Good job. Thank you. Okay. >> Hello. Good morning. >> Okay. Good evening. Okay. Mrs. Mrs. Balomo >> here. >> Mrs. Guerrero >> here. >> Mrs. Gandhi, Mr. Hyatt
>> here, >> Mrs. Jenowski >> here, >> Mr. Lansonski >> here. >> Dr. Msquitz >> here. >> Mr. Smith >> here. >> And Mr. Cohen >> here. >> Thank you. >> Good evening everyone and welcome. Uh, just draw your attention to a few items
in our agenda before we get started. This meeting is being held pursuant to Sunshine Law. That meeting is held in accordance with our open public meetings act. Statement on videotaping um please note that all public portions of our board meetings um are videotaped and available for public viewing on our website. Public comments there will be
two today. One in the first half of the meeting, one in the second half of the meeting and this is pursuant to policy of the board 0164 and 0167. And the are this is occurring on school grounds and the school has a policy as well as the district has a policy of no smoking or vaping on school grounds.
Please that also includes outside as well as inside. So thank you everyone. Uh we are going to begin with the pledge of allegiance. I understand we have some students here from Dugan who are going to walk us or take us through today's pledge of allegiance. So everyone please rise. 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. >> Thank you. And thank you to our students who are here tonight.
I'm going to begin with um taking uh an opportunity for a moment of silence to um recognize and honor a former Marorrow Township public school employee uh Dar Sherry. Um it's with great sadness that we recognize the
passing of a valued member of our school community, Dar Sherry. Miss Sherry began her service in 1980 as a school bus driver. From there, Miss Sherry moved to be on to become the secretary of the principal at Marorrow Middle School. And then in 2002, she continued in that role
at the newly opened Marorrow Middle School. Her many years of dedication, kindness, and service touched the countless touched countless lives. She will be deeply missed. We extend our sincere condolences as a district, as in a board, and and as members of our
community uh to her family and her loved ones. So, let's just um take a moment of silence, please. Thank you all. Moving on to our first item on the agenda, uh Mr. Balone, student impact. Thank you. Good evening, everyone. At
this time, I'd like to call up uh Mr. Paggleo for uh the student impact uh and recognition for the Frank J. Dugan Elementary School students. Mr. Paggler, if you wouldn't mind sharing a little background with us. Good evening. Good evening, Mr. Balone,
Mr. Cohen, board of education members, fellow district administrators, colleagues, and Marorrow community members both in attendance here and watching live on YouTube. We are grateful for the invitation to tonight's meeting showcasing our hardworking students and staff members
who make such a difference. I am accompanied by Dugan's vice principal, Mr. Justin Lavoy, by three remarkable special educators, Miss Curyah, Miss Lafina, and Mr. Gerrio. And by two of the best speech language pathologists
that this district has, Mrs. Sisleman and Miss Portello. And as I look out into the seats here tonight, I also would like to recognize those from our supporting cast who are here for our students presenting to you this evening. I have our CST members, Mrs. Diaz and Mrs. Rogers, and some of
our instructional assistants, Mrs. Rodriguez, Mrs. Lo Piccolo, Miss Pariswati, and Mrs. Herman's. Thank you for being here. I'm honored to introduce to you an incredible group of students who represent a cross-section of our third,
fourth, and fifth grade LLD program who with the support of director Mary Elizabeth Sturio I know is here. Thank you for your support and our supervisor Alli Mortar and the special services department, these students have been able to grow, flourish, and thrive as
part of our school community. So, at this time, I'd like to bring up our students and our staff members for tonight's presentation. Okay. Good evening and thank you for the opportunity to speak tonight. This year we implemented a monthly social skills group for our upper grade LLD students
to provide structured opportunities to develop communication, collaboration, and social emotional skills in a supportive and engaging environment. Within our LLD program, we consistently observed that many of our students
needed additional support with expressing their thoughts, understanding others, and interacting effectively with their peers. Students with language-based learning disabilities often struggle with expressive language, perspective taking,
social confidence, and problem solving within peer interactions. While these skills are supported throughout our school day, we recognize the need for a more structured, intentional setting where students could explicitly learn and practice these
skills. We also saw that many students tended to remain within their own classroom groups, limiting opportunities to interact with a wider range of peers. This program was designed to
intentionally bring students together across grade levels, providing them with meaningful opportunities to build relationships, practice communication, and develop confidence in social situations.
Each month, students participate in a themed social skills session that includes a brief mentor text connected to a social emotional theme, a structured hands-on group activity, opportunities for discussion and
reflection, and a simple shared snack. Students are placed in mixed groups across grades three, four, and five, allowing them to build relationships beyond their own classrooms. At this time, we'd love for you to hear directly from some of our students.
In social skills group, we work with different classmates and learn how to be a good teammate. During these sessions, students are actively developing communication and conversation skills, active listening,
turn taking, problem solving, conflict resolution, positive peer language, emotional awareness, and leadership skills. We are not just expecting students to figure it out. We are teaching them and giving them
opportunities to practice. As part of our students speech and language development, social skills are explicitly taught and modeled during small groupoup speech sessions. Students practice skills such as turn taking, perspective taking, and appropriate conversational responses through
structured activities and guided support. These monthly social skills groups then provide an opportunity for students to generalize and apply those skills in a larger, more natural setting with peers and continued support from staff.
>> I learn I learn how to listen to others and share my ideas when we work in groups. I learned how to use kind words and take turns when I talk.
We have already seen a meaningful impact on our students. We've noticed increased interaction across grade levels, students initiating positive conversations and compliments, improved participation in group settings, a greater willingness to take
social risks, and increased confidence when expressing their ideas. Most importantly, students look forward to these sessions and feel a sense of belonging within the group. I feel more confident socializing and
working with my classmates now. >> I like I like working with new people and I feel included in our groups. >> Good evening and thank you for having us. As part of the LLD team, I've had the opportunity to see firsthand how valuable this monthly social skills
group has been for our students. These sessions provide structured opportunities for students to practice interacting with peers in a supportive and guided setting. We see students working together, communicating, and engaging in ways that may not come as naturally in less structured
environments. The activities allow them to practice essential skills such as turn taking, problem solving, and expressing themselves appropriately with peers. One of the most impactful aspects has been the level of engagement. Students genuinely look forward to these
sessions and are motivated to participate, which helps build confidence and encourages them to take positive social risks. We have also seen students begin to carry these skills back into the classroom through improved peer interactions and increased participation.
Overall, this program supports the whole child not only academically but socially and emotionally as well. Thank you. >> Self group help us to be kind, work together, and be better friends.
So, as we look ahead, we're excited to continue growing this program. We hope to expand opportunities to include our younger grade levels, continue building a sense of community across our LLD program, and incorporate additional life
skills such as collaboration and realworld tasks. I really love our social skills group because I get to be with my friends and teachers who care about me. I've made a lot of new friends, especially from
other classes, and I enjoy working with them. So, in closing, we wanted to point out that Dugan's social skills program also aligns closely with the board of education's goal for supporting the whole child, strengthening social
emotional learning, and fostering positive and inclusive school community. By providing students with structured opportunities to build communication, collaboration, problem solving, we are helping them develop the tools they need to be successful both inside and outside
of the classroom. Our goal is to ensure that the students feel confident, connected, and successful academically, but also socially and emotionally as well. When students feel seen, valued, and connected, their academic confidence
grows alongside their social confidence. Thank you again for your time and for allowing us to share this work with you here tonight. And at this time, we have a brief video highlighting the social skills groups Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat.
Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. N. Mr. Pagleero, um to you and your team, thank you. Thank you for um for sharing. Thank you for educating us on the importance of this program. If a picture
tells us a thousand words, just watching that video, seeing the smile on all these kids' faces, how they're engaged and how they're involved, you can tell, you can see the value of the program and listening to their words tonight. So, thank you so much for sharing that. It really meant a lot to me and I'm sure it
meant a lot to the board members here. >> At this time, we'd like to call you guys up for your certificates. First, we have Noah. Congratulations, >> Julian. Bri, Briana, Leo,
Ronan, Shridan, Pares. Ash, Sienna, Esther, and Riley. ready for our work on display. >> Y >> thank you again. >> Uh Mr. Balone, artwork on display.
