Welcome to our board of education meeting of the Elizabeth Board of Education. This is a combined regular and business meeting of the board of education pursuant to New Jersey statues and the rules adopted by the board of education. [gasps] Notice of this meeting was sent to the Star Ledger and Cable Vision of
Elizabeth on December 15, 2025. In addition, this notice is posted on the bulletin board in the lobby of 500 North Broad Street. And pursuant to this act, a copy has been filed with the city clerk of Elizabeth, New Jersey. Want to welcome everyone here tonight at the Tom
the Dunport Center and our televised viewers who are viewing into this December 18th, 2025 meeting of the board of education. We are here to govern, provide management oversight, and make policy for the for the district. The superintendent manages the district.
This is a meeting of the board in public, not a meeting of the public. This meeting is being recorded and will become part of Elizabeth Board of Education permanent record. We ask that you silence the sounds of your electronic devices since it is legally mandated that [snorts] these
proceedings be accurately recorded. We have asked for you, we may have to ask for you periodically should noise begin to interfere with the recording capabilities. There will be a public portion for citizens to address the board. Participants for this public portion must sign in prior to the start
of the public portion of this meeting. We are pleased that you have taken the time out to join us this evening and for this board of education meeting. We want to wish everybody a very happy holidays and thank you for your interest in the Elizabeth Public Schools. Mr. Candy, roll call, please.
Barbosa. Barbosa >> here. >> Bathless >> here. >> Carvalo >> here. >> Chevresz Jacobs >> present. >> Marina Ortega
>> here. >> Pastana >> here. >> Rivera >> here. Non >> present. At this time, please rise for a moment of silence. It is with deep sadness that we honor
the life of Ornada Duran, former Elizabeth Board of Education school board member, our retired administrative secretary from school number 27, Miss Maria Rose Iliano.
our retired eighth grade teacher from school number 22, Janice Jones, and our retired administrative secretary, Joyce Ortell. During these very difficult times, we ask that you keep their family and loved ones in prayer, and we thank
and honor them for their services. Thank you. At this time, please remain standing for the presentation of colors by our William Admiral William F. Hollyy Jr. ROC. 3 4
At this time, we'll have Commissioner Baffles lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and
justice for all. Please remain standing for the Star Spangle Banner. >> Oh, say you see by the dawn early [singing] light.
What so proudly we held [singing] at the twilight last gleaming. Who's brought stripes and bright stars through the perilous
fight? Or the ramp parts we watched were so galling [clears throat] and the rockets regular. [screaming] The bombs bursting in air
gave proof through the night [singing] that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star spangled banner yet wave
[singing] for the land of the free and the home [screaming] of the brave. >> [applause] >> Thank you. Please remain standing for the pledge of ethics by Vice President Maria Gerala.
>> As a member of the Elizabeth Public School professional learning community, I will treat people as I wish to be treated. To do that, I pledge to understand that the school community is a special place. Listen respectfully when someone else is speaking by paying
close attention and not interrupting. Speak in a calm voice and use proper language. Dress appropriately for teaching and learning. Inspire the best in myself and others by celebrating successes and learning from mistakes. Care about others by demonstrating acts
of kindness. >> Be a lifelong learner by taking every opportunity to learn from others. >> Thank you everyone. You may now be seated. for knowing.
At this time, I would like to have our I'm sorry. Please stand. I messed up. As we dismiss our junior ROC, let's give them a big round of applause. [applause] >> [applause] >> Oh yeah, dude. Nothing.
Wow. Heat. You now may be seated. I went a whole year and never got that wrong. And now I'm in the final meeting. All right. And at this time, I'd like to have the superintendent of schools introduce our student representative for
today. >> Good evening. Douglas Matut is a senior at Elizabeth High School Frank J. Cicerell Academy where he serves as a member of the school improvement panel. In this role,
he collaborates with teachers, provides a voice for student concerns, and supports meaningful improvements in teaching and learning for students across all grade levels. He is also a proud member of both the National Math Honor Society and the National Science
Honor Society as well as the school's student government. In addition, he has been recognized by the college board as an AP scholar for passing three or more advanced placement exams. Beyond his academic responsibilities, Douglas is
actively involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities. He has served as the co- captain of the Elizabeth Odyssey of the Mind program for three years. He is also an alumnest of the American Legion Jersey Boys State of the Year 2025.
Where as a high school junior, he spent one immersive week learning how to create a mock state government campaign, debate, and run for office. Through his experience, he strengthened his leadership, civic engagement, and collaborative problem-solving skills. In
addition to his academic and leadership commitments, Douglas is a dedicated musician at the Elizabeth High School Frank J. Cicerell Academy. He plays the drums and a wide assortment of percussion instruments performing in multiple ensembles, including the wind
ensemble, the Elizabeth High School marching band, and the indoor percussion ensemble. He has been recognized for the passion and emotion he brings to the performing arts and to the visual storytelling embedded in each
production. With his dedication to serving students, strong leadership experience, and broad involvement in extracurricular activities, Douglas Matut remains passionate and committed to representing his school and peers with integrity and resilience. It
is my pleasure to introduce Mr. Douglas Matut as our student representative. >> [cheering] [applause] >> Yeah, let's [applause] Yes, you can cheer him on. Mr. Katy, can you please add Douglas
Matut to the roll call, please? >> Duly noted. Thank you. Thank you. We're going to kick off this month's meeting with a performance by one of our amazing high school music ensembles. Please make some noise and let's welcome the
Elizabeth High School Advanced Jazz Ensemble. Come on, start making some noise. directed by the EHS instrumental music teacher and the advanced jazz ensemble director Meredith Foreman who will be performing Jazz in the world
arranged by Victor Lopez. Let's give him another big round of applause. Yes, I will bring >> I'll bring your script stand. >> [music] [music] [music] >> Heat. Heat. [music] >> [music] >> Heat. Heat.
[music] >> [music] [music] >> Heat. Heat. [music] >> [music] [music] [music] >> Heat. [music] Heat. [music] Heat.
[music] [music] [music] Heat. [music] >> [music] [music] >> Hey, [music] [music] hey, hey. [music]
>> [music] >> Heat. Heat. [music] >> [music] [music] >> Heat. Heat. Heat. [music] Heat. [music] Heat. [music]
[music] Heat. [music] Heat. [music] [music] [music] Heat. [music] >> [music] >> Show your love for the Elizabeth High School Advanced Jazz Ensemble. Let's
give them another big round of applause. [applause] [cheering] Come on, we can do better than that. Yes. >> [applause] >> All right. So, we're going to stay um in this mode right now for our recognitions this
month. We would like to honor and salute the Elizabeth High School marching band [applause] [cheering] under the direction of EHS music teacher and marching band director Miguel Bolivar. They competed in the state and
national championship um just last month in the New Jersey state championship at the South Brunswick High School. The AHS marching band placed fifth out of 10 bands and took the group four open caption award
of first place in percussions and the color guard. Come on, let's give them a big round of applause. [cheering] [applause] At the US Bands Open Class Championship 2025 at Metife Stadium, EHS was the
bronze medalist, placing third out of 11 bands, including first in percussions, capping off an undefeated season for the percussions group. [cheering] >> [applause] >> The marching band score of a 94 was the
highest open class national score in EHS history. That's a big deal. The highest ever. EHS received stellar complimentary on the judges tapes about his program, giving rave reviews of the band's
performance. Before formally introducing them, we have a video to share with you that highlights their record-breaking performance in the open class nationals competitions at Metife. So, please focus your attention on the screen.
