Check one, two. Check. Check one, two. Call to order. Flag salute. Roll call. Mr. T. >> Mr. Vishel Patel >> here. >> Miss Pang >> here. >> Mr. She >> here. >> Miss White >> here. >> Miss Anja Patel
>> here. >> Mr. Lugo >> here. >> Mr. Ronak Patel >> here. >> Mr. Erico. Mr. Deserillo >> here. >> You have a quorum. >> Thank you. Opening statement, Mr. Toad. >> Thank you. In accordance with the Open
Public Meetings Act, public law 1975 C231 Sunshine Law, the Edison Township Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be published by having the date, time, and place thereof posted in the Board of Education administrative offices and posted on the board's website. >> Thank you. In accordance with NJSA
section 10, column 4-12, the Addison Township Board of Education adjuns to a confidential session for the purpose of discussing the following confidential person and board matters, student matters, pending litigation, legal matters, contracts, property
acquisitions, and HI. Do I have a motion to add to privilege session? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. Thank you. >> We will be back probably in next hour. Thank you. Everyone please move to the middle seats so then people can see. There are people
standing on the sides so please squeeze in. So let's use every seats available. Uh, I think JP does have one. JP has >> Thank you. >> They have the middle and the two sides. >> Can play sports?
>> Yeah, football. Big dude, man. You got a full house tonight, right? Okay, I think I have to start now. This door is closed on this side. >> Text. >> Yeah, let me text. Let me touch my uh my
my my bouncers. >> I mean, >> yeah, >> that's that door. Let me see your paint. I forgot. >> You'll get him there. >> Yeah, you keep it. >> That's a typical day.
>> Did I return? >> Divide the celebration. >> Maybe next time. >> Yeah, we're in good shape. >> Yeah, I don't know what happened here. So, you got you got you got you got black instead. Need a bigger room. >> I think I gave to the kid who was
signing my book. >> All right, let's do it. >> We're going to reconvene to the open session. Everyone, thank you. Thank you. So, we'll we'll start with the presentation 2526 educator and educational services
professional recognition. Miss Baninder. Good evening, Board of Education, Dr. Alderelli. Parents, teachers, and students. We're here tonight to recognize our teachers of the year. I did some math because I started thinking about that phrase that we spend more
time with our colleagues than we do with our family. And I started thinking about the teachers and how much time they spend with the students. So on an average or on a minimum I should say really you are spending about 1260 hours in a room with students every year. It's
enough time to watch Lord of the Rings the extended edition 105 times. Add to that 250 hours minimum grading, prepping lessons, and another 50 or at
least of running clubs, chaperoning, or coaching a sport. It is 1,560 hours of a year that you pour your heart and soul into, and we are so grateful for that.
What the numbers don't show are all the roles you take. You don't just teach content. You don't just teach language arts. You are therapists, referees, your cheerleaders. You are everything. And sometimes, just
sometimes, you are the brightest light in a student's day. for that and for those 1560 hours of magic, grit, and grace. We are endlessly grateful. And with that, we're going to
watch our video of our teachers of the year. Edison has provided so many opportunities to grow as a teacher. Um, and not only that, just make connections with the students. So, I have a huddle
up group. I'm a star mentee and I like that those things are offered to make connections with the students. It is truly an honor to recognize Lauren Judges as Woodro Wilson Middle School's teacher of the year. Lauren is the kind of educator every school hopes to have.
Someone who leads with heart, puts students first, and consistently goes above and beyond for others. And I'm always here to help them. I'm, you know, on their side. I'm here to advocate for them, whether it's for something going
on at here, something going on at home. um they always have a safe space here, you know, to come and talk to me. >> If I was to give Beth Cafiro a hashtag, it would be students first because everything Beth does centers around supporting, uplifting, and advocating
for the success and well-being of every student at Wood Wilson Middle School. Beth, you are truly a champion, and we're so proud of you. If my students remember one thing about me, I hope it's that they know how much I cared for them and
that I knew them more than just a student. I knew them as a whole person. And I I hope they remember the way I made them feel in the classroom. Mrs. Christiani is definitely the right choice for teacher of the year. She has super high expectations, high energy,
lots and lots of fun and creative ideas to help children learn and feel good about their learning. She plans her lessons thinking through the lens of a parent, a student, and a teacher. Amazing.
>> I want my students to know that although we did a lot of goals related to speech, that I truly cared and supported them growing as children and growing as people. >> Mr. Shaw's tagline would be finding every voice because that's exactly what he does. He helps students access
communication in ways that work for them while building the confidence to use it. That impact goes far beyond speech. It changes how students see themselves and how they connect with others. I'm thinking the the community is very diverse. We are a melting pot of
different cultures and traditions. And through all the school activities, we have cultural night, we have Spanish heritage night, and I'm learning from students their traditions and their meals and what they do with their families. And uh I think I benefit from
that. One word to describe Mrs. Ky is inspirational. After years of teaching first grade, she decided to pursue her passion for art and become an art teacher. While the journey was not easy, her perseverance has led to meaningful outcomes and the students of Washington
School are reaping the benefits of her dedication. Uh I'm a mother of two kids who went to the same school and now they're still a part of the Edison district and I started off to get to know the education system more, but like I loved working with the kids and
contributing with the community, too. Mrs. M builds relationships with staff and students across the building. She supports all students and staff, can be in any classroom, and is known around the building as a great helper. So, I believe my students don't know that I
absolutely love sports cars and cars in general. And my favorite sports car is a Corvette and I've owned about four sports cars in my lifetime. And I've also been featured in Corvette Vet magazine. >> If I had to describe Miss Sierra in one
word, it would be transformative. As a seventh grade science and forensic science teacher, she changes how students see the world, reshaping how they think, how they learn, and how they believe in themselves. She makes complex ideas exciting, relatable, and real. My big word that I like is to persevere.
Perseverance. And I just feel like if the students worked really hard and they know that they are going to have challenges and that they need to just keep working at it, they'll have success. And the
biggest thing for me is to take pride in whatever you do. If you hand something in and you're happy about it and you have pride about it, you're going to have success. Her energy, positivity, and commitment to building meaningful connections inspire those around her
help create a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. So on the first day of sixth grade, um the bell rings, the class fills in, and I realized that I was the only girl in the entire class. And my teacher at the time, Miss Catoya, made it such a
positive experience for me. And I felt like that that really influenced me to want to become a teacher. And to make it even more full circle, she actually hired me after college to work here at Mel Park School. >> Mrs. Epet Disney is dynamic. She really
connects with the students in a really special way. Um, they just love being in her classroom. >> I chose Edison because of its diversity and strong school system. My both kids went to Edison school, so I know it's the best place to work. Edison provide a
safe and friendly environment to everyone and I really enjoy working in Edison. At Menllo Park Elementary School, Mju Rawat is the kind of person who makes every day brighter for her students. As a paraprofessional in a self-contained classroom, she brings
patience, kindness, and a calm, steady presence that helps students feel safe, supported, and truly cared for. She goes above and beyond to create a positive environment where every child can grow, whether that be academically and emotionally.
Um, I would do #ake because that's what I strive for my to do for my students. Um, building that support, that foundational skills, you know, helping them be kinder people, you know, just trying to make a difference in the world, a difference in their life, believing in them. So, just make a
difference. >> Mrs. Rumirez is the right choice for teacher of the year for MLK because of her compassion, her supportive nature and her love of children. I would say my son inspired me to pursue a career in
education. He's a uh special needs kid. So I've always wanted to be in the environment where he's growing to get an experience like and also to give to the community how I work with him. I do the same thing with my kids by my students
too. Miss Winnie elevates our school community by modeling compassion, collaboration, and consistency every single day. Um whether she's supporting communication, sensory needs, or stepping in where she's needed, she helps create a space where all students
have a sense of belonging. So Edison is a special place to me because I actually grew up in Edison. I have been teaching in Edison since 2002. I did my student teaching at JP Stevens in 2001. So, it's been 25 years of an amazing connection
and I'm blessed to say 25 years later that I love what I do. >> Kristen Benvitas's legacy will transcend everyone that has been here in the school whether it's staff, students, or even families. We have installations throughout the building on all of our
walls that have been u brought forward through her vision uh in collaboration with our student clubs. She is part of our beautifification club and also our art club. So when our students leave this building, they will not only have learned the academics of our ABCs and
123s, but they will see the world artistically uh whether it's warm and cool colors uh or just the way that they can take something and make it a little bit more beautiful through their own uh actions. >> So I hope that they'll remember that I was always there
for them. um that I was always somebody who was in their corner whether it was a student or a teacher um that I was there and supportive whether I helped them but I was or not but I was always hopefully
there for them. Christina Barila is the right person because she does it all and she does it all with a smile. teachers uh are willing to take risks and try new things because they know that they have Christina in their corner with students.
Christina is a true teacher down on one knee tying shoes helping students learn how to read and she really is just gifted at what she does and Linda is a much better place because she's here. For me, Edison has an amazing community
both with their teachers and the community and the students. And the students come to learn or they come to grow and I really enjoy seeing them grow throughout the years. >> Mrs. Boddowski is the right choice for
teacher of the year because she represents everything we hope in an educator. She combines strong instructional practices with deep understandings of her students needs. She creates a classroom environment where students feel safe, take risks, learn from mistakes, and grow
academically and personally. >> So, I always work my hardest to ensure that every student has the opportunity to learn and succeed. Uh, if a student is struggling to grasp a concept, I make it a priority to find different ways to teach it until it clicks for them. Um, more than anything, I hope my students
remember that I never gave up on them. I want them to carry that same perseverance into their own lives, understanding that challenges can be overcome with effort, support, and determination. Mrs. Chapter is the right choice for this recognition because of the heart
she brings to her work each day. She's always willing to do whatever it takes to make sure she's able to meet with every student who needs support. Often our conversations will start with, "I need to change my schedule as she truly maximizes her time. There isn't a minute
in her day that she isn't focused on helping students." I would say the students who were in my school when I was a senior, I started working with students with disabilities that year and I just loved it. It was so much fun to me. I was in a home room with them and
then I started interacting with them and then I would go on my free time and work in the class and that's when I just started loving to do that. The thing you need to know about Gina Shapiro is that her mind is always moving. She's always
thinking of a new idea, a new program to implement, ways to tweak things that's already in place. We see this in everything she does. But one of the things that I noticed, the first thing I noticed about her is that she always had the best t-shirts and she would customize them. Even your basic JP
Stevens t-shirt and like, "Where'd you get this year?" She go, "Oh, I did it." And that's the thing you need to know about her. She's always improving. I feel like it's home. I feel like it's a family. Um, I've now been here for 25
years. Um, and it definitely has become my my happy place. I walk in every day and I'm happy. I come to work because I like it, not because I have to work. >> Mrs. Rand's famous tagline is, "It's all good and we're going to fix this together." This is her signature
message. It empowers students to solve their own problems while she offers steady support every step of the way. >> Uh, I grew up in Edison. I went to school in elementary, middle, and high school in Edison. It just feels like home. So, it just feels special to me to
get to teach here and pass a along to the other students. >> Miss Squirrel is a natural educator who truly cares about her students and their growth. She builds strong relationships with her learners and creates a
classroom where positivity is felt every day. She takes the time to support each students needs and brings a sense of creativity and encouragement that makes her classroom a better place. Um, I value hard work, honesty, and
commitment. Um, I do the best I can every day by getting here early, and by being here, not taking any days off. And what I hope to come out of that is for the kids to see how I do it. And if they learn that if they try hard and they put
their mind to it, that they could do anything. >> Mr. Buckley's legacy for John Marshall School will be his calm, personable approach to ensuring that everyone feels safe and secure. all staff, students, and families feel comfortable and at ease knowing that Mr. Buckley is part of the John Marshall community.
So, a fun fact um about me is that I started the JP Stevens girls lacrosse program in 2004. It started out as a JV program and the next year it went to varsity and it's still going to this day. So, 23 years
later, I'm proud to be a part of history in the making. Jod embodies innovative instruction with authentic relationships building with students and staff. She's a true connector and she's all hard bringing her energy each and every day.