>> Thank you. The artwork on display that was uh projected before the board meetings was uh before the board meeting was provided by students at Asher Homes um in third and fourth grade. And um a writeup is in the agenda for you to read if you'd like. >> Moving on to staff kindness
certificates, >> please. >> Um so for those of you in the audience who are unaware, um every regular board meeting uh each month we recognize staff members who go above and beyond Um and
this year being that uh the board has uh agreed to use kindness as our theme. We call them kindness certificates. Um these this recognition can come from anyone. It could come from uh a parent. It can come from a student. It can come from a colleague. Really just about
anyone in our school district who is employed here who goes above and beyond, goes that extra mile. We know all of our staff members do at some given point in time. Um, but in particular they are each month they are recognized uh in
special ways and and I have to tell you every month it seems like we have a lot of staff members doing this. So that just is a testament to the hard work that all of our staff members do throughout the year. Um so the way this will work is um I will read by school.
The first one actually is it traverses two schools so bear with me. Um, and then the staff member when your name is called, you can come up here and uh you can stand and wait here and be embarrassed for us and while embarrassed for yourself while while I read about you. Um, and then also offer some time
for pictures. So don't just come up and get your award and run back to your seat. Wait up here. We need someone to document it. Someone in your school or one of your colleagues. Um, so bear with us. So, the first one, um, at the March
24th, 2026 board meeting, we had a student come up and speak at public comment. Um, and this student recognized teachers uh from two schools. So, from one teacher from uh the child's elementary school and now that the
student is in middle school, a teacher from the middle school. So, we'll bring both of them up at the same time even though they're from two different schools. Um, so from Frank Defino Central Elementary School, Mr. David Hatter coming up, please.
Thank you, David, for waiting there. And um, from this school, Marbor Memorial Middle School, Mrs. Christine Bodzford. So as I mentioned in uh a student recognized two extraordinary teachers who made a significant impact on her
life academically and personally. She first recognized Mr. Hatter from Defino Elementary School as the best fifth grade teacher that any student could ask for. He always helped her when she needed help with math or didn't do well on a test. He turned her learning of
math around which was dramatically improved her math performance in sixth grade. He took the time to be sure she was able to get the extra help needed. He turned her fear of math into loving it. Thank you, Mr. Hatter, for making a
change in this child's life. And now on to Mrs. Bodsford. Mrs. Christine Bodzford from Memorial has helped the student in her writing and understanding what she is reading. As a result, she is writing today significantly better than she has ever written before. Mrs. Bodford's Miss Mrs.
Bodsford always helps her students try their best and for that this student is grateful. She always teaches us in fun ways. Thank you, Mrs. Bodsford. Thank you both. Our next kindness certificate goes to
Mr. Evan Young from Frank J. Dugan Elementary School. Mr. Young, this was an email from an MTPS family. Mr. Evan Young, the fantastic band teacher at Dugan, works so well with all the band students and does whatever he can to help them succeed with the
instrument that they play. Mr. Young recently supported our child's participation in the PTO talent show by adapting and rewriting the sheet music for her chosen song to suit the obo. Mr. Young's tremendous work and help in doing this made our daughter's talent show performance a success. We cannot
thank him enough for what he did. Congratulations, Mr. Young. Thank you, Mr. Young. We had an email come in from a parent praising Mrs. Julianne J from Marorrow Middle School. Come on up, Mrs. Jay.
Julianne Jay puts on such a wonderful performance every time. It brings tears to my eyes. She is always smiling and gives off such a positive energy to the students. She is able to manage so many teenagers which is not an easy task.
You can see how much the corral group loves her and respects her. She is full of grace and elegance and she portrays it to the students well. Mrs. Jay is a true asset to Marorrow Middle School. Congratulations, Mrs. Jay.
>> And Mr. Blown, >> they are also going to Hershey this week, which they have been um stellar competitors coming in with many first place awards in the past, and I know they're going to do the same this year.
>> No pressure. Okay, next up, uh, we have multiple teachers from Robertsville Elementary School. And this is an email that came in from their principal, Mr. Geratano. Um, Mrs. Kristen Anelowitz, Kimberly Georgees, Jamie Jones, and Chrissy
Tongring. Come on up. What a great story story when I read this one. Uh, Robertsville planned an initiative to support kids who are fighting cancer and their families at Memorial Sloan Ketering in New York City. Mrs.
Tongring, Mrs. Anelowitz, and Mrs. Jones researched and discovered that every Friday night is movie night at Memorial Sloan Ketering. A time for families of patients and the patients themselves to have a sense of normaly and connect over
a movie. These four dedicated staff members worked collaboratively with msk and determined that a special part of movie nights includes enjoying treats. So, our school community donated over 1,200 boxes of treats for the children
at the hospital. Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Tongring, and Mrs. Anchelowitz spearheaded the communication delivery and leveraged MTPS students to help with organization. Um, Mrs. Georgees worked alongside these three staff members, assisting in counting the boxes and ensuring that
staff were supported. Her ability to support staff, take time out of her busy day as both vice principal and ESL supervisor was nothing short of heroic. These four women truly embody leadership, empathy, and kindness. Thank
you so much and congratulations. >> That that was great. Thank you so much. and thank you for um those who reached out to sort of tell us these stories because they're so important to all of us. Um with that, I'm going to suggest we take a 10-minute recess to give our chance for our families to take some
pictures and for our uh for our families to leave if they would like to leave, and then we'll continue with our board business, but of course, you're all welcome to stay. But motion to take a 10-minute recess. I see Mrs. Gandhi. Uh all in favor? Thank you.
Okay. Mrs. Balomo >> here. >> Mrs. Carrero >> here. >> Mrs. Gandhi >> here. >> Mr. Hyatt >> here. >> Mrs. Janowski >> here. >> Mr. Lolansky >> here. >> Dr. Msowitz >> here. >> Mr. Smith
>> here. >> And Mr. Cullen >> here. >> Thank you. Thank you very much. Um I am going to take a a look back for a second um under our um first part of our agenda which was student impact. Um I wanted to just call back up Mr. Pagleero. Um I
apologize. Um there was a communication um we weren't reading each other's lips. Um but there was communication miss and we wanted to make sure we give the PTA or PTO from Dugan an opportunity. >> There's no apology necessary. Thank you. Um, I just wanted to say now that you've
obviously had a chance a little early to hear from our Dugan students and staff, I'd also like to welcome up our Dugan PTO president, uh, Mrs. Danielle Balomo, who will update you on the organization's contributions to the school as another part of our community.