Presenting their 2025 [music] program, Carmen Noir. US Bands is proud to present [music] Elizabeth High School. [music] [music] >> [music] [music]
[music] >> That's coming Leo. >> [music] [music] [music] >> Carmen, Carmen. [music] Heat. [music] [music] Heat. [music] [music]
Again, [music] please join me in applauding the members of the Elizabeth High School marching band and director Miguel Boulevard for an excellent season. Let's give them another big round of applause. Can you please join us up here for a photo with
the board of education? Come on up. Come on. Start clapping for them. Let's give it up for them. Yeah. Come on up. >> Me and Michael. >> Okay. How are you? Hey, how are you? See you again.
Yourself? >> Hi there. >> How are you? >> Good. Good. I know. I like that name. >> We're coming by on Monday. Diane Monday. You going to be there? >> You think they'll allow people getting
on me? Oh, he's going >> everybody. Yo, you guys like this, bro? Oh, >> we're up here. What's your cash? >> [applause]
>> Let's give them another big round Round of applause. Thank you and congratulations. [applause] Yeah, it's still out there. You're not come back here. Almost. Great way to open the evening. Thank you again for those wonderful performances
and congratulations again to our Elizabeth High School marching band, not only [snorts] for this year but for years of commitment, dedication and excellence representing Elizabeth not only statewide but nationally. At this time, the public participation
um citizens may address the board. Microphones are open for comment to those who have signed in prior to this session. Each statement made by a participant shall be led to three minutes in duration. >> Where's the list?
>> List the list. Where's the list? List. There's Mr. Mr. >> Sorry. >> No worries. No worries. Only one person. Okay. Miss Maria Franchi, if you can come to
the mic, please. Good evening. Good evening. >> Good evening. >> Last month, I want to apologize on my language. I was upset, but this time it's even worse, but I won't curse.
Early Childhood has was personally promised to give EO Presbyterian 45 kids for three classrooms. When September of this year came, they only received 33 kids. Then it went down to 24 kids because nine
kids were sent to special ed. As of now, Elizabeth Port Presbyterian only has 21 kids and they had to downsize and close the classroom and they are three teachers because the board of education was not
able to keep their words in giving them the 45 kids. The director also had to take three pay cuts because of what's happening in 2023 2024 they had six classrooms.
2024 2025 they have three and one is closed down. The board of education has children in cl in regular class. The board controls the students and the schools and the early childhood,
but the Presbyterian cannot bring no kids from the outside because the board of education will not allow it. You turn around and take kids in to the school, but you ship them all around uptown,
downtown. It's an area, a school area. A lot of these parents are paying for child care, because they cannot travel all the way to school 16, the other side of town. So, you'd rather not put the
kids in school. Now, reflecting, I took this letter from them. This letter is formally notified that to due ongo ongoing budget reductions resulting from the decreased
board of education funding, the board of Elizabeth Port Presbyterian Center has determined that the early childhood education program must rush must reduce staffing effective 123125.
I'm from downtown. Okay. The Presbyterian has been there before any other early childhood schooling. I do take it personal because I'm from down there. It's an urban area.
These parents don't have the money to pay. So, we have to fix something. We have to keep that school alive. Stanley, you went down there and you visited. You know what's going on.
You took an old to fix it. You took an oath to help kids. >> Thank you, Maria. Um just to comment on that issue. Um it's something that we have met with the port um Presbyterian Center about and they understood the
dynamics and the um restrictions that the board of education was presented with. So, we'll definitely meet with the board again and I'm sure the superintendent can have a follow-up conversation just to bring some clarity around the issue cuz I think there is some confusion around that issue. But
thank you for bringing it back to the table so that we're clear so that we can see if there's, you know, every stone has been turned, every eye has been dotted, and every tea has been crossed. Thank you so much for that. Um, public participation is now closed.
At this time, I want to turn things over to our superintendent who will present our community updates. >> I'll be back. See you in a little while. Good evening.
For our next recognition, we would like to honor someone who has made a tremendous impact on our district for many years and will be retiring at the end of this month.
For three decades, Alberto Marcal has been the architect of innovation for the Elizabeth Public Schools. A proud graduate of the class of 1980, Alberto returned to his roots in 1995,
embarking on a 30year journey that would bridge the gap between traditional classrooms and the digital frontier. As our chief information officer, Alberto has navigated a global seismic
shift in technology. From the early days of novel networks to the district-wide implementation of Microsoft 365 and fiber optic infrastructure, his leadership ensured
that Elizabeth remained a shining example of educational innovation. He was a driving force behind the ILEP centers, the integration of powers school
and the historic leap to the future initiative which brought oneto-one learning to every student earning the recognition from the White House. Today
we celebrate a career defined by foresight, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to student success. Please join me as we honor the
extraordinary legacy of Alberto Marcel. [applause] We would like to share a video with everyone. that really captures what Alberto has accomplished
and what he means to us. [music] Alberto A. Marcel, a proud graduate of Elizabeth High School's class of 1980, served the Elizabeth public schools and the Elizabeth community with [music] immense dedication for 30 years. His
tenure began on October 1, 1995 [music] as a Novel Network manager, coinciding with a period of massive student enrollment growth, new school facilities, [music] and a global seismic shift in technology from hardware to software and the
internet. Rising through the ranks as manager, director, coordinator, and eventually chief information [music] officer, Alberto Marsal was a necessary leader during these parallel unprecedented expansions. He directed
crucial infrastructure upgrades that led to a unified email system. Converted the entire district to Microsoft and then Microsoft 365. [music] Installed fiber optics districtwide to boost network capacity and [music]
dramatically upgraded the district's internet capacity. These were foundational improvements. Alberta was instrumental in creating IEP centers, state-of-the-art media centers found in several schools, [music] fully equipped
with laptops, desktops, and vast wireless access to online learning materials. [music] Furthermore, he helped guide the district's technology integration of Pearson's Power School in 2007, [music] a student information system we still
maintain and use today [music] that changed the district's management of students data, including attendance, [music] grades, and enrollments, providing families with exceptional accessibility to up tothe- minute academic [music] information.