>> Why Edison for me is because our parent community is so engaged. Um they they're like a partner with you. They work with you to support your their child's educational goals. And anytime that you make a suggestion or um talk to them about how they can make their child more successful, they're right with you on
board and they're and they're very supportive. And the teachers here are all very well trained and highly specialized and they'll go the extra mile and work with the counselor. >> When I think of Michelle, I think of her unwavering commitment to her students social, emotional, and academic growth. She always tries to make sure that they
are connected to the school in some way. And she's always willing to jump in wherever she's needed. Whether that's part of the JAM school spirit committee, helping with testing, or just being present for our students and for our staff. Michelle is an irreplaceable part of the jams community and we're so happy
to give her this honor. >> One of my favorite Thomas Swift lyrics is long live all the magic we made. And so I hope that my students remember all the magic that we've made in our classroom. All the laughter, all the memories, all the great times that we've had together. I hope that sticks with
them far beyond their time in my class. If Jess had a tagline, it would be long live the magic. It captures her love of Taylor Swift and her belief that every child's school experience should feel joyful, memorable, and a little magical.
Can I fall back on the great Mr. Rogers and say that if you ever find yourself down, find the helpers. Find the helpers. They're out there. Keep looking. Find the good people to help you. And once
you get that help and after you're on your feet, you can turn around and be one of those helpers yourself. >> Mary is a perfect blend of scientist and practitioner. She pairs rigorous clinical precision, constantly studying complex diagnosis with a deep, selfless
love for her students. From staying late for science fair projects to personally investing in specialized curricula, she consistently goes far beyond her job description to ensure no child is left behind. I would probably go with my band director. Um, he kind of made band more
fun than just like learning an an instrument or learning a new song. Um, always pushed me to do it better myself. He's the one that kind of introduced music education and told me I should try to go into teaching in college. Um, and just really inspired me to to be a teacher just like him.
>> Mr. Sosa is absolutely the right candidate for this uh position. He is truly a tremendous teacher. a tremendous colleague. Um, not only does he support the students uh and give them a great
education and a love for the arts and a love for music, but he also collaborates with all of his peers. He really truly cares about the kids and wants to make sure that they're not only successful in in music, but also successful in their classrooms. Uh, he pushes in whenever
needed to help out. um and really wants to get to know the kids so that he can definitely meet their specific needs and make sure that they're they're learning and growing every day. >> My third grade teacher, Mrs. Seorza, and I had a real close connection and she helped me struggle, you know, with my
struggles in reading and writing. Um and but I didn't go into education until it was a second career for me. So, that was my my um children's teachers that inspired me to get into education. I think Miss Cox will leave um a lasting
legacy of hard work, compassion, and kindness at uh James Madison Primary. I think she's a real pillar of our community. Um she does so much for the staff in the community and the students here um that she will never be forgotten here.
So, I've had many great teachers from elementary school all the way up to college that have inspired me to pursue a career in education. And so, I hope that one day I could do the same for one of my students. And they say, "Choose a job you love and you won't work a day in
your life." And I feel like I found that job. Mrs. Wallace's legacy will be the confidence and independence she builds in her students. Her students leave the classroom not only stronger academically but also believing in themselves as
capable learners. She teaches them how to take ownership for their learning, how to set goals, and how to persevere through challenges. Uh Edison is very unique because my both sons are studying JP Stevens High
School. Feels like a family. I like it. Miss Calori elevates and inspires the school community by shining her positive vibes and energy. She could always be seen with a smile on her face, a cool composure, and a welcoming warm embrace
to all students that enter the classroom. >> So, when my son was 2 years old, he was diagnosed with autism, and he's going to be 29 this month. So, I went deep diving into it and um I really worked closely with his early intervention specialist
and I realized that I enjoyed doing this and I went back to school to be a teacher and I have loved every minute since. It's the most rewarding thing and I love my students. Um you know, I I look at them and I realize like the
challenges that I had at home, all of it came full circle because I didn't know what I really wanted to be. um when I grew up until I had my kids. >> Mrs. Moore consistently places the needs of her students, our most deserving students, at the center of everything
that she does. As a special education teacher working with students on the autism spectrum, she demonstrates extraordinary patience, empathy, and understanding. She creates a safe, structured environment where students feel valued, respected, and empowered to
grow both academically and socially. My uncle was special needs and nonverbal and that had a huge impact into where I am today with special education because I always felt a close bond to him and I
didn't you know we weren't speaking but we didn't need to. I just want to be there for students that may not be able to communicate just like him. That's what makes my world go around is being with people and students like that. Every day our self-contained autistic
program students come in the building and Miss Hoka is there to greet them with a smile to make them feel like they are a welcome part of our family. Uh she is like a rainbow just exudes that positive energy and enthusiasm. She's
perfect. She's amazing with our kids. I hope they remember my passion and my love. Um, I've always worked with preschoolers my whole career and if I give them anything, it's lots of love, attention, and affection. And I hope they walk away feeling that.
>> Miss Sabrina Lehower is an educator who can be best described with one word, transformational. She creates a classroom where every child feels safe, valued, and capable. Through her thoughtful instruction and meaningful interaction, she creates and helps
students grow academically. socially and emotionally, building confidence that lasts well beyond her classroom. >> I never thought I'd be a school nurse. I got a call to ask if I would substitute at JP Stevens for a month or two until they could find somebody. And here I am
16 years later still happily doing this job. >> It is my honor to recognize nurse Debbie Stevens, who truly represents the heart of our FDR school community. If I had to describe her in one word, it would be steadfast. She is a constant source of
calm, care, and reliability. Someone who shows up every day with unwavering dedication to our students, staff, and families. She ensures that our students are healthy, safe, and ready to learn. Coming here to ESA this year, I would
say this has been an amazing experience. Being able to have that feeling of building such a strong connection with my students and really, you know, feeling fulfilled that I'm making a huge impact in these students lives is, you know, just an amazing feeling for me.
So, I believe his lasting legacy will be the product, the actual student. Students who may not have seen their potential in the academics now believe after taking his class. I have an older sister that was a special education teacher, so watching
her interact with her students and just kind of when she was coaching and all kinds of different things was uh yeah, I guess I guess I'll give her credit. I will describe Amy as inspirational.
She offers opportunities for students to continue to grow outside of the high school experience. >> My inspiration, not just education, but in teaching dance was definitely Debbie. Um, I grew up watching Fame and her
famous talk with the cane. I always knew I just wanted to be a teacher. I love, you know, standing in front of a class and leading and I just always wanted to give back. I always wanted to share my joy of dancing with my students and give them just more of an appreciation of the
arts. I know that the community that's built within the dance room and the experiences that the young people have and the confidence that they gained through this program as well as the understanding of dance as an art form is something that they're going to take
with them that they're going to share. It is going to be a part of their adulthood and a part of their lives not just in their appreciation but in their understanding of the way that people work together and the way that we can rise up you know all humanity. Melissa Wartz, our educational service
professional of the year. Um, to describe her in one word, there's so many words I can think of that are great about her, but I would have to say the one thing is uh committed. She's committed to our students, committed to the community and commuted committed to Edison High School as a whole. She's
always here for everyone to help out whenever uh anyone needs anything. And I guess that's probably one of the best words I could choose to describe. I want them to remember that accomplishments are not the only measure to success. I think that the journey
getting there is something that they're going to remember. That's where you show your growth. Accomplishments are great, of course, but sometimes we kind of forget about them, but we'll never forget the journey getting there. So, I want them to remember that it's not just effort, but sometimes it's also time and patience.
>> Today, we recognize Miss Violet Russo as ELC's teacher of the year. She truly represents the heart and soul of our community. She creates a classroom where children feel safe, valued, and inspired, where learning is meaningful, independence is encouraged, and every
child is given the opportunity to thrive. Definitely my parents. My mom was a teacher. My father was a local pharmacist. He had the local town drugstore. And I guess watching them
like help the community, help individuals, I knew I wanted to go into a helping profession. >> If I had to describe Miss Shelley Zikum in one word, it would be compassionate. She plays a vital role in our initial child study team, ensuring that every
child entering our program is truly understood and thoroughly supported. I think it's a privilege of mine that I get to work and learn and make mistakes with these kids. Um, they teach me as much as I teach them. And I hope that
they know that no matter how far they go, where they travel, um, they'll always have that space, safe space with me here at Ben or wherever. If I were to give Miss Crowley a hashtag, it would be # better than
Broadway. And this is because of her unforgettable energy that she brings to every lesson and her gift of creating catchy songs and jingles that help students remember and practice everything that goes along with the core curriculum. So, I thought a lot about
this and I was thinking that there's a few people in bed that call me smiles or smiley. So, I was thinking that my tagline would be smiling is my favorite just like Buddy the Elf. Cuz I thought if you're an elementary school teacher, you definitely have a little buddy the elf inside you. So, it would definitely be smiling is my favorite cuz it is.
>> Mrs. Alphonso's legacy would be the culture that she helps create here at Ben Franklin aka Mrs. Smiles that we call her. She comes in every single day with a smile on her face. Uh whether she's supporting students, whether she's greeting staff members every single morning. She does her laps, getting her
steps in. Um she's just a a positive uh role model for our students and staff every single day she comes in here. We're lucky to call her a bowl. And now, teachers of the year, you get to be the center of attention. So, um,
principles, VPs, please, um, walk up to the front when I call your names with your teacher of the year and ESP of the year. And once you have received your certificate, if you could move to the left side in front of the balloons where families, you are welcome to take pictures.
All right. So, first up from the ELC and FDR educators of the year are V Violet Russo, Sabrina Leshnau, educational service professionals Shelley Zakim, who couldn't come here today, and Deborah Stevens, presented by Dr. Shalla.
I really like that. All right. Keep the spirit up. Come on. Come on. If I can ask you to move to the left. Thank you. Next up from Benjamin Franklin Elementary School, educator of the year Katherine Crowley and ESB of the year
Stacia presented by Dr. Bevere and Mr. Deanzo. Come on, we're going to have a competition. Who's louder? All right. Love it. >> You got to stand up for your sister.
Come on. ST. THERE YOU GO. THAT'S HER SPIRIT. There you go. And from James Madison Intermediate School, educator of the year is Kimber Wallace. And ESP of the year is Shalaja Kuri. Presented by Miss Abbott Marco and
Mr. Murfield. Next up, James Madison Primary School Educator of the Year, Joseph Sosa, and ESP of the Year, Susan Cox. Presented by Mr. Syler. from James Monroe Elementary School.
Educator of the year Jessica Meal and ESP of the year Mary Walworth. Presented by Miss Taro and Mr. Christophus. from John Marshall Elementary School, educator of the year, Brienne Skrilof, and Educational Service Professional of
the Year, Michael Buckley, presented by Miss Hoffman and Miss Kapowski. Good bag from Lincoln Elementary. Education of the Year, Christa Beldowski, and ESP of the Year, Kristen Shatter. Presented by
Mr. Skully and Miss Mosley Ales. from Lindenau Elementary School. Educator of the year Kristen Benvitz and ESB of the year Christina Barulka presented by Mr. Platboa. Oh, >> come down.
>> No, no, go. That's go forward. Okay. >> From Menllo Park Elementary School, we have Sunny Zapatisnu as educator of the year and ESP of the year is Mju Raat
presented by Mr. Dugen. from Martin Luther King Elementary School. Teacher of the year, Amanda Ramirez and ESP of the year, Tapas Sweeney Gorda. Presented by Miss Papasernos and Miss Delback. Washington Elementary School Educator of
the Year, Melissa Ki, and ESP of the year, Simmon Mud, presented by Miss Schlatter and Miss Vu. Big kids >> from Woodbrook Elementary School. E educator of the year is Tracy Christiani
and ESP of the year Matthew Shaw. Presented by Miss Serillo and Dr. Narvay from Herbert Hoover Middle School. Educator of the Year Patricia Moore and ESP of the Year Joel Hoka. Presented by
Mr. McGrath. from John Adams Middle School. Educator of the year, Jodie Paratt, and ESPN of the Michelle Wit. Presented by Mr. Besky and Mr. Kelly. From Thomas Jefferson Middle School, we
have educator of the year Natalie Siero and ESP of the year Nancy Banos. Presented by Miss Emden. Woodro Wilson Middle School Honors Educator of the Lauren Gizac and ESP of the air Beth Cafierro presented by Mr.