So, Mrs. Palomo. >> Good evening everyone. Um, I want to just introduce two other members of our executive board. Unfortunately, everyone has already left, but we had a lot of our PTO members here in the audience tonight supporting our students as well. So, I want to thank them all for coming
out. But I have here my vice president of fundraising, Jamie Tamaro, and our secretary, Robin Boringstein. So, thank you guys for coming tonight. >> Um, so it is really incredible to be here um as a Duke and PTO president and to
reflect on what has been an incredible 2526 school year for the Dugan PTO. This year, we didn't just plan events. We built experiences for our students, supported our teachers in meaningful ways, and strengthened what makes this school community so special. From the very beginning of the year, we
focused on bringing our school community together. We kicked things off with our playground playdate, a community get together with sidewalk activities, giving our kids a chance to reconnect, meet new friends, and walk into the school year already feeling
like they belonged. That sense of community set the tone for everything that followed. Throughout the year, we hosted schoolwide programs and assemblies that brought learning to life in ways that go beyond the classroom. Our students had the opportunity to explore, create, and
showcase their talents through events like our talent show and science fair, where we saw their creativity and confidence on full display. We were so proud to expand our battle of the grades into a year-long initiative. What started last year as a shorter
program turned into a full month monthly competition from finding mini dragons hidden around the school to showing off grade colors. We are wrapping up strong and we love seeing students check the leaderboard as they walk through the main hallway. We also created so many opportunities
for our students and families to come together and just have fun. Whether it was our back to school dance, fiesta, trunk or treat, pying the principal, and the teachers float race at our turkey trot, or our Valentine's Day dance, where students created carts to show our
teachers that they have a pizza their heart. We loved every minute of creating these moments, and they are only possible because of the incredible support of our Dugan families who always show up. Our fundraisers this year were incredibly successful and we are so grateful to the parents, families,
neighbors, and small businesses who constantly support everything we do from participating in contributing to helping us sponsor experiences like our inschool game show day. We are especially proud to be in our second year of a student-based yearbook committee, which
truly sets our yearbook apart as a total student creation. Through our yearbook committee meetings, students learned photography, layout, design, and concept development. And our cover was even created by a student. We also work to support our staff and teachers directly,
whether it was providing classroom resources or or providing or funding initiatives that complement the curriculum or simply making sure that they felt appreciated through small gestures or surprises. The Dugan staff works so hard for our kids and the PTO is grateful for their for their
collaboration and participation in all that we do. Behind this all is an incredible group of volunteers who consistently show up, step up, and give their time to make it all happen. From our board members to those who volunteer for school store, boutiques, book fairs,
and more. We are so lucky to be surrounded by such a positive and dedicated Dugan community. I also want to take a moment tonight to recognize the two people who truly make the partnership work. Mr. Paggler and Mr. Lavoy. Your support, your openness to collaboration, and your genuine care for
both the students and the PTO make a tremendous difference, and we appreciate it more than we could ever fully express. Our work doesn't just stay within the halls of Dugan. We also took our efforts outside of Dugan. And through our commitment to community outreach, in
September, we hosted our Heroes Among Us parade, recognizing our brave community heroes and donating hundreds of dollars to tunnels to tower towers. We also were able to adopt the Kingsburg School District this year and provide all of
their Christmas presents and holiday gifts, allowing our students to wrap the halls of Dugan and be able to wrap the gifts during their indoor recess. We are looking forward to celebrating our fifth graders and giving them a little sendoff they deserve. And we
cannot wait for field day, a day that belongs that brings so much energy to our entire school. As we wrap up this incredible year, we can't wait to celebrate our amazing staff by bringing them the most magical school on earth during our Disney themed teacher appreciation week. We're especially
excited to reveal a project that has been in the works for quite some time. A more than 40 foot wall mural that transforms our main hallway and leaves a lasting mark on Dugan. This is something that represents not just creativity, but pride in our school and everything it stands for. This year has been about
impact. It's been about showing our kids that their school is a place where they are supported, celebrated, and inspired. It's been about showing our teachers that they are truly valued. and it's been about showing our community what is possible when people come together with a shared purpose, giving our Duke and Dragons the best six years of elementary
school they could ever imagine. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, Mrs. Balmo. And uh thank you to your to your team um for really turning a school life into really a school experience in the Duban community. Mr. Pier, we're good. Okay. Thank you.
>> No, no. My my my pleasure. Um Mr. Balone, we are up to announcements. >> I don't have any announcements. I believe uh Mrs. Chillinsky does. >> Yes. Hi. Thank you. Um there's two things I just wanted to talk about before we got to public session. Um the
first one is regarding the prelim preliminary 2627 budget. It has been approved by the county. The county also expressed um appreciation for the effort involved in developing the budget this year particularly as this was my first year overseeing the process. Um the
public hearing and the final adoption are scheduled for May 5th um the May 5th meeting. Second, I wanted to give you all information regarding an update on the HBAC project at Asher and Robertsville
as there's a resolution on tonight's agenda in regards to it. Um the buildings and grounds committee met on Thursday, April 16th, and we did discuss um some of the problems with the bids. There were 10 bids submitted for this project. Of those 10 bids, two were
within the district budget. Unfortunately, both of these bids were not considered to be responsive and irres are responsible. There is a resolution on the agenda to reject all of these bids. The district, the architect or the attorney um didn't
do anything wrong. It the problem was with the bids and strictly with the contractors that submitted the proposals. We will be rebidding this project. It'll go out tomorrow if it's um approved. and all of the contractors will have until
May 8th. Whoever wants to bid can bid on the project. The scope of the project is remaining exactly the same, including the anticipated timelines for completion. At this time, the pre-bid meeting will be on April 27th with the
contractors and the district will open the bids on Friday, May 8th in order to determine the lowest responsible bidder. We are looking to award this project on the May 19th agenda. So, >> yes, I have a question. Can the um ones
that bid but weren't necessarily completed properly, can they rebid or is that Oh, they can. Yes. >> Do they know what's wrong with theirs or Okay. Thank you. >> Any other questions? >> Mr. Linsky, congratulations on the the
budget. >> Thank you. that was, you know, your first budget and, you know, to get it passed immediately from the county. That's >> great success to you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you on our behalf. >> So, I have a question. Um, so last meeting we had come before the public
and we we were so excited that we got bids that were under um budget and you know, everything was moving forward and and all of that. So can you elaborate a little bit more on what went wrong and where it went wrong or is that you know because I I don't know how we go from
there to here. I mean I know how we go from there to here but I don't I want to kind of discuss it. >> Well what happens is you know we open the bids in front of everybody and we you know know the dollar amounts and that was actually the meeting we talked about it was the day we open the bids.
Um then what happens is the bids go to the architect and to the attorney for review and they go through all of the the things that it has to meet the criteria and they both review it and both the first two bids had defects in
them. >> So we say that we're still on time but how could that possibly be if we're starting the process back to now accepting bids and what makes us think that the bids are going to be any different? It seems like the scope of the project may have to change or or something along those lines or the
budgeted amount if people are coming in underneath. >> No, we're hopeful about at this time that we will get >> What do we think is going to change? If we only got 10 the first time around, why do we think we're going to get more now that didn't apply the first time around? >> I mean, we're hopeful that
>> But what would change that would make them if if you didn't apply, >> right? The first two would submit the bids without defects. So the defects are something that could be corrected. >> Oh yeah, for sure. Things they forgot, they omitted that they should have had in there >> and we foresee that happening. Have we
spoken like >> they know they know they do know what their defects were. >> Okay. >> Um and then the other biders, you know, they know what they came in at and they know now what the other biders came in at. So we're hopeful that we'll have more responsive biders this time.
>> Okay. >> What does it mean? Um, a responsible bid is that mean like free of defects or is responsible does that refer to something else? >> Free of defects and and within our budget. >> Do Can you give an examp?
>> No, I think you said a responsible bid or responsive. I heard responsible. Was I wrong? >> I said both. >> You said okay. So, what would a responsible bid look like? And it can you give an example of what um a defect would look like in a bid? Like what do
you consider a defect? Is that allowed to to be said? >> Yes. >> You want to answer? >> You can inter. >> Okay. Well, we also have to be very careful about what we're going to be discussing in >> Well, that's why I asked public session, right? So, but te the technical answer to your question is
>> bids have to be both responsive and responsible. Responsive means you have to be responsive to the bid specifications for all the details that are specifically requested in the bid. If you don't respond
appropriately and correctly to all of the bid specifications, your bid could be found to be not responsive. >> That's one part. Your bid also could be not responsible, meaning that you haven't uh included certain things that
need to be included in the bid with with regard to your completion of the project successfully. So there's two elements to it. One is the responsive nature of it and the other is the responsible nature of it. And you see in the resolution, it does
set forth those details in the resolution. Other questions or comments? >> Yeah. So, if eight companies, eight contractors came in and said and they were over our budget and only two came in under our
budget and they were not responsible or responsive or whatever you call it. Um, doesn't that make you kind of question the scope of our budget? Because we don't have any more money. We just don't have any more money. We drained capital reserve way past what we thought we were
going to. Um I know >> no it doesn't it doesn't affect that. No because one >> I I want to finish my question because I I understand what you're saying Mr. Gross as the attorney we have to be careful what we say. This is the taxpayers's money. So we also have to answer to them because this referendum
we went out for bids months ago. Now we're back to we're going out >> months ago. >> How long ago? Because last month >> the end of March the end of March >> months ago. So, a month ago, a month ago, >> whatever you want to say. Well, at the last meeting, we knew that we had responses to our bids. We knew we had two under budget.