>> Mr. Marcel's forward-thinking vision truly ushered in a transformational era for classroom instruction at the Elizabeth Public Schools. In 2013, he helped launch the district's leap to the [music] future initiative, which equipped every student in grades 3 to 12
with portable devices. This established [music] onetoone blended learning in all schools, a successful initiative that eventually expanded [music] to every student in every grade. This educational innovation led to the Elizabeth Public
Schools being recognized by both the White House and the US [music] Department of Education. The vision for the Elizabeth Public Schools has been to become one of the best school systems in America. [music] And Alberto Marcel, you worked diligently to ensure that our
district attained that benchmark as a future ready school. The public schools was recognized as one of the best school systems in America in November 2014. [music] We were amongst 100 exemplary districts from across the United States. In
[music] the words of former Secretary of Education Arie Duncan, school districts across the country are helping teachers harness the power of technology to create personal learning environments for all students. [music] Alberto, your vision fulfilled this promise to our students. I want to thank
you for your leadership for transitioning our district to digital learning and affording our district the opportunity to share our approach to technology and to impact teaching and learning. [music] This is your legacy. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to the children of the
Elizabeth public schools. >> I sincerely appreciate this opportunity to congratulate my former student and c-orker, Alberto Marsal. Alberto, I am so proud of the work you have done for the Elizabeth School District for the past 30 years. There is so much I can
say about your leadership style and your accomplishments. But one thing I want to highlight is your ability to work closely with others during challenging times. 5 years ago, we faced a horrific pandemic. You and your staff play a
significant role in ensuring our students continue to receive academic support. You are always thinking outside the box and trying to come up with initiatives to help our district. You will be missed my friend. The good news for us is that you have built a
wonderful team and your legacy will continue in years to come. Essentially, I have always considered you a gentleman and a scholar. Congratulations on your welldeserved retirement and may God continue to bless you always and your family. Felic.
>> During the 2001 Players Golf Championship, Tiger Woods made an incredible 60-foot putt on the famous 17th hole at TPC Sawrass. As the putt slowly made its way down the slope towards the hole, commentator [music]
Gary Ko repeatedly explained, "That is better than most, better than most." And he captured the moment's excitement and the exceptional nature of Tiger's performance. And thinking of you today, Alberto, that phrase better than most to
me relates to the excellence of our technology department compared to the majority. Of course, you have led us with unmatched skill, but like Tiger, always rise to the occasion. No one will ever forget the technology challenges that were confronted during co. Thank
you for being such a good friend and as you always remind, thank you for keeping us safe from the bad guys. Good luck and best wishes in your retirement. [music] >> Hey, Alberto. Um, it's been a pleasure working with you for all these years. Um, you not only have been a coworker,
but also a very [music] good friend. I'm going to miss you uh over the last few years. Uh, we have uh gotten a lot [music] closer uh than we were uh from the beginning and uh we have a lot of stories to [music] that we can share
with people. Some of which I I don't care to do it right now. in this uh this video. But uh I wish you all the very best, my friend. And uh with the grandkids, I know you're going to have your hands full between uh your grandkids here in Elizabeth and the ones
in [music] uh Florida. I love you. I love your family. Good luck to you, my friend. >> Hi, Alberto. I want to take this moment to congratulate you on your retirement. You've always been a true [music] visionary, and one of your greatest accomplishments was ensuring that every student had a device in their hands. As
you begin your next chapter, I hope you enjoy every moment. You've [music] earned it, and your legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives you've touched throughout [music] the years. Alberto, congratulations on your retirement. When you started, our entire department could fit around one [music]
table. Somehow, you turned that small group into the engine that powers everything we do today. [music] with a vision that always saw farther down the road than the rest of us could. You built it brick by brick, person by person. You made every one of us better.
You didn't just lead [music] a team, you built a family. Today, we're not just saying goodbye. We're celebrating the end of an incredible error and the start of a very welldeserved next chapter for you. We're going to [music] miss you terribly, but we'll do our very best to
keep moving this department forward and make you proud. Big guy, I cannot [music] believe that it has been almost 27 years since I started this amazing journey with you at the Elizabeth Board of Education. Thank you for having such
an amazing vision [music] because without it, we would definitely not have been able to accomplish half of the things that we have accomplished. I'm very lucky [music] not only to be able to call you my boss, but also a true
friend. take care of yourself so you can enjoy your beautiful family. [music] And hopefully hopefully, God willing, we will reconnect again down in Florida sooner than later. [music] Thank you, Alberto.
>> Congratulations, Alberto. We will miss you. >> Good luck, Alberto. [music] Happy retiring. Congratulations and best wishes on your retirement. Heat. Heat. [music] [music]
[applause] >> [applause] [applause] [applause] >> It is my honor now to turn it over to our board president, Mr. Stanley Nuran. again. Again. Okay. Again, congratulations on a
successful, wonderful career, and the board of education has a resolution. Whereas, Alberto Marcel is a graduate of Elizabeth High School's class of 1980, [snorts] served the Elizabeth public schools, and the members of the Elizabeth community with great ambition and dedication for 30 years. And whereas
Alberto A. Marcelus was appointed to Noval Network Manager on October 1st, 1995 at the start of a three decade era in which Elizabeth public schools experienced a dramatic increase in student enrollment and new school facilities as well as systemic
advancement of software, hardware, and internet technology throughout the world. And whereas as a manager, director, coordinator, and chief information officer, Alberta A. Marcelis was a leader here at the Elizabeth Public Schools and needed to meet the
and rise above the challenges that came during these parallel unprecedented expansions, directing infrastructure upgrades throughout the public schools that led to a unified email system, converting the district to Microsoft and
sub subsequently Microsoft 365, installing fiber optics districtwide to increase network capacity and upgrading internet capacity amongst transformational improvements. And whereas one of those landmark technology
integrations guided by Alberto A. Marcelis was the Elizabeth Public School's introduction of the Pearson's Power School student information system in 2007 that you all use now. Forever changing the district's management of student
data such as attendance, grades, extracurricular enrollment, and connecting families to their children's education in a way previously unimagined by providing accessibility to up tothe minute academic information.
And whereas Alberto Marcellis was instrumental in the creation of the ILE centers at the district schools where state-of-the-art media centers fully equipped with laptops, desktops, computer stations, flat screen televisions, and wireless internet
access to a vast supply of online reference materials, including textbooks, in instructional videos, newspapers, and magazines. And whereas Alberto Marcel's vision helped to usher a transformational era of a classroom
instruction for Elizabeth public schools as a district introduced it leap to the future initiative in 2013 equipping every student I say every student in grades 3 to 12 with portable
devices to establish onetoone blended learning in all schools which eventually expanded to each student in every grade and led to the district being recognized by the White House and the US Department of Education
for its educational in innovation. That deserves a round of applause, y'all. I don't know about you. [applause] Whereas during one of the most difficult times in our history, through systems that had previously been developed and integrated within the district, Alberto
Marcelis and the members of his technology department were able to ensure that every Elizabeth Public School student able to continue their education during the global pandemic of CO 19 through virtual learning, positioning the districts
well ahead of other districts throughout the state in terms of the speed and efficiency. in which students were reconnected with their teachers and with learning. And whereas throughout the leadership and guidance of Alberto Marcellis during his 30-year career, the
Elizabeth Public School has expanded his technology capabilities and classroom instruction in a way that has ensured several generations of the Elizabeth Public Schools that students will have the opportunity to develop a love of learning, achieve
excellent, and pursue their dreams. Now therefore, be it resolved that the Elizabeth Board of Education and the Elizabeth Public Schools honor and celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments and legacy of Alberto A. Marcels. Be it further resolved that
this resolution be spread on the official minutes of the Elizabeth Public Schools, Elizabeth Board of Education, and a copy of this resolution be presented to the man himself, Alberto A. Marcel with a heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for his devoted service to
the Elizabeth public schools with the fondest wishes fondest wishes of health, happiness, and blessings in his retirement. Congratulations, sir. [applause] >> Thank you, Mr. Neron. [applause]
If I could please ask the members of the board of education to please come down to the front of the stage. And if I may ask the members of the superintendent's cabinet to please join me also in the front of the stage. We would like to be able to salute Alberto Marcel for the 30
extraordinary three extraordinary decades of service to the technology department and the public schools as a whole. Alberto, your leadership and friendship will be immensely missed. Best wishes and the greatest health in your retirement. Please, if you will
join us with your family, it would be much appreciated. Mr. the video. Thank you again. gallery. We need to have everyone assemble. A
job, guys. That's really good. Heat. Heat. Huh? >> Wow. >> Oh, yeah. >> Yeah.