Mc Zakino and Miss Mandera >> from Edison High School. We honor educator of the year Vicky Jenkins and ESP of the year Melissa Wartz. Presented by Mr. Ross. from Edison Success Academy. Educator of the Year, Dylan Zimbicki, ESP of the
Year, Amy Bruno. Presented by Dr. Galsman. And from JP Stevens High School, Educator of the Year, Regina Shapiro, ESP of the Year, Maria Brandazza, who is cannot be here today, presented by Dr. Pim, MissWacowski, Mr. Robinson, and
Miss Eer. And I am happy to say that that is not the final one. For the first time since 2017, I believe last year for the 2526 school. Yeah, actually this year. We weren't allowed to announce it last year
at this ceremony, but we had a county teacher of the year, Pam Ang from Lincoln Elementary School. I believe it's something to be Yep. very excited about. She was picked out of I believe it's 26
towns in the county. Is that right? 26. So great feat. Congratulations, Pam. And with that, I think we've started a competition for next year for the biggest cheering group. until next year. Thank you.
>> Thank you, Miss Gummer. Let's >> Thank you, Miss Gum. Let's take a five minute break so teachers can go and then we can find a space for the parents, for the students. So, five minute break. Thank you. How was it?
>> We will reconvene. >> Okay. So, the next session is presentation about 2026 2027 studentmy's acceptances. Uh before I pass it on to Dr. really I want to share a little history about thesemies right the the first time we
discuss or you know thesemies are starting multi multiplemies was in 2024 in curriculum committee you know that some of the board members still sit in this board some some are you know past board members but there was an idea of starting an academy where we can cater
the student with narrow focus and after multiple discussions and series of planning sessions you know I'm proud to see fourmmies is starting this year. Of course, we started one academy last year and then three more this year. So, I'm going to pass it on to Dr. Alderelli.
>> Thank you so much, board president Patel. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. How's everybody doing? >> Isn't it exciting seeing your teachers receive awards, right? What a great opportunity to be in the same room while we honor um you know, the the our our staff and our uh our support staff as
well too. Uh Mr. Patel. As we continue to expand our academy programs and create multiple pathways for students uh not only to explore their passions and future goals, we're we're also excited to re recognize uh the 198 students who have been accepted into next year's esteemed
including the biomedical science academy, STEM Academy, business academy, and computer science. This work directly reflects our northstar vision here in Edison Township Public Schools to empower students to shape the world with knowledge, purpose,
and passion. These students successfully completed a rigor rigorous application process that included both an interview and entrance exam demonstrating academic excellence and a passion for learning. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of them and look forward to
seeing the innovation, leadership, and accomplishments they will bring to these programs in the years ahead. I would be remiss if it I did not thank um the team behind this that really got this to the finish line. Mr. Soy, thank you so much for everything. Yeah, a round of
applause. Miss Meyer, Miss Halpin, our building level principles, Dr. Kim as well as Mr. Ross. And now it is my esteemed pleasure to introduce Dr. Kim and Mr. Ross who will announce the names
of the newly accepted academy students and their families on this outstanding achievement. Now you can clap louder than that for them. Big old basketball. Good evening everyone. >> Evening.
>> Good evening. All right. Welcome to Edison High School. Well, I'm gonna have somebody help me because we had a senior awards night and we gave out about two and a half hours worth of awards. So, I lost my voice. So, we're going to start with the EHS STEM Academy. It's going to be read. The name is going to be read by
Dr. Lo. >> Good evening. It is my pleasure to recognize the incoming Edison High School STEM Academy class of 2030. As I read each student's name, I would ask the students to please stand and remain standing until all names have been
announced. At the conclusion of the introductions, we will invite the Jo audience to join us in recognizing the entire class of 2030 with a round of applause. Nishka Dodapani
Ar Arav Lada Arthav Sahu Yash Shrivastava Vidant Dukal Artham Juvar Riuala
Arav Sharesh Rouraan Ruhan Katri Rayon Desai, Sanvi Hazra, Sahashra, Compella,
Methili, Palganan, Nagashritha, Chentukuna, Chentuka, Shrenika, Route, Akash, Sanangupta,
Aayushman, Grace, Nihar Narana, Ari Sha, Sarah Paroir, Aditi Velancar, Elizabeth Wong,
Nidi Paroir, Ean Hebar, and Aayushman Tawari, our STEM students. congratulations. Now, Mr. Ross will give us our business academy.
>> Right. >> All right, every All right, young people, settle down. I still get to yell at students for another couple months. All right. Good evening, everyone. >> Good evening.
>> All right, young people. Good evening. >> All right, remember in business, I'm going to announce the business academy. Now, the great thing about the academy system is that it's been expanded. Um, just like Edison High was the first high school and JB Stevens was our spin-off. We had the first we had the absolute
first um academy in Edison and now we're expanding it because good ideas can be done anywhere and the more students that we have in the best most rigorous possible curriculum the better. So when I call the names let's try to wait until I get through all of the names then
we'll get a big round of applause. This is for students that are going to be in a business academy at both the home of the Eagles and the home of the Hawks. So I'm going to start reading the names right now. Please stand, young people, but hold your applause. At the end, I want to make more noise than we did for
our teachers. Okay, can we do that? Nod, young people, nod. Nod. Yes, we do. Very good. >> All right. Good. All right. So, now we're going to start off with business. Sahita, Rhinash, Bodhu, Divi Chalvla, Augustia
Chavali, Rakaya Fazin, Amma Gilani, Naman Goel, Zanek Gupta, Leila Gundi, Rahini Gapu, Stephanie Huang,
Kashub, Jari, Avin, Sai Kendla, Avika Ka, Kishv, Kendallwald, Rohan Kodipaka Mayank Kotijay Bavia Mahajan Kiara Mehashwari Shiva Malik Maroon
Keshwari Ready Mamidi Riddi Manha Minakshi Mayan Vihan Mital Rahan Naran Shi Narinayan James Ozen Charu Chatena
Palini Shri Sahashra Pasumar Arti, Netri Patel, Viha Patel, Yashil Patel, Yogi Patel, Juan Patel, Anvi Patil, Irvan Keshi, Ria Romesh, Isa, Isha Saha,
Sharia, Sani, Axita, Centulk, Kumar, Tanis, Sharma, Alice, Shiao, Jaswan, Son, Hia, Son, Yon, Hi, Son, Isa, Takur, Devotagi, Charlene, Valentina and Quiraa Waterman. Round of a big applause. Thank
you, Business Academy. And now I will call up Dr. Kim from the esteemed JP Stevens High School. >> Thank you, Mr. Ross. I am so pleased and honored to announce the next class of 2030 for the John Py Stevens Biomedical
Science Academy. So when I read your name, please stand and hold your applause until the end. Starting with Arham Sha, Tanush Yakali, Meana Kumar, Kush Desai, Sahasra Palupi,
Janaki, Patel, Siri, Karanupu, Japna, Kurdat, Alvita, Pila, Shuria, Paul, Advatai, Jangiti, Nikisha, Sharma, Tvari, Sabnis,
Shria Sha, Pisha, Chapathi, Krishna, Nadorcar, Shuri Day, Akshaj, Gupta, Maher, Sane,
Shri Vid, Dia Maduri, Pri Mukerji, Vihan Gandhi, Danush Budari and Tanish Mud Mudillari. All right, congratulations everyone.
Excellent job. Thank you. We're very excited to welcome you to JP next year. All right. Next, we are going to announce the incoming class of 2030 to the programming academy. And once again, I am announcing the names for
both Edison High and JP Stevens. So when you hear your name, please stand and we will give you a warm round of applause at the end. >> All right, here we go. Starting with Isaac Divine Oalabi,
Sophia Delight of Anvisha Anand Adel Adelene, Adrien Diabrio, Vab Vhab, Shakandra, Shakara,
Adve Detti, Andrew Fernandez, Saman Vitha, Gajaro, Ayan Gil, Rahu Goplani, Donica Gunawward, Den Titania, Gupta,
Jacquel, Jaffrey, Vid, Kior, Choli, Pandia, Kandula, Karan, Kant, Serum, Kanan, Ram, Kith, Karan, Miniki, Kuvari, Aana, Kiara
Prothika Ku Lava Ki Cayan Arav Kunamar ate Mjumar Pash Pavishna Mandikanan
Jawan Muhammad Malik Nijiati Alexis Nuani Shri Vibban Pampana Avani Parasar,
Harsh, Patel, Vam, Patel, Harsh, Vadan, Parek, Sara, Par, Savani, Pam, Praam, Vishwaji, Praam, Aunt, Saha, Chintaya,
Shhati, Shri Krishna, Centi Kumar, Yunus Cifon, Advita, Sinha, Vihan, Sasta, Sarah Tare,
Pish, Trevetti, Naisha Umesh, Sam, Samah, Heath Vikam, Risha, Vias, and Harrison Zang. Let's give them a big round of applause. Great
job, everyone. And our last academy, our cyber security academy class of 2030. When I call your name, please stand and we will give you a warm round of applause at the end. Let's start with
Nila Anand Satik Prakash Bada Araf Bar Araf Barusi Chuhari Ha Gandhi Soham Godaki
Parthi Gupta Aarva Gupta Cheryl Gupta Venet Javani Vishnavi Sarika Kadiri, Sidharth, Kana, Maral, Puri,
Puri, Kavadi, Lia, Kathy, Gatik, Kandelwal, Vhan, Raha, Tear, Kulcarnney, Adia Samanvi, Kurumetti,
Aniket, Lemay, Arnav, Mandaryi, Pavan, Mhm. Man, manan, Shiva, Mantradi, Mutahar, Mir, Samarth, Name,
Nameio, Nemiah, Na, Kam, Shrimath, Nuthakati, Sarilles, Padilla, Janette, Dev, Patel, Krish, Patel, >> Vivan, Pawar,
Ashman, Praep, Dar, Rothi, Sanvi, Rashid, Sia Sangani, Nikatai, uh, Shik, Sahage, Sha, Arin, Shakar, Jadep,
Tamiri, and Arsh Yawali. Congratulations everyone. Thank you. Well, before we move on to the next section, I want to give a shout out to Dr. Valentine for supporting this starting all thesemies. So, thank you
Dr. Valentine. >> Yep. Dr. Lei, next one. >> Thank you very much, uh, board president Patel. Um, yes. At this time, I would like to call up um Mr. Ross, Miss Federitz, and Miss Clark to talk about
our Barcelona Exchange program from Edison High School and the students that participated in that. How about a round of applause for this group as well? I just want to shout out my teachers because it's their work behind the scenes. I have to thank the uh Mr. Gulen
and the transportation department for their work on making this making it possible for us for get to the airport and then to take care of our guests, our teachers. Don't have too much to say. >> All right. Good evening. Thank you, Dr.