>> That was the day. That's the day the bids were submitted. Yeah. >> The day the bids were opened was the day that we had the meeting. >> They have not been reviewed yet. >> Okay. So, a month ago. Okay. A month ago. >> So, now we're we're going to restart that process. Go out again, get bids
again, have them again, go get to an architect for May. It's a week away. >> I I understand that. It sound like it's the last time. It's only a >> week. You're not on this board. I'm sorry. With all due respect, I'm answering your question. I don't need my question answered by you. I'm just trying to speak to Mrs. Jalinsky about a
referendum that we told the taxpayers was under bid and we we have bids that came in under budget and now we're but they were they're not it's not useful if they're not meeting the scope of the project. >> Right. >> That's not what I said. >> I'm sorry, but I don't think that's what you said.
>> I'm speaking to Mrs. Jalinsky. That's who I'm speaking to. >> I'm not talking to anybody else. I'm speaking to Mrs. Jalinsky and I'm trying to understand because before we voted on the referendum, >> I knew this was going to be a problem.
We talked about it to death. We're here now. We have eight contractors that came in over budget, two that came in under budget that we cannot use. They they may change them, whatever else. What makes us think that these contractors that are coming in
under budget are going to be able to do a successful job and not have problem after problem after problem if they can't even submit the bid correctly first of all but at the very least eight out of 10 are over the budget that we set forth for this project. So again, I
just ask >> same question >> to know what's going to change aside from the fact that they may fill out the paperwork again, but if they can't do the work that's in the scope of the the project, you know, is that the contractor that we're going to use because this is just
the lowest cost, not who's going to actually do a good job. >> Well, the lowest responsible bidder, >> right? >> So, >> not who's actually going to do a good job, >> right? We're hopeful that when we open the bids that we will have biders within our budget.
>> Just a quick question. Um, do you anticipate that this delay in the bid process uh or or this correction will have any unforeseen delays in the actual work being completed? >> It shouldn't. The timeline is going to be the same in the scope.
And um with I guess historically um bid processes, have they ever been similar to this where people have had defects and there was uh corrections that had to be made? >> Not I've never experienced it here, but
I mean I'm sure it's very common. >> My husband does this for a living and the bids all the time and then they go back, they redo the paperwork and they resubmit. Um, yeah, it's actually common >> and and I don't think the paperwork errors correlate with the work that they
do. So, um, I think what you were trying to say, Mrs. Jillinsky, is that now that the other biders that were really high um, know what the actual low bids were that we're hopeful that everybody will try to come at that level to potentially
get the >> the business. So, that's what we're hopeful for. So hopefully we're not going to have two, potentially more than two that will come in and then we can have a pick from that. >> Exactly. >> Okay. >> I I just want to say that I've been on the board now going on three years. I've
never seen this happen before in a board situation and others I know that are on the board have never seen this happen. >> It happens all the time. >> But never on this board. Never in my time here. >> It happens all the time. >> Never. I've never seen >> I have no doubt, Mr. Gross, because you know, you just said it. doing this. I've
been doing this for 40 years in districts all over the state. >> It happens all the time. >> Have you ever seen it here, Mr. Gross? >> No, but I know it seems like I've been here for 30 years, but I've only been here for a year and a half. >> I've been here for three years. I've never se Have you ever seen it here, Mr.
>> And I'm not sure we've had And I'm not sure we've had a project this size since the time I got here, so I haven't seen anything like that. No, >> I've spoken with my colleagues. This is a common occurrence. And you know, >> how common could it be if in three years or your five years or however long
you've been here that we've never seen it? How common could it be here? If we've all never seen it, Mr. Lansky said he's never seen it. I've never seen it. >> How much work have we gotten? >> Yeah, we haven't had that many projects of this size >> in a long time in the so so
>> so we haven't had enough projects really for that to happen. So that's why >> I don't think that's true. Again, Mrs. Gandhi, I'm not asking for your input. I'm just speaking to you. I was talking to Mrs. Jalinsky. >> Okay. >> Please, >> M. Mr. Jolinsky, can I ask you a question about timeline?
>> Yes. >> So, as I understood it from the initial bid that was done, the purpose of the timeline was that this was going to be allow us to start some preconstruction work for the installation. >> Correct.
>> But it was also going to begin the process for ordering the equipment, but the actual work itself wasn't going to start till next year. Yeah, this is why you believe is that why you believe at this point the timeline's not impacted. This is just pre pre-work that was being doneation next year and ordering of
materials. Um the electrical upgrades have to all happen. So we were never anticipating having AC until the spring of next year anyway. >> Okay. >> Can I just want to see Oh, go ahead. >> I just So I'm looking at the public agenda. So I'm I'm assuming I can talk
about that. um the bids received. It looks like all those bulleted points were reasons they were rejected. Correct? Correct. >> Okay. So, let's say um it says here that any one of these things are fixed. Unregistered subcontract, late wage,
failure to pay this records obstruction, unregistered sub. if they fix this. I'm just wondering if we are still keeping them on a list of hiring them because to me, if you got even at your
home a contractor that had like a Yelp review that looked like this, would we consider hiring? So, if if they register the contractor, if they pay their late wages, it seems to me that >> maybe their reputation is not the best.
Are we still considering hiring these people that have what seems to me like pretty pretty big things? >> When we receive the new bids, we will evaluate it the same way that we did the first time. >> Well, I don't think
>> Well, and again, I'm going to repeat that there are certain things we shouldn't be talking about in public with regard to these bids because >> I'm only talking about what's public. No, you're talking about specifically what are we going to do in the future? And I'm telling you, we're not going to talk about what we're going to do in the
future. What we're doing in public today is telling the reasons why we are finding that both of these bids were either nonresponsive or non-responsible. That's what's on the public agenda to this evening. Okay? Your question was not about that. Your question was what happens the next time? And I said we're not going to get into that this evening
because we don't want to put the the project in jeopardy. Correct? >> Do we want to put the project in jeopardy? I don't want to put a project. >> And that's why I'm suggesting that we not talk about what we're gonna do in the future. >> How would the project be in jeopardy?
>> Why would the project be in jeopardy? >> We just want to keep the bidding process. >> But every I mean, we know that it's the lowest bid that we we've said that a million times. And so I think Carrie's question was just even if they're the lowest bid, are we going to hire them
with this nice track record of >> Once we get the new bids, we'll evaluate everything again >> using the same criteria. We're just trying to I mean, you went out on a ballot for a public referendum and now you're telling our community and our
taxpayers that trusted us to manage the money and the project correctly that we don't want to talk about the project in public. >> That's not what we're saying. No, because don't put words. Please do not put words in my mouth. That is not what I said. >> It's what you just said. I said I don't want to talk about the project. I don't want to talk about >> I didn't say I don't want to talk about the project.
>> Okay. >> I said I don't want to talk about what's going to happen. >> Doesn't seem very transparent to me about now. >> We're not going to talk about what's going to happen in the future. That's what I said. >> Why not? >> For the reason go back and listen to the tape. I just explained it 16 times.
>> All right. We we we have >> Can you just say one thing? Just want to wrap this up. Last comment. Yeah, I just wanted to say I think it's really important that as a board we're responsible in the things that we say at the board meetings. Um to sit there and make a statement that, you know, we're
trying to we we told the taxpayers it's going to be x amount and now we're going to exceed that. That's literally putting the cart before the horse. We haven't had the bids yet. We're going to reassess them again and there is nothing that's telling that it's going to be any more than what the bids came in at. So
until these come in, I think we need to be responsible as a board and not put those scare tactics out there that, you know, we're going to go over budget and I knew this was going to happen. I think that's extremely irresponsible. And I'm going to end with that. >> I I knew this was going to happen. And also, I am being responsible by telling
the taxpayers in the community that I served that elected every one of us exactly how the project that was on a public ballot that they voted on is going in the schools that they fund. That's responsible. >> Okay. Thank you.
>> We are going to move on to school bus driver abstracts. >> We've received all the abstracts and all the school bus drivers and the maintenance personnel have privileges in good standing. So, >> thank you. Moving on to public comments.
>> Um, I have one Valentina Mendes. >> Miss Mendes. Good evening. I wanted to address a couple of items on tonight's agenda. Some you spoke about. I understand that you went into that topic of the um referendum, but I had a few things.
