? >> I have no idea. I'll get back to you. >> Okay, that'd be great. You mean for for students that are like in violation of a
hibernally because I know some high schools insist like you have to have 20 hours is part of your graduation. Do you know >> we don't have that? Okay. >> It's it's optional. Okay. >> Okay. It's not a requirement.
>> Would we potentially consider incorporating that into our activity? >> We could when >> we could. just >> we could always, right? I just don't know. Like some things have to change. I
don't want I'm going to get get on my soap box for a little bit. >> Um we have to take a a whole We have to take a look at the way um the time, right? The time that we have we have our kids exposed to 160 credits.
I need that to soak in. >> It's a lot. The state requires 120 at the electives that are supposed to be for fun. Our kids are not necessarily doing well in all the electives, right? I want more kids to graduate with an
associates degree. I just don't right, Jane. Am I speaking out of turn? Uh just from just my um observation that I just got here. I recognize that I just got here. But, you know, we really have to talk when we're talking about the level of stress and
anxiety and I I will do uh on my 100th day I I will have a report out with a video and so so everybody can hear from the meet and greets and all I've done in I'm not a 100 days yet. I just want to let
you know I'm not a 100 days yet. But when I get to a hundred days, I'm going to have something special where I talk about what the community is saying to me, what kids are saying to me, what staff's saying to me, right? So we cannot on the
one end say 160 credits, but we and then we're we're, you know, we're surprised at kids mental wellness >> and 160 credits does not equal a child going to Princeton. that that's not it
at all, right? A well-rounded student, what have they done? How are they what are they doing in community, the community hours? What what what else are they doing? The music, the arts, what does that look like? Sometimes we've had this and it's really pigeonholed our
kids into a certain level of courses that I might want to take that, but I can't because I have to get all of this done. So, one of the things we're looking at um Dr. Bully and I have been talking about how we re-imagine secondary. What does that look like for
us so that we can offer these types of things and say every year maybe five community hours? What did you do to and I have no doubt that our kids are already some of them are doing that in different ways, but to really have that be part of um their portfolio as they
finish and and hopefully, you know, um contribute to the world that we're sending them um out to. So there's a lot of conversations to be had there and our strategic plan is getting us there. >> Anybody else? No. >> Okay.
All right. We are moving on to the for the good of the cause for the public. The board of education recognizes the value of public comment on educational issues and the importance of allowing members of the public to express themselves on school matters of community interest to protect the
privacy of all students and staff. Concerns regarding individual students and staff members should generally be addressed by first meeting with the appropriate administrative staff. Public participation shall be permitted only as indicated on the order of business in
board bylaw number 0164 and by the rules outlined in the agenda. If a participant is w wishing to speak, please come to the podium, announce your name, your address, and if applicable, your group affiliation. You will have three minutes.
Is there anyone wishing to address the board? >> Hello. >> Hi. >> Hi guys. Uh my name is Dave Chan. I'm at one Jason Drive. Uh I'm a parent of two kids, one at Hughes and one at Central. I'm also a founding member and the vice
president of a local nonprofit, AETA Alliance. That's a AsianPacific Islander uh Desiamerican Alliance. And uh I'm here because um I heard of a kind of a um not so great news that there might be
a reduction in force or impact to um language uh being offered in the schools and I was particularly concerned about this and I was hoping um I won't go into any specifics so I'll stay general and I was hoping that this wasn't the case and if you guys can do whatever you can to
to mitigate that um I just want to share some personal anecdotes. Uh my son is currently taking a language course in in uh Hughes and it's his first year there and he really loves it. Um it's Mandarin and um he he's learning a lot. Um it's
it's our native language. Uh during Luna New Year he learned about the zodiac animals. Um I brought up what he put together there. The cute little calendar of all the different the 12 zodiac animals with their corresponding years and their Chinese characters and the
pronunciation. So, uh, I just find a lot of value in in this course for him because he's he's developed a lot of great pride in it. Um, he's singing the zodiac song that he learned from his teacher is really cute. He's teaching his little sister who now is getting
hyped to learn uh um Mando when she gets to Hugh. So, uh really be sad to see uh any reduction in any language uh in that way. So, just want to share that. And it's not just him too. other classmates and their parents have told me that um
the you know some of his classmates have also u become more proud in their Chinese heritage and speak um Mandarin more at home with their parents and grandparents. So I just wanted to share that and so definitely I'm up here because I I don't want to let this go. I think uh languages especially Mandarin
have been targeted for budget cuts. Uh last year uh I was at the Hughes uh forum meeting and I mentioned that actually uh Lee Wu was there as well and he uh made the same sentiment. So I echo that now. Uh so hopefully um that
language and others can be kept and uh you know what I'll I'll keep it at that. Thank you guys. >> Thanks Dave. >> Sorry I'm gonna uh Dr. M. Are there any changes to our language programs? Cuz we weren't >> I'm not caught in Mandarin. Okay. Okay. Just making sure.
