Black History Month event, a century of Black History commemoration. Stephanie, let's start this celebration by welcoming George Washington Academy of Science and Engineering School number one music teacher Carrie Stubs, who will
perform the African-American National Anthem, Lift Every Voice and Sing. >> Turn to the video, Mr. >> Video. Okay, video, please. by the dawn. >> Please stand.
Say by the dawn early light. What so proudly we held at the twilight last gleaming.
brought stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight. Or the ramp parts we watched were so galling and the rockets red glare. The bombs
bursting in air gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star spangled
banner yet wave for the land of the free and the home of the brave. Please remain standing. Lift every voice
and sing till earth and heaven be ring with the harmonies of let our rejoiceing rise high as the liing
skies. And it rings out loud as the rolling sea. Sing a song full of the faith that the darkness has.
Sing a song full of the hope that the presence has brought us. Facing the rising sun of our new day.
Let us march on till. >> Thank you everyone. Please be seated. Before we begin, I just want to introduce a few people that are here. Uh this is Isaiah Rivera, board member. Stephanie Noel, board member, Diane Barbosa, vice president, Stephanie
Bastana, and my name is Maria Carvalo, and I am the president of the board of education. And Jerry Jacobs, commissioner, just walked in. Okay. We also have Commissioner Lordes Leon from the county
and our former board member, newly um new commissioner of the Union County Board, Stanley Neron. So, tonight, uh, we have a great performance for you.
No, not yet. So, I'm going to pass the mic over to Jerry Jacobs because I know that this is his baby, right? >> Thanks for putting me on the spot. As soon as I walk, I got to do >> we can start right there. >> Good evening, everyone.
I want to first as uh President Carvalo established this is a a labor of love. This program from where we've come when we started seven eight years ago to where we are now is just an amazing testament to the administration Dr. Hulamire and her staff, our students and
all of our staff. And this year we wanted to do it here at school 21 because we need to expand ourselves. We want to make sure that we incorporate everyone and that we're inclusive of everyone. So tonight we'd like to start off our performance with the introduction to Africa from uh Victor
Avlac school number 21. >> Huh? Testing one, two, you could hear me. Good evening everyone. My name is Michael Wansaw. I am the proud principal of school 21. Our students have worked really hard to
prepare two performances for you this evening. Um, we have a special master of ceremonies. Her name is Sophia Rivas. Sophia is going to provide you with a little background on each of the school
21 performances. So without further ado, Sophia, here we go. Welcome ladies and gentlemen and members of the Elizabeth Board of Education to Victor Moravl Black School 21.
Tonight we are celebrating a century of black history and cultural contributions told through the story of music and dance. Our first performance celebrates West African culture, resilience, and ancestrial legacy while highlighting the
connection and influence of music and dance in Africanamean culture. Please welcome Intro to Africa. Hey, hey, hey. Stay here. Heat. Heat.
Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Sorry. I'm sorry about that. That's my fault. Should have been aware of what needs to happen here and not coming late. Our next performance is doc by
school 27. I'd like to welcome school 27 to the stage for Black Excellence, the MJ Experience, which is a big play on Broadway that I haven't had a chance to go see yet and I'm excited to see. Let's welcome
again school 27 to the stage. Go ahead. >> Good evening board commissioners, families, and community members. In honor of Black History Month, the Shark Scholars of School number 27 are proud to present Black Excellence, the Michael
Jackson Experience. Tonight's performance is more than just a tribute to the King of Pop. It is a celebration of artistic talent, cultural influence, and the lasting impact of black artists. Many, like Michael Jackson, have shaped music,
dance, and culture around the globe. Miss Boon and I are very excited and honored that our students are performing performing this evening and we hope that you enjoy the performance. I'm going to make a change
for once in my life. It's going to feel real good. Going to make a difference. Going to make it right. As I turn up the color, my baby,
this wind is blowing my mind. I see the kids on the street without enough to eat. Who am I to be blind? Pretending not to see them. I saw us disregard
broken bottle cuz they got nowhere to go. nothing yet to know. I'm with the man in the mirror. I'm asking him to change his ways
and know me. If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and make a change. My baby girl I feel matter Tonight
my baby don't black or she was more like beauty queen from a movie. I said don't mind but do you mean I am the one dance around?
She said I am the one who dance or float around. She told me her name she be the one who dance
around. told me, "Be careful what you do. Don't go around breaking young girls. Let's keep it going. Let's keep it going. Let's take a picture. Hold on. Hold on. We want to take a picture, right?" >> Yeah, we're taking a picture, right?
Let's bring back up. Bring Yeah, we're doing a picture now. >> Great job, guys. Madam superintendent, Mr. Kennedy, >> do we have a school principal here as well and school staff? Give him another big round of applause
for that Michael Jackson performance. Should be out here doing my uh twostep. Now we'd like to welcome school number 23 for the Now we'd like to welcome school number 23 and our journey matters and
their principal and staff as they make their way to the stage. >> Good evening. >> Good evening. Thank you Dr. Hugamier, our Elizabeth Elizabeth Board of Education President, Miss Carvaro, and our commissioners, as
well as Mr. Etien for this invitation. A special thank you to our school 23 dream makers, Miss Maurice Baird, Miss Adida Dnusa, Miss Maurice Lucus, and Mr. Tyrell Butler for bringing this presentation to life. In celebration of
black history, our students are honored to perform a powerful piece from the musical Hairspray titled I Know Where I've Been. This song reflects the journey, resilience, courage, and hope of the
black community, honoring the struggles and triumphs of the past. It also speaks to the challenges we continue to face today. inequality, injustice, and indifference. As you listen, let's consider the work
that remains to stand for equality and justice. As you listen, may it inspire reflection, understanding, and a renewed commitment to fairness, compassion, and inclusion
in our schools, in our community, and our country. School 23, it's your time. Butler Thank you. That's a little too low.
Whisper. There's a light in the darkness. Oh, the night is black as my skin. Is a light burning bright
showing me the way. But I know where I've been. There's a cry in the distance. It's a voice that comes from deep within.
>> There's a cry asking why. I pray the answers up ahead. Yeah. Cuz I know where I be. There's a road
we've been traveling. Lost so many on the way. But the riches will be plenty. Worth the price. The price we had to pay.
There's a dream. In the future, there's a struggle that we have yet to win. And there's pride in my heart
cuz I know where I'm going. Yes, I do. And I know where I've been. Yeah. There's a road we must travel. We must travel. There's
a promise we must make. We must make the riches will we risk >> and the chances we take. There's a dream.
In the future, there's a struggle that we have yet to win. >> That pride in our hearts to lift us up until tomorrow.
Cuz just to stay still, I know it. I know where I'm going. Lord knows I know where I be. Everywhere. I'll give thanks to my
heart. Let's give let's let's give him another big round of applause and bring them back. Oh. I apologize. My bad. Acting like an amateur tonight. >> Take his shot.
>> No, thank you. >> Jazz music is a style of music that originated in New Orleans. Shaped by the influence of African dance movements call and response, the blues and rack time. It is known for its expressive
sound and strong rhythmic energy. Jazz dancing uses distinct techniques and styles of dance movements. It reflects the blending of different musical genres and conveys both the joy and pain of the Africanamean experience. Its influence
has a global impact. Ladies and gentlemen, get ready to stomp your feet and move in your seats as we welcome the jazz dancers. WOO! HEAT. HEAT. HEAT.
HEAT. HEAT. Let's give them another big round of applause >> and let's welcome them back so we can take a picture with the board members >> and then afterwards >> and then afterwards we'll do school 23 as the paper says that I'm following on
the program here. >> We're missing the the 21. >> Bring back our school >> 21 performers. >> They're all here. >> Yeah, they're all here. >> All right. you and um
>> would like to also recognize our commissioner Iana Chevis who just joined us >> and >> and Charlene Bath, Commissioner Charlene Balis. >> Excellent. Excellent. >> I want to stand next to him. I'm doing
like Stubs, can we have you to the front, please, sir? >> Yes, Mr. Stubs. Yes, Mr. Stubs. Another big round of applause for our school 21 sta staff and great thank you to Mr.
Wansaw for hosting us this year. We'd like to also bring back our school 23 Michael Jackson performance as well. >> Hey, how you doing? >> Are you doing >> school 23? I'm sorry. school 23
>> and then the commissioners are going to >> Oh no. >> 27 and then commissioners. Commissioners Another big round of applause. >> Do you have to come visit you? You have to come visit. >> Stay here.
>> School two students. Delila has the names. >> County commissioners are going to do a little on the show. I'd like to take a second to thank Reverend Britt from the Mount Teman AM Church for visiting us today, as well as uh retired detective
Darren Williamson also representing the NAACP. >> Uh, anyone else that I may have missed? >> So, but you have the ones that are here. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Yes. Principal plus five children.
>> Oh, okay. Hey, Mr. >> All right, go ahead. You started. >> Good evening, everyone. Um, it's an honor to be back here. Um, let's give all the students a big round of applause for this amazing presentation as we celebrate legacy,
history, black history, American history. Uh, my name is Stanley Neron, Union County Commission. I'm joined by Lordis Leon, um, also our Union County Commission. Let's give her a big round of applause. and I want to pass the mic for her to say a few words.
>> Good evening everyone. Happy Black History Month. >> So, we're here to honor some students that um put wreaths at the MLK monument. Can you join us? And it's an honor to be here and we're going to be calling them up here starting with the principal. So,
you let me hold. So before we do that, just want to say um on January 15th, our students went outside and in front of city hall and we have a MLK monument that we honored and it was
very very cold, right? And one thing that we got to understand about standing up for something you believe in, regardless of weather, regardless of condition, whatever you believe in, you stand for it despite what the challenges may be. and they did that on that day and they honored Dr. King and remembered
him on his birthday on January 15th. And we just want to take a moment to recognize him. But in recognizing him, we also want to take a moment to remember the great late Reverend Jesse Jackson who we lost um most recently. So, if we could have just a quick moment
of silence for Dr. Jackson. Um Reverend Jackson who we would not be standing here today. Many of us, especially young black boys, young black girls who run for office and do public service, we would not be standing here without the sacrifices of the likes of without the
likes of Dr. Martin Luther King and Dr. Reverend Jackson. Thank you. And thank you to the Elizabeth Board of Education for continually celebrating great legacy and history in our community. Uh we first want to recognize principal Shante
Gilmore Rory. Let's give her a big round of applause. Principal of school 2. We have Jean Lewis. Let's give him a big round of applause as he comes forward. Come on, Jean. Come on up. We have Sai Hall.
Oh, there we go. >> Thank you. Thank you. Which one is >> Nyla Matteo? Sierra Brown, >> Mr. Carrie Stubs and of course Mr. Samuel Lchen. Let's
give them all a big round of applause. >> Without them, this would not be possible. And unfortunately, you did not hear Mr. Stub's voice. I don't know if we can give him a snippet, but he has an incredible voice and he always makes sure that the ancestors can hear him and
celebrate our history and our culture. So, thank you, Mr. Stubs, for all that you do with our children. We honor you. >> Let's give everybody a big round of applause. Come on over. Let's see this. Everybody's got their reward.
Please try to find the window on me. All right, everybody. Ready? One, two, three. >> And hold for behind me, please. >> So, one, two, three. >> Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. So this
concludes our 2026 annual Black History Month program. We'd like to thank my me and my colleagues along with President Carvalo would like to thank everyone excluding including
Dr. Wans from school 21. the staff for putting on an amazing performance. Thank you very much parents. We appreciate each and every one of you. Have a wonderful evening. Okay, we're going to take a three minute break while you all find your way home.
Go do your homework and we have a board meeting. So, good night everyone. Thank you. Just remember that you are our why why we come here. So, thank you to everyone. Thank you parents for taking time to come out. Thank you. Good night.
Good evening and welcome to our board of education meeting of the Elizabeth Board of Education. This is a combined regular agenda and business meeting of the board of education. Pursuant to New Jersey statues and rules adopted by the board of education, notice of this meeting was
sent to the Star Ledger and Cable Vision of Elizabeth on February 13, 2026. In addition, this notice is posted on the bulletin board of 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. We want
to welcome everyone present here at Victor Mavlag School number 21 and to our television viewers to this February 19th, 2026 meeting of the board of education. We are here to govern, provide management, oversight, and make
policy for the district. The superintendent manages the district. This is a meeting of the board and public, not a meeting of the public. This meeting is being recorded and will become part of the Elizabeth Board of Education permanent record so that the
recording will adequately reflect be reflected and reflect the proceedings. Please refrain from talking while others are speaking. We ask that you silence your the sounds on your electronic devices since it is legally mandated that these proceedings
be accurately recorded. We may have to ask for order periodically should noise begin to interfere with our recording capabilities. There will be a public portion for citizens to address the board. Participants from the public portion must personally sign in prior to the
start of the public participation portion so that they may have the opportunity to speak. The sign-in sheets state the name, address, telephone number, and reason that the person wants to comment, whether it is an agenda item
or a general education comment. We are pleased that you have taken time this evening to join us here for our board of education meeting. Thank you for your interest in the Elizabeth public schools. Mr. Kennedy, she's trying to get your attention, where's that signage,
>> Mr. Kennedy, roll call, please. Here >> clairvoyant Noel >> here. >> Jacobs >> Marina Ortega >> present. >> Pastistana >> present. >> Rivera >> here.