The first thing though that I wanted to address as the community member at this point, but somebody who just recently sat there, is the fact that board members should be asking these questions and not subjected to
retaliation or or attack. I think that Mrs. Balomo and Mrs. Jenowsky's questions were in line. They are right. I understand you can't say certain things, but then to see them attacked by people that we actually
hired is really upsetting. And secondly, Mrs. Gandhi, for you to say that these board members should be mindful of what they say as board members is laughable and a joke. So, you could address that because I addressed you. I'll put that aside. I want to address two items on
tonight's agenda, though, that raise concerns around transparency, planning, and execution. First, under resolution 7, the contract with AM for building management systems is being increased from a not to exceed amount of 100,000 to 150,000. That is a
50% increase. There's no explanation provided to the public for the change, no detail on scope, no clarification on what additional work is required, and no context as to why the original amount was insufficient. So my question and please answer it because I know we take
notes and we say we're going to answer and then we typically don't. So let's not do that please is what specifically changed to justify the increase and why wasn't that outlined here? I'm sure it's in the green notes for the board members but they are voting on it and I just was
curious. Second, under resolution 11, I know some of this was talked about. I'm going to read some of my questions. The board is rejecting the bid for the HVAC HVAC improvements at Asher and Robertsville. So, some of my questions and I believe you answered, but if your
bids don't come in in time or they aren't correct, will it delay the project timeline? I think you said no, you're going to vote next week, but if you don't get what you need, how long are you anticipating? And if there is a delay, are we at risk of losing or reducing the anticipated state funding
due to any sort of delay? If all compliant bids exceeded the board's cost estimates, were those estimates aligned with the current market conditions? So, are you doing a market analysis to say this makes sense? What steps are being taken in the rebid
process to ensure that qualified and compliant vendors are secured next time? And what are the potential cost implications, if any, of rebidding? And are we expecting the project to come in higher than originally planned? They're not small issues. Thank you, Mrs.
Balomo, it's about delivering the project to the community that we supported and ensuring it's executed responsibly. Thank you. >> Thank you, Miss Mendes. Is there anyone else for public comment? >> No.
>> Does anyone else would like to speak? >> Thank you. Motion to close public comments. >> I'm sorry. Al 10 open court. Uh, two questions about
the bid. If um, Mr. Lansky, I'm sure you did plenty of bidding. I'm sure you did plenty of uh bidded work like you know in your line of business. Typically in the bidding process the biders vetted before they're
awarded the contract. Why wasn't that caught initially? because that's going to open up um you basically you got everyone to show their price and now you're going to go and have everyone recquote it giving if there's a preferred vendor giving them you know a
big advantage here to uh to get the job. Uh you're really opening yourself up to nepotism and number two I don't believe we had to go with the lowest number because this isn't a professional service if I'm not mistaken. Um, being a
public job also, I would imagine it would have to be bonded. So, why aren't we calling the bond and just going to the second and number the second and third uh biders? If it was the first two biders that were ineligible, why isn't
number three being awarded the project? Um, I'm assuming everyone that submitted the bid submitted it with a bid bond, so they really shouldn't need to go out to rebid. No. Can I Brian? Can I mention my name?
>> I I'm not there when they open the bids, but I don't believe you know who's in the bids until you open the bids, right? Correct. Till you unseal the bids. They don't pre it. We open them in front of there when they do it. >> Yeah. What's different for me though because I
don't we never had sealed bids in my line of work. We went out for >> as we did. >> That's how That's why we're rejecting them. No, they're rejecting all of them.
>> We're rejecting all the bids, but the third bidder was not in budget. That's why we're rejecting all the bids. >> Yes. >> It only works once per speaker. Thank you. All right. So, what we're saying is
the only two bids that were under what we the the anticipated budget were not credible bids like they didn't follow is it because they didn't follow the specifications, they didn't have the correct insurance
requirements, they couldn't provide bonding. Like what was the issue? >> It's in the resolution. >> It's in the resolution. The resolution lists the reasons why they were not the bids were being rejected. >> Okay. So, there's >> I'm just asking because I I didn't read it. >> Yeah, there is a copy. If you'd like a
copy of the of the the agenda, it's right there. >> You could tell me, too. >> Um there there's a a long list of reasons here for various different reasons and various different respondents. So, um you know, failed to name a PL, for example, failed to name a
plumbing subcontractor. All right? or submission of the non-olusion >> applic. >> There's about 15 different ones. >> This is an HVAC project. You guys didn't you like
your your m your winning bidder. >> I'm sorry. >> The the company that submitted the winning bid failed to name a plumbing subcontractor on a project that's installing air conditioning. I think and I'm not going to comment on winning or not, but I don't believe any of them are winning bids since they are being all
being rejected right at this time. >> But you see how you see what I'm saying? How simple it is to go not put a plumbing subcontractor on an HVAC job and now you're going to go and ask everyone to go out and rebid after they saw everyone's numbers.
>> They'll come in less. >> Hopefully they'll come in less. Additionally, just when the board went out for a referendum, there was a budget dollar amount. So, it's it was no secret what the dollar amount was that the board
>> thought the project was approved. >> Correct. The referendum was 5 whatever million dollars, right? That's public knowledge. >> So, the biders, you know, a responsible bidder would know to look at that and they would know what the what the board's budget is for this. So this
isn't creating any more knowledge that people already have out there. >> What I was trying to get at before I was cut off by all different directions is that when we were discussing that 5.2 several of us said there's no way this is going to be 5.2 and then we said well
we're going to get the 40%. And then we didn't get 40%. And now we're at we don't have any money left in the capital reserve. We all know that. Well, the people that sat and had budget meetings know that that this project is taking us to the last dollar
that we don't even know how we're going to replenish. And now eight of our 10 bids came in over budget. >> Correct. And we're hoping that >> so. But how does that not present a nepotism situation >> when every single person knows what
someone else has already put into pay and then they're going to go back and come in $1 underneath the the the last bet. It just like it we're giving them the information that they didn't have before and saying, "Okay, now go and see who could beat this competitor." But that's
>> public bidding law. I mean, some of these things like like like Carrie had said, like failure to sign an anti-olusion act is pretty big. I I don't really want them in my kids school. We have to go on. Mr. Petruno, thank you
for your I know there's been some back and forth, but I either your your time is up, but I just need to >> Oh, I was just waiting for the answers. >> We're going to close public comments and then we'll see if there's any additional comments. I I'm just going to need to see if there's anyone else who would like to speak before we close comments.
Please come up. >> Hi there. >> Hi, my name is Ble Dim and I'm here on behalf of my daughter at Marorrow Middle School. And um I realized that I sent an email right before the board meeting. So
I don't expect that anyone's had time to review it at all. And Mr. Balone, I see that today as well. 50 before you responded and I do appreciate that. But we are stuck at a standstill and my daughter's home instruction has been cut off for two weeks and I understand what the school is asking me. But I also
understand that she has rights and while this is being resolved, she is continuing to hand in her assignments while she is sick at home. With zero contact, the school's teachers, I'm assuming, have been instructed to not communicate with me because they've gone
from giving her the greatest praise from giving the biggest effort while she's participating to the best of her ability at home. She's a straight A student typically with a 504 for anxiety, which has been increasingly growing from being cut off from school.