>> Thank you. It was a surprise to me too hearing you say that. So, >> good evening. Uh Dana Ziki, president of the EBA. You know why I'm here. I'm asking you to please keep our custodians in our
schools. Our custodians are not just employees. They're the heartbeat of our buildings. They're the first to notice when something isn't right and they're the first to step in when there's a problem and often the first to lend a hand without even being asked. They know
our schools. They know our staff. They know our students and they care. When a child spills something, when a classroom has an issue, when there is an event that needs support, our custodians are there. Not because it's a job des in the job description, but because they take
pride in our schools. it is their home away from home. They see the buildings as more not so much as workplaces but more as part of their community. If we remove our custodians, we are not just changing a system. We are losing
something human firsthand reliability and dependability. We're losing the familiar faces that our students and parents trust. We are losing the people who quietly keep everything running. We are losing the
ones who treat our schools like their own. The impact will be real. Problems won't disappear. I assure you, they're going to grow. Principles are going to be stretched even thinner. Staff will be pulled away from teaching. Parents will
walk into buildings where people that they once knew and trusted are now simply gone. On April 20th, EBA brought forward 48 cost-saving ideas, solutions that could preserve these vital roles.
And we're asking you to consider them because once these positions are gone, we don't lose jobs, we lose relationships, we lose stability, we lose the sense of care that make our
schools safe and supported. Since 2022, nearly 90 EBA positions have already been cut. Please do not add our custodians to that list. They are not replaceable. They truly are the backbone
of our schools. And I am imploring you to please do a deep dive and consider not privatizing. Thank you. Yeah, we're in Alliance. Better deal with it. Michigan. Darn right. I rep.
>> Sorry, I can't be attending the draft. >> Because I have more important things to deal with. My name is David Pavick. I live at 19 Buckingham Drive. Three minutes. I could spend an hour up here. Number one, I could be It's nice
to see fresh faces up here since last time I was here because the last administrators garbage. I'm fully expecting you guys to step up and correct their mistakes. Starting with
why is it how many of you are students here? >> Sir, you got to sir. Oh, I apologize. Well, for those of you that have students, why is it that they don't get their assessments back? Why is it that we pay taxes?
Those taxes pay for the papers, the printers that print them out, all the ink, our taxes pay for all that stuff. The students take these assessments and then they don't get them back. Why is that? What are you afraid of? You afraid that maybe the teacher,
maybe they're humans. They make mistakes. I know for sure when I was a student, I caught many mistakes that my teachers made, not many, but a few mistakes. Every now and then, I got my grade corrected. We as parents and and those who are students do not have that opportunity. You want to help these
students to be able to improve themselves. They need to learn from their mistakes and they can't do that when they can't get their tests back. They have no idea what they got right or wrong. And that needs to stop immediately. And
if it doesn't, I'm giving you literally to the start of next year. This needs to stop. If there is not a test coming back with my child and everybody's child next year, I'm dropping an FOIA, Freedom of Information Act. It's ours.
Either we get it back or we're going to be having a lawsuit. Period. I hope that that resonates with you. I hope I'm directing that at you on the board and that you're hearing me loud and clear
because I'm done playing. Like I said, I could be up here for an hour. This is not going to be the last time you're going to hear me. You're going to start looking at me and being like, "Oh boy, here we go again. Here comes the jerk. Here comes that so you got it that right." You guys want to see You guys did all kinds of stuff earlier. Applause. Great stuff. I'm here with a I
have a child who has struggled. He is not gonna get an associates degree. Stop focusing about that. Went to Churchill's parent orientation meeting. I had to listen to the garbage talk about how we've had four students in 20
years who got their associates degree. >> 15 seconds. >> My son has an IEP. He has zero desire to go to college. What about him? What about the thousands like him? Where is your focus? I'll be back. Okay.