Alderelli. Um, so we want to thank you for allowing our kids to experience this this year. We had 10 students that were um, part of this exchange program. These are students that are enrolled in Spanish now, juniors and seniors. They
were set up with a pen pal from a school in Barcelona. Um, the school is called de la Familia. They met their pen pals in November. started a relationship and in February we were off to Barcelona. So
they got to um experience life as a teenager in Barcelona, the whole culture, language completely immersed. And the best ones to really tell you about it are five of our students that are here today to talk
about their experience. Um, hi, my name is Paris Andrews and I'm a junior at Edison High School and I had the opportunity to do the foreign exchange student in Barcelona. And as a foreigner student, I can say that like
personally, I don't think that I'm the best Spanish speaker, but I got the courage to say yes to go to Spain. And when I tell you it was like the best experience I can say yes to because a 40minute class isn't gonna be enough to
get to where I want as a Spanish speaker, but actually being around the language and all their norms for 10 days. I can definitely say that I improved and I think that I'm getting where I want to be. And it was really good because learning and like figuring
them out in November and it's just like we had a home away from home and it's just like I felt like I knew them my whole life and it's like now even though my pen pal is back in Spain her dad still texts me every Wednesday and Sunday asks me about my family and it's
just like even though I don't see them every day it's like we're still keeping in touch and I just want to say thank you for giving us this opportunity. Thank you. >> Um, good afternoon, uh, board of education. My name is, uh, Michael Florentino. I'm a junior at Edison High
School. And, um, as someone who speaks Spanish, this trip is very meaningful to me. Uh, I was able to connect more deeply with the language and culture in a real way. One of the best, uh, parts of the trip was the connection I built with my pen pal. From the beginning um
we got really along and uh realized we have more than just one connection. Um we even though we grew up in uh different countries the experience showed me how people from different backgrounds can still connect through shared interest, experience and
personality. Another thing that really stood out to me was how welcoming everyone was. The people in Spain treated me uh very kindly and um treated me like their family. So, um I felt very at home and
um I wasn't really worried at all. Uh the experience uh was really unforgettable and um just instead of it being a school trip, it was more of a um mind opener and um I truly believe
programs like this change students lives and I hope more students get the opportunity to experience something like I did. Thank you. Good afternoon. My name is Jasine Diaz and I'm a junior at Edison High School. I went to Barcelona because I was really
excited about the trip to see the stuff there and the food and experience, but I don't think I realized how deeply that this program would affect me as a person. It doesn't just teach us about other people in other countries, but I think it teaches us also about ourselves. Living in Barcelona wasn't
like being a tourist there. you really get to experience the culture and fully immerse in it. And although it definitely was uncomfortable at first, I think the way that the families there treated us, they really took us in as one of their own, which pushed us out of our comfort zones. And I think all of us
could say that the friendships we made there aren't temporary. That and that they're real, meaningful, and forever lasting. I still talk to my pen pal this day. And I think it's also vice versa that when our pen pals came here to the United States, we got to see our home um through their eyes. Edison High School
has a lot of good things to offer and I think that this program is definitely one of the best that it has and I really hope that we get to see it flourish and maybe even with other countries and thank you for letting us experience this. >> Good afternoon. My name is Samantha
Brea. I'm a junior at EHS. Personally, I have been a student in Edison for 11 years and I took Spanish every year. The immersion could not compare to any Spanish class I have had. And the connections we made with people in Spain and from here are the type that will
last a lifetime. Um, while I have family in Spain, what made this different was that I got to connect with people my age. I'm grateful that I got to the I got the opportunity to go on this trip to stay with an amazing family and to make my community grow just a bit
farther. Even though the sightseeing was amazing, I think the part that stayed with me the most was connecting with the students, we all have such an amazing connection with the students from Barcelona and from here. Um, staying with Barcelona
families and our pen pal staying with us solidified a connection I don't think I have with anyone else. Um, and despite seeing the similarities and differences between the families from here and the ones we stayed with in Spain, my pen pal and I had so many things in common that
by the end of the trip, I felt like I had a sister. Thank you. >> Uh, good evening, Board of Ed. Uh, my name is Elias Cotton. I'm a senior here at EHS. The con the experience I had going to this uh exchange was one of a
kind. I have never felt such hos uh such kindness and generosity from people that I don't know who are across the world ever in my life. This is truly one in life experience. I still talk to my pen pal every day. It's like you have a sibling that you from another world.
It's one of the most incredible experiences. Um, the sightseeing was amazing, but of course it's the experience you make and that, you know, not everyone is the best Spanish speaker, but these people will fully embrace you to get better into Spanish
and to learn about their culture and they even embrace the American culture as well. Um, I highly uh advise anyone who has the opportunity to go to this experiences, please do it. And of course, just one big before I leave, one big thank you to Miss Mrs. uh Federitz,
Mrs. Van Wing, and Miss Clark for this trip. And of course, you guys for allowing in Mr. Ross. Without you guys, it wouldn't be possible. So, thank you. >> So, we are going to move on to the next section. Dr. >> Thank you so much, board president. Um
yeah, at at this time we'd like to recognize a group of Edison students who recently competed in the NASA human exploration rover challenge of 2026 in Huntsville, Alabama as members of Soulfam's Team Orion. Team Orion was the only team from New Jersey selected to
participate in this international engineering competition where students design, build, and compete with rovers on a lunar style obstacle course. The team earned both second place in the high school RC division and the project
review award recognizing excellence in technical reviews and presentations. So at this time I would like to invite Dr. Kim who is already at the podium to announce and recognize the student team members. How about a round of applause?
I do want to say this is truly an amazing accomplishment. This is highly competitive from teams around the world. Um and so um Dr. Aldderelli did a great job explaining it. I just want to say first of all it was led by um advisor
Sanjay uh Karnney and I'm going to read the rest of the team's name. So if you could please come on up and I have a um certificate. Are you Mr. >> There you go. This is for you. Um and we're gonna and we're gonna actually take a photo in the front. So if you want to go stand up in the front. Um the
rest of the team was led by senior Rohan Kulcarnney and other seniors as well Galam Bali Kanan. Come on up. Vern Bapat Sagnet Biswas
and juniors oh we're gonna I'm going to give you all the certificates up there. How about that? And then juniors Vivana Raina, Shreas Mendicar, Visme Patel, Shri Srnasan, Ritika Vidulla, and Shrea
Siva Kumar, please give a really warm well round of applause. This is such an accomplishment. Everyone, >> well, President, can I say a couple words? Can I say a couple words, please? So uh you know congratulations to the
team and uh I was invited to uh their house to uh see the the rover. Unfortunately the day I was there it wasn't working. So but I saw the video. So what they did is they uh you know um designed the rover from the grounded up
and uh there are two tasks they need to do. One is CO2 sensor tasking on simulated lunar service and the other is water pH level sensing uh tasks. So these are things that's required by the
team and these guys were only eight of the team in the whole country eight of the whole team in the whole country to to compete. This is their second year. Four of them are moving on but the the others will
will continue the uh you know the um uh the journey. So four of them actually Rohan is going to go to a Purdue University and for Viron he he's going to Corner University and for Gotham he doesn't think the
university in US is good enough so he went to University of Toronto and Sagnik he's a homeboy he's going to stay in New Jersey and go to Ruckers congratulations I'd like to come down and have a picture with you guys.
You want to see mine? One more. >> One. Yeah, >> one more. Yeah. >> On right. Y >> and at this time we'd also like to recognize uh one of our students who who's
actually a published author is is is Ana Travidi in the crowd right now. Is she Anya, why don't you come up? Why don't you why don't for round of applause. Anya is a published author now. Come on up. Come on up. a runner and wrote the book Finding Her
Stride, a coming of age story about dreams, doubts, and the race to belong. Ana, I'm actually gonna ask you to go to the podium and talk a little bit about your book. Is that okay? >> Yeah. Why don't you talk a little bit about it? >> Can I say a couple words before she uh start talking about her books? >> Sure.
>> So, uh this young lady, she goes to the Workbridge Academy. Unfortunately, at that time, we didn't have the biome medical academy, otherwise she would have been staying Edison. So she's going to Wbridge Academy to be a doctor. So she is a rising senior
at the age of 17. She is serving on the executive executive board of wellwith is a nonprofit organization uh helping uh uh stu families are
challenged to they have the basic financial uh background. Is that correct? >> That's correct. Yeah. >> And also besides that she shadows a doctor in Sloan Memorial Hospital, a oncology doctor.
And in this book, what she wrote, okay, this book is not a manual, it's not a me memoir, it's a mirror. I hope you see yourself in these pages. Not because our story are the story are the same but
because the search for self is universal. So I'm going to let her say a couple words about her book and why she writes this book. >> Um good evening and ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for honoring me here today. It means a lot. Um like Mr.
She said I've been running since I was 8 years old and you know I've been to it all. I've been all American. and I have medals and accolades, but I think the journey is what I really documented in this book. And I've been fortunate enough to have my parents, my dad is here today, my mom's at work, unfortunately. But since I was eight,
I've run maybe over 200, 300 races. And to every single one of my races, my parents have been there. So, I have an amazing support system. And along the way, I think I realized that kids are unfortunate like me and they don't have that support system. They don't have the sports system, the gears, the shoes. So
with this book, I documented my track legacy, I guess, and 100% of the funds go back to kids who either don't have the gear, kids who, you know, aren't getting the meals, whatever they need. In fact, we've just had our first drop last month at Elizabeth High School where we donated 20 pairs of running
shoes to the boys and girls distance team. So, thank you so much for your recognition tonight. I would urge you guys to go buy the book and remember that again, 100% of the funds go back to not only the athletic community, but our community as a whole. And thank you so much It's called a finding her stride. It's
on Amazon. Yeah. >> So, her goal is to donate 250 running shoes to the uh to the students that's in need. So, great job and continue to do what you do and hope someday when you become a doctor when I go see you can
give me a discount. >> Sure. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, Ana. Thank you. I think let's take a five minute break. So if if students wants to leave they can leave. Five minute break. Thank you. Okay, we'll reconvene. Uh we'll start
with superintendent report. Dr. Ali, thank you so much, Board President Patel. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Uh what a wonderful night. Uh congratulations to all the recipients of the awards. It's great when we acknowledge our outstanding uh staff as well as our students. um uh where uh we
have the opportunities to recognize their accolades and their accomplishments. Um and it truly proves, you know, what we're all here to do. Um there's a couple of the people that I would like to recognize right now. Um I had the privilege of sitting uh last week um at the uh national super or I'm
sorry, the uh state of New Jerseys uh superintendent spring leadership conference. Uh I am pleased to announce that our very own Dr. Thomas Tui is New Jersey's special educator of the year. >> Dr. Tui,
for those of you that know Dr. Yes, absolutely. There we go. For those of you that know, um Dr. Tui has done an outstanding job getting all of our uh programs that affect our uh special education students off the ground. Um he is a trusted colleague, friend. Uh and
it is a pleasure to work alongside of you each and every day, sir. and I know I speak on behalf of the board as well as our team. Um, an accolade welld deserved. So, thank you. And and he's usually here for the meetings. I'm I'm surprised I'm surprised he left. I'm I'm going to give
him a shout out right now. For those of you that I was at the uh Edison uh Township Senior Awards last night um and we'd like to formally just congratulate uh Mr. Charles Ross for being Yeah. for being the Elks citizen of the year of
Edison. Right. What a great accomplishment. Uh and a testament. Is he here? He took off. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. That's really >> I'll call him tomorrow. Um but uh you know, listen, not only and I was I was talking with him last night. Um what an
unbelievable awards ceremony. it really exemplifies the culture uh the climate and the the real feeling of what it's like to be in school uh when you witness that awards presentation. So uh congratulations Mr. Ross. Very welld deserved. Uh and last but not least, we
have an unsung hero that works uh in our food service department who will be acknowledged at the next board meeting in June. Her name is Miss Armita Caldwell who is the food service director of the year. Congratulations to Arita in the state of New Jersey. Uh
managing uh Edison Township Schools uh food service program is a monumental task. She does it very very well and uh I want to congratulate her on all of those particular pieces. Um and that concludes my report for this evening. Mr. Patel, >> thank you Dr. I think I agree with you.
Nights like this kind of remind us, you know, remind me and I'm sure other board members why we why we do what we do, right? Um we we saw a lot of teachers getting recognized you know pouring their hearts to you know teach you know teach the students and be you know help them be the best version of themselves.