And nothing benefits this child's educational process or mental well-being while she is cut off while we resolve the dispute between myself and the school administration. And I know that Mr. Bologn's intentions are to help her get through the year, but nothing is
helping my child by being cut off. And I request respectfully a response from the board in a I'd like to say 72 hours, but I don't even know what's reasonable. I I see that her home instruction continuation is not on the agenda. And um mom trying to get help for my
child. Thank you. Also, her father and brother are standing here today in support and um I just spoke with Mrs. Rogers and she said she would see what she can do to intercede at her behalf
because she's been a fierce advocate for my son with his special needs. Um, but she had no advanced notice of the meeting and I saw her as I was on the way in and on the way out. Thank you for your time. >> Thank you, Miss Kim. Um, and I appreciate you you're writing to the
board and I appreciate you speaking today and I did respond to you um earlier this evening and um, you know, I will I know Mr. alone is actively involved in trying to to work with you on this and you know would you like to
do this here or would you prefer to do it you know because it's there's student issues here so I think it has to be private and >> I no I completely agree but she's the one losing right now and I'm trying so hard to handle this
as adults and not for the case she needs to be included until we can resolve this dispute, her teachers need to have a way to give her assessments so she does not lag further behind. And there has been already, you know, a history, as I included, from before with
the administration. And I don't know if this is retaliatory or not. And I don't really care. I just care that she gets her education and graduates in June. She is beyond qualified to graduate and has worked very hard despite her illnesses. And there is ample
documentation that something is wrong with our child. And we are continuing to work with doctors and have more specialists lined up and not against anyone's advice at all medically. There is agreement that something is still wrong because every time she comes back
to school, she collapses and what to do about it is where the dispute is. And until we have a solid answer, she is still entitled to an education. Thank you. >> Thank you. I would like to respond. I don't need 72 hours. Um I know you outside of my role
on the board, you're a phenomenal uh parent volunteer uh for our school district. Um I've seen you in the schools. Uh and I it hurts me to hear you up here saying that you've been cut off from the district that you've given a lot back to. So I don't know the
situation. I don't know any of the ins and outs of it. But I will advocate for you and your child to get what you need so that she can successfully graduate to the best of my ability up here. >> Thank you so very much for acknowledging that because I have worked hard despite
my own physical disabilities to help in any way possible because my children are children and all the children their physical and mental well-being and their education. Those are the most important things. That's why everyone is
here today. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Rolling. We will um I assume that you will continue to to do what you need to do to get to address this. >> Absolutely. Yep. I even responded this evening.
>> Thank you. Mr. Gross, can we Mr. Gross, can we just, you know, um discuss this in executive? >> Yeah, we we can't have a detailed not public, but I'm just saying, yeah, just so we can get get a response
>> to Mr. so forth. I did actually after we received the emails today. >> Yes. >> I did ask Mr. Balone to make sure that the board is briefed today. >> Exactly. >> Okay. Uh anyone else would like anyone else like to speak?
Thank you. Um motion to close public comments. Gandhi. Second. Mr. Hayyatt. All in favor? Anyone opposed? Thank you. Um okay. Um,
we are I just want to, you know, for a moment I just miss Mendes. Miss Menddees, I wanted to be responsive to your question regarding the AME, right? Um, because that's not on the the
details. The board is familiar with the details, but the public isn't, and I wanted to make sure that we respond to that. Can you please, >> sir? So AM consultants is or AM contractors they do the building controls for our district. So we there
was a transformer that kind of created a large power surge at Marbell Marbell Elementary School in March and it did damage to a lot of the controls. AM is the company that needs to repair
the controls. Um, bidding law says that if I'm going to spend more than $53,000 a year with a vendor, it has to be approved by the board. We use AM. The board had approved $100,000. Well, at this point, it's going to cost another
$50,000 to get repaired. Insurance is going to be covering that, but I still have to approve the vendor because purchasing law requires me, you know, the district is paying that vendor. I still have to follow purchasing law. So even though it's
going to be reimbursed, we still have to increase that resolution in order to pay the vendor. >> Thank you. Okay. Um we are up to communications. >> I don't have any.
>> Thank you. Uh Mr. Jinsky, you do have a referendum update here on the agenda. Did you already do that? >> Yeah, I already did it. >> Thank you. >> Superintendence report. for HIV >> superintendent report HIV for the time period March 20, 2026 through April 16,
2026. There was one incident reported. >> Thank you. I will draw your attention to our meeting dates. Our next meeting is Tuesday, May 5th. I want to make a note that this has got an asterisk next to it because this meeting will start earlier than usual. It will start at 6:00 p.m. since the board will have be doing some
training from 6:00 to 7:00. Um, and we wanted to make sure that um, based upon the the topic and the content that, you know, the public is aware that it's, you know, um, it may not be right for students to be present or they may not want to attend, but we wanted to be able to um accommodate the 6 pm hour for the
the training. U May 19th is our next meeting after that and then June 16th. Uh, those will both be re uh regular meetings. Um, I'll move now for a motion to I'll move for a um our to accept our minutes um for the March 24th meeting,
both regular and exec. Can I have a second for that? Miss Carrero, Mr. Jinsky, would you please do any any comments or any questions or any corrections to the uh the minutes? Seeing none. >> Okay. Mrs. Balmo,
>> yes. >> Mrs. Carrerero, >> yes. >> Mrs. Gandhi, >> yes. >> Mr. Hyatt. >> Uh, yes to the regular minutes abstain from executive session. >> Thank you. Mrs. Jenowski, >> yes. >> Mr. Lansonsky, >> yes.
>> Dr. Msquitz, >> abstain. >> Mr. Smith, >> yes. >> And Mr. Cohen, >> I abstain. I was not at the meeting. >> Thank you. >> Moving along to the next item, which is the acting board secretary's monthly
certifications. Yes, this is just um this is explaining the payrolls for the for the month of March. >> Thank you. Uh we're up to committee reports. Uh I'd like to begin with our first one which is buildings and crowns. Mr. Lansonsky.
>> Yes, sir. Thank you. Uh we met on April 16th. We had a we had a we had a really good meeting. We went over a lot of topics. Some we explained Mr. Linsky already explained tonight. We over the referendum. discussed that in detail, so I won't repeat that, but I will repeat I will um explain some other things. Um
the chiller over here at MMS, um we're still dealing with the tree damage. Uh we're having trouble getting parts. Parts are being delayed. We're also considering um getting a a portable chiller may be one of the options and we're running that through the insurance
company as well, Udica. All the claim for the whole thing is going through Udica. Uh, so we may have to have a portable chiller here sometime in June if we're not here. If if it's not fixed in time. You also she also mentioned the JCPL transformer problem. It took out
not only some H3 units, took out some door control, took out some audio systems that's also being run through um our claims uh our UDICA claims. Um so it was uh we had some pretty good damage
last months. um direct install JCPNL as presented in our last budget presentation that in D in in Delphino they're doing the two cafeteria RT units timeline is 6 to 7 weeks on that in Dugan two cafeteria RTUs 6 to 7 weeks
and two additional rooms 41 and room 42 12 to 13 weeks and and Old Middle one RTU in the mini theater which is a 9 to 10 week uh time to get it done um we're looking forward it should be on next May 5th agenda to for the board to review
and sign should be on the next agenda. You'll see that coming. Playground grant. We received our second grant for $65,700 this year, which will be added to the $88,000 grant we got last year. A total of $153,788.
After consideration, the recommendation came back uh from um from administration. I know originally we were talking about doing Abbott first but due to different student needs and they can explain if you have any questions as well now recommending doing Marbo Elementary. We had two quotes for
the playground around 150K which is ballpark. We do have a choice of either doing a rubber pour for the foundation or or which is 105K or mulch with mulch which is 20K. The committee discussed that and we don't see our budget anywhere near being able
to afford 105k additional rubber which would be nice but it's one of those things nice to have can't afford. So uh the recommendation is going with the 20k wood mulch. Um just for knowledge the
rubber is $24 a square foot mulch is $4 a square foot. Uh they're doing additional quotes uh for they're looking for additional quotes that the township um for up for the next um playgrounds. They're also looking um to use the pilot money. Ask the township to use the pilot
money for help fund playgrounds in the future and uh we'll get a timeline from the township if that's possible going forward. That's what I have. >> Thank you, Mr. Lansky. Any questions for Mr. Lansky and the committee? >> I have several. Um, for the mulch, you
have a $20,000 uh quote. So, mulch, I know from my own house, uh, you need to replenish that almost. So, what are we looking at as a yearly cost? Because a rubber playground, you don't have to replace. So, if we're looking at $20,000 every year or every two years,
>> well, that includes also the the border. >> The mulch is I understand. So, that's why I say what is what are we estimating the upkeep? Because mulch goes in shoes. It goes all over the place. It's massive cleanup. Is this something that you can collaborate? Maybe uh some of the
organizations that do fundraising would be willing to pay for certain aspects of it. I'm not saying $105,000. That's a huge ask, but >> is this something that we can brainstorm because we're using the two grants that we probably won't get again. um to do these playgrounds. Um
it just seems like if it's going to be close within a you know 5 years we're going to almost be at that 105. Maybe it's something to consider either can we hold the grant again? When is the student that has the needs that the playground is going to be facilitating
coming to the school? Are these all questions that we could have answered and kind of look at the bigger scope of the project or maybe just doing part of the project? >> Well, it's moral's whole playground. >> It's the whole thing. So, they their playground is in two parts right now. Correct. >> I think so.