Anybody else? No. Okay. Just remember once comments are closed they can't be opened up again. Going once, going twice, public comments are closed. All right. >> No,
just want to address um there's a comment um regarding the outsourcing. As I said at the last meeting, we we provided notice to the union under New Jersey law. The board has to give 90 days notice
before it outsources and it requires impact negotiations. Uh we met a week ago Monday with the board's negotiations committee and the EBA negotiations committee. uh we're going to be meeting this Monday and
again we're ready, willing, and able to engage in the impact bargaining that the law requires uh before outsourcing occurs. So that will be this coming Monday. We'll be meeting with the EBA and our negotiations team which is made up of administrators and four board members
who will be there. So we look forward to a productive evening next Monday evening. Anybody else? Okay. So, we are uh moving on to our agenda. We have board of education
item one. Do we have a motion? >> Move. >> Wilbur and Jamie. Um, okay. Discussion. Any discussion? Okay. So, this is a voice vote. All in favor? >> I oppose.
>> Abstension. Motion carries. Okay. All right. Business and support operations items one through seven >> move. >> Second over Jamie. Uh discussion and
um I'd like us to turn to number five. Um the grant for funding the optimal comprehensive universal screeners. So I have a few questions if it's okay to ask. Um, why is it only being offered for
children in K to3? >> That's the law. And say it again. >> That's the law. >> Okay. And then what were the results from the program for the last year? Because it's saying that this is a continuation for year two. And was there teacher feedback, student
growth? Where are the results from that grant that was used for the year? >> This is the the to purchase the dibbles, the universal reading screener. We administered it to students in K through six in September again in January and we're going to do it again at the end of
the year and then we'll have the three windows of um student data. >> So the presentation will be at that time. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> Anybody else? >> Just like to um note on um item number
four and it says so in the agenda, but I think it's worth um noting it out loud. um the uh gift from the uh from Michael Cyel via the EBF um for the uh program, the robotics program and the e gaming
club. It's incredibly uh generous um move on Mr. Cable's part. So I just wanted to say thanks for that and for the EBF for making this possible. >> Yeah. Okay. Anybody else?
Okay. Um I just want to add that on item seven the travel report I appreciated that that was mainly for uh MTSS um because that is something that I have been looking forward to. So I appreciate those staff members who have already taken that initiative and thank you Dr.
Mammon for encouraging that. Um that is that is all I think. Uh, okay. Any other Okay, so this is a roll call vote. >> Anna Brown, >> yes.
>> Timothy Cummings, >> yes. >> Antineta, >> yes. >> Jamie Falco, >> yes. >> Lewis Figureroa, >> yes. >> Lori Herrick, >> yes. >> Lee Wuhung, >> yes. >> Wilbur Pan, >> yes. >> Marian Tang, >> yes. Motion carries. Okay. Curriculum and instruction items one through four.
>> Move. >> Second. Robert Wilbert. Discussion. >> Antonette. Well, it's always me. Sorry. >> I'm going to I want to talk about number three, which is um hold on, open it up.
>> The love of literacy. >> Yes. The the contract for the love of literacy. My first question. Um, when I was looking at this, it says that some of the evaluation would happen in the classroom. Um, I find this
to be just like a moment in time, right? And it really is I like to see what what other parts of the eval evaluation could be because honestly, if if you go to the classroom after lunchtime, you're going to get a different student than you got
before. And I know that the teachers are doing the best that they can, but sometimes when your boss is sitting there watching you, you might do a better job than you would have or a better way, you know, of handling a students uh students who are misbehaving or distracted. I find the the evaluation
to be subjective. Honestly, depending on who you get to evaluate you, you're going to get a different point of view. I don't know. That's my opinion on that. My other question is, is this being adopted based off the results of the ELLL scores that we had?