>> Carvalo >> present. At this time, I ask that everyone please stand. Please remain standing for the presentation of colors. >> Okay. Sorry.
>> Okay. >> Ready. Cut forward. March colors reverse. MARCH. Pledge allegiance. >> The pledge of allegiance will be led by Commissioner Charlene Baffles. >> 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 Stars Bangal banner by Francis Scott Key.
Oh, say can you see by the dawn early light what so proudly we held 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 and the rockets red glare. The bombs
bursting in air gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star spangled
banner yet wave or the land of the free and the home of the brave. The pledge is ethics will be read by Commissioner Noel.
>> Just wait. >> Okay. packages. >> So, we're going to go back to the moment of silics. >> Mhm. >> Thank you for to our Admiral William F. Falsy Jr. and public safety academy.
JOTC Commissioner Noel. Pledge of Ethics. As a member of the Elizabeth Public Schools 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. At this time, I ask that
everyone remain standing for a moment of silence for Madia Delfina Aldama, personal assistant, Madison Monroe School 16. Roxanne Sodto, Network Technician, Division of Technology and Information
Systems, James P. Mitchell Building. Donald Stewart II, personal assistant, I prep academy, school number eight. Thank you. Please be seated. All right, let's get this organized now. >> Yeah. Okay. So, is on the next page and
it is right here at the top. >> All right. At this time, I will have our superintendent of schools introduce our student representative. >> Thank you, Madam President. Savannah is a senior at Admiral
William F. Hollyy Jr. Health and Public Safety Academy. She proudly serves as one of the eight student board representatives for the Elizabeth Public Schools. In this leadership role, Savannah collaborates closely with school administrators and district
leaders to represent the student body, ensuring that the student perspectives are heard, valued, and thoughtfully considered in decision-making. She is deeply committed to fostering a
safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where all students feel respected and empowered throughout their school experience. Savannah has remained actively engaged in her school community. She is a dedicated member of the Elizabeth High
School swim team and also participates in a swim clinic where she continues to strengthen her skills and mentors young swimmers. Known as a big sister both on the team and in her personal life, Savannah naturally embraces a nurturing
leadership role, supporting teammates, encouraging others, and serving as a steady source of motivation, particularly beyond competition and in everyday interactions. Savannah is also an active participant
in Hollyy's Marine Corps Junior Reserve Office Training Corps where she holds the rank of cadet captain and serves as an integral member of the program's chain of command. Her leadership reflects discipline,
accountability, and service. In addition, she is a New Jersey Seeds Access Changes Everything College Scholar and a member of the Youth Enrichment Services YSE program, further
demonstrating her dedication to AC to excellence as well as personal growth. Beyond school, Savannah is passionate about global awareness and service. She plans to study international relations in college. Inspired by her commitment
to human rights and global advocacy, she aspires to volunteer with organizations such as UNICEF in the future and has always taken meaningful steps towards that goal by presenting to a human rights committee using her voice to
address issues that impact communities both locally and globally. Service is also a family tradition for Savannah. She and her family regularly visit orphanages where they spend time playing games with children and building
genuine connections. These experiences have shaped her perspective, strengthened her compassion, and deepened her desire to serve others. Savannah demonstrates a strong dedication to her academic pursuits while also contributing to the
planning of various school events. Her efforts consistently aim to create enjoyable, meaningful, and memorable experiences for the student body. Through her steady leadership, service and heartfelt commitment to others,
Savannah proudly and effectively represents her peers at Holly. In recognition in recognition of her quiet dedication and unwavering commitment to others, she has been honored as Hollyy's unsung hero. Without further ado, we
would like to invite Savannah Abra to join us. Good evening and welcome once again to the board meeting here tonight at school 21. We are here at school 21 tonight at s that at the suggestion of board member
Jerry Jacobs as a way to highlight and acknowledge their black history month programs and want to again applaud num school 21 students and the students from our other schools for the nice program that they provided prior to this meeting beginning
before beginning this evening's agenda I wanted to share some remarks as board president I value the importance of community engage engagement and seek to understand and address the issues that are important that are most important to our community members. In recent weeks,
we have recognized issues that have been the topic of conversation within our learning community and greater Elizabeth community, and we felt it was important to provide an update and clarify information pertaining to those issues. The snow and sustained below freezing
temperatures over multiple weeks really put a strain on our community. Thanks to the efforts of our municipal government, Elizabeth Public School team members and local organizations, we have been able to manage manage issues that have arise to keep our students learning in a safe
and caring environment. I would like to thank Mayor Boage for providing free use of the public parking garages along with our neighbors at St. Hedwicks for allowing use of its parking lot to help ensure our team members could arrive to work and focus on
providing an excellent education to our students. I would also like to thank our transportation director, Mike Rejo, and his entire team for the extraordinary efforts they made in overcoming challenging conditions to make sure our
students continued getting to and from school and that the team members could be shuttled to and from their job sites were needed. The bitter cold also had its effect on school sites, especially TCUs at school
number 16 and school number 22, which experienced plumbing and heating issues. Upon learning of these mechanical issues, students and team members were quickly relocated to their respective main buildings where they could continue regular learning activities, ate meals,
had use of bathrooms, and took naps on the CS brought over from the TCUs in the case of our youngest learners. Thanks to the fast and efficient response of our plant and property team, these issues were promptly diagnosed and addressed, and students and team members
were able to return to their classrooms within a day or two. Thank you to the plant and property and equipment director Lewis Milanas and his entire team for their tremendous work in addressing these issues and cleaning up all of our schools to ensure we could
open after only one day of being closed. The outstanding collaboration between central administration, transportation, plant and property and city government made such a quick and safe return to school which we made it possible.
Speaking of safety, another issue that has been discussed in various communities is related to the photography company Lifeouch who has been contracted to do such pictures of students and team members at our schools. Recent reports have called into
question their data privacy and security practices. As a measure of precaution, Elizabeth Public Schools will be pausing its remaining photography sessions with Life Touch for the 2025 2026 school year. Central administration will work
with the remaining schools who have not yet taken their school photos on alternative solutions and we will continue to gather more information in support of our schools whose sessions have already taken place to determine whether these concerns have any validity.
As always, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our students and our team members. That concludes my remarks. Thank you. At this time, the microphones are open for public comments to those who have signed in prior to the session. Each
statement made by a participant shall be limited to 3 minutes in duration. The total time for public comment shall be limited to 60 minutes. No individual is able to yield their time to another individual. All statements shall be
directed to the presiding officer. No participant may address or question board members individually. Each speaker shall speak in all respect with board policy 9322. Copies were provided next to the sign-in
sheet. The following rules shall apply. Time limits will be strictly enforced. No personal attacks on individuals or naming of individuals. No vulgar or indecent language. A person may address the board no more than once during a
single meeting. Comments will not be debated. Any person in violation of the policy will be warranted and their comments terminated if needed. As a reminder, this is a meeting of the board in public, not a meeting of the public.
At this at this time, I call Jonah Janut. Good evening. Hold on. Let's get you the mic. There you go. Can I have a Thank you so much.
>> Good evening folks. My name again is Jonah Janut and u I'd like to thank you all for your time and uh I just want to congratulate Savannah on such great accomplishment and all the
other kids in the district which have been named prior last month meeting. However, there's a question that's kept haunting me. is the fact that is the board and the administration singly
handing handing out kids pick them out for the to showcase them around or is the board and the administration actually concerned with educating the entire Elizabeth school district
because if it's the case then how do we explain the fact that a student who has been in one of your prestigious school since kindergarten and is now about to graduate in 8th grade cannot read,
write, do a simple math, let alone algebra. The IB school, international business, international balorate, excuse school, state, this is their flyers. Number nine, it's involved the whole school
learning community and what happened to those kids that are falling behind. Another number nine, it prepares you for future education. How can you learn if you don't have the basics? These are my
concerns, folks. And if we are quite really truly committed to teach the entire school population in Elizabeth, then I will say one failed student is way too many. Thank you folks.
>> Thank you. Miss Jonah, could you speak to one of our assistant superintendent, please? Dr. Sado, if you could please. Thank you, Daniellea Bruno Aretis. >> Daniela.
>> Yes, ma'am. I'm sorry, Danielle. Hello. Thank you, Board of Education, for giving me this time to speak. My name is Danielle Bruno Erlloquin, a former resident of of Elizabeth, New Jersey, and a former Elizabeth teacher.
Though I no longer teach here, I still have a responsibility to show my former students that their voices matter. I can recall the moment I realized what ICE and deportations do to students, for it happened in my first year of teaching
at school 14 in the 2018 2019 school year. A student who I will refer to as Mia told me about not having a father present in her life as a third grader. We were talking about different types of families. She stated quite matterofactly that her
father had was deported before she had even entered my grade. This was the first time deportation had ever touched someone I ever car I've deeply cared about. And what was the worst part? She said it so plainly because this is the reality that so many children in Elizabeth still have to deal with all
these years later. I went home and cried to my mother who is an American citizen herself but an immigrant. I had lost my own father two years prior and he was a former Elizabeth teacher. I was heartbroken for this little girl. Her loss felt just as permanent as mine and
I was an adult. This little girl is now in high school here in Elizabeth. I worry for the students who are who are like her affected by ISA deportations. These students need to be protected at a local level and as the board of education that is your responsibility.
Children cannot be effective learners when they when fear dictates their lives. Children can should not be afraid of exercising their right to protest. A right that I have taught about in third grade here in this district. Students have been protected in protesting since 1969. The Supreme Court case of Turn
Tinker versus De Moise by way of a 72 ruling declared that neither students nor teachers shed their constitutional rights quote shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate. I learned about this monumental case as a
student here in in Elizabeth proving that the students are simply applying what they are learning. You want these children to achieve excellence. How can they do so when they are afraid to express themselves and exercise their civil rights? and moreover afraid of the authority figures meant to protect them. Students should not be threatened to
ignore the very real reality that ISIS is tearing apart families, communities, and educational achievements. Schools must be a safe place to learn. There needs to be more done to protect undocumented students and students with the bravery to stand up against
injustice. I as I conclude, I wish to quote the Elizabeth public schools website which says in the our district about our district section that Elizabeth has a commitment to every child and I repeat every child achieving
excellence. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Christina Morera. As the president of Elizabeth Parents and Students Care, I want to address concerns many of our families have regarding the increase in ICE uh
officers in our city. Regardless of anyone's personal views on immigration policy, the reality is, like this teacher so eloquently said, that our families and students are walking to and from school in fear. Yet, this district
remains silent like you all are now, like with your faces plastered. Parents are asking very simple questions. What is the district's policy if ICE agents appear near or at school buildings? What guidance has been provided to
principles, teachers, and security staff? And why has this not been clearly communicated to families? What are you so afraid of? And right now there is no clear shared protocol, no district-wide communication, and no reassurance to
parents that there is a consistent plan in place. My Oprah request to Mr. Kennedy to see these documents existed. Came back with the that the request was too wide. So I have to resubmit the request. Although Mr.
Kennedy knows exactly what I was asking for and his job as a custodian of records is to help obtain those records. We also need to know what supports exist for students already impacted. Some children are dealing with the detention
of a parent or living in fear that it could happen again affecting their mental health leading to chronic absenteeism which in turn affects their education. What resources are being provided to these families? Our counselors trained and prepared to respond.
Communication matters and not one board member at the last meeting said a word. Maybe you were busy making plans to run for second ward counsel, which should even more so compel you to address the fears of our community. Your silence is
deafening, and it's in times like these that one's true character is revealed. And while we're talking about communication and respect for this community, we also need to address what happened at the last board meeting. This board cowardly sat in silence while a parent's fundamental rights were
trampled on. You watched as Maria Carvalo, the woman you installed as board president, cut a parent's mic off mid-spech after barking at her, get to the point. Even worse, you stood by as a police officers were weaponized for the
crime of daring to speak during her aotted time. This wasn't leadership. This was an orchestrated act of intimidation. Public comment is not reserved for opinions that are comfortable or easy to hear. Just because you don't like what someone is saying or you don't like the
person saying it, it does not mean you can use your par your power to silence people. And you can sit there and smirk if you like, but this is not a dictator. >> Thank you, Mrs. Morera. Our next speaker is Quesan Little. First, I want to lift up the amazing
name of brother Donald Stewart who touched so many thousands of lives throughout our district and his loss will be incredibly incredibly missed and he will be deeply missed throughout our city. Secondly, I want to amplify the amazing courage of our students who protested against ICE. And while they
were met with so much intimidation from both central office and school administration, but at the helm and at the direction of central office, I want to be clear, you had a building vice principal who were clapping at the corner at students protesting and you even had your own council woman who were
even in attendance at the protest although she was trolling for the mayor. So don't please stop with the false narrative of saying that the protests were violent. A fight occurred at the protest. It was not for the students who led the protest. You love trying to
attempt to paint the narrative, but you never really succeed in that aspect. So you should just stop and support the kids. Second of all, I'm here to address two urgent concerns. the treatment of students who participated in in walk out protest and ICE and the broader demand that this district confront and root out
antilackness and all forms of dehumanization within our school. First, let me be clear. Our students did not walk out because they're reckless. They walked out because they are aware. They walked out because of the fear of immigration enforcement brings into our homes and neighborhoods. They are aware
when classmates worry about their parents not being there after school. They are aware when silence feels complicity. When young people raise their voices about issues that impact their families and communities, that is not disorder. That is civic engagement, which we hope to welcome. That is
democracy and action. Schools are meant to prepare students to participate in society, and participation includes protest, questioning, and petitioning our local government with grievances. Students have constitutional rights that should be protected in all aspects of
life. They have a right to express their views peacefully. They have a right to assemble. They have a right to speak and they have a right to center their humanity in decision-m process. Discipline or intimidation in response to peace or protest sends a dangerous message that you've already have did.