We saw a lot of you know high achieving students getting recognized and it reminds me why I do what I do and I feel nothing but the gratitude. Thank you. Next I'd like to invite Edison High School president Miss Lavine uh for the report. >> Good evening everyone. My name is Leven
Lavine and I'm the student council president for Edison High School and I'm here today to give a monthly report of May. Um May has definitely been one of our busiest months for the school year so far. We started off with AP testing and this week our freshman and juniors are participating in the NJSLA testing
as well. And even though it's a stressful time for our students, it's been great seeing everyone continue to work hard, support each other, and um head towards the end of the school year. Earlier this month, student council also organized teacher appreciation week during the week of May 4th. And throughout this week, we celebrated our
teachers and staff with different activities and treats to show our appreciation for everything that they do for the students each day. And we are very thankful for all the time, energy, and support they give to our school community. Our arts program have also been very active this month with
concerts and performance from orchestra, jazz band, choir, try my guitar, and our spring dance collective. These performances gave students the opportunity to showcase their dedication and talent, and they were enjoyed by many students, families, and staff members. Our athletics have also had an
incredible season with many exciting wings and wins and accomplishments this spring season. Some highlights include boys volleyball against Woodbridge, softball winning against Matuchin, the girls lacrosse for their senior night against JP, baseball against East Brunswick. Our track team has had many
students qualify for states along with many, many other accomplishments across all of our athletic programs, making our school very proud. Um, we also looking are looking ahead for our prep rally this week on Friday, which our students are very, very
excited for, followed by prom May 29th at the Mer Gold, which everyone is really waiting um and anticipating for. Um, I would also like to recognize this month's seniors of the year or sorry of the month of May, Simutica Vikram Marinire and Bryce Hickerson.
Congratulations to both students. And finally, overall May has been a month full of achievement, school spirit, creativity, and community involvement as we begin wrapping up another successful year at Edison High School. Um, thank you for this time and thank you once again board members for all your help in
everything you do. Thank you. >> Thank you. Okay, next I'd like to invite Mr. Arouch Bola from JPC. >> Uh, good evening everyone. My name is Arouch Bola. I'm a junior at JP Stevens and I'm also co-president of our student
council. And I'm also here to give you a rundown of what's been happening at JP over this past month. The month of May has been really busy, but also exciting for our students, filled with many student accomplishments. We kick off the month of May with our teachers appreciation breakfast where teachers
are served a delicious selection of foods early in the morning and the student council executive board had a big role in setting this up. Generally though much of the action at JP has been with students staying active both inside and outside of school whether it's artrelated events, clubs, sports or even
more. Earlier this month some of our music students had the opportunity to participate in a regional percussion festival. And we are also incredibly proud to share that 21 students from our choir program were accepted into the NJ all-state choir which is an incredible accomplishment for our performing arts
department. In athletics, many of our spring teams are continuing strong seasons qualifying for playoffs and postseason tournaments. We wish the best of luck to all our athletes and coaches as they represent JP Stevens with pride. But similar to EHS, the biggest focus of
this half of May has definitely been the AP exams. Over the past two weeks, students across the building have been putting in countless hours studying and preparing for these challenging end of the year exams, and AP testing officially wrapped up last Friday. We're incredibly proud of the hard work our students showcased throughout the
testing season. Over the next month or so of school, we are really in the final stretch with all AP exams done. All that's left in terms of testing is for juniors and freshmen to do their NJSLA testing and just finish finish off the year strong. But we are also very excited for some more our most
anticipated end of the year events. Seniors are looking forward to their prom at Edison Park this Friday and the student council will be running the annual battle of the classes event later June. It will be a dayong event where students fill the stands and cheer on their respective grades as they duke it
out in dances and miniames all to be crowned the 2026 BOT champions. Lastly, as this is my final speech to everyone for this school year, I want to personally thank the board, administration, teachers, adviserss, and students for their continued support and involvement throughout the year. It has truly been a privilege representing the
student body at these meetings. And while this may be my final update for the year, I look forward to seeing everyone again here next year as a senior. Finally, on behalf of the JPS community, thank you again for all your continued support. And we hope everyone has a wonderful rest of the school year. Thank you.
>> Thank you. Okay. Next, Mr. Lester, if you can read the resolution, please. >> Sure. Thank you, Mr. President. Board members, administration. Uh, we have a resolution condemning threats, intimidation, and harassment directed
towards a member of the board of education. It reads as follows. I would ask the public to please not disrupt the meeting in accordance with the open public meetings act. If you do disrupt the meeting, we will request law enforcement to remove you. Thank you. Whereas the board condemns any conduct involving threats, intimidation,
coercion, and harassment towards elected officials and attempts to improperly influence as they strike at the integrity of public service and democratic governance. Whereas a board member was recently subjected to threatening and intimidating messages from an anonymous individuals,
including, and I quote, "We know where you live and we know where you work. Don't make it harder for yourself." unquote. Another quote, "There is a way to do this and there is really hard way to do this." And the third one, quote, "You have been warned."
Whereas such messages are not expressions of civic disagreement or protected political debate, but instead are deliberate acts of intimidation intended to pressure, threaten, and interfere with an elected officials discharge of their duties and responsibilities. Whereas such threats
and acts of harassment towards elected officials and their families create fear and undermine public trust, thereby damaging the democratic process. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the board hereby decries, denounces, and refuses to tolerate such unconscionably
threatening rhetoric in our community. Be it further resolved that the board shall not tolerate such improper and unacceptable conduct towards its members, district employees, volunteers, family members, and members of the public. Be it further resolved that the board calls upon all Township of Edison
elected officials, appointed officials, and all citizens to stand with the targeted individual member of our board. and be it further resolved that the board respectfully request the Edison Township Police Department, Office of the County Sheriff of Middle Sex County,
the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Newark, and all other appropriate authorities to treat this matter with the highest degree of seriousness, launch a full impartial and thorough investigation into the
perpetrators, and hold them accountable to the full extent of the law. And be it further resolved that the board shall fully support any investigation in into these threats and acts of harassment. And I'll add the word cowardice too. Be
it further resolved that every member of the board has the absolute right and responsibility to vote independently free from threats, fear, intimidation, retaliation, or outside coercion. And be it further resolved that upon adoption, a certificated a certificated copy of
this resolution shall be transmitted to all appropriate authorities, including but not limited to the Edison Township Police Department, Office of the County Sheriff, Middle Sex County, and the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General. Is there a motion, Mr. President? >> Yep. Do you have a motion to adopt? >> Motion to adopt.
>> Second. Okay. Roll call. Mr. >> Mr. Azerell. >> Yes. Mr. Erico, >> yes. >> Mr. Ronak Patel, >> yes. >> Mr. Lugo, >> yes. >> Miss Anja Patel,
>> yes. >> Miss White, >> yes. >> Mr. Shei, >> yes. >> Miss Ping, >> yes. >> Yes. >> President Patel. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. The next section is review of the agenda. Dr. Alderelli.
>> Sure. Thank you so much. Uh ladies and gentlemen, members of the board of education. Um as we uh have a combined meeting this evening, we have our personnel agenda for your review. Um we also have under the administration curriculum and instruction section a few particular items. We'd like to
acknowledge special education week uh which took place um the week of May 10th through the 16th. We want to thank you for all of our students that support our special education or all of our staff members that support our special education programs, the students that participate them and our community members as well that support them. uh
the very popular and uh I always want to uh thank Miss Campion for reminding me of this. Uh we have summer hours on the agenda uh for our summer work which will begin uh after the start of school. Um they begin on June 22nd and end on August 21st. Uh we also have the uh
motion to adopt the uh April 28th uh HIP report. As we move along to uh the next section, we have uh under curriculum instruction. We are always participating in the uh teen arts of New Jersey program for the 2026 2027 school year.
We have our approved field trips for our students over at Edison High School, Woodro Wilson, JP Stevens, as well as JMI Elementary School. We have the uh adoption of the professional development for May of 2026. And last but not least, we have our
special education report for our pupil special services for our outofd district students that are listed accordingly. I would like to turn it over for the finance section to my colleague, Mr. Toth. >> Thank you, Dr. Alderelli. First up under finance is our financial
reports and uh minutes followed by our contract awards um contracts. We have up a variety professional service contracts for the fiscal year 20 uh 27 along uh with our insurance uh representatives for the
2027 school year to include risk PNC and prescription. Um, and then we uh were out for an RFP for our food service program uh which was done by Advocate and evaluated by uh an internal committee of uh staff and administrators
um which uh we're recommending an award of to Machio's food service. Uh under facilities, we have two potential change orders at the John Marshall School uh project. So one would be for some elevator decking work and mechanical piping along with some uh painting. Uh
that'll be charged to the project allowance. So there will be no change in the overall contract price. Uh under our grant section, we are going to be uh submitting the focus grant. Uh along with item two will be the uh rejection
of the preschool grant. Uh then under transportation we are going to be uh approving the second half of the year bus uh evacuation drills. Thank you. >> Thank you. The next is public comments resolution only. >> Uh excuse me, Mr. Board President.
>> Yep. >> Before we move uh since we're on the reviewing the agenda items, um I'd like to make a motion to take off the table the resolution that we had for the termination of the Talman's property. So, I'd like to make a motion to take that off the table to be voted on.
>> And I'll second that. >> Roll call. >> One sec. >> Mr. Al Azerella. >> No. >> Mr. Erico. >> No. >> Mr. Ronak Patel.
>> Yes. >> Mr. Lugo. Yes, >> Miss Anjuna Patel. >> No, >> Miss White. >> Yes, >> Mr. She. >> No, >> Miss Pang.
>> No. >> Uh, President Patel. >> Yes. >> Motion fails. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Next. Uh, public comments resolution only. >> Yes. Miss Miss Joyce
>> resolution that he just stated. >> No, >> any resolution for today. >> No, that's part of the part of the whole resolution. >> The one that I read as board council, >> uh, that was already voted on, but sure, it was on the agenda tonight. Sure, you can talk about that. >> Yes.
I'm glad you made it known to a lot of people who don't uh follow Facebook, Instagram, and information like that. I think that the big tough men that think they're all that and and more. It's highly offensive
to me that they would just attack women. That's one of the things that gets on my nerves the most. And I know for a fact that the board members, you don't you don't get paid for anything. You don't get paid. And I stated before,
because you don't agree with me does not make you stupid. You have a very important job. Your job is to look out for the students of this school, not grown-ups with agendas. Your job is to look out for the students. And that's the number one thing that should
be straight ahead of all of you before when people take you to the side and they pressure you for their own agendas. That makes the town worse. That makes us in the news. Then everybody goes, "Oh, you know Edison, you know how they do." You know, and it embarrasses me because
I've been here. I went to the actual school system here. I graduated from it. So, I have a vested interest in keeping this school A1. All right? And so I just still thoroughly disgusted with the way this this stuff has gone down. I'm very
disgusted that people are so so ridiculous that they would go out of their way to attack people. You know what I mean? It's it's very sad. So a lot of you should reflect. You shouldn't let people other people in other corners
who do nothing but bully people all day long who have no vested interest who probably never been in the school system here in Axel Edison. You shouldn't you shouldn't let them boss you around. You shouldn't do it. Thank you.
>> Thank you. Anyone else? Yes. >> Yeah. President, as the public is coming up, I would suggest that they identify which specific agenda item they're commenting or questioning so we can keep things moving because this is public comment on agenda items only. Thank you.
>> Thank you. >> Recognize yourself and tell us what agenda item you're talking about. >> For a good time, nine finish court. That's where I go. Um, okay. Okay. So, I want to talk about the agenda item that Miss Troy Sha Freeman just spoke about,
the threats. Um, something's not adding up. One plus one doesn't uh it's not equaling two right now. So, it only leads me to believe that no threats ever occurred. If somebody threatens me on on a WhatsApp, it's very easy to take the screenshot
and post it all over social media. Yet the video that I saw, it didn't even show any of the messages. It just showed a blurred screen and I have to take I don't I don't have anything against you, Anjan. I don't even know you. I like you. But that doesn't mean I believe
that she was threatened. I don't believe she was threatened. the fact that you guys had to make a resolution. This whole show trial, all this is is Nazi lies, propaganda, what you're doing. Because at the end of the day, there's already a law on the books that if you
threaten a public official, you're you're going to be arrested. So why hasn't anyone been arrested? Because no, obviously nobody threatened anybody. So, this is some kind of campaign BS monstrosity
to make to make someone a victim that's not actually a victim. It could be campaign material. Here in Edison, New Jersey, we have all kinds of campaign material. This this could be some kind of campaign material. It could be >> Let me sir if I may interrupt you because
>> No, you may not interrupt me. I >> as a point of order, I want you might need those four minutes at some point in life. Um, but to to my knowledge, a police report has been filed. So that way you want to get rid of the prop. >> Again, they could have screenshot it. They could have put it out on social media. Um but they haven't done that.