>> No, we have Miss D. Benadetti, our new supervisor, and I have been um talking about this throughout the course of the year. We just wanted to get an independent >> audit of the program. Okay. So, um this organization has come highly recommended
by others in the county and um they will be visiting classrooms, sitting with us, looking at data >> independently. So it's notep that's my next question was going to say who is going to be evaluating them. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Okay. And then my final question is >> and meeting and talking with teachers. >> Okay. Good. >> And then my final question is it's it's
slated it's stated as $2,400 per day. Um how many days is it going to happen? And uh what would be the grand total? >> Five days. >> Five days. Okay. >> And it's um funded with title three funds. >> My question about title three funds and this is just general question. Do you
have to use it within a specific time frame or does it expire like >> um it by the end of the school year? So you have but there will be carryover opportunities. >> Okay. Thank you. >> For one year. >> Thanks. >> Yes. All right. I also have questions on
this item. Um so for the love of literacy uh I looked into them a little bit and they seem to be balanced like their roots are balanced literacy and then they have some science of reading elements. I'm just wondering about the timing of this because given that we're
um you know possibly rolling out a new curriculum uh which is more science of reading um why would we do an audit now? >> Well, this focus this um organization's focus on this particular audit is the students language acquisition. It's not
going to be tied in with our reading program. >> But aren't our ELLL students going to be using that curriculum also? Why would we audit >> the curriculum that we have now if that's not what we're going to have? >> He's not necessarily auditing the curriculum. He's looking at instruction and he's looking at the student adequate
yearly growth. >> But based on a balanced literacy curriculum, >> no, they're not using that in the ESL classrooms. >> Okay. What are they using the ESL class? >> They're using NIO. >> Okay. Which is is that structured? >> No, it's not a literacy per se program.
It's a language acquisition program. >> Okay. So teaching them how to teaching them English. >> How would that tie in though with >> with this with the other reading program? >> Yeah. >> Well, that program they will there is a component in CKLA for MLS and the teachers will be adopting that program.
So this isn't a curriculum. This is a a agnostic audit. It's not curriculum dependent. >> Okay. But so why why did you select for the love of literacy as >> it became high it was highly recommended. Um, we're part of a county consortium on ESL for ESL program and it
was highly recommended. We interviewed three or four other organizations and we we we selected them. >> Okay. But so why do they say that they're balanced literacy focused if that's not what they're doing? >> Um, part of the organization does work
with um in in literacy curriculum. This audit is strictly on the ESL program. >> Okay. So they're they're not doing they're doing what? >> They're not doing bal anything balanced literacy with us. >> Okay. Um All right. Okay. I think that that's it for me.
Anybody else? >> Okay. All right. So this is a >> cool >> voice vote, right? Yeah. Voice vote. All in favor? >> I opposed. Abstensions. Motion carries. And then uh human resources item one. Do
we have a motion? >> Second one. Oh, and there's an addendum. So one and two. I apologize. Items one and two. >> Mhm. >> Moving on both. >> Uh Wilbur and Jamie. >> Yep. >> Okay. Discussion. Okay. It's a voice vote. So all in
favor? >> Oh. Because of item two. >> Uh both of them. All HR. >> Oh, sorry. Okay. So, we're doing roll call. >> Um, go ahead. >> Anna Braun, >> yes. >> Timothy Cummings, >> yes.
>> Antineta, >> yes. >> Jamie Falco, >> yes. >> Lewis Figaro, >> yes. >> Lorie Herrick, >> yes. >> Lee Wuhong, >> yes. >> Yes. >> Pan, >> yes. >> Merant, >> yes. Motion carries. Okay. Uh, student services items one through four. Move.
>> Second. >> Jamie Vener. Uh discussion. >> No discussion. This is also a roll call vote. >> Anna Brown, >> yes. >> Timothy Cummings, >> yes. >> Antineta, >> yes. >> Jamie Falco, >> yes.