That compliance is valued more than conscience. We cannot teach history about movements for justice then punish students for embodying those same principles. Second, we must confront the deeper issue. Antilackness and the broader failure to honor the full humanity of all students. Antilackness
is not just overt slurs or obvious acts of discrimination. It lives in disproportionate discipline. It lives in lower expectations. It lives in in dehumanizing students for where they are, who they are, and where they come from. It is labeled disruptive versus as
seen as passionate. It lives in those whose pain is acknowledged and who's dismissed. When black and brown students or any marginalized students say they feel unsafe, we have a duty and an obligation to make sure that they are safe. We must do more as a district to
protect them >> to make sure that they are. >> Thank you. Andrea Andrea Alonso. Good evening. Okay. Hello. I am a former student from the
Elizabeth Public School of four years ago. I'm here to formally express my deep concern regarding the board's failure to supporting the parent, student, and the border community of this district. First, the board has failed to provide critical information and protection regarding ICE activities with and around the school perimeters.
School is meant to be a sanctuary where children can focus on their education and their future without fear. However, the lack of transparency and action regarding these activities undermines the safety of our students and the trust of our community. Furthermore, I am deeply troubled by the hiring and the continued employment of Michael Cummings
as the principal of FJC. There are numerous images and documentings of Mr. coming speaking ill of people of color. His behavior is not only unprofessional but discriminatory as he consistently treats women and girls as objects and displays a clear bias against the minority and immigrant
population that make up the heart of this community. I have been also informed by a student by Mr. that Mr. Cummings has used the school's loudspeaker system to call the moment. >> Just one second. Please stop your time. Breathe. I know you're nervous, but you >> Oh, I'm not nervous. Okay. Please trying
to keep calm. Please refrain from using names. >> Okay. >> Oh, I can say it. I can say I couldn't say the board members names. Thank you. >> Please. >> The of silence. Wait. He used the loudspeaker system to call a moment of silence for Charlie Kirks upon his
passing. It is entirely unacceptable for a principal to impose his personal political views. >> No, hold on. I just I want to give you your time. >> No, I want to give you your time. >> No. M >> Mr. coming to remain in this leadership
position. The the board is signaling that he's willing to defend an individual whose actions and reics are harmful to the very students he is tasked to protect. I urge the board to immediately take appropriate actions regarding this man position. Our
community deserves a leadership that reflects our values, ensures a safety, inclusive environment for all of us. THAT'S RIGHT. >> FOUR years I've been with you GUYS AND NOTHING HAS CHANGED. Maria Mado. Good evening. First of all, we are all
immigrants. We are all immigrants. Okay? Ain't nobody in here is an Indian. We're all immigrants, so we all have to be careful.
My My father was an immigrant. My parents helped many immigrants become legal in this country. I have children that are now living with me because their parents were taken by ICE. I have
children over here that cannot go to school because ICE is sitting outside their homes. They have absences. Their grades are A's and B's. Nobody is there to protect these
children. I have one girl that was told that she's staying back because she was afraid to walk out because ICE is in front of her house every day. She's afraid that parents are going to be taken care of. Her mother just gave
me custody of her children in case if they are taken away. I have immigrants running into my print shop. I have to close my doors so I doesn't get to them. Is this the way of living? Is
this the way we send our children? Remember, America was made by immigrants. There's no such thing. There's no such thing of I'm being born and I'm better than the next person that
came from a different country. We got to protect them. I know that this is a sanctuary city, not a sanctuary city. So these people are up in arms. I've seen people go on Elizabeth Avenue.
People have to go at night to wash clothes. We made a big thing to get these people groceries. You don't know what it's like.
My parents did this for a lot. And a lot of you know how my parents helped a many Portuguese people to get green cards within a week. But you don't know what these kids are going through. This child was told that
she cannot graduate because of the absences. She was told that she cannot make up her absent days because she had too many days. What are you going to do to protect these kids that could not make school
because of immigration? Remember little Liam? They used a 5-year-old to get to the parents. Who's to say that ICE ain't going to use any of these children to get to their parents that have not done any criminal
wrong? But you know something? Take the back. Miss Maderos, would you speak to Mr. Cortez? Thank you, Diana Tabor.
Hi, good afternoon. My name is Diana Tabbor. I was a former student here at Elizabeth, New Jersey. And I just want to start off by saying that the board does not care about the success of their students and they don't care about their academic prosperity. I just want to address something. My senior year of high school, I was a straight A student.
I have a 4.0 GPA and did three sports. and the superintendent Olga Hugle Meyer had me kicked out of the schools and didn't care that I was going to be misplaced. And she wanted me to miss my last two months of school. So, it's not surprising to me at all that there are not raising awareness to what is
happening with our students right now. Families, educators, students, we have a former teacher here. Everyone is calling for awareness on the issue and to just acknowledge it. From the dates, I believe it was January 15th to February 6, the Elizabeth Public Schools website
has been publishing just useless information. We've been publishing bingo nights and knitting and we've been publishing pictures of Shaquille O'Neal and he would not be proud of this. So, we just have we just have to stop. We're posting useless information instead of addressing real
protocols and taking real measures. This city is literally shaped by immigrants. You all, you all have pictures in Lao de Colia and all these places, but you're not protecting the people who run these places. Complicity doesn't always wear a
ski mask or in a badge. But they sit up here and they have plaques that say board of education president and superintendent of schools. You guys are just as complicit as the next. This is just honestly ridiculous to me that we have an obligation. We all have an
ethical and moral obligation. And at this point, I'm speaking to the people because they're not going to help us. We have a moral and an ethical obligation to protect our students, to protect their parents. We have a moral obligation to protect everybody in this community and they are not doing it. You are being complicit to what is going on
in the world around us. Our local politics is being influenced by things on the federal level. We should not be politicizing education. We should not be politicizing students. We should be protecting them. Everything that is happening is ridiculous. So, we're only proposing one thing. What is a clear
outline if ICE agents are spotted outside of schools? What do students do? Parents should not be afraid of dropping off their students and not knowing if they're ever going to see them again. My parents are Mexican and I'm half black and we face so many injustices on a
daily basis. This this is just honestly sad. You cannot claim to prioritize student success while ignoring the fears that are carrying into the classroom every day. Student safety is not political. And if you are afraid to release a statement that just says, "If
you see ice, hide. Protect our students. Make them aware." The same way that you guys have these automated messages that say, "Oh, there is going to be a basketball game at the Dunny Sports Center." You should have one that says, "There is ice outside. Do not come. And we are going to protect our students."
And if you feel that proposing a policy or having a piece of paper that protects our students is political, then the problem is not Thank you, Leonardo Torres. >> I want to start off by saying thank you
to the fine men and women in the board and many of the educators I've had during my years in Elizabeth public schools. The work that we do for children lasts a lifetime and is transferred from generation to generation. I am not here to dishonor that. I just ask that you listen with an
open mind. I attended Frank J. Cerell Academy. I graduated in the class of 2023. During my junior year, I like many other students was recovering from the effects of the pandemic. I'll be honest and say I was struggling with a marijuana addiction, food, and financial
insecurity, amongst other things teenagers normally go through. I had part-time employment at a local nonprofit, but it was not enough. I came up with an idea to sell food products at school, bread sticks with marinara sauce, donuts covered with chocolate and
strawberries, and chocolate chip brownies. I felt productive and earned enough to deal with some of that stress. It wasn't long before staff started to notice. One day, a security guard caught me in the act of selling a baked good. I was led to the principal's office. Here,
I decided honesty was the best policy and in a brief interaction handed over the goods. Later that day, I was called, the principal called me to his office and with a look of disgust and anger told me he knew what I was doing. He
made three phone calls that would affect the rest of my high school experience deeply. First, he called the hospital for a drug test. Not because he cared for my health, but because it was the quickest way to deliver a swift punishment. He called the police department and had them come pick up my
snacks for testing, but with the context that I was already guilty. He lied and said that those brownies intoxicated him. Of course, security and staff were inclined to believe him. Lastly, he called my mother and told her her son is
a drug dealer. though tw roughly 20 minutes of his time his false accusations stuck with me at school at home but most importantly in me I didn't feel like I belonged at school I felt dirty like I was truly this bad apple
but no one ever asked me why I sold snacks or why I struggled with substances most importantly he never apologized for lying a man like this is not suitable for any position of power let alone working with children how can we come together and focus on progress
over punishment. Guidance counselors instead of security guards and connecting with at risk youth instead of alienating them. Once again, thank you for all the work you do for our city. I left my contact information if you have
questions. God bless all of you. Michael Cummings Carlos Villa Vincenzo. >> I apologize if I mispronounced your last name. >> Um, all right. So, good evening. Um, I waited over a year to see how this board will respond to what's happening in our
community, and all we get is silence. Last year, brave students came here and spoke up about ICE, and they were told by then President Neon that it was being handled on a case-byase basis. But this was never a case-by- case situation. Now it's hitting our communities even though you said it hasn't been happening in our
district. Families are being torn apart and attendance does not reflect the reality of what's happening outside the school walls. When it's time for the multicultural events, there's no issues from the board asking teachers to volunteer. There's no issues asking us to bring our beautiful black and brown children to dance, wave flags, and
celebrate diversity in front of cameras just like tonight. But when our community is in a panic, what we experience is silence. This district has worked with different organizations. You guys could do it again. Partner with any organization that can give families real support and real resources. Standing in
solidarity has to mean more than just photo ops. Right now, there's no clear guidance of what families or schools should do if I shows up near our schools. And they already have been showing up near our schools despite the board denying it. As if we can't see the reality in these streets ourselves. And in that silence, some educators feel
comfortable enough making their own public comments about ICE. That only happens when there's no leadership and no clear expectations. You may not control ICE, but you do control your policies, your partnership, on whether you choose to speak or stay silent. And silence always sends a louder message. I'm asking the board to lead, not just
during multicultural celebrations at the Dun Sports Center, or with non-stop robocalls about football games, non-stop robocalls about Peterstown cultural festivals, but lead when our community actually needs it. Thank you.
>> Thank you. Jennifer Dvilla and members of the board. Dr. Hugo Meyer, I met with you to report serious threats made against me by an employee at my son's school. My son is 5 years old. This is a preschool. He deserves to attend school in an environment where his mother does not have to fear for her
safety or his. You assured me we would have a follow-up meeting to assist me and address those concerns. That meeting was scheduled and then cancelled 9 minutes before I was set to begin due to what I was told was a last minute emergency. What I need clarity on is this. How were two investigators already positioned and prepared to question me
that same morning? Is this if this was truly a last minute cancellation, how are investigators ready in advance? Instead of meeting with you as promised, I was questioned. During that interaction, statements were made indicating knowledge of private information about me, information unrelated to the threats I reported. That sequence of events does not align.
I perceived it as intimidation and as an indication that I am being monitored. Instead of leaving with reassurance of safety and protection, I left with increased fear. I now have serious concerns about potential retaliation against my 5-year-old son and myself due to my decision to speak publicly about these matters. Despite the trauma and
fear this has caused, I will not remain silent. Additionally, we are still waiting for an update regarding ICE related concerns. Last month, I publicly addressed Linda Trebino's statement that she would open the doors to ICE at a preschool. That remains a significant concern within our school community. As recently as yesterday, information that
ICE was seen down the street from our preschool during dropoff hours was shared among parents through social media, not through official communication from the district. I was also present at the protest with the high school students at their request due to their fear. During that peaceful protest, my heart shattered as many of those students shared their fears of
being taken by ICE. Stories of family members in detention centers, stories of losing parents while they are detained. These are children. They are afraid walking to and from school. In a time of heightened anxiety within our community, especially in a preschool and school setting, the absence of clear protocol
and direct communication from leadership is deeply troubling. Our children deserve safety. Our families deserve clarity. And our community deserves leadership. Renee Garry. Renee Garry. Good evening. Good evening.