And I'm not going to take someone's word that they were threatened. Okay. Um again, if if a public official was threatened, the Middle Sex County Prosecutor's Office, they're the ones that have jurisdiction over that over the matter. Why are you looking at the clock, sir?
You you Why do you want me to stop talking on this? I got six minutes to talk. Why aren't you sitting down? Stay on topic. Stay on topic. Let's just not argue. Keep saying what? >> So, the Middle Sex County Pro uh prosecutor's office has jurisdiction over the matter. Why do you need to make a resolution? Nobody's All the All the
departments are going to rip your resolution right up. Why? Because there's already a law in the book saying you can't threaten a public official. So, what the hell are you guys doing? What the hell are you guys doing? I'm not going to uh uh I'm not going to feel bad for anyone unless it's proven to me
they were threatened. that you guys can just be saying, "Oh, one of us are starting to get threatened, so members of the public back off uh the 9 million land deal." Who knows what the hell goes on with your minds, you know? Um
but at the end of the day, an uh through the chair to Anjanna, Anjanna, would you like to show me the screenshot? >> Please direct your comments to the chair, please. Thank you. >> I said through the Robert's rules of order through the chair to Anjanna. asking you to direct your comments to the chair. Not through the chair, but to the chair.
>> That's not what Roberts rules of through the chair to Anjanna. Would you like to show me? >> No, she doesn't. >> Would you like to? >> No, she wouldn't. >> You don't answer right now. You're being misogynistic, sir. She has her own voice. She can speak up for herself. I believe you hate women. I'm not sure how you identify. Do you hate women? But I'm speaking to you through the chair to
John and Janna. Would you like to show the public the um the threats that were made against you? >> Response. Thank you. Keep it moving. >> Yeah, I would deny that. I don't want her to answer that. Keep going. She doesn't have to answer anything. So she has she you think she takes orders from men sir >> I'm the chair of the meeting I control
the environ in the meeting and you are disturbing the meeting right now >> I am disturb number one someone can't disturb the meeting when it's their time to talk sir I'm not I'm not disturbing the meeting you're interrupting me actually you're interrupting the speaker you're breaking Robert's rules of order um you're breaking the quorum that's
actually in your own policy so I'm very disgusted I'm very disgusted what you guys are doing you you play the victim victim. You accuse members of the public of threatening, of violating the rules. Other people might not know know better,
but I know better. Why haven't you ordered the cop to remove me, sir? Why haven't you ordered the cop? Because this whole thing is a show, you know, I'm not violating any of the laws. Um, through the chair to John, Anjanna, would you like to show members of the public take a screenshot that you were threatened? You can prove it. It's very
easy to prove it. It's very easy to prove it. You go on your phone. You see this phone? You go on your phone, >> you can check the public records yourself tomorrow. >> You click two buttons. You click two Oh, just like that. I took a screenshot right now and you can actually post it on social media. Um, and if Miss Anjanna
was threatened, I will be the first to apologize and take her side. I will be the first. But when you post videos and you say, "Yes, I was threatened." And the video's so blurry as hell, you can't even read any of the messages. Why would I take on Janna's word for it?
She doesn't even show up to the meetings half the time and I'm going to take her word. What's she doesn't know what's going on at the meetings. How do I know she knows what's going on in her WhatsApp messages? So yeah, at the end of the day, um, by the time I go home, I want to see
published on Facebook a screenshot that Anjanna was threatened. And if she does not publish that screenshot, she was never threatened. That's all I have to say on the matter. Yeah, you can say a police report uh was filed this that and the other thing. Um
another theory is you guys could have bought your own burner phones, created a WhatsApp number and sent the messages out yourself, you know. So at the end of the day, you know, this has to be investigated by the Middle Sex County Prosecutor's Office. Why don't you allow the Middle Sex County Prosecutors to
finish their investigation before you guys start hurling accusations left and right? Why are you looking at the clock? You don't like what I have to say? You scared of what I have to say? You're the lawyer and you're scared what I have to say. You're standing up because you're ready for war against the res. >> Thank you. >> Thank you.
>> Yep. Next. >> Motion to close. >> All in favor? >> Okay. Yes, sir. Adam Glenn, JCC of Middle Sex County,
Oak Tree Road. Uh, good evening. Um, you've heard me. I I'm sorry. Uh, I would like to address the resolution with respect to the rejection of the state preschool grant. >> I I don't know the number. >> Yes, that's Thank you.
>> Um, you have heard me speak at prior meetings with respect to the preschool expansion program. Um, so I won't belabor the points I made previously. Um, it is a little poetic and ironic.
I enjoyed earlier this evening uh the various um honors and recognition of the incredible uh educational staff and students of this district. Um, it is something of which we should all be very proud and and I am as all of my children
went through this district. Um, and then I find it ironic that at the same time that we are recognizing excellence, we're recognizing the the the the academy programs, we are about
to um you are about to reject a grant and decide to terminate a program that um enables our youngest students to begin
um an incredible educational experience. Um it is shortsighted. It is contrary to your responsibilities and it is contrary to what the mission of this school district is supposed to be.
On a more pragmatic note, I'm sure you're aware, but I think it needs to be said um that if it is the determination of this board to reject the state grant,
the likelihood of any subsequent um support grant funding from the state for this program, should you subsequently decide to attempt to bring it back, the likelihood of you uh receiving any subsequent state grant
funding um is I can tell you from my own experience and my knowledge um that um Edison will not receive any future grants from the state of New Jersey for this. And I also think that you need to
consider that it will likely have an adverse impact on future aid packages to this district. Um I think it's you need to think about the longer term as well both for our
students, their families, and for the ability of this district to get the funding it needs going forward. Don't be shortsighted. Thank you. >> Thank you. Anyone else? >> Sure.
>> One time, but >> you're supposed to get one time, not repeat. >> Yeah, Joyce, you you get to speak one time. I'm sorry. >> You can do that. Yeah. >> Thank you. Yeah. >> Good evening, board members. Um, I'm speaking about an issue for the next
upcoming like AP class for the next coming upcoming school year. I understand that this is resolution only. So, do I have permission? >> So, wait for the next public comment section. It will happen in a few minutes. Please be seated. I I'll let you go first cuz you're a student. Thank you.
>> Okay. Anyone else? >> Okay. >> Motion to close. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Okay. >> Okay. Do I have a motion to approve personnel >> motion? Second call. Mr.
>> Mr. Azerillo. >> Yes. >> Mr. Erico. >> Yes. >> Mr. Patel. >> Yes. >> Mr. Lugo. >> Yes. >> Miss Patel? >> Yes. >> Miss White? >> Yes.
>> Mr. She? >> Yes. >> Miss Ping? >> Yes. >> President Patel? >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. Do I have a motion to approve administration curriculum and instruction and pupil special services? >> Motion. >> Second. Roll call.
>> Mr. Azerello. >> Yes. >> Mr. Erico. >> Yes. >> Mr. Ronak Patel. >> Yes. >> Mr. Lugo. >> Yes. >> Miss Anja Patel. >> Yes. >> Miss White. >> Yes. >> Mr. She? >> Yes. >> Miss Pang? >> Yes.
>> President Patel? >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. Do I have a motion to approve finance? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Mr. Azerell. >> Yes. >> Mr. Erico. >> Yes. On everything but the rejection of
the uh preschool grant. >> Mr. Ronac Patel. >> Yes. >> Mr. Lugo. >> Yes. With two exceptions. First exception under C contract awards number three. >> Okay.
>> And section E grants. >> See, so that's a no on C3 and a no on grants. Correct. >> Correct. >> Noted. Miss Patel. >> Yes. >> Miss White.
>> Yes. With the exception of the grants. Noted. Mr. She >> Yes. >> Miss Pang. >> Yes. >> President Patel. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. Next we have committee reports. The first committee report is
special education committee report. Good evening. The special education committee met on April 30th at 4:30 p.m. at Education Center. The attendants were myself, Miss White,
Mr. Azerelloo, and Dr. Tui. The committee discussed the future of the district preschool program and explore how Edison Township public school can be can best accommodate both current students and the future general
education preschool students. The district special education preschool program will continue to operate as normal. In addition, committee member discussed potential opportunities and consideration related to expanding
prechool programming while continuing to meet student needs district priorities. This discussion remains ongoing and all available options continues to be explored. The committee also discussed the
possibility of creating a district program designed to bring student back from out of district placement and increase in district programming opportunities. Committee member reviewed the concept as a part of a broader effort to expand
programming options and explore opportunities that may better serve student needs while maximizing district resources. This initi initiative remains under consideration and all the potential opportunity opportunity continues to be
explored and this this concludes the report. >> Thank you. Next one is the finance committee report. Um the meet the meeting happened on May 12th 2026 at 4:45 p.m. at education center and it was attended by Vishal Patel, Mr. Ralph
Farico, Shannon Pang, Jerry Shi and uh district school administration. Uh in the finance we discuss fiscal year 2027 transportation subscription bus prizes. We also discuss 2027 insurance consultant. Discuss health and disk
appointment award this month or rebid in June. We also discuss fiscal year 2027 OLED's lease to purchase. Um we also discuss FYI 2027 contract renewals and preK program and on the facilities side
we discuss the cricket field outsourcing. Uh and that concludes the report. Thank you. The next one is public comments about anything and yes the student. Yes. Thank you.
>> Good evening. I hope you guys are doing well. Um, my name is Fati McCan and I'm a sophomore at JP Stevens High School and I'm speaking in regards to an AP seminar class I applied to be in the next upcoming school year. So, I applied to this AP seminar class knowing that
I'm fully allegible and fit the criteria criteria for this class. I was later informed by my counselor that I did not get an admission into this class and I emailed my the English adviser about this and I currently did not get a
response back and I emailed her saying that this was important for me uh for like a college admissions and stuff like that and I have a print out of the um the conversation between my counselor and my adviser if um you guys are willing to see it. Um thank you guys
very much. >> Thank you. Uh, Miss Dr. Hos, can you please? Yeah. Thank you. Next. Yes. Sake Goil, Raspberry Court Edison. So, good good evening everyone. We have been attending this meeting for several
weeks and I want to begin by acknowledging that the time and effort that board members and the residents have invested in the community. I'll keep my remarks brief because I know everybody has a responsibility outside
this room. So my main question tonight is straightforward. When can residents expect clear answers to the questions we have raised? Right? This is not a threat we have been asking. So is there a way we can get answers from you? Like what is the right way? Do we talk to
superintendent? Do we talk to the president? Do we talk to BA? Do we talk to the lawyer? Who do we be talking to? Right? Some of the questions I have submitted, right? Questions which are not related to the land deal are still remain
unanswered. Several of you have served on this board for years. So I'm asking guidance and most effective way for a resident to receive the direct response. Should it be email, submit a question formally,
attend a committee meeting, understanding the proper channel would help us all, right? At the same time, rather than revisiting the same point about the land deal week after week, I believe it is reasonable to us the board to publish a clear
public timeline. Specifically, survey completion, when it will be finished, right? Detailed plan and cost analysis, when it will be available for public review. Community review period. How long will residents have to evaluate the plan
before the formal debate? Scheduling a vote. After the debate, when the board when will the board set the date for the vote? Rather than coming every meeting, if you can publish this, it will save a lot of time and energy for board members as well as the
residents. So, I I consider, you know, please take my request. A structured timeline will save time and energy for all and I will and it will help us rebuild the trust through the transparency.