Yeah. >> Alberto, Mr. myself as the keeper of the secret as secretary and keeper of the agenda. Just wanted to make it official from the board minutes [snorts] as recommended by the superintendent of schools
retirements. Alberto Marcel, chief information officer effective January 1st, 2026, 30.3 years in the district. [applause] I can take >> I'm sorry. Oh. Come on.
That is not the only celebration that we have this evening. In addition to Alberto, we have another amazing leader who will be leaving us at the end of this month
and who will be tremendously missed. Elizabeth Board of Education President Stanley Nuran, a man whose 12-year tenure on the board has left an indelible mark on our schools and community.
Serving twice as board president, Mr. Neon has been a visionary leader, championing the programs and facilities that define excellence of the Elizabeth Public Schools today. from providing governance and developing
policy to ensuring 12 consecutive years of balanced budgets without taxpayer increases. His impact is felt in every corner of the district.
Whether advocating for student safety, spearheading athletic renovations at the Dun Sports Center, where we are this evening, our mentoring the next generation. His mission has always been clear,
putting children first. As we celebrate his transition to the Union County Board of County Commissioners, we look back at a legacy built on hard work, inspiration, and an unwavering
belief in our students potential. This evening we will be expressing our deepest gratitude for 12 remarkable years of service. So we would like to now uh play a video
that captures some of the highlights because to be quite honest with you, Mr. Neuron, it would probably take 6 hours of video to capture all of the great work that you have done over the course of 12
years. So, this is just a highlight video to share with you. Stanley Niron served the Elizabeth Board of Education and the Elizabeth community at large with great distinction for 12 years, including as a two-time president
and a one-time vice president, whose great leadership helped bring many of the excellent programs currently being implemented in Elizabeth public school classrooms. During Mr. Neuron's tenure on [clears throat] the board, we have experienced nationally ranked high schools, several national schools of
character, state championship basketball, soccer, and football teams and marching bands. Students who have received academic and athletic scholarships and local, regional, state, and national academic recognitions by
various organizations among many excellent school team member and student achievements while passing school district budgets that did not increase tax contributions from the Elizabeth taxpayers in his 12 years on the board.
During Stan's time at the board, my colleagues and I have been able to accomplish many of things that we never dreamed possible. And I can say that due to his leadership, his skill, and his ability to work with others. Your tenure as the Elizabeth Board of Education has
been marked with dedication, vision, and a deep commitment to our [music] students and community. >> You are always so supportive of the students, the team, and administration of Elizabeth Public Schools. If someone were to ask me for a rapid fire response
to stand around, the answer would be quick for me. Iron sharpens iron. >> You've taught me that just as two pieces of iron can shapen one another, friends and mentors can challenge and encourage each other to become better.
>> He was instrumental in revising the graduation policy to ensure that students had personalized pathways to success. was influential in the school community of Nicholas Murray Butler, school number 23, moving into the building of Dr. Orlando, school number
26, and was prominent in the dedication of the Thomas Edison 9th grade academy in honor of Charles Harris, a longtime district team member and community activist. If you were to ask me three words [music] that helped describe Stan Neron,
it would be leadership, teamwork, and service. And I remember the very first time I wanted to join the board of education. The first person who ever called me from the board was Stan Neron. And I remember him asking me, Isaiah is why do you want to join the board and what do you want to do? And after I
explained to him, he said, "You know what? Let's meet with Diane Babosa. [music] Let's meet as a team at a Starbucks." And I'll never forget that meeting cuz afterwards when everything was said and done he said Isaiah if you ever need [music] anything just hit me up. And that's the kind of person that
Stan is always willing to serve. >> I've learned so much from you Stan. Not just about governance but about patience, perspective, and dedication to doing what's right for our children. Your commitment and love for our community inspire us to continue advocating for our students, families,
and residents. Your legacy on the Lisai Board of Education is part of our history and will influence our future leaders. Board President Neon introduced resolutions for the National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day and Gun Violence Awareness Month, served on the
school safety and anti-bullying special task forces, spoke to the Elizabeth Public Schools graduates of the Law Enforcement Against Drugs Program, and ultimately in partnership with the Elizabeth Police Department, Chief Sacka started the Elizabeth Police Department
mentoring program with students from various district schools. always having an eye on the safety and well-being of our students and learning community. >> Mr. Art, first and foremost, I'd like to thank you for everything you have done
for the board of education from day one. You've been a man of honor and integrity. It's been a pleasure working with you the last uh 10 years. Um, good luck to you in your new uh endeavors. I know that you would do well
and you would always uh stand up for the children of Elizabeth and I hope you do the same thing in the county. >> Oh boy, where do I begin? My dearest Stan. Well, I think about where I should begin and I guess this would be
appropriate. Remember Stan when we went to go pick these up? I'll never forget. We were walking to the car and you looked at me. You said, "Why die? [music] why do it? And I said, "Well, Stan, we have to. I love doing this, you
know, for the kids, for our district." But I mentioned I didn't mention one important thing, Stan. It was the second reason, and it was because I admire you. I admired your work on the board. I admired who you were and your
leadership. And so that too motivated me to do all that I've done till today. >> Mr. Neron was very passionate about supporting Elizabeth Public Schools athletics and arts programs, pushing for the Dun Sports Center to install new
bleachers, a new gym floor, new interactive scoreboards, and championship banners across the side walls to create both a source of pride for the Elizabeth community and its athletes, as well as a tough environment for those who came to visit and compete
against our teams. The football field was also resurfaced and a new baseball and multi-purpose field was installed at Williams Field. >> Mission like stand there on I want to thank you for all the support over the years that you have given me and our
department. Um those calls in the beginning of the year checking on us to see if everything was okay. Meant meant a lot to us. >> Thank you Stan for your amazing work as a board of education president. You make a huge impact in our [music] school
community. We are so excited for your new chapter as a new board commissioner of the union county. We love you. We wish the best. Hi Stan. I joined you on this journey a little over 11 years ago.