I'm an alumni from Elizabeth High School. Um, I came here when I was about 7 years old. I vividly remember when I was about 9 10 years old, my mom pulling me out of school because of ice rates. I remember her giving me a kiss on the head, telling me that she had to go to
work and if she doesn't see me, that she loves me and she will one day see me again. That is the fear that most of these students have. I'm not going to keep going over what my other colleagues went over because I want to address another issue at the protest about 300
p.m. a fight broke out. A student was bleeding and this was not ICE officers but there was a police officers that grabbed the kid, pushed them down, slammed them down to the ice while he was injured and bleeding. There was 10 cop cars, 10 patrol officers, about 20
of them while they grabbed him, cuffed him, slammed him on the ice. Then not only did they slam him on the ice, they slammed another girl, a young, mind you, young teenage boy and girl slammed her against the wall. what are you guys doing to protect the kids? Not just
about with ICE, but with the police officers. And mind you, this fight that broke out is actually a recurrent uh problem. It's not something that happened before. I mean, right there and then. It's something that was happening before as um I believe Naomi Guerrero, she was uh stated that this was an
ongoing problem because another student was also attacked. Uh I believe it was about two days before another young girl was being chased by other students that she says that don't go to the school. It's ridiculous. You don't protect these
kids against ICE. You don't protect these kids against the police department. And then you have a principal who is trying to change the narrative of this. And mind you, while I was in school, this is not the first time we've hear about um Michael Cummings doing all of this. I have heard
of this while I was in school. I'm 31 years old. This has been going on for years. Years. While I was a freshman, I've been hearing about him. I personally dealt with him. >> It is disgusting that you guys keep
protecting him. That there is no repercussions. Disgusting. Disgusted with everything. Disgusted. Bianca Gambetta. Bianca.
Um, good evening. My name is Bianca Gambeta. I am a 17-year-old junior at JBJ STEM Academy. and I'm here tonight to speak over 320 students who feel like no one is listening. Junior year is already the hardest years of our academic lives. We take SATs, the NGPA
benchmarks every 3 months that are worth 20% of our grade. Um, and we take AP exams, not just one, but for many of us, three or four AP exams all in the same week. I personally have three in the same week.
More than 170 juniors are living this reality right now. We are losing sleep. We are skipping meals. Students are burning out so badly that some are at serious risk of dropping out. Not because they're not smart, not because they're not they do not care, but
because the pressure of many high stakes tests hitting them at once hasn't is impossible to carry. And we're expected to sit for final exams. I tried to handle this the right way. Former President Naron himself told me
at our school in December to go to your to my principal, then to the superintendent and then to the board. I followed every step. I called the superintendent's office seven times. I contacted I was referred
to her assistant four times and I left my name, my number, my email, what school I'm at, and even my ID number those four times. Not once did I receive a call back. >> You're not the only one.
>> I have the records with me. Um, I also have the petition that I have over 320 students agreeing with me. I'm not here to cause any problems. I'm here because every door I was told to knock on was closed. And I feel responsible to these 320 students to keep going until
somebody opens one. I genuinely hope that this board will be that door. But if this goes unheard, I have no choice but to make sure it does. This is not a threat. It is the only option that I have left. And I'm not I'm
not um going to stand be ignored. Uh, we're asking you to restore the final exams exemption for juniors who meet academic standards and to give students a fair notice before any policy change. We're not asking for any less.
We're asking for fairness. Thank you. Julia Ortiz can't do that. Can't disrespect. Uh hello. Um, as a parent of two students in Elizabeth public school, um, I think I'm going to
address to the elephant in the room. Uh, what worries me and many parents uh that um are not able to be here because of maybe um justice of language because many of
the parents doesn't speak English. So uh what worries us is uh our children's in school relating to eyes kidnapping people around our schools and
the two of my daughters that are in different schools neither of which lacks a clear or public safety protocol. I would like to know how uh counselors or teachers are supporting students through all of all these issues. How will um you
guarantee for the community that our students can exercise their right to express their concerns? These are young people uh who understand what is happening on our streets and to our community. the majority of uh immigrant
detained uh by ICE do not have a criminal record. Uh so why schools are complicit in this narrative that the parents of our students are criminals but not creating a safety protocol or
real policies that protect the students. That's >> Thank you, Miss Lily. Lily Benvitz. >> Lily Benvitas. >> My daughter is in the ER. Just if you want to know.
>> Yeah, but her father is sick. Her >> Lily Benvdas. >> That's appropriate. >> Everyone I'm sitting here. I'm sitting here on her phone and shaking her head. >> I understand. Ma'am, I answer my daughter have an emergency and listen to me. I want I want to speak. We human
beings think are happy. Okay. >> And and people the kids are losing their parents. >> We're losing. >> Okay. Miss Ben, if this is Mrs. Benz's turn to speak. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you for allowing me to speak
tonight. Hello. My name is Lily Benedes. I'm here as a co-chair of the Green Party of New Jersey and also as an immigrant myself. I'm also here because I don't live in Elizabeth, but my niece and my great niece live here, so they are affected by this.
Um, give me a minute. Okay. My great niece, she's a Martin years old who is in a gifted and talented school in Elizabeth, but at such short age, she has seen and heard things happen in a school that
they shouldn't she shouldn't be experiencing. One of them is a right-wing extremist teacher in her school trying to brainswash the kids. It is a harsh environment for children of color in particular. I have been here
for 36 years plus and I have experienced racism almost every single day of those years. When my kids were little, there were many instances in their schools that I had to deal with that and they had to deal with that. It was very
subtle that many times we were not aware that that was happening. Not anymore, not on this time. That hatred has been spread like fire and social media catches it right away. It is unacceptable that this body hasn't fired
principal principal comments after all of us finding out about what he's done. What is worse is to know that he has been on this position for decades doing exactly the same thing. So the question for this board is what are you here for?
Did you get this job to protect those in power or to do everything in your ability to protect children? I heard I heard that parents that show interest in running for BOE get discouraged and are afraid to run for some reason. So I realized that elected
officials here like to stay on their post for years and become so powerful that feel that they can do anything right. Guess what? The people that came here today cannot take this abuse anymore. And you have an obligation to fire this
guy because obviously he's not fit to be in charge of kids and he wasn't feed the first place. At this crucial moment where we are in danger on losing our little freedom of speech that we have, we still we are having someone in charge that want to silent our kids which most
of them are affected by eyes unlawful actions. That is outrageous. At the end this is just about racism plain and simple and you are all complicit on that. Get your asses from that seat of privilege of yours and do the work you
are supposed to do. Dunbar Jim's Dunar Good evening, members of the board, superintendent, fellow community members. My name is Gims Dunar. Um, I have two children in the Elizabeth district.
Um, I'll be brief but very direct. Our school's principal, who everyone has mentioned already. I don't need to sully my mouth with his name has brought his personal politics into the building and has created an environment of intimidation, bigotry and
fear among students. He has openly entertained the idea of allowing ICE agents into our school full of children. He has de dismissed genuine concerns from students parents whose backgrounds or identities don't align with his worldview. Students are afraid. The
families are anxious. This is not leadership. This is a dereliction of duty. >> That's right. >> I want this board to understand this is not this is not just a difference of opinion. This principal's behavior runs directly against New Jersey law and state guidance which includes the Safe
uh communities act signed into law just last month which designate public schools as sensitive locations with protections against federal immigration enforcement. The attorney general's immigrant trust directive prohibits state and law uh state and local law
enforcement from participating in ICE operations and the legis the legislature is actively codifying it into permanent law. The NJ DOE has made it very clear that schools cannot grant ICE access without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. An administrative ICE warrant is
not enough. Governor Cheryl just signed an executive order last week to protect residents from ICE overreage. And the New Jersey law against discrimination prohibits bias based harassment in schools based on national origin,
ancestry, race, and nationality. A principal who creates a climate of fear targeting students based on their background is potentially exposing this district to legal liability. I'm not here for vague re reassurances.
I know everybody's upset and they're experiencing their grievances, but I'm here to work with you on an actionable plan. Specifically, I and the rest of the community are asking for five things. First, an immediate independent investigation into this principal's
conduct, including interviews with students, parents, and staff conducted by an independent party. Second, protective measures for students while that investigation is underway up to and including administrative leave if this principal cannot separate his
politics from his duties. Third, a written published district-wide protocol on how staff should respond if ICE agents were to appear anywhere near the school aligned with safe communities act and the NJ DOE guidance. Fourth, mandatory training for every
administrator on judicial versus administrative warrants. student rights and anti-discrimination obligations. And fifth, a thank you, sir. Pola Alaman Good evening everyone, members of the
board and family and community. Uh my name is Paola Alman. I lived in Elizabeth for a long time. I've gone to school here. My kids go to school here. So I have the same sentiment as everyone else here. What is going to be done about Mr. comings about his dehumanizing
treatment of kids. My children, both of my children had I thought it were they were isolated incidents until I came to find out everything that he's been doing to everyone else. Um, and it's just been going for a very long time. You guys have to take action. Something has to be done. Um,
I go with the person that just spoke before me, Mr. Dumbart. I it's a reasonable timeline, something that you guys can do, an action that has to be taken. I don't think you guys can with everybody that's speaking today about Mr. Cummings, I don't think that that's something that you can no longer sweep
under the rug. Your leadership has to be put into account right now and you guys have to take action, especially with that kids need to be protected. The the humanizing treatment that he has been performing is is gone unchecked for a very long time. And this is just it
enough is enough. The kids have had it and we as parents as you can see if everybody speaking here today has had it as well. So you guys need to take action. Thank you everyone. Thank you to all the public speakers that came out tonight. At this time I close the public comment
portion of this meeting. At this time, we will review the agenda. Mr. Kennedy, >> he's going to >> Are you >> Oh, yes, he does. This is Ma'am,
>> we understand. We understand. >> You >> I understand what you're saying, ma'am. Sir, >> sir, we will we heard everything that everyone had to say tonight. We will go
into private. We will discuss this. >> Thank you, sir. >> Thank you. Thank you, ma'am. >> Thank you, ma'am. >> Thank you, ma'am. >> At this time, we will now review the agenda.
Okay, board members, we're ready. Mr. Can I? You ready, Mr. Kennedy? >> I am. Yes. At this time, uh, board member Stephanie Enavos Pastana has a motion to read to the board.
>> Thank you, Mr. Kennedy. I move that I move that the vote taken to approve the agenda at the January 22, 2026 board meeting be amended to reflect that the board members Carvalo, Clairvoyant, and Chevro votes on the agenda resolution relating to the
superintendent's contract be rescended and entered on the record as abstensions. I ask for a second motion. >> I second. >> Thank you board member Beth. So, it's been prop made and properly
second. Can we have a roll call? >> Barbosa. >> Yes. >> Bathless. >> Yes. >> Chevres. >> I think board members are Does she have to abstain on this or Yes. Does she can she Yes. On this motion?
>> Ask M. Mr. Cli for some >> Can you clarify? Yes. >> They can vote on their own. They're voting to accept. They're voting to accept >> to revote Chevolution that corrects the record as to what >> Yes. So they should So she should be No, she should beend abstaining then if
you're doing it for the record. She she >> Oh, she >> so she could >> cla Noel. >> Yes. >> Jacobs. >> Yes. Marina Ortega. >> Yes. Pavas Pastistana,
>> yes. >> Rivera, >> yes. >> Carvalo, >> yes. >> Thank you. >> To clarify, that was a motion to agree to the motion that was made by Commissioner Pistana to for our abstension.
>> Correct. The motion was that the vote taken to approve the agenda in January be amended to reflect the board members Carvalo, Clairvoyne and Chevro's votes on the agenda be rescended and entered in record as
abstensions. >> Thank you Mr. Kennedy. At this time we will go through the agenda. Tab one 1A official and private minutes of December 18th 2025. Tab 1B treasurer secretaries report
November 30th 2026 25 sorry. Are there any questions from the board? Hearing no questions on tab 1A and 1B of the agenda. Mr. Kennedy, roll call, please. You're just putting it on the You're putting it on. >> Please add it to the agenda, Mr.
Kennedy. Tab 2A, personnel report. >> Madam President. >> Yes. If I may ask Mr. Qua to provide a summary of our personnel report. I believe he has some very good news to share. >> Hello. >> I guess it's working. >> It's working.
>> Thank you, uh, uh, Madam Superintendent. So before you for your consideration this evening ladies and gentlemen of the board um you have 13 um retirements. I want to take advantage of the opportunity and congratulate all those
individuals who are going to retire and I would like to highlight one name uh Mary Kay Nigro someone that I met 28 years ago and I'm happy to see that she's retiring after a very very successful career as a first grade
teacher and a prek physical education teacher. We have one resignation from uh a secretary. We have uh 20 appointments. These appointments include four
teachers, one guidance counselor, one social worker, one school nurse, two administrator, one secretary, one custodian, one security guard, and nine assistants. And I would like to highlight that
um in New Jersey the requirements to become a classroom assistant uh is simply 48 credits. Um either that or you have to take the power professional test that we offer in HR. I'm happy to report
that the nine assistant recommended eight seven of them have a bachelor's degree, one has a master's and the other one pass the par professional test. So in other words, these are really truly highly qualified individuals. Uh we have
18 transfers and the transfers are due to resignations, retirements and in some cases that come to mind due to legal requirements that obviously we cannot discuss. We have 31 changes of salary uh
primarily because the individuals obtain either a master's degree or the six-year level as we call it 32 graduate credits uh beyond the masters.