Now assuming the land is buildable right I want to raise a financial concern if the land cost is roughly 9 million and facility will cost probably 50 million whatever may be the reason whatever the amount you come up I'm just
going to roughly estimate it to 60 million right in the last meeting superintendent uh said right it will probably save us 3 million a year because we can keep the special need kids in here. 60 divide
by 3 is 20 years before you even break even. Not to add about 3 years of just building the facility and we are going to put a pause on the current capital projects,
right? Who is going to pay for this 20 to 23 year project? And again, I'm not the financial expert. I'm pretty sure BA can you know correct me and give us more detail and that's the reason why I'm asking publish the entire review so that
everybody knows right and we cannot ignore the economic reality we are living in raising costs job losses and already strained taxes right funding a project of this scale will place
significant pressure on taxpayers that what we need is to move forward on the capital projects already on hold not to push them further down in the future. I'm not expert which is I'm why I'm asking guidance from the board
superintendent and the BA but given the references shouldn't we be seriously considering rentering their existing facility on Ford is close to Edison requires minor renovation and could be
operational far sooner allowing us to serve students quickly while avoiding decades of financial recovery. I offer this points as food for thought. I hope the board will reflect on our requests, provide the clarity to
residents we have been seeking and work with us as a partner in this process. So before I go, I just wanted to ask whom should we be asking the question and when will we be actually getting the answers? >> Thank you Dr. Olli.
>> Yeah. So, thank you so much for for not only your comment but um uh some of the information that you provided as well too. So, in relationship to the questions, I would say it depends on the nature of the question. Some of them sound financial, some of them sound programmatic, right? Um what what I
would suggest is um if my secretary's name is Patty Thyimman as well as Miss Cox is uh Mr. totes, you can email those questions directly to them. And if it's a programmatic question that requires in relationship to some of the numbers that you talked about with special education, I'll make sure that Dr. Tui gets back to
you. But for for your purposes, we can focus on one point of contact, Mrs. Cox, uh, and Mrs. Thimman, and I can make sure you have those email addresses at your disposal, and I promise to get back to you in a timely fashion. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you. Next. Yes.
Jury ship Freeman in Edison, New Jersey. First with the um the curriculum, I was want to ask before sometime when some other people get up here, they really throw me off because they like go off on a tangent. So, excuse me, but on the curriculum, I'd like to know the where do I obtain the
re reading list for suggested reading for the high school students for each grade level. So, do I just email it to the curriculum person? >> Yes.
>> Okay. Um, I was told by some people that they would like to rent a building. Uh, and they talking for special needs kids and stuff. So, this is what they don't
understand. If you rent or you lease a building, the building's not yours, but you spend $10 million on it making the building secure for special needs people. So, that doesn't make sense. Why would you lease
a building year after year and spend 10 million on it when you can do better by projecting your future? Everybody always thinks the future is so far away. Well, I'm letting you know it's not that far away. GMO in the food, all these other data centers and information that's
going out now that's going to cause a lot of problems and with different children won't be able to take all the noise, the different things that goes on in this place. Now, I was talk they was talking about uh $9
million being ra wasted. Well, I know for instance, we got a Silver Lake property. You know, I was on the council at the time, a Silver Lake property that for over 12 million
that had about four or five leans on it by the administration and here we go almost up to I guess 15 million when you talk about the lawyers fees. So, I I don't know that I want them in charge. Like I told people, I don't know if I
want you in charge of the board of eds money also because you got to have a real clean house when you come and you subject yourself to other people and other things. You know, I think everybody should, you know, stay in their place. You know, you do the
council, you do the board of ed. Only thing is what I told people with subscription busing. I told the person, "Well, why can't the council get sidewalks? That would be a good project for you guys to work together because if you get
sidewalks, cut down on some of the subscription busing, then the people be able to walk on sidewalks." You know, it's a lot of projects you can do together instead of people trying to be one up on the other person. And I I noticed that tonight,
too. Some of the people were very disrespectful to the young people that were getting awards and that that unnerves me because you are supposed to be projecting the future for them. We have the greatest students here and I heard about the schools they was going
to Cornell and the different schools and I'm very very proud of that. You know, makes my my my property value go up. you know, the good if the long as you keep doing a good job, I'm good with where I'm, you know, where I'm living at. And most people move to Edison because of
that reason. They move to Edison because of the schools, not because it takes me like longer to get to North Edison than it does to East Brunswick. Because the traffic is horrendous, horrendous around here. And it's just like, you
know, it's overcrowded a whole lot. Everybody keeps telling me, "Well, every town is overcrowded." Well, I got news for all of you guys. I was the girl that was picking blackberries in Edison right in the woods. You come out and I I might have seen three cars when I went to
school. I know things have changed, but when you talk to people like me and some of the other people has been here for a long time will tell you the difference between it being overcrowded and not. But I think for us, even when they have the council meeting tomorrow, I think we
need to just tone down tone it down the fighting and the stuff the cross fighting back and forth and especially the uh administration high higher places. One thing that's good is uh board
president, I haven't seen you out screaming on any videos or nothing. I I listen to you on a video. Very nice, very calm the information. That's the type of videos I like to listen to. Somebody screaming and saying, "Oh, the house is on fire. The house is on fire."
And you got a little fire in the kitchen budget, the bucket. You know, that's the part I just don't like that at all. You know, I'm I'm trying to make people more civilized. Don't you think this this is the 21st century? We should be more
civilized. You know, if you're not interested in what another person is saying, keep your mouth shut. You'll get your turn at all. But the most important thing that I would like to have too is where I would get the book list at all.
And with our student um that's selling books, I'm reading another book from one of our students that graduated from JP Steven that she signed it. And if um Mr. She can connect me with that girl. I like all my books signed. I purchased
them, but I wanted signed a signed copy. Thank you. Thank you. Next. Yes, Mr. M. Anthony, excuse me, Anthony Mar from Edison. I'm again here to speak about the
parental bill of rights which I emailed to everyone on the board back on February 4. It's really an excellent piece of work. You can think of this as a as an adjunct or as a an attach related to the vote
you guys did to abolish 5756. Um just to read you one piece of it. It's it's there's a lot to it, but it's really excellent. It says the township of the township
Edison Township Board of Education affirms the rights of parents, legal guardians to inquire and receive from school staff truthful and truthful information and to the extent known to
the extent known about a child. This information includes but not limited to any change in the student's asserted gender identity, pronouns, or preferred name expressed at school when different from those assigned at birth. I mean,
this thing just goes on and on about parental bill rights. There was a time when you didn't even have to talk about this. Parents had rights and everyone knew it. Now you have to assert them. So be it. Put it in writing. Let everyone
know. Tell the parents at Edison, we're behind you. We stand with you. We have lawsuits where this kind of thing actually has to be asserted. US Supreme Court, I've said it before, but bears repeating. Miranda vers Bont. US Supreme Court says
the state, this is in California, California argues that its policies advance a compelling interest in student safety and privacy. It's about a policy similar to 5756 that they had their version of it. Supreme Court says but those policies
cut out the primary protectors of children's best interest, their parents. We have a commandment. It's been on the books since God issued it. It's called the fifth commandment. Honor your father and your mother. Can anyone argue with
that? I don't know how many members of the board are parents. No parent wants to be dishonored. We have Mother's Day and Father's Day where we honor mom and dad. Adopt this parents bill of rights. Please, you will bless the parents of
Edison. You will send a message to the to everyone in Edison. We stand with you. We don't want parents disrespected. It's happened enough. It's happened too much already. And in fact, a lawsuit has occurred
filed April 28 of this year in the US District Court of New Jersey. Multiple parents have multiple parents have sued New Jersey state and local officials to Tuesday sue them over laws
and policies they say impede their rights to know and have a say if their children are undergoing gender transition. Then you abolish 5756 doesn't stop this kind of thing from going on. If you
don't replace the bad with good, the bad will creep back in. This polic this this parental bill of rights is good stuff. It's what's needed to replace 5756. 5756 had no business being on the
books and thankfully you got rid of it. Like any bad habit, smoking, doing drugs, if you don't replace the bad with good, the bad's going to creep back in. Replace it with a a really good
policy. Bill of Rights is outstanding. The Colts Snake Board of Ed spent a lot of time crafting it. It's it's a number one. I ask that you consider it, pass it, and you will you will do
wonders for the parents and frankly everyone else in in Edison. Thank you for your time. >> The lady I motion closed. Even Jerry liked that one. >> Uh good evening board members. Namaste
and thank you for giving me this opportunity to speak today. Uh my name is Dr. Reika Sharma. Uh 63 current place Edison. I'm a proud resident of Edison since last 15 years. Uh both of my kids went to school here elementary, middle
and high school. And I must say that I really appreciate the teachers and the board and this town for giving them the highest level of education and the values they do uh possess. Now uh today I'm standing here representing Hindu
education foundation. Uh it's an initiative of Hindu Suma Wakung HSSUSA. HSS is a 501c3 voluntary nonprofit social educational and cultural organization
uh which have over 250 weekly chapters across USA. Um during teachers appreciation week which we celebrate in May as we did honor our teachers today as well. Um we recognize celebrate and uh the invaluable contribution of our
educators. So as a part of this uh our organization has an annual event which we call guru wandana. Uh guru wandana uh is in Sanskrit if you all know that's the ancient language. Uh so in Sanskrit
guru means teacher or mentor and wandana means offering respect. So together guru wandana represents an expression of greed uh deep gratitude and reverence toward teachers
because teachers play a critical role in shaping not only the academic journey but also the character and the future of our children. So this their patience, dedication and compassion leave a lasting impact on
generations. In our tradition that is in Hindu culture uh there is a saying uh again in Sanskrit acharia deo bhava which means the teacher is to be revered like god.
Uh this reflects the highest respect accorded to educators because they are the guiding light in society. Through HEF we strive to build a strong meaningful collaboration with schools and educators.
Some of the recent initiatives our organization has taken are uh we had yoga programs in Edison schools reaching over 700 students. Uh we had a cultural workshop for 80 teachers in Wang Burough
school district. uh Adarana Hindu poster exhibition which explained all this um yoga and other philosophical things behind this culture which is attended over 1,200 students and we had a collaboration with Woodbridge schools
also where we donated about 10,000 pounds of food to local pantries on the occasion of Diwali as you may know that Diwali is the biggest celebrated festival in Hindu culture uh So on behalf of Hindu education
foundation and HSS I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the teachers. Your dedication inspires, uplifts and shape the future. So thank you for everything you do. Thank you all and
namaste. >> Thank you. Next. Thank you. Beth Taly, 15 Midwood Avenue. First of all, thank you for honoring all um the teachers and our support staff tonight. It was wonderful to see and it's great
to know the impact that they've had on the students that were also honored tonight as well as you know all the students parents and families as well. It's a great thing to see. It's what's great about our schools here. Couple of questions. I can't remember the last
time and I thank all of you guys for volunteering your time as being board members. There's a lot of big decisions that need to be made, especially now, you know, with budget cuts. It's that time of year when contracts need to be, you know,
awarded to different things to keep us in check for next year. I can't remember the last time we've had a caucus and an action meeting. >> I understand things have come up. there were certain, you know, um, ceremonies
or so forth that some of our, um, admin were invited to and recognize that, which is great, but those are kind of planned. Knowing that, why can't we kind of change some of the meeting dates knowing
ahead of time that this stuff is coming up? I've heard the last couple of months a lot of people coming here It's been these meetings have been like overrun with the $9 million property rather than the business of
you know our school boards to run our schools efficiently and effectively. So perhaps if we had the two meetings, it would also be more transparent to the public as well as all board members what was going on.
And at some point maybe if you had these meetings, you could have the discussions among amongst yourself. the public would be more aware and informed as to what's going on and hoping shortly you can make a
decision with what's going to happen with a $9 million property so it doesn't you know overtake the whole year like last year's I'm I can't remember what the what the what's no what's I don't know the
transgender debacle last year. Not debacle but whatever you know that was that took over all the meetings last year. You guys have work to do. Please come up with you know have
the meetings be transparent with the public. Get your jobs done effectively and transparently for the public so we don't have to have like I'm surprised tonight's not marathon meeting. I was expecting more people
here um about that kinds of things. So, you know, do we plan on having caucus and action meetings or is this the new future of the board? Cuz it's not very And also, you know, the fact that we don't really get the agendas 48
hours in advance. This time it was pretty good. It was a little over 24 hours, which at least gave us time to review them. Um, so we should be able to see that so that people can be informed and ask the right questions and get the
right answers. Lastly, I know it was discussed when the calendar was adopted for next year that we were going to come back and talk about Passover. This is a diverse community. I understand it's early dismissal for
the children. A lot of our staff celebrate that holiday and need the time to prepare for it. I believe it's April 21st and if we're going to be inclusive of all, we should be including all and their holiday should be recognized just
as everybody else's are. Thank you for your time. >> Next. Yes. minutes. >> Am I recognized? >> Name and address. >> Name? Why? Why'd you start my clock if I'm not recognized? You have to be
recognized first and then start the clock. Why'd you start my clock? >> So, I'm recognized. Thank you. Um, >> answer. He recognized me. He started the clock. >> Name and address, sir. >> Uh, for a good time at 9 Finch Court.