And from that moment on, we've been writing and telling our story together. What started as a group of strangers brought together by a deep love for our city [music] and more importantly for our children became something far greater than any of us could ever
imagine. [music] Together we managed a school district with heart, grit, and unwavering commitment. We celebrate each other's weddings, welcomed new life with birth of our children, and held hands through moments of loss and grief. >> [music]
>> We've stood side by side through it all. Not just as colleagues, but as a family. People may never fully understand the No. People may never fully understand the bond we built, [music] the sacrifices we
made, or the love that fuels our work. But I know, I've seen it. I've lived it with you. As you begin this new chapter at the county, I want you to know how deeply I will miss your guidance, your support, and your presence. But I also
know you're going to do incredible things because that's who you are. You will continue to build on the foundations we laid and your impact will ripple far beyond what we can see today. Always remember who you are and where
you come from. You are Elizabeth through and through. And no matter where life takes you, that truth will always shine through. Love you, my friend. Always. [music] >> Better. There is always that one friend who no matter where life takes you, you
will always speak well of. Not because they're flawless, but because they're constant. The friend who stays steady when your world is shaking. Gentle when your heart is tired, and loud for you when you don't even have strength to speak for yourself.
Life has a way of testing us. There are moments when things get so heavy that the applauds fade, the support spins out, and suddenly it's just you and whatever you're facing. But that one friend, the real one, stays.
They sit with you in the silence, answer the call that no one else knows you're making, and remind you that you are not carrying any of it alone. For me, Stan is more than a colleague, more than just a friend. He's my brother.
Stan, when you came onto the Lizard Board of Education 12 years ago, you didn't walk in as another commissioner. You came in the way you always do, ready to stand in the gap, ready to fight, ready to serve. From the moment you step into this work, you are
shoulderto-shoulder, vote after vote, meeting after meeting, late night calls, tough conversations, hard decisions. For 12 years, I have watched you fight for our students, our staff, our families, and our communities
like it was personal because for you, it is. You've never treated this as a title. You have always treated it as [music] a responsibility. You listen to the concerns that never make the agenda. You see the faces behind the data and the lies behind the policies. Your heart
has always been with the children of Elizabeth, the ones who need to know that they are seen, protected, and believed in. And your commitment to our staff has been unwavering, always pushing for them to have the tools, respect, and support they deserve to do
the work that they love. So, this message isn't just about the man who served for 12 years as a commissioner on the Elizabeth Board of Education or as board president twice. This is about my brother, my day one in this fight for our district, the man whose devotion to
the city of Elizabeth and the students of the Elizabeth public schools runs deep. It's about partnership. It's about standing together when it was hard. It's about knowing that even when the room felt empty, we always had each other's back. stand from the little sister who has
watched you give your whole heart to this work. Thank you, Melia. Thank you for every battle fought, for every child you've stood up for, for every staff member you've defended, and every moment you chose service over
comfort. My appreciation for you and for everything you've poured into our schools runs deep. Melie [music] Boku, peace. Love you. >> [applause] >> I would like to ask our board members to
please join me in front of the stage and also the members of our cabinet to please join the front of the stage as well. And I'd like to recognize both Mr. Donald Sheehy and Mr. Domingos Fernandez for their help this evening in ensuring
that we were ready to share this video with everyone. Thank [applause] you. You don't have That's it. >> As we gather, I'd like to take a moment to read this evening's resolution.
Whereas Stanley J. Neuron was a champion of the children of Elizabeth public schools during his 12 years service as a member vice president and president of the board of education. Whereas Stanley J. Niron humbly served the community with great passion, taking many
opportunities to thank the men and women who came before him that led by example and demonstrated great resiliency and determination and define the odds and achieving roles of leadership, paving the way for him to be the type of leader who also could influence and inspire
future generations of Elizabeth children to defy the odds and achieve their dreams. Whereas Stanley J. Neuron took to heart his roles as a community servant and role model while on the board, seeking to ensure Elizabeth public schools provided the best
education possible while being a positive and uplifting example to Elizabeth's children and a staunch defender of the interests of Elizabeth's taxpaying residents. And whereas Stanley J. Naron was instrumental in revising the graduation policy to ensure that
students had personalized pathways to success, helping to bring equity to learning communities with actions such as moving the school community of Nicholas Murray Butler, school number 23, into the building of Dr. Orlando, school number 26, and recognizing great
contributors to the Elizabeth community by taking a prominent role in the dedication of the Thomas A. Edison 9th Grade Academy in honor of longtime district team member and community activist Charles Harris and assisting in the naming of the district's high school
finance academy in honor of longtime Elizabeth Mayor J. Christian Bulwitch. And whereas Stanley J. in Iran, introduced resolutions for National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, Gun Violence Awareness Month, served on the school safety and anti-bullying special
task force, spoke to the Elizabeth Public Schools graduates of the Law Enforcement Against Drugs Program, and in partnership with Elizabeth Police Department Chief Jako Mosaka started the Elizabeth Police Department mentoring program with students from various district schools, always having an eye
on safety and well-being of Elizabeth Public School students and the learning community as a Whereas Stanley J. Nuron pushed to renew the community's pride in the Thomas G. done sports center and the dislik athletics and arts program. Reinvesting
the cent's infrastructure by installing new gym floors, bleachers, interactive scoreboards, championship banners, purchasing new uniforms for the Elizabeth High School marching band, and hosting Night of Champion ceremonies in this very facility to celebrate the
district's highest level championship teams and marching bands. And whereas from the first day he took his seat as board member to serve the Elizabeth community, Stanley J. Nuron focus and work has always been to elevate Elizabeth's children and the
instructional programs Elizabeth public schools offer them. Guided by his belief that if you really want to know your city, visit a school and look at the city's investment in the children's capacity to learn and grow. When a city makes the children its priority, the
seeds of hope are planted. And that's a quote, Mr. Niron. [laughter] Now, therefore, be it resolved that the legacy of tireless, devoted, determined, and loving leadership that Stanley Neuron demonstrated during his fourterm tenure
as a member of the Elizabeth Board of Education be recognized with great appreciation and heartfelt gratitude. Be it further resolved that the resolution be spread on the official minutes of the Elizabeth Board of Education meeting to honor his service to the Elizabeth Public Schools and a copy of the
resolution be presented to Stanley J. Nuron. [applause] [applause] One more time. Can I go? Ready? Yes. Ready? I'd like to ask all our directors,
Please follow All right. All right. Oh yeah. Oh yeah. Okay.
Well, All right. Step forward. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Yeah. Heat. You would Heat. Heat.
All right. Awesome. Yeah. Heat. Heat. Heat. You're just working Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat.
Heat. Yeah. Heat. Heat. Heat. 22. >> Sure. I just want to thank all the students and the parents for hanging out tonight
and um for these tributes and you know I never want to make this about myself and um this is all the the doing of the superintendent but thank you so much for all these years of your support and the work that you've done and how you've made Elizabeth shine. So I just want to
salute you because there's no there is no I in team. It's we. So we did this as a team. All these accomplishments that our superintendent talked about, this was all a collective effort. So God bless you all. Have a happy holidays. Everybody enjoy the holiday and continue
to achieve excellence and be the very best and make Elizabeth proud. Thank you everyone. God bless you. And congratulations to Mr. Marcales. One more time, let's give him another big round of applause. Where's
Before we take this picture, can we have Delila come here, please? Let's give Delila a big round of applause. Come on, Delilah. Come here. Delila, I want to thank you for your dedication and all that you've done to not only make the board successful, but to be my eyes, my ears, and all the hard
work that you do and and you work tirelessly with for us and you know, some people never get mentioned and you don't hear their names and you don't see who's moving and shaking behind the scenes, but you're that superstar that keeps us going. You're the foundation. So, I want to say we love you. I love you. I appreciate you and thank you for
all your dedication and hard work. So, thank you. [applause] And uh can we bring Oh, yeah. Here we go. Thank you, Delilah. Thank you.