Uh we have one promotion an admin one to an admin two and madame president I had prepare a few other comments but and because time may be the essence I could do it another time or may I proceed? >> You may proceed. >> There are a number of things madam
president as you know that we do in HR that most people are not aware. So I I have done this before in the past. So I want to highlight just a couple of things that we do that many people are not aware. Um my office has enrolled 85
provisional teachers in the alternate route program or the traditional route teachers. That means that my office helps the individuals with the process the paperwork. We meet with them to ensure that they have met all the requirements. we contact the state what
is necessary etc etc and this goes on for two years as a two-year requirement for provisional teachers uh also I wanted to highlight the fact that from from September 2025 to um this date
we have review 180 requests for leave absences um that the board eventually has to approve All these leave of absences are without pay. We have also review over
900 medical certificates from staff members who have been out three or more days. And because they do if they do have sick days, then this uh staff members do get paid. In the summer of 2025, we processed
um 99 teachers reimbursement. We have a tuition reimbursement program in the district and one administrator. Uh in the fall of 2025, there are 140 teachers in process and five administrators in process for them to
eventually be reimbursed for the courses they have taken. Uh finally um from September 2025 to today um we have had 282 workers
compensation claims. Of those claims 171 was simply reported but the individuals did not request medical attention. We do have 111 that that were case managed which means that the employees requested
treatment. Finally, I want to say that in HR we attempt seriously to meet the needs uh of all employees and and I have to say that I am blessed to have a a magnificent uh team working in HR. Thank you, Madam President.
>> Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Qua. Um are there any questions from the board? >> I want to thank you. Oh >> no. Any questions? >> Yes. Yes, Madam President. Um I'm going to ask if we can please table and bring
to private page 12 our last name page 12 tab 2 a last one to table it and bring it into private >> Mr. Kennedy. Thank you. Any other questions or
comments from the board? Mr. Quest, I want to thank you. Um I know that your team works very hard and um it is not an easy task to run HR. So I we appreciate you and we thank you and your entire team for all that you do for
us. Um >> thank you >> Mr. Qua. I mean you Mr. Kennedy, please add tab 2A minus page 12 to the agenda. Tab three, tuitions report. Are there any questions from the board?
Hearing none, Mr. Qu Kennedy, please add tab three, tuition's report to the agenda. Tab 4 A. Madame President, I would like to be able to share this evening a few of the items that are on our considerations uh
report. I'd like to be able to acknowledge the extensive professional development opportunities that our supervisors and directors are pursuing. Um, beginning with the department of visual and performing arts, our
supervisor is attending the music educators association conference that will take place actually um taking place today through the 21st. Our director of early childhood and supervisor of early childhood attending the uh NJPSA early
childhood workshop to focus on mathematics and that is taking place next week. Our Admiral William F. Pauly Health and Public Safety JOTC uh with Master S uh Master Sergeant uh
Joel Ramirez that will be participating in a competition in Clayton uh Delaware. We wish them much success. also our director of curriculum and instruction. Uh together with principal
of school number 22, Lauren Geret, the vice principal of school number 21, Victoria Smutk, um Elliot Johnson, a vice principal of Dwire Academy, and our principal at school 19, C. Christine Casterly, uh together with Mr. Aten will
be attending the NJPSA equity education summit uh that will take place next month. Mr. Candalino, our director of athletics, will be attending together with his supervisor
Marty Lug the athletic um athletics association of New Jersey convention and that will also be taking place next month. And lastly, our director um sorry, our students uh that from the
Elizabeth High School color guard will be attending a competition, the um world competition in Dayton, Ohio once again and we wish them >> much luck. And that completes the considerations for this month.
>> Field trips. >> Madam President. Yes, Commissioner Jacobs. >> Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to just take a second um to acknowledge um school 19, Mrs. Kish class this past Saturday attended the
New Jersey Amastad Commission on African-American History essay writing contest. um and the fifth grade um students received first and third grade uh pri uh prizes for their work. And I
think that this is an excellent example of the work that's been done with the am with the Amastad mandate. Uh Reverend Brit who was here earlier is a member of that collaborative of working with the community to ensure that Amastad has
been infused in our district. We can see that with the performances that we've seen tonight for Black History Month that this initiative that that was taken up on a very serious level by this board and my and my colleagues here back in
2020 to hire uh Mr. Dr. Dr. Dvita uh Herwood in order to ensure that uh Amast the Amastad mandate um has been infused in our district and Elizabeth I can say um is one of the few districts in New
Jersey which has received um numerous awards um in relation to our implementation of the district. Uh cuz I recall I think it was two years ago that the NAACP recognized them at their national convention in Atlantic City and the work that was done there. I'd also
like to invite uh the public and our staff. And I also want to thank uh Madam Superintendent along with um Dr. Sado, Mr. Cortez, and uh Miss Judy Prince Johnson along with Mr. Etienne, um Mr.
Alfin and Miss Tracy Monto and all the staff and students um involved in in this initiative. And lastly, I'd like to invite uh members of the public, students and staff and colleagues to our upcoming Amastad forum which is going to
be on the 26th at school 30 at 6:00. >> Yes. 6:00. >> 6 p.m. Yes. >> I'm doing got my memory together. >> Um thank you, Madam President. >> Thank you, Commissioner. I would also uh like all of the board members to um note
that this is indoor facility time of the year and you have numerous requests here for the rental and the uses of our facilities from basketball little friars programs to um volleyball from our fire department, the Rotary Club that will be
doing a pancake breakfast with our students. There's a lot of community involvement for our students to be involved and to be engaged with Elizabeth. So, thank you. Any questions from the board members on tabs 4 through 4 D?
>> Yes, Madam President. >> Yes. >> Uh for tab 4B, uh item number four, there's no end date. It just says every Monday is beginning February 23rd. When is it going to end? The other requests have an beginning and end date.
Which one? Item number four and 4B use of facilities. >> School 30. >> Yes, we will check that. Okay. And I just also understand that uh
I was at school 30 today that they have basketball practice in that same gym. So this is taking away every Monday for their pra practice for someone else. So I don't know if that interferes with their schedule at school 30. So I just want to make sure that we're being
mindful that interrupts with their schedule and if if it's so can we have a different location for this item? >> Certainly from Mr. Kennedy's office, the facilities, the person in charge of scheduling the facilities ensures that there's no conflict. We always
prioritize our district programs first and then the requests are accommodated as best possible, but it never supersedes our programs. >> Perfect. Thank you so much. >> You're most welcome. >> And Mr. Kenny, do you have an answer to when it's going to end? >> I certainly am going to get you that
answer. I see the request, but I don't see the end date on it. So, u what are we going to do with this? >> We can >> uh we should put it on pending um >> the information >> the addition of the end date. Okay.
>> Right now it just says a few weeks. >> I know. I saw that. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, can we approve it for 30 days and then we they'll do a new request with the ending date if it needs to be more. >> Sure, we could do that. >> Okay. So, I would like to amend um item
number four on 4B to um every Monday beginning February 23rd until March 23rd of 2026. And the pending >> actually, I'm sorry, there is a date on it. If you look at the support,
>> I did look at the support. Maybe I didn't see it correctly. Let's go look together. >> Yeah. Um >> bless you. It says February 22nd through April 27th. >> See it in handwriting there. >> Where do you see that?
>> April 27th, 2026. It's in the letter um handwritten. >> Oh, it's on the top, but it doesn't on the bottom. Got it. >> But I I have a question, too. It actually says that it's at school 22. And in the uh use of facilities, it says
that it's at school 30. Yeah, that's well first off the hand the handwriting you're looking at is Karina's and she works out if 22 is not available she finds a different spot. >> Thank you. >> But >> well our children come first so whatever we need to do. >> So I would >> Okay. So I >> I would ask to amend the um
>> yes >> the request to put the end date of April 27th. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Are there any other questions from the board on taps 4 to 4D? >> Hearing none. Mr. Kennedy, please add it to the agenda.
Tab five, authorizations report. Madame President, >> yes, Commissioner Moreno. >> Yes. Uh, I have uh two highlights and one question. The first question is for
Madame Superintendent. Um I want to make sure that the provision is on page number 19. The participation in a provisional teacher program is the same like alternative
roads. Page 19 >> uh top five page uh page six I'm sorry page six we see different kind of teacher for participation in a provisional teacher program like I'm so
excited uh this is Olga got the same alternative roads for teachers >> this is not alternate route this is the requirement for um all new hires certificate of eligibility to be provided with a mentor so they have the it's the provisional program to ensure
that they are then eligible to obtain their standard certification. >> Thank you, madam superintendent for the clarification. I didn't know. Uh the highlight is for the community. Saturday, March 14, uh the Lisa board education will be host
a special education community resource fair. It is important like our community. Today will we approve that March 14 for our special education community fair and the board is so
exciting for this day and and the last highlight is the first page. Um I see like JBJ stand academy will be apply for a grant uh for PLTW
and I want to know the community what that means. That mean they need to work really hard, apply for these grants, submit too too many papers and then if they re we receive a grant where we have support and future careers, professional
development to train the teachers and then the teacher can educate our student and I know my board member Diane will be excited because it's biomemed curses uh microbiology that's mean I'm so excited and I wish
the best luck to the STE academic team. I know how hard is to apply for a grant and how many thing they need to complete and not only the teacher and the principal also the administration. This is too many information and I really
appreciate the hard work. Uh if they approve can you please communicate with us um know the results mad superintendent? Thank you. Oh, it would be my pleasure. Hopefully, they will succeed with their application >> at this time. Um, >> yes,
>> I have a question. >> Um, I don't know if this goes to the superintendent or the assistant or um assistant superintendent Fitz Johnson since you're in charge of the fundraisers, right? So, I have a number
of PTO parents uh who had reached out to me in regards to um principles not getting in or not allowing them to um add events to the calendar or fundraisers to the calendar. Since I was looking at this, I wrote some notes down
and I just wanted you to please explain either or explain what the protocol is for the PTO to bring ideas and and and um ideas fundraisers to the principal and how that gets to the board for the board to be approved. What is the
timeline? Is it 30 days before the board meeting? Is it 10 days before the board meeting? so that people can understand and hear it so that they can understand and not the principal telling them what is the protocol but we're hearing it from ourel for ourselves so I don't know who wants to tackle that question that
answer the question okay so as far as submission the we all receive the dates when everything is supposed to be submitted to us prior to being approved and everything being
typed up in time for the board meeting. Um, what you should know is even though there's times when fundraisers come up and it might be a day late after the cutoff, >> I go to the superintendent and she will give me verbal approval for a fundraiser
to take place. But we encourage the schools to to adhere to the timeline. Now, it's up to the principal to decide what's best for their building. They know their faculty, they know their kids, um they know their needs. So,
basically what I do is I depend on the principles to do be the ones to do the screening. Now, mind you, sometimes they come to me and I have to contact the principal and say, "No, that's that that fundraiser is not appropriate or you
might need to tweak a fundraiser." Um, but the protocol is just like it is for field trips or anything else. Everything comes through the school, through the principal because like I said, they know their staff, they also know their their kids. Um and then we just adhere to the
timeline that's given to us as far as submission of items to the um to us uh in preparation for the agenda for the board for that month. >> But is there a specific timeline? For example, Mr. Kent member sket Mr. Qua
has a timeline for his you know things to be given to ogre by a certain date before the board meeting you know happens. Is there a specific timeline that they need to get be um to submit to you so it can come to the board members? >> Well, there is a there normally what
happens is the date that the we take everything up until the last day that's on the calendar that the the board submits to us as far as the dates um of submission. >> Friday before the board meeting. >> Uh no, it's it's two weeks before the board meeting. It's usually two weeks
before the board meeting. >> Thank you. >> That's when it normally is. Okay. Um but the but the schools have those dates and and my secretary Yolanda she calls she reminds so so I and I think what happens to um commissioner is this I think what
happens is sometimes there's one person that might be responsible for the fundraisers in the building and if that person's out sometimes the timeline gets missed. >> Okay. And then what I do is, like I said, I will go to the superintendent
and she will give me verbal, you know, so long as we're not bringing snakes in and that type of thing where you guys got to sign off where there's a liability, >> we will give verbal approval for them to to uh have a fundraiser. >> I appreciate that. I'm hoping that this will set the record to what needs to be
done and what the protocol is for a PTO president or PTO members to have events in their schools and how they need to reach out to their principles and then get to you and then get to us. >> Thank you for the explanation. If I have more questions, I will be here next month asking the same thing. >> Okay. >> Thank you.