But what you're doing, it's against the law. I don't need to give my name and address. Um, the law doesn't require me to give my name and address. Only your policy does. If I didn't give my name and address, what were you going to do? What were you going to do? You're going
to order the cops to remove me, violating my first amendment, violating my fourth amendment, and quite possibly violating my fifth fifth amendment. I don't have I don't have to uh tell you nothing. I don't have to tell you Um >> you do have to watch your language.
>> No, I don't. Uh >> sir, please remove him. Please, please remove him for using the bad words. Please remove him. >> So, there's actually case law that says you're allowed to use >> Sir, please remove him. There >> there's Please remove him.
>> He's not recognized. This time is forfeited. Can >> we do a motion to close public portion? >> Motion to close public portion. >> I'm sorry. We still have people back there. Got it. >> I didn't do nothing wrong. >> All in favor? >> Okay. Matt, go ahead. Matt,
>> come on up. >> I'm not close. >> Your time is up, sir. >> No, my time at four minutes and 30 seconds. >> Please remove him. Um, Robert, rules of order. There's actually there's actually case law that says, "Yeah, you're allowed to curse." In the case, the guy he showed up to at
Board of Education meeting saying, "Mother Ferdy, please remove him." >> Several several times. >> My time. They're saying my time's up, but I still had 4 minutes and 30 seconds. >> I control this meeting. Your time is up. Please be seated or you're >> security guard. Let the security guard
remove me so I can file my lawsuit. >> Go for it. Please, please remove him. Loman vers Riviera beat Supreme Court ruling. That's what the lawsuit today is based on. >> Go ahead. You're recognized. you. You piece of
you. You want this Go back to your country. Don't come here. >> That's not right. >> That's not right, Matt. >> Go ahead. >> Go ahead, Matt. Matt Ravnaki TA president. Um couple things. First of
all, uh congratulations to our students that were recognized today, those that got into themies. Again, it just uh exemplifies the great um students and accomplishments of the district. Special thanks though and and congratulations to the teachers and ESPs
of the year. Um, you know, you saw a b uh one from each building basically in both uh domains and they represent what I've always said is the best staff and teachers and support professionals in the state of New Jersey. And those
people recognized today are the best of the stood out this year as the best of the best. So congratulations to them. As I always say, I'm very proud to be their their president. Um I wish the rest of the school felt as cold as it does here. Then Dr. Dr. Alterelli and I wouldn't be
feel fielding questions about the heat. Um it's very refreshing in here. In fact, it's actually kind of cold in here. Um yeah, it's a little bit a little bit cold in here, right? >> Frosty. There you go. Um but anyway, um you know, just just a shout out about
that. Um to the parents out there and I know I put out things to staff, you know, just try to stay cool. I know it's hot in the buildings. um you know, keep hydrated, try to stay cool, stay in air conditioning as much as possible, etc., etc. You know, we'll get through it.
Weather's supposed to break a little bit by tomorrow night hopefully and you know, the rest of the week. Um the final thing I just two things actually and I want to address it. I'm not going to, you know, name names, but no one should ever be threatened for anything. I did read and hear about the board member
being threatened and that goes all with everything. um you know we should be a civilized people and to be under scrutiny to so what I saw about it is just it's just incomprehensible
that people would go to that extreme to to make threats against someone. So you know again ask for like I know Joyce ship said before you know a little bit of civility. Again, I don't always agree with everything that's done, but you know, I will never attack someone
personally or threaten them, and it really shouldn't happen. It's it's really absurd that stuff like that occurs. The final thing, and uh no, I've heard it haven't heard it yet, so I'm glad to be able to say, first of all, happy Memorial Day coming up. Um, you know, everybody thinks of it as, you
know, the unofficial kickoff of the summer and the shore and, you know, that type of thing. obviously a day off, but please remember what the holiday is really about. And a lot of people do confuse and what's the difference between Memorial and Veterans Day? Veterans Day is to honor anyone that
served in the military. Basically, Memorial Day is for those that made the ultimate sacrifice in giving their lives for our country and the freedoms and all that we we have here in America. So, you know, make sure that you celebrate it if
you know someone who did lost a lose a family member. Um I you know to in war or whatever um you know consult their family, thank them for that. Um and you know remember those that gave their lives on that day and be safe and happy
Memorial Day to everyone. >> Thank you. Anyone else? >> Motion to close public portion. >> Second. All in favor? I. >> Thank you. >> Motion to adjurnn. Board >> me. No board member comments. I'm sorry
I was so quick. >> That was good. That was good. I want to go home. >> I love it. >> You want to go home? >> All right. Board member comments. I'm sorry. >> Sorry, Mr. Bedell. >> Board President. >> Yeah, please go ahead. >> I'll go first. >> Unfortunately, the teachers aren't here
and uh and all the honores. But congratulations to all the honores who were acknowledged here tonight. Through all of your hard work, dedication, commitment, you've continued to make Edison Township School District
not only desirable and sought after, but successful and admired. You know, names like Nick Massa, autoshop teacher, Mr. Terzino, science, Miss Baskin, English, Mr. Whmer,
history, Mr. Pagosh, Jim, wrestling coach, Doc Capero, my history teacher, and our former superintendent, along with principal, Leo Scanland, and last but not least, our Edison High School principal, Mr.
Ross. Many of the teachers that that are here tonight that are watching, because of you, you know, the the kids have a brighter future. They have a a step in the right direction. So congratulations to all the honores and to all the
teachers and all the faculty staff and everyone that take that through their hard work, dedication, commitment makes Edison School District a success. Uh I'd also like to say that the first
amendment, you have a freedom of speech, you have a right to your opinion. I think it's cowardly, uncalled for, and it's a shame that anybody has to
assault verbally assault, threaten, and coersse somebody's opinion, somebody's vote. It's it should it should not be allowed. You have a right. Everybody in everybody up here and everybody in the audience
and everybody watching has a right to their opinion. You don't have a right to threaten or harm anybody. That's uncalled for. That's cowardly. And and that's not right. No piece of land is worth more than someone's safety. I condemn this. I
think everybody should condemn it. You have a right to your opinion and so does everybody up here. We're here to do the right thing for the students first. So, uh, I just want to make sure we get the word out. Do unto
others as you want done unto yourself. You wouldn't want your family member threatened. You shouldn't do it to someone else. Thank you, board president. >> Thank you. Yes, Genie. >> I just want to add my congratulations to
all of our educators and our support staff. You are such an outstanding group and you know how much I think of all of you. You know you're very very special. I also wanted to mention Edison High
School senior award night. Uh we were there and uh it was just a beautiful beautiful thing to see and to see all of those recipients on the stage you know and our little you know Edison High
student was one of them. you know, it was just a really beautiful thing and if you ever get the opportunity to just go sit in a little while just to see that it's very rewarding and um I hope you all have a good night, you know, and I hope things go a little bit smoother now
for our next meetings. Okay. And uh take care. >> Thank you, >> board president. I left something out. >> Sure, go for it. I just also wanted to acknowledge tonight there was many teachers that were recognized and faculty that were recognized that I knew
growing up and I knew them as as younger kids and growing up as well. They're now our teachers. The teachers are are now principles and vice principles. Many of the many of the teachers out there uh taught my sons, my four sons
that went through the Edison school system. You know, I think it's, you know, it's a it's a it's an understatement to say, you know, we really really should thank and uh praise the teachers out there for doing a great
job because the te the names I just read off before I knew 30, 40, 46 years ago and they still made an impression on me. Just know teachers out there that you're going to make an impression on the
students today. and yes tomorrow and the years down the road. So congratulations and thank you once again. >> Thank you. Anyone else? Yep. Ana, >> good evening and thank you for everyone being here. Congratulations all teachers
and students. I want to be to apologize. It seems I'm exhausted cuz like any parents would I spend the entire night awake taking care of my own sick child.
But despite being tired, I knew I had to be here tonight because of this issue cannot be wait. I'm here to speak for special education childrens. We are fighting to bring back home our district. I'm not talking about the all childrens, but I'm talking about the
half. If I'm not correct, Mr. Alder Ali is we paying $18 million for years. If I'm not correct, can correct my numbers, please? >> Right. So, if we bring a half a kit, it it helps us. We we paying $18 million.
So, just whoever's asking for calculate some guy, make sure he he get the numbers. I'm here to speak for 80 180 special education childrens we are fighting to bring back home right my heart's going out to the parents who
wait anxiety every single day sending their childrens to out of district schools with the dis with the constant fear and worry of what happened next I know our board members are trying to their best for our kids but we need to
look at the reality of the situation I ask everyone here to think about this. If your children needs cares and you have the choice to take care of them in your own home or leave them with a neighbor,
which option is better? Keeping them home is always the better choice. Our children deserve to be educated and cares for here in their own community. Thank you. >> Thank you, Angela. Anyone else?
Jay. Yes. So, um I just want to echo what Russ said. Congratulations to all the teachers and supporting staff of the year. And they all left, but there's only one left on the in the back. Congratulations. >> Oh, two. Okay. I'm sorry. I didn't see
it. Okay. Congratulations to >> three. I'm sorry. Okay. Three of them. you represent the you know the the entire you know uh honores tonight and thank you for your service and really appreciate it you know your dedication
and uh tonight we also saw uh 190 students >> 198 >> 198 I'm sorry 198 students >> who uh are are accepted into our ummies
and I I really want to Thank Mrs. Pan for uh her dedication and pushing to get themies into the shape uh where it be. Um you know um we
started two newmies last year, the biomed and and SCS and AI academy and this coming year a brand new academy um you know business academy. So I hope you know um you're going to see witness
these these children who will be future leaders in business uh in science and technology. there'll be future leaders you know u in researchers and also I hope a lot of them will be doctors and
we need them um for the future and I'm so glad to see that um you know these top of the students are staying in the district instead of going out um the lady just came here and talked about you know Hindu education
foundation um I was very fortunate to attend their event with Anjuna um yesterday at the uh uh Kitty Keepwell camp and I attended their event before when they were in New.
Now they are expanded to um you know this new place is much bigger. On that day they recognize 20 teachers uh from Woodbridge Township and Edison Township.
I grew up in a culture that you know teachers are the highly respected um position in the society and I'm so happy to see the uh HF continue that tradition. I think this is like the
seventh or eighth year in Edison. Uh I I probably attended probably three or four of them at least before. So I like to you know see that there continue to uh honor our teachers and respect the
education and that is all what makes Edison school district one of the best. Also I like to address the uh the threat to the schoolboard member. It is absolutely coward that you have to go to
that route to threaten a mother and you know uh who is worried about her children. You know what's going to happen. This this has no place in our society.
People try to mix that with the decorum of the meetings. the decorum of the meeting, the public speaking. I agree we need to be polite. We need to respect the rules. But if you try to mix these two together,
a decorum of the meeting versus a personal attack on the elected official and you try to co her to change her vote, that is totally two different things. Okay? If you don't understand the differences, we live in two
different planets. As Russ said, first amendment rights, yes, but threats has passed that it is again possibly against the law. So, we are going to, you know, ask our law enforcement to do whatever
they can to prevent this from happening. This is the first time and it's the last time. Let's not forget what happened in Sarville. The council woman was threatened. She reported it and it was ignored and the unthinkable happened a
couple years ago. We do not want that happen in Edison and this is not, you know, what we want in our community. Enough is enough. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Shei. Anyone else?
>> Okay. Motion to >> motion to >> motion to aend. Do you have a second? >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I meeting at Thank you.