>> Moose Figuro, >> yes. >> Lorie Herrick, >> yes. >> Lee Wuhong, >> yes. >> Wilbur Pan, >> yes. >> Marian Tenders, >> yes. Motion carries. Okay, we are on to our committee reports, information items, and the for the good of the cause for the board. We will start on that
side this time. Yay. >> Um, first of all, shout out to my girl Jane. You did a good job. >> Spongebob, she had 45 rolls. If you haven't made it, haven't had a chance to go see it, definitely go see it. I took uh my daughter and her little friend and
we had a great time. I was really impressed with it. You guys did a really good job. And more exciting news in Trenton. Um, so the new commissioner for the Department of Education presented to the assembly. Uh, for those of you who don't know her, her name is Dr. Lily
Locks and she was there on April 15th. She said New Jersey school funding formula is outdated and no longer reflects current costs or student needs. >> Yay. We said that, too. >> Um, she emphasized the need for a system that is more predictable and
transparent. Joe, I thought of you when she said because you say that all the time. She said uh districts shouldn't be locked shocked yeartoear by funding cuts or increases. Uh things she acknowledges schools are dealing with uh with pressure during budget season. She also noted that finance reform takes time. So
obviously she's going to expect patience because there's a lot of stakeholders involved in that process. Um she said her strategic priorities I actually thought of you. I was like oh I wonder if she did a strategic survey or she just read our comments. Um her strategic priorities are funding stability,
literacy, student mental health, and uh she liked she would like to uh have strong educator workforce. Um she seemed really positive. Honestly, I really liked what she had to say and I I hope that the legislators set her up for
success because her goals are really what our goals are. So hopefully they uh address the problems so that we don't have to do this again year after year after year. >> Thank you. >> Anything? >> Yes. Uh just to mention uh the East
Brunswick Mental Health Task Force uh which uh myself and Miss Erica are proudly a part of as well as the East Brunswick Public Library hosted a uh stressless day on April 11th. This Saturday, the past Saturday. What a beautiful day it was. We had tremendous
turnout. Um, you know, resources were there for people. We had families come that, you know, were new to town. Families have been there for been here forever. Uh, just enjoying, uh, the time out together and a stressless day. The there was nature walk. We had, as I said
before, lots of resources. We also had therapy animals. Unfortunately, they got there a little later. So, if you stuck around, you got a chance to hang out with these wonderful therapy animals. But I just want to thank everybody. and again the East Brunswick Public Library and all those on the East Brunswick mental health task force and those who
are also helped us uh to get this done and to to do this. We hope to do more of that in the future. So, thank you. >> Thanks, Lou Jamie. >> So, uh this upcoming Sunday at the public library from 1 to 4:00 p.m. is a seek awareness and cultural appreciation
festival. I attended last year. It was absolutely lovely. Um, there's demonstrations with sword fighting, dancing, there's food. So, I do recommend you check it out. Additionally, on Tuesday, May 12th is the Human Relations Council's 10th
annual Unity Walk at 6:30 at the um municipal complex by the pond. I would love to see everybody there. Um, it's an open invitation to everyone, people of all ages, abilities, um, all walks of life. we'd love to have you. Um there
are a couple contests for students associated um with the Unity Walk coming up. We did deliver flyers to the schools. Um there is an essay contest for older students in 9th through 12th
grade and um the prompt is if you had the power to remove one idea, belief, mindset or behavior from our world to make it a better place, what would you choose and why? Uh it's 300 words and
due on May 4th. There's also a poster contest for children in grades 1 through 8. And we're looking for a message about, uh, unity. And so, uh, same thing, Monday, May 4th,
uh, you can drop off the posters. It's an 8 by 12, I'm sorry, an 8 1/2 by 11 poster board. And, uh, drop it off submissions May 4th. And all, uh, winners will be announced at the Unity Walk. there are prizes. So, um
definitely consider um working with your children to um invest in our community and learn more about what diversity means for our neighbors. Thank you. >> Thanks, Jamie Le. >> So, until last Monday, the negot
negotiation committee met with EBF team four times. Uh I want to thank uh Matt and Dr. memo for their for your leadership and more importantly I want to thank EBEF for your good faith EB EA
>> for your good faith negotiation and uh I we will meet again next Monday I'm sure we will reach an agreement both side will be happy with that's the only thing I can say now thank you >> Wilbur oh
uh Tim Wilbur wants to go before I I don't have much to say this evening. Um I would like to just congratulate the awardees from earlier in the evening. However, it's a phenomenal group of people who um you know exemplify what it means to care for one another and to uh
build community and to engage um actively and with compassion. So I just have a lot of respect for those people and and thank them for you know their ongoing service and and dedication to the community. And I hope everybody has a wonderful evening. Thanks, Tim. Lori,