>> All right. >> Thank you, board member. Right. the if if you take anything from it is that there's a process and there's timelines that need to be met because not only do the schools need to make the requests to the principles when the principles have to get it vetted by the assistant
superintendent who need to get it to the superintendent so that we could set the agenda and if those things that takes time so you have to plan just like we have to plan. So take your time and do your due diligence. So thank you. Any other questions on tab five? I know we
have a a donations report from um assistant superintendent Sado. >> Thank you so much board president Carvalo. Uh I would like to highlight three donations on tab authorizations tab 5. So the first being from the greater uh Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce
in conjunction with the affiliate member New Jersey Wonders Foundation. Uh for your approval tonight, there's a $3,000 donation for two students um that are uh athletes as well. I also would like to highlight a $2,000 donation from the
Boyer Town Area Music League. And this is for supplies for our winter color guard in addition to equipment. So, we thank them so much for their donation. And lastly, I'd like to highlight for you uh our um Long Shoresman's Association. They are donating a 100
hats and pizza to our students uh at school number 13. And so, we thank them so much for all of their care for our students. So, those are three of the highlights for this evening for your approval. >> Thank you. Uh fundraising and events from uh Assistant Superintendent uh Fitz
Johnson. >> Okay. Being that we were speaking about fundraisers, um on the agenda this evening, we have 140 fundraisers on the agenda for your approval. Those include um movie and karaoke nights, plant sales, a variety of Earth Day
celebrations, online popcorn and candy sales, as well as a variety of t-shirt and athletic apparel sales. >> Thank you, Madam President. I also like to um highlight for our community uh several
items that are on our authorizations report. uh beginning with the annual opportunity for our middle school and high school students to uh participate in teen arts which is an incredible event where our students have the opportunity to showcase their artwork um
and actually be judged on that artwork. So fabulous experience. I'm grateful to the county for hosting this event every single year because our students who are interested in the visual and performing arts have this great opportunity at a young age to experience it. Also, uh we
will be sharing with our community our division of special services will be hosting the special education community resource fair on Saturday, March 14th at school number 28. This is going to be a wonderful event. our division of special services has been in communication with
various agencies um that will be attending on March 14th. So, it's a great event and we certainly will be publicizing it for all of our families to be able to attend. And then lastly, um a fun event that's going to be held at our Admiral William F. Pauly Health
and Public Safety Academy is a soccer game between the staff and students versus the Elizabeth Police Department in the Dun Sports Center on March 19th. That is certainly going to be a fun event for all.
Thank you. Thank you. Are there any further questions from the board? Hearing none, Mr. Kennedy, please add tab five to the agenda. Tab six, Tab 6A, Finance and Accounting Reports. Are there any questions from the board?
Hearing no questions, Mr. Kennedy, please add tab six and 6A to the agenda. Tab seven, award of contracts. >> I have a couple of items I'd like to highlight. Please, please do. >> Thank you. Um, page seven,
there's a contract with uh Magic Touch Construction and the total contract is for $2.5 million. And it's spread across um several schools. And what that is for is to complete our security best projects that
we started quite a while ago under the cops grant. >> Yes, sir. And what's good about this $2.5 million is we're using funding that we got from the SDA. So, it's going to be 100% funded by the SDA with money
that they sent to us. The next one is on page eight. There's a contract there with EI Associates. And what that's for is I know for many many years I've been driving into Elizabeth from Route 1 and
you go right by 16. It's probably one of the first things you see pulling into that area of Elizabeth. It's it's a welltraveled road. You look over to your right and you see the entrance to our school 16. It looks a little in need of upgrades. >> I see the smile on Commissioner
Barbosa's face. >> Yes. So, it's going to we've seen the drawings and um I will send send the concept to the board to see. It's going to look great. So, >> we're very excited. >> We are. Um so, those are the two in Mr. Milanis'
world that um he was quite excited about the one free of charge paid by the SDA and then 16 as we all know it's going to look good. >> Thank you. Any questions from the board? Yes, Madame President.
>> Commissioner Rivera. Oh, >> on page seven, contract with Nelson Ford of Morristown. And I guess legal can correct me, but it's under Educational Service Commission of New Jersey co-op co-op contract bid. There's also I just want
to make sure that's just one of them that I saw that we are in compliance with them and as they're trying to work out their their issues. Actually, I I should have that should have been my third highlight. I'm asking the board to
remove all the contracts with um educational services commission from the agenda. What happened was is um unbeknownst to even the department of ed but as pointed out from board member um Rivera there was an audit of the
educational services commissions by the state um controllers's office and they told the commission basically that they had to cease operations starting in March. So, we're not sure if it's um it
has to do with certain contracts that were audited by the controllers's office or if it's the whole commission that has to shut down. But until we find out more clearly, we want to pull these contracts before we award them. But what was surprising, really surprising, the report came out
in January of uh January 26th of this year, and um Mr. Rivera pointed out to me as part of his agenda review, they had never notified any of the school districts in New Jersey. And then I called the county office to the county
um executive county BA and it was the first time he had heard about it. So, thank you, Mr. River, for I don't know how you got on top of it, but it was a good catch. So, we're going to pull those off. >> Thank you, Commissioner Ria. Um Mr.
Kennedy. Well, since these are state contracts, couldn't we just move on to the next >> the next bid? I I can't imag um ed service commission is is a organization that we use as a co-op to
purchase our do contracts with. >> So that um may be an option if they're in if they're in another co-op with the same contracts that we want to use. There's some others for technology that are in here too, >> right? I mean, like I'm not concerned
about the Durango, but I am concerned about the heating chilling pipe systems. Those things need to be addressed. And I don't think we can wait a month to have those things addressed. So, I would ask that the board, if the board is okay with us allowing our director to
proceed, I mean, we may want to table this whole tab, take it to private, have a conversation, and come back with more. Those aren't those aren't ED services commissions. Those areund and like if you're looking at rand plumbing, >> those are okay. It's the ED service
commissions. There's three or four of them under Don Shehi >> um recommendation. Those unfortunately were for upgrades in auditoriums in our school. So, it's not crucial that we do that work right now. We want to do the work because one of them's a big project
in Jefferson. >> Jefferson. Absolutely. >> Yeah. Which everybody was looking forward. Can you tell us where where that is? So that >> that's on page um 10. >> Page 10.
So and I know that our director is here and I know that I'm going off script here, but I want to make sure we do the job that needs to be done in order for for this to proceed. >> So this is the contract with generation services.
Can we table that and take it to private? >> Certainly. Certainly. >> Is there any other? >> Um, just the other one that Mr. Rivera meant about the car. >> Okay. I think we'll be okay without the car. >> But this one I I'm I'm sorry whoever was
getting a car, but I think uh Jefferson is more important at this point. So, can we table that and have a conversation in private? >> Yeah, we've um when we found out about it, we went to Mr. Clo. you did a lot of background work so I'm sure you can shed somewhat some more light when we're in
private. >> So if if everyone is okay we are going to add tab 7 to the agenda and we are going to take into private contract with gen G generation services any other questions from the board >> Madame President. >> Yes sir.
>> I'd like to commend Commissioner Rivera for making that catch. We were aware last year that ed services commission had been audited for I guess what was it over bidding on contracts >> or not following proper proceding
proper. So there was the potential for us overpaying on certain contracts that we did with them as well. Correct. >> Yes. And then um they the the letter that came out just recently in January was saying that the service commission
was ignoring a corrective action plan. And so I I guess the controllers's office finally said, >> "So I'm making a request um to finance and along with plan property um that in our future in one of our future meetings that we get a a report on all contracts
that went through the ED service management so that we can review. >> Yes. >> To see if there's any and also review that with our council to see if there's any potential recoupment fees or what our position would be on that scenario.
Mhm. Thank you, Mr. >> Board. Board member Jacob, how far back would you want them to go? >> Well, that's a good question. >> I think we really need um as I said before, when I reported to the county office, he was going to take it down to
the state. So, we It's not just us. It's every district in the state. We need guidance. >> So, that's supposed to be forthcoming because he had a meeting tomorrow at at the Department of Education. He said he was going to get back to me on Monday. with hopefully some direction because
right now we don't know what um Commissioner Bathas is asking how far back does this go? How far are we required to try to examine these things? >> So I think it's I think we can wait on that guidance. Um but I think that this is an important issue for us to make
sure that we keep on our agenda for this year for us to address. >> Yes. And it's definitely um affecting us going forward for sure. >> Yeah, it will. >> Thank you, Mr. Kenny. Thank you, Madam President. Thank you. Um, also I I quickly spoke to our attorney. If the director come can come into private with
us and before we start our private, we'd like to speak to you about the contract so that then when we come back and as long as everyone's comfortable, we will vote to proceed on the approval for the job to be done at Jefferson. Uh, Mr. Kennedy, please add tap seven to
the agenda. Tab eight, miscellaneous communications. It is time for our student representative. >> Correct. Yes, it is. Good morning, board members, Superintendent Dr. Huga, and community
members. My name is Savannah Breo, and I am honored to serve as the student board representative for Admiral William F. Hollyy Jr. Health and Public Safety Academy. As a proud Hollyy student, I take great pride in representing a
school that prepares students not only for graduation, but for real careers, leadership, and meaningful futures. This year, Haly has experienced strong growth both academically and through our hands-on programs. Walking through our
hallways, you see students in uniforms representing MCGOTC and nursing serving as symbols of discipline, commitment, and career readiness. We have expanded our advanced placement course offerings, allowing students to earn college
credits while still in high school. In addition, ASVAB testing is provided at our school, giving students the opportunity to explore military and career pathways while receiving guidance and support as they plan their futures.
Our MCGOTC program was once again designated a naval honor school, marking the sixth time in seven years that we have earned this distinction. Our drill, rifle, and physical fitness teams have competed in five competitions this year,
earning multiple top three finishes, including first place overall in both armed and unarmed divisions. Cadets also serve our community by volunteering at events such as the Memorial Day parade and school board meetings. In addition,
our upperassman cadets, including seniors and juniors, visit the 9th grade annex to mentor and interact with incoming ROC freshmen. Through these visits, they help younger students better understand the program, share their experiences, and ease their
transition into both ROC and high school life. This mentorship reflects the broader mission of our ninth grade annex which is designed to build a strong academic and leadership foundation for incoming students as they
transition confidently into high school and gain early exposure to our career focused programs. Within our health occupations program, students pursue six pathways. EMT, hospital technician, unit
secretary, CNA, the Ruckless program, and our new home health aid certification. Our CNA program m proudly maintains a 99% pass rate. Students are preparing for clinical rotations at Trinitas
Regional Medical Center, competing in HOSA for future health professionals, and earning college credits through Ruckers University this spring. Beyond academics, Hoy continues to build a strong sense of school spirit and community through events and studentled
initiatives from team dress days to our winter eve celebration and community game night. These experiences create meaningful opportunities for students and families to connect. In December, our students versus staff basketball
game brought excitement and friendly competition to the school, strengthening our school spirit and creating lasting memories. That same collaborative energy extends to our greenhouse program where students are preparing for spring planting in anticipation of a February
plant sale featuring fruits, herbs, and vegetables grown by our own hands. Our afterchool music club is also partnering with the dance club to orchestrate a black history celebration at the end of the month featuring African dance and
live drumming to celebrate culture, unity, and student creativity. Fundraising efforts across all grade levels further reflect student involvement and responsibility. Seniors host chocolate and pretzel sales. Juniors organize Valentine's Day snack
sales. Sophomores coordinate plant sales and freshmen participate in restaurant fundraisers with Chipotle and Panera. These efforts directly support enriching experiences beyond the classroom. Snack sales proceeds helped fund a trip
to see the G the Great Gratsby allowing students to engage with literature in a live theatrical setting. Additional funds supported a visit to the grounds for sculpture where students explored art in a meaningful hands-on and
immersive environment. In summary, growth happens every day at our school in classrooms, nursing labs, competitions, performances, community events, and even in our greenhouse. From
freshman to seniors, students develop leadership, discipline, creativity, and real world skills that prepare us for life. I am proud to represent a school where opportunity is visible, achievement is measurable, and student
voice is valued. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to represent my school and my peers. That was beautiful, Savannah. Thank you. I think each and every one of us here tonight needed to hear words like that. Thank you. And I think your teachers uh
the smile from ear to ear in the back over there. Thank you. Thank you. Okay. Next, we're going to roll out our committee reports. I want to thank all of the board members for taking time and
for covering for each other. We haven't missed a beat and it is year it is month two. Uh our first report is is from um special education committee. Diane Barbosa.