>> Yeah. So, is there any opportunity to just do one part and then add on to it? I don't know. I'm just thinking about all different stuff because mulch is a nightmare especially for K through five. Um I know some of the places I don't know if do any of the schools have it? I'm not sure. >> They all have mulch. They all have
mulch. So what what are we paying then? Then we know the answer is >> $4 a square foot. That's >> every year >> like >> every year, every two years depending on >> I think Mr. Spano I mean I asked I asked a similar question because the cost of the the the upkeep >> and I think he said it's it's usually
it's it's an every twoyear expense, but it's not the full 20,000 since a good portion of that is the actual border. They have to do that and it's not like they're replacing the full $4 a square foot for the entire space. It's that they're adding more into it. But he felt that over a I think he if I remember
correctly 10 year 10 year period of time he said a 10 year period. >> Yeah. Over a 10-year period of time he said it would be approaching the 100,000 but it's not but it's not necessarily the cost right now in order to sort of move forward with this that he would
that their recommendation was the mulch. But I asked a very similar question because I was equally concerned about it. He also said it would not preclude the future like say in a few years you know we came up with funding or we figured out a way we can always add it after. >> Have we looked into this is my last
question just because I looked into it for a different project but um the the poured um not the rubber that looks like all different colors but it's actually like almost applied like a paint. It's different layers of rubber. >> That's exactly the 100 105,000. That's
the poured rubber. Yeah. >> That's the ideal. Yeah, I know. >> But it's the most expensive obviously >> and I believe if I remember correctly there was like one or two companies entire state >> that basically does this and they have pretty much a lock on it.
>> Um but I do I am optimistic at least on the other side where which is the >> you're working closely with the town to see whether or not >> that there may be some additional funds that they may make available to us to help with the do with doing the port is because that's the ideal. Yeah. if we can.
>> And is part of Moral owned by the town? >> The fields in the back? >> No, >> they're all ours. >> Thank you. >> Any other questions for Mr. Lansky or the committee? >> Thank you. Uh the next report is um Dr.
Msquitz, curriculum committee. We uh did not have an opportunity to meet um as a group, but we did get our an our questions answered by Mrs. Gross. The district has implemented and actively utilized the revised RTI
manual, sharing with administrators, teachers, and parents, and using it to guide instruction, collaboration, and communication throughout the academic year. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of RTI effectiveness occurred through regular check-ins, feedback sessions,
and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data, including oversight by the assistant superintendent and director of special services. The uh as far as the library resources, the library resources staff will receive
training and a unified communication plan will be developed and shared with the uh full board prior to distribution to parents. That's in regard to the last month's um policy that was approved. >> Thank you. That's with
>> So I would like to elaborate on that. U Mrs. Gross actually had said that she was going to go more into detail. We didn't obviously have the meeting. So the library material question uh had come from myself. I would like to know and I'll I'll ask it today as well um so
that you can reflect on it. Mr. Balone, we had set forth on using Destiny Quest um to have cloud service to an inventory of our library. That was a very big part of the policy change for the library resources. Um I know we're approaching
May and I know that um around end of August we get our parent forms to fill out on Genesis and we had agreed that that would be part of the Genesis roll out. So I kind of was just looking for a status update as to where we are, how much of the library materials has already been indexed. Is this something
that we're going to roll out um all together? All schools are going to get it at the same time. Um and what's that kind of going to look like? And will parents have is there anything um being spoken about on the staff end of things that will provide training for both staff and then maybe a parent video so
that parents know how to utilize that uh resource as we enter into the school year? >> I would say all of the above have been discussed with the exception of the video. Uh good suggestion. I'll bring it back and and I'm sure we can do so. We've done something like that in the
past so we can have an a tutorial. But yeah, uh we're we're we want to make sure we hit the ground running for September. >> Yeah. >> Um but we have to communicate it to the staff first before we go out to the parents. >> Thank you, >> Mr. Bulum. My understanding is also from the meetings that we've had in the past
here that the the library catalog is strictly for the the resources that are in the media library room, not what may be in a teacher's library within their classroom. Is that correct? >> Okay. So, I just will tell you that I
have deep dived into the software. Um, and there is something on Destiny Quest that will allow teachers and and I understand that's not part of our policy at this time. So, I'm not saying that, but if a teacher were to want to share with a parent, there is something that's readily available, no additional cost,
that will can allow teachers to create their own libraries within that software if they so choose. >> Thank you for sharing that. Okay. Any other questions for the curriculum committee?
Nope. Okay. Thank you. Um, next is um policy committee, Miss Carrera. >> Um, so we had our fifth policy meeting on April 9th. Um, and we met to discuss this uh the new policy that's up for first read. Um, but it's not necessarily
uh new and it's the 1552 um sexual harassment for staff. Um it's really so we had two separate ones, one for certificated staff, one for non. And so this kind of combined it together um without much changes, but it reflected
um it's updated with like state and federal guidance and we added clarifying language. Um and also there's nepotism up for first read as well. Um and so for tonight's meeting, we made sure that we uh emailed the board. They were shared
ahead of time um in advance and allowed for a thoughtful review. Um and an email went uh to out to request feedback uh for this first read so um it could be adopted. Did I miss anything? Does anyone want to add anything?
>> Next is special ed. Oh, okay. The committee received an update from Mrs. Sturgio regarding several key initiatives within the Department of Special Services. Mrs. Sturgio continues to closely monitor the implementation
and advancement of the district's updated RTI response to intervention process where once it gets to her level. As a reminder, the RTI manual has been revised and the assistant superintendent is overseeing uh fidelity and
consistency across all buildings. An overview highlighting the impact of RTI on special services is in development and is expected to be presented to the board committees at the end of the school year. The department is actively reviewing
current enrollment trends and projecting student needs for the 202627 school year. This includes ongoing analysis of IND district program capacity, anticipated incoming students and alignment of staffing to ensure
appropriate supports, class structures and services are in place across all programs. Summer program dates were reviewed and the department is planning to enhance student engagement by bringing uh enrichment experiences on-site.
The district continues to explore the feasibility of implementing an on-site therapy dog. Research is underway regarding program structure, implementation requirements, and potential grant funds funding opportunities to celebrate to support this initiative.
The committee extends its appreciation to Mrs. Gandhi, Mrs. Jankowski, and Mrs. Sturgio for a comp comprehensive and informative update. Thank you, ladies. Thank you, Dr. Nquitz. Um, any questions for the special education committee?
Seeing none, thank you very much. And we will move on to our next item for the agenda, which is financial and business operations matters. Mr. Hyatt, would you read that? >> Sure. Superintendent of Schools submits the following resolution for approval. Receipt and acceptance of board
secretary report. Treasury report. Three transfers. Uh four listed bills. Five travel. Six harassment intimidation bullying report. Seven, amended resolution ES CJ contract purchase AME Incorporated building
management systems for maintenance related services for 202526 school year. Eight, amended resolution ESCJ contract purchase Spruce Industries for custodial supplies and related services for the 2526 school year. Nine, approval of the
2627 school year non-public technology service agreement with Mammoth Ocean Educational Service Commission. 10, home instruction. 11. Rejection of bids received for HVAC improvements for Asher Homes Robertsville Schools. Uh TMA project
number 2518 and direction to rebid the project. 12 state contract purchases. I so move. Thank you very much. Can I have a second, please? Mr. Wansski, any discussions on these items other than the ones that we've had so far?
>> I have a a change a quick read in. Um number 10 under home instruction. Um the third box it says the teacher's name is Christina Udelen. It's actually Shira Schaefer. It was Christina Uden's class. So that teacher name is Sher
Schaefer. >> Okay. Thank you. S H I R A. >> Correct. S H A S H A F E R. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Any other discussions regarding the items here in this particular item?