>> thank you. So, the uh curriculum committee met on Tuesday, April 14th um in person in this room. We had a great turnout. Again, the only item on our agenda was to continue talks about the
literacy program um specifically CKLA. There was an additional presentation given by Miss McCourtney that included data from pilot and non-pilot classes, a look at professional development plans, um some pilot takeaways, and there was a
very robust discussion between parents and staff with many perspectives shared. And I just want to thank um everybody that's part of that committee because we've had two meetings so far and we've met probably for a total of about five and a half to six hours and have had
really um good discussion and I really appreciate that. Um ultimately the committee did decide to make the a future recommendation to the board for the recommendation for the board to um
look at uh introducing CKLA for grade grades K through two um next year. And so ultimately what will happen is at one of our May meetings there will be a presentation made by the administrative
staff probably Dr. Wley or Dr. Mammon about um the curriculum and that way we will all have the opportunity to ask questions um and ultimately bring it to a vote. I'm I'm hoping
imagining and so we'll see how that goes. Um, but if you have anything uh I know I've sent out like a really lengthy email to the board about what we've discussed and I try to um give information about some of the bigger topic uh items that are in there, but I
also want everybody to feel that they can ask um you know the upcoming meetings their own questions and that um that you're comfortable with whatever um the outcome is. And so please um you know any questions I'm happy to answer
from what I know from the committee um or to point them in the direction of somebody um from the administration who's more willing or more able to answer it. And um yeah, I just look forward to that and again I'm very thankful for the committee. I think we've um it's done a really good job so
far and I'm happy that the the direction that we're going. So thank you. >> Thanks Lori. It was a busy week in the arts. First of all, I have to shout out again. My favorite sardine is sitting right there. I was going to bring you some seaweed
snacks tonight. May maybe I'll bring them next time. Um, but it was so good. And I have to I have to say the quality of the performance and of course since I was a music person, uh, the vocals,
chef's kiss, unbelievable. I left I left that night. I had been shouting and cheering and hooting, hollering like I I I lost my voice by the by the end of the night because it was so good. And I was so proud of all
of you up on that stage. Theater people are like my people. I felt like, okay, I'm home because 45 years ago, I was one in in one of those theater kids. Um I probably would have been the pirate guy running up and down the aisles.
Um, but but it was it was really special too because of course 45 years ago I was in the pit orchestra for the shows that we did and I went down and I saw the kid who was sitting there and it turned out it was a former student. >> One of our former students um who had
been through the band the the band program. There were uh you know a number of kids, current band students, current orchestra students, and this is just something that these kids are going to remember forever. 45 years ago, I can still sing all the songs to Cabaret. Um
but I won't. I also want to commend um the night of jazz. I knew Mario D. Carlos. He was a teacher when I was a kid and uh Chick would be so proud to see the legacy of jazz that has continued and has grown. Um when the
fifth graders started to play, now these are kids who've only this is only their second year playing a band instrument and they were jamming out. They were improvising. They were amazing. And I I it was just unbelievable. I couldn't
believe that these were such young kids with such fantastic skills. And then of course I was thinking to myself, you know, we almost lost the band and the orchestra and the coral programs or at least had them gutted in the last two budget seasons. Not this year, but the
previous two. And I kept thinking if those cuts had gone through that pen stroke, you know, that we wouldn't have had that concert because those kids either one would never have started their instruments or two, they would have started so late
that it wouldn't have mattered. And um I was just so proud all the way up from them the and think about how crazy this is. a junior high school jazz band and the whole audience, the place was packed, clapping along. You
don't see that everywhere, let me tell you. And then, of course, the junior high sounded as good as a high school group. Our high school group sounded as good as a college group. So, I just want to shout out to um you know, our music program. I'm so proud of everything that
you've been accomplishing. That's it, Anna Wilbur. >> So, we can't talk about Spongebob enough tonight. Um, so real quick, Friday and Saturday night, uh, last two performances, bring the kids, including the little ones. They're going to have a great time. I do want to clarify one
thing, though. I didn't build the set. I helped out. The students built the set. >> They were the ones that uh um they're the ones that uh executed and put all the all the things together. I just helped wherever I wherever I could. Um, but one thing um there was one part,
excuse me, uh during the set build that um that I think is going to stick with me for a long time. I was helping uh three of those uh three of the students, three of three of the girls um uh build uh the chum bucket/throne room with a