>> Let's take a picture with Delila. I want to just uh All the things. Heat. Heat. We give you Okay, we're back after that long commercial break.
All right. Before we begin our review of the agenda, I would like to share with our school community that the [snorts] Elizabeth Board of Education has reached an agreement on the 2025 2028 contract with the Elizabeth Education
Association. Yes, you can clap for that. Subsequently, on December 16th, the contract agreement was ratified by the Elizabeth Education Association members. And I would like to have a motion and a
second to approve the resolution for the memorandum of agreement for July 1st, 2025 to July 1st, 2028. >> Go ahead, Jerry. >> Yes, Mr. President. Motion to approve the 25 the contract
with the EA. The motion has been made. >> Second that motion >> and properly seconded. Mr. Candy, roll call, please. Barbosa, >> yes. >> Bathus,
>> yes. >> Carvalo, >> yes. >> Chevres, >> yes. Abstain. >> I'm sorry. We abstension to the memorandum. >> You'll abstain. Thank you. >> Jacobs, >> yes.
>> Marina Ortega, >> abstain. >> Vancavas Pastana, >> yes. >> Rivera, >> yes. >> Non. >> Yes. Mr. President. >> Yes. Uh, Commissioner Jacobs.
>> Yes. Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to take a second to thank Mr. President, Madam Superintendent, Mr. Kennedy, my colleagues, Commissioner Spistana, Commissioner Bathlas, Commissioner Rivera,
and all of my colleagues here on the board along with the EA for us being able to come to a successful conclusion with the new contract. I think we've offered a outstanding contract, one of the best in the state to make sure that all of our teachers and our staffs are
well compensated for the wonderful work that they do every day with our with our children. And I think we emphasized that and made sure that that was a clear point. Also like to thank the EA and their leadership team um in coming to a
disagreement as well as our our consultants, Mr. Lurch, Mr. Consoni uh Mr. Collog [clears throat] um and but but especially especially my
colleagues and and Mr. M uh Madame Superintendent and Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Mahaltra as as well as the assistant superintendent. It was a a team effort to get us through across the finish line, but we did successfully
and and and I'm very grateful. Thank you so much, >> Mr. Candy. Was that approved? >> Yes, that resolution has passed. Thank you so much. And thank you again. Let's give the committee members, the administration, and all the uh the
Elizabeth Education Association a big round of applause. Thank you for your participation and your wherewithal to make sure that our educators um are well compensated and appreciated for the work that they do each and every day here in our district. And a special shout out and
thank you to the entire negotiations committee um Commissioner Jacobs and the team that um you know pull this through with our um attorneys and all the law firms that we had working on both sides. Thank you for um making this happen.
um and we look forward to um Elizabeth continuing to be a shining example not only here in the state of New Jersey but throughout the country. So again, thank you. >> At this time we will now review the agenda. Official minutes of tab 1A 1B and the
treasures and secretaries reports. Are there any questions from the board? Mr. Candy, please add tabs 1 A and 1B to the agenda. Personnel reports. Um, are there any questions from the
board? Tab 2 A. Seeing none, hearing none, please add tab 2A to the personnel reports to the agenda. Uh, tab three, tuitions report. Are there any questions from the board? Seeing none, hearing none, please add
tab three to the agenda. Tab 4 to 4D, superintendent reports. Are there any questions from the board? Seeing none, hearing none, please add tab four to the agenda. Tab five, authorizations report. Are
there any questions from the board? Seeing none, hearing none, please add tab five to the agenda. 66A, finance and accounting reports. Are there any questions from the board? Seeing none, hearing none, please add
tab 66 6A to the agenda. Tab 7, award of contracts report. Are there any questions from the board? Seeing none, hearing none, please add tab seven to the agenda. And at this time, I'd like to turn it
over to our Douglas Matut >> for our student representative report. Please welcome and please put your hands together for Douglas Matute. [applause] >> Good evening members of the board of education superintendent Dr. Hugelmire
and community members. I am truly pleased and honored to serve as the student board representative of Elizabeth High School Frank J. Cigarella Academy and to provide a voice for students in our community this evening. I take great pride in serving in this role.
I am currently a senior serving on the school improvement panel and participating in student government. These positions have strengthened my connections with my peers by giving me opportunities not only to listen to student voices but also to advocate for positive change within my school
community. They have also allowed me to branch out into various clubs and extracurricular activities, further strengthening my relationships with both students and teachers. Since the start of the 2025 to 2026 school year, students have demonstrated
their dedication to and pride in our school community. We began the year with an exuberant pinktober event coordinated by the Elizabeth High School Relay for Life program to raise awareness, educate the public, and support research for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of
breast cancer. Students showed their support by purchasing school supplies, pink ribbons, pins, and accessories sold by our National Honor Society officers. In addition, during the week of October 6 to 10, Frank J. Sigril Academy
celebrated its annual spirit week as part of the week of respect. Each day featured a themed event such as blue shirt day, sunglasses day, and class color day that encourage students to promote school spirit. The overall theme of the week, it's cool to be kind,
emphasized respect and positive behavior throughout the school community. Our annual relay for life efforts also began with students forming teams with their peers and friends to raise the funds for the American Cancer Society. In connection with this initiative, our
community hosted a 5K run in which students and parents generously gave their heart, time, and money to support the cause. This event proudly raised $4,000 for the American Cancer Society. Additionally, students are currently
participating in our letters from Santa campaign, another meaningful fundraising initiative. At this time, 11 elementary schools across the district are participating with many more expected to join. Student government also hosts second
annual fall pep rally in 2025 to celebrate the achievements of our fall sports team. This event provided students with opportunities to engage in fun challenges, showcase school spirit, and compete against their classmates. During the months of October and
November, the National Science Honor Society and the National Math Honor Society held their annual induction ceremonies, welcoming the new members for the 2025 to 2026 term. These honor societies are especially meaningful to students because they
reflect passion beyond classroom requirements. Students choose to pursue deeper knowledge, collaborate with peers who share the same interests, and connect their brain power to further develop their understanding of the subjects they love. In recognition of academic achievement,
freshmen who earned a B average or higher during the first market period, along with students recognized by the college board as AP scholars, were celebrated and treated to refreshments. As we continue through the school year, our student community remains passionate
about doing more and giving more. I am confident that my peers will continue to surprise both me and the public with their accomplishments. I am exceedingly proud to represent the students of my schools and his district. Thank you.
[applause] >> Thank you again and thank you for your achievements and congratulations. One more time, let's give another big round of applause. [applause] At this time, we'd like to have the Education Management Committee report presented by Stephanie Kavas Pastana.