Good evening. So we had a special education committee uh meeting on February 5th, 2026. Um, we had all the attendees present. The committee discussed the recent parent workshop offered at the ECPAC
meeting, noting a record attendance of 63 participants, which reflects positive community engagement. The community emphasized the importance of collaboration and shared experiences among community members while also planning the upcoming events, including
resource fair March 14 at the Dun Sports Center. Please let everybody know, anybody that needs extra help, everyone will be there. Walk around, talk, walk, ask questions. And the rescheduling of the Special Olympics bowling event. The
committee expressed an interest in obtaining further feedback from the ECPAC and a special invitation for them to come and attend the April board meeting. Further discussions include updates in district special needs student enrollment leading to a
reassessment of the classroom needs and budget discussions. Lastly, the committee reviewed the special service newsletter that comes out every month and the web page and found it to be easily accessible and very informative. The committee suggested that future newsletters be also incorporated into
our community updates um by our superintendent. Thank you. Thank you, Commissioner. Our next uh committee is educational management. >> Thank you, Madam President. The Education Management Committee reported
met on February 9th, 2026 at 4 p.m. The committee reviewed chronic absenteeism data, state calculation changes, corrective action plan requirements, and a proposed technology department's reorganization. The committee examined the state's updated chronic absenteeism
definition, including a 90-day enrollment threshold established in 2425 and removal of the year-end active student requirement and examples of per student and per school calculations using the 10% 18 days threshold for a
180day year. District chronic absenteeism improved from 15.8% 8% to 14.3% year-over-year with several schools reaching s singledigit data rates. Schools above
10% must submit caps and use parent surveys to identify barriers. Panorama survey data and student clustering were described as tools for targeted tier 2 and tier three interventions. Examples of interventions include incentives such
as positive behavior support in schools. The committee reviewed an elementary school plan and a high school PL plan in detail showing a subgroup trends notably a decline for black students and root causes such as medical, family, and
transportation and engagement issues. The committee then considered an IT reorganization creating two coordinator roles, network cyber security and IT infrastructure and computer operations and applications reviewing job descriptions, supervisory scope and core
responsibilities to separate cyber security and application functions. Members agreed to present the reorganization and job descriptions to the board. Lastly, the committee also requested attendance data for the district and reviewed preliminary work on a student cell phone policy. That
concluded our meeting. >> Thank you, >> Madam President. >> Yes, sir. >> A question for Madam Superintendent. Um the 15.8% 8% to 14.3% decrease in chronic ab absenteeism
year-over-year. Is that um for the 23 24 to 2425 school year or is that over a range? >> No, that is correct. That is a year-over-year comparison as reported by the New Jersey Department of Education
2324 versus the 2425. we will have our um chronic absenteeism rate by the end of July of this of this year, July of 26 representing the 2526 school year. >> So, um I don't recall what the previous
year to year um but I think it was very small compared to the jump that we're seeing now of 1.5%. So that shows that we're actually making progress in in tackling our chronic abetism which we know is a very
important tool in trying to effectuate positive outcomes for all of our students. Um my last did you want to go ahead? >> I just wanted to honor exactly what you said uh Mr. Jacobs with regard to the significant change um in one year's
course time and I want to honor our principles and our vice principles for their hard work and effort in all of our teachers. Um our our schools each have a plan. They adhere to the plan. They are very data driven. They are con in constant communication with students
with their parents to ensure that parents understand the importance of being in school. and we are grateful that the uh data reflects those efforts, that hard work and dedication. >> Yes, that that's exactly my point. Thank you, madam superintendent, because as
stated previously, this is one of our board's goals um which is chronic absenteeism as long as one of the superintendent's goals um because we know the importance of that. Uh my last question I I assume um the statement lastly the committee also requested
attendance data for the district. Uh refers maybe to my question last month on seeing the January um absenteeism rate for the previous years. >> Yes, absolutely. We will have that uploaded. >> Oh, and I'm sorry, one more thing. Um
will this information be put up on the board cloud for the other members to review as well? >> Absolutely. Uh, so all of the plans have been currently updated, I'm sorry, uploaded to our education management committee folder with access to the
entire board. So it's not just limited to our board members. Um, it is on the uh team's folder and I have worked very closely with our IT department to ensure that uh the accessibility issue is not not a problem.
>> So in the past, Mr. She used to send out an email >> ah >> um when I think there was a upload. I don't know if that's still the same procedure going forward, but that alerts the board members that there's new data in those files. >> Oh, thank you for sharing that. I'll
follow up with Mr. Shehy on that. Thank you. >> Thank you, Madam Superintendent. >> Thank you. >> Um Madame President, >> yes. If it can also be noted that I was in attendance for this meeting. >> I was as well. Please.
>> I'd like to thank both Miss Batalas and also Miss Clairvoyant Noel. I am apologize for the oversight and I I'm literally crafting an email to Mr. Kennedy with that revision that has just been made. Thank you. >> Thank you.
>> And you were very involved in fact in that committee. It was probably the longest uh committee that we had. great conversation on a variety of topics. >> Thank you, professor. >> So, I do apologize for that. >> Thank you. If if there's no other questions, uh finance and accounting
committee >> revised. >> Thank you, Madam President. The finance and accounting committee met on February 11th. The committee reviewed new new energy and analysis of the district energy program with Miss Ellis presenting services, historical
budgeting, consumption trends, supplier hedging actions, and energy track invoice data capture. She summarized new energ scope, annual energy budgeting, commodity procurement for electricity and gas, demand response participation
and revenue curtailment and invoice auditing and reported a cumulative net under spend of approximately $5.5 million from 2018 to present attributing results to active monitoring hedging and market interventions.
The discussion focused on new engine's hedging philosophy and contract structures, block and index timing during shoulder months, drivers of a market consumption decline since 2018 as a result of ESIP projects, equipment changes, building automation scheduling,
CO related occupancy shifts and operational demand response logistics including automation to shed HVAC loads, the district's demand response history, participation since 2012 and growth to about 20 schools. Finally, the committee
discussed current supply position with gas fixed through September 27 and the electricity block through April 2026. On a side note, I'd like to thank all of my colleagues um on the finance committee um commissioner who's on finance for me
commissioner Stephanie, I'm sorry, Commissioner Mastana along with Commissioner um Noel. Uh I think this was a very important meeting for us to um attend as we have noticed the rising electricity and gas cost um gas costs
throughout our country. Um and the fact that this board uh took a proactive approach along under the guidance of Mr. Kennedy and the business office along with uh Dr. Hugo Meyer to take a proactive approach in in in engaging um
an energy consultant to make sure that our energy cost which approximately is about $43 million of our budget right it's a big number um to make sure that we were in line and I think that this board is starting to see um the success
of managing our energy costs at this level along with the implementation of our ESIP our $75 million ESIP program back 1975 along with the other EIP uh projects that were done back in 2012 2012 as well. Um that we are trying to
be um prudent financial stewards of the district finances to ensure that as many dollars can be allocated back to the classroom and back to our students is happening. Mr. Kennedy also uh mentioned the fact that during this meeting that many of others are surrounding districts
do not employ >> do not they're they're tied to the utilities um electric and gas rates as opposed to going out to the market and getting the best deal we can get. >> Yes. And thank you, Mr. Kennedy. And um
due to our participation with this um with this contractor, we're able to hedge our bets, our electricity buys to the fact that we're not experiencing the deep uh in the dramatic increases and um that have been uh plaguing the market in
these last couple of years. So once again, I'd like to thank Noren for coming in. We're looking forward to also them coming back uh for some follow-up questions that we have. And I'd like to thank also my colleagues on the uh finance committee meeting as well. Thank you, Madam President.
>> Thank you, Commissioner Jacobs, and thank you for all the work that you have done and continue to do on your committee. And our last report uh will be from plant and property, and that is uh Commissioner Chevres. >> Thank you, Madame President. The
committee met on February 17. Um the committee review the focus area from last year and disc discussed the goals for the current year. The focus are including oversight of the long ranch facility plan and budget overseeing gr
groundbreaking of the new facility exploding beautifification project reviewing assisting partnership with the county and the city to create a sustainability plan and exploiting grants opportunity to funding a special project. The comm the committee reviewed the district snow management plan and
debrief the outcome of the recent snowstorm. The committee requested to review custodial responsibility during the snow storm and request was made for contractual language. The committee reviewed the current status of all construction project and current vacancy
in the department. The committee requested a breakdown of custodia substitute appointment by year. That's conclude our committee report. Thank you. >> Thank you. Um do we have a date for um
>> for school for Mr. Kennedy >> during >> during the committee we re we that was the main question actually in the discuss. >> We know it's starting next month. We >> so look forward to that. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. But
it's 20 28 is when they're September 28. Correct, Olga? >> Patience is a virtue. >> Yes, >> indeed. >> All right, that's it. That's the roll out. At this time, the president requests a motion to go into private
session. >> Oh, one more. >> A motion to go to private section. >> I'm sorry. Please wait. Um, tab 10. >> Tab nine. We didn't Okay, Miss No, we did tab nine. >> No,
>> tab nine. >> Yeah. >> Claims list. >> Are there any questions from the board on tab nine? Hearing none. Mr. Kennedy, please place tab nine on the agenda. Tab 10
through tab 10m resolutions. >> Madame President. >> Yes, commissioner. >> 10. Um, it says revised, but it doesn't say whether the banks taken off, whether, you know, added. It doesn't I don't I can't differentiate what was
added or deleted. >> The last two, there was a name change. As you can see, it's hard to see. They were highlighted, but it's the last two. >> Oh, I see it now. You can tell. >> Oh, I see it. >> So, in tab 10, we have a resolution to
designation of depositories for school funds. Tab 10 A is approving a contract with Honeywell International for certain equipment and services at various buildings. 10B resolution transfer of capital
reserves. 10 C transfer of maintenance reserve funds. Tab uh I'm sorry, resolution tab 10 is youth art month. 10E is National Nutrition Month.
10 F is National School Breakfast Week. 10G is National School Social Worker Week. 10H is Read Across America. You guys ready? Here we go. 10 I St. Joseph's Day. 10 J St.
Patrick's Day. 10K Women Women's History Month. 10 L payment for unsecured sick days. 10M payment from unused vacation days. Are there any questions, concerns
on tab 10 through 10M? Hearing none, Mr. Kennedy, please place them on the agenda. >> And here we >> before we go to private. >> Yes. um before you on your on the dasis a um
page with the code of ethics and every year the board has to confirm in accordance with department of education regulations their adherence to the code of ethics. So, if I could, I'd like to read the code of ethics. And then on the second page, we're asking each board
member to sign and date the um their acknowledgement that they're um adhering to the code of ethics. Members of the board of education recognize that they hold authority not as individuals, but as members of the board. In order to make a clear public
statement of its philosophy of service to the students of the district, the board adopts this code of ethics. A I will uphold and enforce all laws, state board rules and regulations and court orders pertaining to schools. Desired changes should be brought about only
through legal and ethical procedures. B. I will make decisions in terms of the educational welfare of children and will seek to develop and maintain public schools which meet the individual needs of all children regardless of their ability, race, creed, sex or social
standing. C. I will confide my board action to policym, planning and appraisal and I will help to frame policies and plans only after the board has consulted those who will be affected by them. D. I will I will behave toward my fellow board members with respect due
to their office demonstrating courtesy to corman fair play at all public meetings and in all public statements. E. I will refrain from inappropriate conduct in public meetings and making public statements, refraining from any disparagement of my fellow board members
or others on a personal, social, racial, or religious basis. F. I will carry out my responsibility not to administer the schools, but together with my fellow board members to see that they are wellrun. G. I will recognize that authority rests with the
board of education. Will make no personal promises nor take any private action which may compromise the board. H I will refuse to surrender my independent judgment to special interest or partisan political groups or to use the schools for personal gain or for the
gain of friends. I I will hold confidential all matters pertain to the schools which if disclosed would needlessly injure individuals or the schools. But in all other matters, I will provide accurate information and in concert with my fellow board members,
interpret to the staff the aspirations of the community for its schools. J. I will vote to appoint the best qualified personnel available after consideration of the recommendation of the chief school administrator. K. I will support and protect school
personnel and proper performance of their duties. and L. I will refer all complaints to the chief school administrator and will act on such complaints at public meetings only after failure of an administrative solution. Thank you. And if you could all confirm
your understanding of the code of ethics by signing it. Thank you, Mr. Kennedy. Does anyone have any questions? Okay. If you could just sign it and leave it on the day, it'll be collected before we leave tonight.
>> Mr. Kennedy, can I get a copy of this too, please? >> After you sign. Sure. >> Thank you. >> I'll I'll I'll copy them all tomorrow and >> get them to everybody. >> Thank you, Mr. Kennedy. At this time, the president requests a motion to go into private.
>> Motion to go to private. >> I second that motion. I would like to um amend the >> there is some other you have to say what we're going in for. >> Yes. The president requests a motion to go into private session to consider matters
exempt under the open public meeting act specifically for discussion of personnel matters specifically reorganization revised job descriptions legal matters specifically settlement agreements MS workman's compensation VL through K
award of contracts the board will reconvene in public and may take formal action. May I have a motion and a second? >> Madame President, >> yes. >> I would like to amend the private agenda um agenda to add the items that were discussed during private uh during
public session to discuss them in private session. >> Thank you, >> Mr. Kennedy. May I have a motion? >> I made an amendment, so it needs to be um >> Yes. >> voted on. May I have a motion?