handle on it. And we were working through the process of trying to figure out how to build this uh how to build this thing. And they were and again they really took the lead in figuring and figuring out the whole uh process. Um and as we're doing that I um mentioned
to them, you know what you guys are doing? You're prototyping. You're pretty good at it. Do you like this? And they all said, yeah, this is real a lot of fun. I said, good. If you like this stuff, maybe you might want to think about a career in engineering. You know, just throwing some seeds. uh throwing some seeds out there. But uh for you
know for the uh um and I just mentioned this because uh we talk about the arts a lot here. Um but there are actually other aspects to participating in the arts that go beyond just the performance. Um, I mean, it's not a um it's not a uh coincidence that that at
the end of the uh performance there's a lot of this and a lot of this because there's just as many students offstage doing the performance uh putting on the performance as there are on on stage. So, I just wanted to mention that and again that set it's that's all the kids not
I just want to give credit where uh credit is due. Um Zanna mentioned um there's a lot of music stuff uh coming up in the schools uh given that it's late April and May so it's like concert uh season time. There is one concert I
wanted to mention because our teachers participated and that's with the Brunswick Symphony Orchestra. Uh this past weekend they uh performed like one of my very favorite pieces, Firebird. Um and it was uh really gratifying to see some of our teachers participating in
that effort as well. It was a great performance. If you haven't checked it out, you should. Um, all I know is that um, like I said, Firebird is one of my favorite pieces. I actually have a few different recordings of it and I like to listen to it on a regular basis and after hearing that show, all I know is
I'm not playing my stereo nearly loud enough. >> So, my my my wife has a different opinion, of course. So, there's that. Um, and then finally, uh, since we're heading into May, uh, the, uh, May is Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage, uh, month. Uh, so I know, uh,
the town and the schools will be having a lot of things, uh, revolving around that. And my offer to the good people of East Brunswick, if you want to really know how to play, uh, old school, real ma jang, hit me up >> for money or for free.
>> Uh, okay. I I don't want to mention Spongebob, but I just want to say I am I do want to mention Spongebob, but I know it's I just want to say I'm so grateful because the songs from uh Legally Blonde at Churchill have now disappeared and the ones from Spongebob have taken over. So, uh I'm looking forward to the next
performance so that those can move on as well. Uh no, really it was it was a wonderful job. I I don't want to harp on it because I know everybody wants to go home. Um the butterfly effect event, I know Dr. M uh spoke about that. So, I won't go there either. But um I do want
to acknowledge that there were students who were selling ceramics outside and wow, those did not look like they were done by students. They looked professional. Um and I know I I bought a couple of pieces and so did Lori and it just speaks to uh the arts or not just
the performing arts and you know the music. It's it's really such amazing talent and that's a skill you can take into life as just even a hobby. Um it was really remarkable to to see that. I was shocked. Um and then uh you know on April 14th,
Dr. Mammon and I met collectively with the interfaith council. Um yeah, that was that was really nice. That was really refreshing because as I said before, this is the community has like so many different faiths here. So, it was nice to hear them all gather and um
all of the the different pieces come together in kind of a unified message of we want what's best for our community and we're hoping to bring that into that same message into our schools. Um as I said before, that interfaith role was newly created this year and I'm the
liazison for it. So, I'm really looking forward to continuing to work with um all of them and uh Holly Sarah who leads that organization um and the advocacy committee that we met on Monday. It was really nice to
have different schools of thought from across the community. Um I know that you were grateful that so many people with so many varied disciplines and experiences came together and really wanted to make a difference. uh you did
feel the energy in the room of everybody who was so knowledgeable and willing to um do what's best for our town. So, I'm I'm hopeful that you know with the new uh commissioner, thank you, of education
and um you know that we're hopefully going to be headed in the right direction. Uh, last but not least, our next board meeting, just for public awareness, uh, May 7th is always our Is it May 7th, right? Yeah. Is our staff
uh, appreciation awards. So, that'll be at Hammersheld to accommodate. Um, it's always at Hammersheld. That's not new. Um, just mark your calendar in case you plan on attending. And then, uh, our June 18 meeting is at the high school for that's for student for student awards, always at the high school. So
just keep in mind those next two meetings. We've also because there's such a big gap between those meetings, we've also added a meeting on May 28th, but that will be here. Um just so that our agendas don't go too long. Um so May
7th, Hammersh May 28th here, June 7th, uh June 7, June 18, sorry, the high school. Um and that is all. Okay. Uh motion to adjurnn. >> Move. >> Oh. Oh. Oh. Yeah, Wilbur and then Antoanette.
>> Second. >> Uh, all in favor, >> opposed, abstensions. Have a great evening, everyone.