>> Thank you, Mr. President. The education management committee um we met on December 1st at 4 p.m. This meeting focused on reviewing stu student performance data particularly for the nth grade students in English language arts and mathematics. The committee reviewed interrum assessment results
highlighting year-over-year growth in English language arts proficiency and disc in discussion discussion on the challenges in mathematics performance across different high schools. In addition, the committee reviewed my access data to evaluate student writing skills for general
education and bilingual students at the ninth grade. The committee also reviewed data on the performance of 9th grade students in math courses focusing on geometry and algebra 2. The data showed varying levels of proficiency across the high schools. Lastly, the committee
reviewed data on bilingual students performance in English language arts and mathematics highlighting their progress and challenges. That concluded our meeting. >> Thank you, Commissioner. At this time,
um, also want to, um, just take a moment to recognize our, um, president of the Elizabeth Administrators and Supervisor Association. U,, Miss Jennifer Campell. Let's give her a big round of applause. The president for being here with us
today. [applause] Yes, she's wondering why. Well, thank you for all that you do and um successfully working with our administration to um successfully complete our our contracts. At this time, I want to um hear our
legal committee report presented by Commissioner Isaiah Rivera. >> Thank you. The legal committee we met on December 11th and Mr. Flam presented current special education matters to the committee and explained legal strategies as well as plans moving forward. Mr.
Flam reviewed a recent Department of Education memorandum on changes to special education due process settlements conferences. The committee also discussed updating the techn technology policy to include new devices as well as a development of a policy on
artificial intelligence. That was the end of our meeting. Thank you, Commissioner. At this time, our claims list tab nine. Are there any questions from the board? Miss Candy, please add seeing none. Hearing none, please add tab 9 to the
agenda. Um tabs 10 to 10 I resolutions. Are there any questions um from the board about our resolutions? Seeing none, hearing none, please add tabs 10 to 10 I to the agenda.
At this time, we want to request that we go to uh private session. So I'm making a request that we have a motion to go into private to consider ma matters exempt under the open public meetings act specifically for discussion of personnel matters specifically
interviews legal matters specifically workers compensation JR NA and ST award of con contracts and J cool grant the board will convene in public and take formal action may I have a motion and a second >> I make a motion to go into a second
>> motion has been made properly seconded candy Roll call, please. >> Barbosa, >> yes. >> Bathus, >> yes. >> Sorry, I couldn't hear you. >> Carvalo, >> yes. >> Chevz, >> yes. >> Jacobs, >> yes.
>> Marina Ortega, >> yes. >> And Cavas Pastan, >> yes. >> Rivera, >> yes. >> Non, >> yes. Thank you, >> Mr. the acoustics. We can't hear you. I guess it's the acoustics. >> Thank you everyone.
We'll be back in a few to uh reconvene in public. Do you have any items to add to the agenda? >> We do. We have um a few resolutions. Our first resolution is appointment of principal Veronica Vega to William
Admiral William F. Hollyy Junior Health and Public Safety Academy. Next is an appointment of vice principal Crystal Lynn Reinhold for Hollyy. We have a resolution for settlement of workers comp NA.
Another resolution settlement of workers comp NA. And the third resolution for workers comp ST. And those are the five additional items. >> Mr. H, can you kindly add those items to
the agenda? >> Yes. Thanks. >> Madam superintendent, can you present us with the HIV report? >> Thank you, Mr. President. I have two HIV uh reports to present this evening. Pursuant to board policy 5131.1, harassment, intimidation, and bullying
and the New Jersey statute 18A col37, the results of each investigation shall be reported to the board of education later on the date of the next board meeting following completion of the investigation and include any services provided, training established, discipline imposed, or other action
taken or recommended by the chief school administrator. Since [snorts] our last board of education meeting on November 25th and through December 9th, our school counselor, school-based social workers, and supervisor of anti-bullying have completed 33 HIV investigations. Of these investigations, 12 cases were
founded for HIV as per New Jersey law. There were 22 males, 16 females, 24 regular education students, and 14 special education students that were the alleged victims. There were 28 males, 21 females, 30 regular education students, 16 special education students, and three
non- studentents that were the alleged offenders. Of the 12 cases founded for HIV, one case was founded based on religion, three cases were founded based on sexual orientation, and nine cases were founded based on other identifying characteristics. of the services
provided and actions taken for these investigations. There were 14 skill development lesson trainings, 26 counseling sessions, two behavioral interventions, 11 referrals for outpatient mental health treatment, four changes of classroom, one change of school placement, four administrative
counseling sessions, two inschool detentions, 21 parent conferences, four referrals to outside agencies, one professional development training, 13 out of school suspensions, and six cases continuing to be monitored. The HIV statute further requires that at
the next regularly scheduled meeting after board members receive the initial report of HIV investigations that the board issue a decision in writing to affirm, reject, or modify the superintendent's decision pertaining to the 56 cases that were reported to you at the last board meeting on November
25th. In order for you to do so, the investigation summaries from those investigations which were reported to you at the last board meeting have been provided for your review prior to voting. The second uh HIB report for this evening is the public hearing on
harassment, intimidation and bullying and on the student safety data reporting for the period of January 1st 25 and ending June 30th 25. In July 2011, the anti-bullying bill of rights was signed into law as public law 2010 chapter 122.
And in accordance with this law, a public school uh all public school districts must designate the first week of October as week of respect. >> [snorts] >> uh resolution was put forth the board before the board in September declaring the week of October uh 7th through the 11th as a week of respect and each of
our schools planned appropriately uh in fulfilling the reporting requirements pursuant to NJSA 18A 17- 46 two times each year between September 1st and December 31st and between January 1st and June 30th the school board shall hold a public hearing at
which the chief school administrator will report to the board and the public any acts of harassment to nation in bullying and violence or vandalism which occurred during the reporting period. From January 1st through June 30th, there were 299 HIV investigations completed by appropriate school staff.