>> Make a motion to approve the amended >> to add the amendments. >> We We're just adding and now we can just vote to go into private. >> Yes. >> Thank you. >> I have a motion. May I have a second?
>> I second that motion. Roll call, please. >> Barbosa, >> yes. >> Bathless, >> yes. >> Chevres, >> yes. >> Clairvoyant Noel, >> yes. Yes. >> Jacobs. >> Marino Ortega. >> Yes. >> Pastana.
>> Yes. >> Rivera. >> Yes. >> Carvalo. >> Yes. >> We are in private. >> Good evening. This is Dr. Olga Huger and I will be presenting our Elizabeth Public Schools announcements for this month.
I'd like to begin with an announcement regarding our early childhood lottery registration that just opened yesterday, February 18th, and will run through March 19th. Also, I'd like to announce that we have our gifted and talented program
application that opens on February 25th and will run through April 10th. We have a gifted and talented information session that is scheduled for February 25th at school number 22 and that will take place at 5:30 in the evening.
We also would like to announce that we have our high school selection uh information sessions that will be announced very shortly. This will be an opportunity for our families or parents of our eighth grade students to be able to uh participate in the information
sessions at the various high schoolmies and make the decisions together with their children with regard to where they will attend the following school year. So this information will be made available very soon. Next we have our district financial aid
nights uh that have been ongoing. We have a few sessions that are coming up. In fact, this evening um we have a session and next March 5th, March 24th, April 21st, and May 12th at the John
Dwire Technology Academy. Uh these information sessions are critical. It's an opportunity for our students and their parents to learn about financial aid, to be able to learn about available scholarships. Uh presentations will be made available in both English and in
Spanish. And as a reminder, we would like our students to bring their laptops to these sessions. It'll afford our guidance counselors the opportunity to work closely with um our students in preparation for their applications to colleges.
And next we present our insight uh inside EPS our news from central. We'd like to begin with our Hamilton senior that received a full scholarship through QuestBridge. Alexander Hamilton Preparatory Academy
senior Yusra Lawal was awarded a full scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania through the 2025 QuestBridge National College Match. And this is a national program that connects high achieving high school seniors from lowincome backgrounds with full
four-year scholarships to 55 of the nation's top colleges. A special congratulations to our Hamilton Preparatory Academy senior And next we would like to share that the Elizabeth public schools partnered with Montlair State University for friends
day and this initiative has been in place for over 10 years where uh Montlair University has hosted over 100 students with disabilities. Uh students from the various school districts such as ours are invited to participate in a
stu by the studentled organization that sponsors this amazing opportunity uh through the department of campus recreation. A fun-filled day of activities for students involving games, arts and crafts, swimming, basketball,
dancing. And what is wonderful uh is that each child is paired with two college students that accompany the student throughout the course of the day. Wonderful um opportunity to have uh participated in the witnessed for yet for another year. The great opportunity
offered to our students. Next, we would like to showcase the Elizabeth public schools having participated in the King Wreath laying ceremony at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. monument outside of our Elizabeth City Hall. The committee with the support of the Elizabeth Public Schools
held a wreath laying ceremony on January 15th at the Dr. Martin Luther King monument in front of our city hall. In attendance was our mayor, Mayor Bowwitch, our Elizabeth Board of Education President, Maria Carvalo, our Elizabeth
Public Schools director of curriculum and instruction, Sami, the Mount Teman Church, Reverend George Britt, and of course our Union County Commissioner, Stanley Nuron, who provided remarks at the ceremony.
Next we have our Curel or Hamilton Dwire JBJMIES that make the 2025 AP honor role. Students from these high schoolmies were among New Jersey schools to earn a place on the College Board 2025 AP school
honor role. The AP honor role recognizes schools at the bronze, silver, gold, and platinum tiers for meeting or exceeding criteria. And that criteria includes college culture, college credit, college optimization. Uh so very proud of our
high schoolmies having received this important designation. Congratulations to all of the hard work of our administrators, our teachers, and most importantly our students. Hamilton students received the web Dubois uh scholarship award. Uh one of
our Alexander Hamilton Preparatory Academy students uh Steven Blair was the the recipient of this prestigious award, an exceptional honor that recognizes his academic achievement, his motivation and his future potential.
The DU web Dubois Scholars Institute program through the ALA initiative was created to expose students to STEM at an early age by providing high achieving 10th and 11th grade students with a supportive science-driven academic and professional network. The intent is to
promote diversity and inclusion in the STEM fields. And the program offers students new and exciting opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while preparing them to become the next generation of innovators.
We'd like to be able to celebrate our National School Counseling Week. uh our Elizabeth public schools joined districts from throughout the country in celebrating the national school counseling week which helped um our district focus on public attention on
the unique contribution of our counselors within school systems. This is sponsored by the American School Counselor Association and it highlights the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping our students achieve school success and plan for a career.
This year the theme was school counselors amplify student success and we'd like to be able to thank all of our counselors and be able to showcase them to our community. So we have Cassandra Carelli a school
counselor from George Washington Academy school number one and Fabi Ramos school counselor from Nicholas S. L Court Peterstown School number three Annex. Next we have Andrea Juka, our school counselor from Joseph Batton School number four and Christopher Batty, our
school counselor from I Prep Academy School number eight. We are honoring Cindy Lickenstein, our school counselor from Christopher Columbus school number 15 Addex and Malaysia Pierre Louise, school counselor from Nicholas Murray Butler school
number 23, Jasmine Lee Barnes, our school counselor from Chessie Dentley Roberts Academy School number 30, and Sophia Howell together with Jill Aller, both counselors from J. Christian Bulwage Finance Academy.
Tamara Guusman, school counselor for John E. Dwire Technology Academy and Monica Sarento, school counselor for the John E. Dwire Technology Academy as well. Kina Johnson, our school counselor for Elizabeth High School, Frank J. Curell
Academy. And next, we would like to honor the Elizabeth Midman boys basketball coach, Philip Kio, for having earned his 600 career win. Uh we're celebrating his victory over Chester High School and the Battle by the Bay in Atlantic City. On
February 7th, uh we presented uh Coach Kikio with a board resolution honoring the milestone achievement. And in attendance were board members Jerry Jacob and Stephanie Clairvoyant Noel, myself and our school business administrator uh Mr. Harold Kennedy as
well as our athletic director Mr. Ben Candalino. It was a wonderful evening where our basketball team uh was in attendance and as well as our cheerleaders uh as we celebrated on February 11th at the Thomas G. Dunn
Sports Center. Once again, Coach Kio, my sincere congratulations. And next, we were recently made aware that the Elizabeth freshman boys basketball had were undefeated and our Union County champions.
This team that's led by head coach uh Neil Pasqual completed a preseason and captured the Union County tournament champion with a 58- 48 win over New Providence. Our congratulations to the team.
Next, we would like to highlight our Admiral William F. Pauly Health and Public Safety Academy senior Isabel Silva Rebello who had selected as a candidate for the US Presidential Scholar in Career and Technical
Education by the US Department of Education. The US Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by executive order of the president to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was
extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and
technical education fields. Each year, up to 161 students are named as presidential scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students. Only 20 of the 61 presidential scholars selected each year are from the
career and technical education category. Rebella was among 141 overall students and five in the category of career and technical who were selected as candidates from the state of New Jersey. We're incredibly proud of our Hollyy
Academy senior Isabelle Rebello. Congratulations again. Elizabeth High School Frank J. Cicerella Academy class of 2022 graduate Luciana Martinez has been nominated for the television academy foundation's 45th
college television awards for 44 years. The college television awards have been rec has recognized excellence in student production. Martine is now a senior at Monontlair State University. Received a nomination in the news category for her work as a
director and producer on the 30 minute special focus our mental health. In addition to showcasing student production, the college television awards are an entry point for career in television and media. and college television award nominees become part of
the television academy foundation's alumni family and they have the opportunity to participate in yearround networking opportunities. Winners will be announced during a red carpet awards ceremony on March 28th at the television academy in North Hollywood California.
So congratulations to our former graduate from Elizabeth High School, Luciana Martinez. And this concludes our announcements for uh this month for February. And it's been an honor to be able to present this
to our community. Once again, Superintendent um Olga Hugo Meyer, thank you very much. And we will see you next month. >> I have >> You have everything. Go ahead. Uh first is a revised job description for
warehouse labor settlement agreement MS workers comp settlement VL-K um a resolution for reorganization um and table of organization
for the technology department and a change in job title to school counselor. >> Thank you. At this time, superintendent. >> Thank you, Madam President. I have the HIB report for this month. Pursuant to
board policy 5131.1, harassment, intimidation, and bullying in New Jersey statute 18A37, the results of each investigation shall be reported to the board of education no later than the date of the next board meeting following completion of the investigation, and include any services provided, training established,
discipline imposed, or other actions taken or recommended by the chief school administrator. Since our last board of education meeting on January 22nd and through February 12th, our school counselor, schoolbased social workers, and supervisor of anti-bullying have completed 53 HIV investigations. Of these investigations, 20 cases were
founded for HIV as per New Jersey law. There were 33 males, 30 females, 50 regular education students, and 13 special education students that were the alleged victims. There were 54 males, 25 females, 58 regular education students, 18 special education students, and three
non- studentents that were the alleged offenders. Of the 20 cases founded for HIV, nine cases were founded based on race, national origin, one case was founded based on sexual orientation, one case were founded based on gender, one case was founded based on gender
identity and expression, and 14 cases were founded based on other identifying characteristics. of the services provided and actions taken for these investigations. There were 16 skill development lessons and trainings, 45 counseling sessions, five behavioral interventions, 10 referrals for
outpatient mental health treatment, five changes of classroom, two changes of school placement, five administrative counseling sessions, 13 in school detentions, 35 conferences, two referrals to outside agencies, one professional development training, 21
out of school suspensions, and 11 cases are continuing to be monitored. The HIV statute further requires at the 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 46 cases that were reported to you at last board meeting on January 22nd. 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. And this
completes this month's report. I also would like to mention that the community updates um were supposed to be shared earlier this evening with our community. So we are going to be posting the community updates in order to update our families on critical information regarding early childhood registration
and also the gifted and talented uh parent sessions that will uh be held on February 25th. So very important dates that we would like our community to be um informed of. Thank you so much. Thank you, Madam Superintendent.
Um, at this time, do any of the board members have any uh questions or comments on the agenda? Everything that we spoke about in private has been added. This time, I
request a motion to pass the agenda of January 19th, 2026 in its entirety. May I have a motion? A motion to pass the entire agend agenda in its entirety. >> I second that motion
>> has been properly moved. Mr. Kennedy, roll call, please. >> Barbos, >> yes. With the exception of uh page no, pardon. Uh, contract report
seven, page two. >> Thank you. Chevresz, >> yes. >> Clairvoyant Noel, >> yes. >> Jacobs, >> yes. >> Marina Ortega,
>> yes. >> Pastana, >> yes. >> Rivera, >> yes. >> And Carvalo, >> yes. With an abstension, tab 4A. So with that vote, the agenda plus the addition. Mr.
>> Kennedy, I'm sorry. Can I abstain as well in on page four? >> 4 A >> four. Um, yes. Tab seven, page two and page four. >> Page two and page four. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Yes. So, um, the full agenda plus the
additional items from private has passed. >> Thank you, Mr. Kennedy. At this time, um, do any of the board members have any comments? >> Madame President. >> Yes, Commissioner. >> Uh, once again, I would like to thank,
um, Madam Dr. Hugo, her staff, assistant superintendent, um, Dr. Wansaw, the the students, staff, and teachers here at school 21 for a wonderful Black History show. This was another banger for the books. And
once again, I'd like to close out with my trademark phrase. Black history is American history. Can everybody say that with me? >> Yes, sir. Black history is American history. >> Black history is American history. >> Thank you so much. >> History is American history. >> Thank you. Any other commissioners?
Hearing none. I just want to thank school 21 for hosting. Um this was uh definitely an amazing show. All the schools that came out to support today. I want to thank all of the parents who came to see the children today. I also want to thank all of the public speakers
who came out today. It is not easy to come here and uh bring your concerns to us. Please rest assure that everything that you you say to us, we do not uh take lightly and we do uh discuss it and that we are here to serve the children
of the city of Elizabeth and we do our best to make sure that they receive the best education possible. So with that said, may I have a motion to close today's meeting? >> I motion to close tonight's meeting. >> I second it.
>> Properly moved. Mr. Kennedy, roll call, please. >> Barbosa, >> yes. Good night, everyone. >> Chevz, >> yes. Good night, everyone. >> Clairvoyant Noel, >> yes. >> Jacobs, >> yes. Good night. >> Marina Ortega, >> yes. Good night. >> Gaba Pastana,
>> yes. >> Rivera, >> yes. >> Carvalo, >> yes. Good night everyone.