Of those cases investigated, 112 were confirmed cases of HIV and were affirmed by board members. The following anti-bullying specialist um anti-bullying specialist alternates deputy counsel and anti-bullying coordinator conducted these investigations. Jamila Ward, Katherine
Calderon, Nafisa Freeman, uh Bream Towns, Dora Mahia, Fabi Ramos, Andrea Juka, Moren Cray, Melissa de la Cruz, Yenia Torres, Janette Kito, Gabrielle Gonzalez, Natasha Jean Baptiste, Megan Courtney, Valentina Mafla, Sophia Verma,
Jacqueline Lupon, Daniela Tropiano, Jada Nicholson, Joa Guerrero Ellesia, Christina Pedulla, Samiah Somaya Simpson, Daniel Kangu, Tanya Santu, Gucci, Jessica Ortega, Daniela Dami, Damiani, Shyra Bamante, Cindy
Lickenstein, Kathy Amato, Melvin Luciano, Antonio Sappo, Nagua Elsamra, Sarah Brown, Kathy Santos, Jennifer Hernandez, Kylie Montero, Briana Tanga, Tanga, Kenetta Jackson, Colleen Reynolds, Amanda Erisi, Lordis [snorts]
Sodto, Naima Rodriguez, Anna Ray, Lauren Cortez, Christine Flarity, Johanna O'Hara, Karen Slusher, Carrie O' Connor, Kristen Bradley, Laura Belleview, Valeria Verona, Briana Kane, Jessica Sranco, Steven Sagraphos, Wendy Moravi,
Christine Rappa, Edson Martinez, Imani Lure, Cindy Gonalves, Natasha Carter, Ishmamail Medley, Jessica Sulva, Sophia Howell, Carmen Sierra, Jill Aller, Judith Valdez, Feliche, Fabiano, Tamara Gusman, Yasmin Mar, um, Desan Brown,
Norma Cardona, Lauren Delgado, Chenise Hurst, Daniela Grien, Heather Savage Ford and Peter Vosler. Of the founded cases for HIV, there were 19 incidents based on race, ethnic origin, nine incidents based on color,
two incidents based on religion, 11 incidents based on sexual orientation, 14 based on gender, two based on gender identity, five based on mental, physical or sensory, 92 based on other targeted bases. Of the founded incidents, 84 were verbal, 54 incidents were physical, and
28 incidents were uh involved electronic communication. For all HIV investigations, there were 95 out of school suspensions, 84 inschool suspensions, 31 classroom changes, seven changes of school placement, and 23 administrative counseling sessions. additional se uh services such as
inschool virtual counseling, school development, classroom uh lessons uh focused on referrals for outside mental health treatment and referral to outside agencies uh took place. The district provided appropriate HIV training to school counselors and social
workers and to new staff and support staff in the district. And the district provided a 2-hour state required HIV training for each 5-year developmental period to certified staff throughout the district. Additionally, the district provided extensive uh specified in-person and virtual training to the
anti-bullying coordinator and to all anti-bullying specialists and their alternates. Non-certificated staff also received training. New school level administrators [clears throat] and new HIV staff received training in the hipster reporting program. So for the uh period affir the
affformentioned period there were 854 total incidents districtwide including 327 incidents of violence, 39 incidents of vandalism, 364 based on substance abuse incidents and 24 weapon incidents. There were also 349
other incidents leading to removal. And that completes the public hearing on harassment, intimidation and bullying for uh this period of time. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Superintendent. All right. Um, at this time,
want to have a motion to approve the entire agenda and the additional items. >> I move to approve the entire agenda in its entirety with the additional items. >> I second that motion. >> Any questions or comments?
No questions, no comments. Cool. Um, Mr. Candy, roll call, please. Barbosa, >> yes. >> Bathless, >> yes. >> Carvalo, >> I abstain on tab 4B, use of facilities,
item one and item two, and yes to the rest of the agenda. Chevresz. >> Yes. With extension on tad uh 4A item two. >> Jacobs. >> Yes.
>> Marina Ortega. >> Yes. >> Kabas Pastana. >> Yes. >> Rivera. >> Yes. >> Non. >> Yes. with an abstension of tab 2A and tab 4B.
>> So with those votes, the entire agenda plus the additional items that we added has passed. >> Thank you and congratulations to our new principal and vice principal [applause] of Pauly Public Safety Academy. Congratulations and welcome aboard to
the next level. Okay. Well, um this is our final meeting together >> for 2025. Um definitely my final meeting here. Um and this chapter has come to an
end for me. Um as I look out into the audience, I see Miss Kafira Hines. I don't think she's Kafira Hines anymore, right? Um she's waving out there and she was one of my first students in 1993, right? 9394.
So um this journey didn't start for me because I wanted to become a commissioner or because I wanted to get elected or because I wanted any title. It started because I loved the community. I love I had passion for our children and I wanted to see them
succeed. And in 1992 when I was told that I couldn't go to college because I wasn't good enough. Um, I think my journey began that point from that point on and I decided that I was going to make a commitment to change
that narrative not just for me but for young black boys around the country and around the world who are often told that they're not good enough and they can't go to college so forth and so on. So God would have it that I would be in this role where uh we hire and fire
people who tell our students what they can and can't do in life. And we always implored in our staff and and the people that we hired tonight that you know we look for you to motivate and uplift our students and and speak life into them because you can speak death into a
student and um by the words that you speak into their lives. And I was speaking to Kafira earlier and she was saying how I always told them that I would be there for them and I would hold them down and I did right you know we've been there since day one and um you know it was about speaking life into our
students and me and Mr. Quester we go back now almost 30 years running the sore program and we started to do things like this in the community [snorts] and just pouring life into people you know and that's why this mission started for me. So, thank you everybody for joining
me on this journey. Thank you for the work that you continue to do. Thank you for your commitment, especially to our board members, our visionary here, our superintendent who's been an amazing partner um for the past 12 years um who has hold held us down. Um not just
myself, but everybody here cuz it's not about me, it's about we and to this amazing um team of assistant superintendent and educators and our attorneys and IT team, our security team, our Elizabeth Police Department, our um kitchen staff, our custodians. um
all the people that I always visit in the warehouse and in the back rooms that nobody ever comes to. Every time I come there, they're like, "What are you doing here?" I came to say thank you. [laughter] People be like, "Why?" And I'm like, "Because without you, it doesn't work, you know, because this is about the entire um team, you know, and
we can't educate our our students and our community. We can't uplift our community without understanding that it it takes an entire village to do this. So, from the bottom of my heart and the bottom of my family's heart, we thank you for your love, your support, uh your kindness, and just um believing in our
students and making Elizabeth shine. And I love you all. And I will see you again, not as board commissioner, but as Union County Commissioner. I'll be back. And I'll be back as just somebody who supports and loves you very much. God bless you all.
And with that being said, um board members, any comments or concerns? >> I know. Just >> if there none, [snorts] seeing none, hearing none, Mr. Kennedy, uh can we have a motion to adjourn? >> I move to adjourn the meeting.
>> I second that motion. >> Motion has been made. [laughter] could barely talk over here. Improperly is who seconded. >> I did. >> Okay. Improperly seconded. Mr. Kennedy, for my final time, roll call, please.
>> Barbosa. >> Yes. Good night. Thank you, Stan. And congratulations. Good night, everyone. >> Bathus. >> Carvalo. >> Yes. Mr. President, it's been an honor to serve with you.
>> Thank you, Chevress. >> Yes, Mr. President. Thank you so much for the opportunity to work with you. Thank you, >> Jacobs. >> Yes. Congratulations first. And Mr. President, it's been an honor and a
pleasure to serve alongside with you along with our college. You will definitely be missed here on this board, but glad that we can see you around the corner at the county. Best of luck, Mr. President, thank you. >> Marine Ortega.
>> Yes. Stan, God bless you. Was a pleasure to work with you. You are great leaders. Thank you. >> Thank you, Kavas. Pastana. >> Yes. Congratulations, ladies. Mr. President, I wish you nothing but
success in this next chapter of your lives. Thank you for all that you did for our community and our students. And happy holidays, everyone. Thank you, Rivera. >> Yes. Once again, congratulations to our new principal and vice principal. And
likewise, like we said in Spanish, thank you. >> Happy holidays. >> And sadly for the last time, Mr. Non.
Yes. God bless you all. Happy holidays. Good night. And let's keep the legacy going. [applause]