>> Yeah, I have a quick question. uh the 122,500 for the substitute teachers. >> Which which item am I? Sorry. >> It's item three in transfers. Last line. >> Um so it looks like we're giving we have a
lot of contracted substitute positions. How is that? I'm I'm I'm totally don't know like what this is all about. So these are in addition to our ESS substitutes. >> This is ESS. So this is So how is why are they going to individual substitutes
instead of just to ESS? Like why doesn't it say ESS on here? >> It says well contracted is ESS. >> So all of these contract everything that's a 500. >> So what is like sal sub 30,000? Is that our own in-house subs? >> Yes. >> So it's a it's a combination of a
combination of So if it says salaried sub, >> it's ours. >> That's ours. If it says contracted sub, that's through ESS. >> Exactly. >> Okay. So all of these um sub so all of these contracted subs are in addition to what we've paid ESS we're allocating 122,500 more to one more salaried sub
and then all these contracted subs. This is so ESS, you know, um we budget dollar amounts to ESS every year and then what happens is through the year, you know, as the teachers go out on leave or
nurses or whoever goes out on leave, their salaries, their savings gets reallocated here. So we always budget a set dollar amount for contracted subs, but that number always increases throughout the year as other teachers go on. So that's why a lot of times I take
the money from salaries and move it to ESS subs because we have salary savings that pays for the subs. >> And just so I know, and it was it's probably a conversation that'll have to be had in the future or should have been had in the past. How is ESS working for us? Um is it still beneficial
financially to keep ESS instead of just in-house? I know a lot of districts around our area um and more north are going back to to just in-house substitutes. I mean, is ESS still benefiting us? >> It still is. Um, our fill rates are higher. Um, it's not something we
wouldn't look at in the future, though. I mean, >> Mr. Balone and I talk about it all the time. So, >> yeah. >> Um, it wouldn't we it wouldn't be something we would be procluded from looking at. >> Thank you. >> I I just have a a quick question about
one of the line items. Sorry. Um >> just which item >> slightly above that there's 21,581 um a transfer from is that salary BCBA like a behavioralist was that the BC? >> Yeah, it was some Yeah, there was
savings there. >> Okay. To a charter school because it was an increase for a charter school tuition. Is it typical that a charter school will increase their tuition like in the middle to the end of the school? >> There's more children going there. It's typical that that extra, you know, other
kids will pull out of our district and go into charter schools. >> Okay. It wasn't that the charter school. The >> charter school did not increase that cost went up. >> Okay. It's because the kids more kids >> that explains it. Thank you. >> Sorry. >> No, no, no. That >> it's a good point. And it's actually it's a good point for the for the the
clarity of the reason a little bit different. >> Yep. It should have been >> right. Okay. Thank you. I appreciate it. Any other questions regarding these items? Seeing none, can I
have a a second another motion to accept this as amended? Mr. Smith, second as amended. Mr. Hyatt. And now for a roll call. >> I just have one more question. Um we had
heard from a parent that came up about um inh home instruction. If we go to executive and something changes uh obviously I don't I don't know if any of these were are attributed to that student but the parent had said they are not is that something that we can come
back out and approve if we go in that direction or whatever the situation would be or would it have to wait until another meeting to be approved? I I think if we end the if we adjourn tonight and we say we may come back out and for exec if there's um action then
we should be fine. Mr. Mr. Gross, right? >> Correct. But you probably wouldn't know who to assign to it. >> So would that create a >> Look, I guess the question if you don't mind I guess the question is could we authorize
>> Well, the authorization is for the teacher to do that. I'm saying can we authorize with an understanding that the administration will complete the unknown information at that point in time. >> You may you may have more detail about who it is.
>> Yes. So home the way home instruction works we it we can start home instruction and retroactively um approve it. So we could start it if essentially tomorrow and approve it at the next meeting. >> So we can approve it on May 5th. >> Yes. >> I just wanted to make sure we're not delaying anything. But if we can approve
it and then approve the salary later on, that's that's completely fine. Thank you. >> Okay, that's helpful. Thank you. Any other discussions? Seeing none, now I'm going to call for role again. >> Okay, Mrs. Carrera.
>> Uh, yes to all, I'm going to abstain for myself from four and five. >> Okay. Thank you, Mrs. Gandhi. >> Yes. >> Mr. Hyatt. Yes to all. >> Mrs. Jenowski.
>> Yes, Mr. Lansonsky. >> Yes, >> Dr. Msawitz. >> Yes to all. And I'm abstaining from um my name on number four. >> Okay. Thank you, Mr. Smith. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Balomo.
>> Uh yes to all. Abstain from seven. >> Thank you. And Mr. Cohen. Yes to all, but I will abstain from my name under item number five for board members. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you. Moving along, we're up to personnel matters. Miss Balma, would you like to read that? >> Mrs. Balo, sorry. One second. >> Would you like to read personnel matters? Thank you.
>> The superintendent of schools submits the following resolution for approval. One, retirements. Two, resignations. Three, employment instructional assistant. Four, employment bus drivers. Five, stipen mentor teacher. Six,
substitute teacher. Seven, paid medical disability leave. Eight, unpaid leave of absence. Nine amended resolution leave dates. I so move. >> Thank you. Can I have a second, please? Mr. Smith, is there any discussions on
these items? Seeing no discussions, Mr. Linsky, can you please call roll? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Gandhi? >> Yes. >> Mr. Hyatt? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Jenowski? >> Yes. >> Mr. Lansonsky? >> Yes. >> Dr. Msquitz?
>> Yes. >> Mr. Smith? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Mr. Balomo, >> yes. Mrs. Carrero, >> yes. And Mr. Cohen, >> yes. Before we move on to next items, Mr. Bologn, I believe you have some retirement comments. >> I do. We are honoring three retirees
this evening. The first one is for Amy Glber. After 30 years of teaching, and every single one of those years at Defino Central Elementary, Amy Glberg is retiring with a heart full of gratitude. She will miss her amazing fifth grade team the most. Many of them have worked
side by side for more than 20 years, and they have become more like family than colleagues. Mrs. Glberg still can't quite put her finger on why they click so perfectly, but she is forever grateful for every day they shared. She will also miss the children and the
way every new day held the possibility of surprise and delight. 30 years of working with students, and it never became boring or predictable. The best part of teaching has always been discovering how one small moment with a child could brighten their day. She looks forward to sleeping in, traveling,
and spending more time with family, her dogs, and in the garden. We wish Mrs. Glber the very best as she begins this next chapter. Congratulations, Mrs. Glasber. Next retirement comments are for Patricia Milwaukee, otherwise known as
Pat. Tonight we have the true privilege and honor of recognizing not only a wonderful principal, but an extraordinary person, Mrs. Pat Milwaukee. It is a special and meaningful moment to reflect on a career defined by dedication, leadership, and genuine care
for others. This perfectly describes Mrs. Milwaukee and her career in education. She began her career in Hamilton Township as a fifth grade elementary teacher. Two years later at Hamilton, she taught middle school math and then became the school counselor.
In 1999, she came to Marorrow Middle School to serve as vice principal, a position she held for six years. Mrs. Milwaukee then became the school's principal and began a successful tenure in that position for the last 20 years.
For 26 years, she has devoted herself to the Marbor Middle School community, serving with distinction as a vice principal and principal. In these roles, Mrs. Milwaukee has been far more than a school administrator. She has been a steady presence, a source of constant guidance, and a highly effective leader
for both students and staff. A great principal does more than manage a school. They build a culture among the students, the staff, and the community. Mrs. Milwaukee created a place where students felt safe, supported, and inspired to learn, and where staff felt
valued, respected, and empowered to do their best work. That did not happen by chance. Rather, it was the result of consistent and thoughtful leadership over many years that helped shape the lives of students, staff, and families. During those years, Mrs. Nowaukee
remained a fixture in Marboro schools and a role model for everyone, always focused on what mattered most, the well-being and success of students and staff. Her ability to listen, to lead with empathy, and to make thoughtful decisions will leave a lasting imprint
on the Marbor community. It is difficult to imagine Marbor without Mrs. Milwaukee as her presence has been so deeply woven into the fabric of the community. Through years of dedication and unwavering commitment, she has helped shape an environment grounded in
excellence, compassion, and integrity. Mrs. Milwaukee has instilled these principles in the students and staff of Marorrow Middle School. The legacy she has worked so hard to create and sustain will never fade with her absence. Rather, it will continue to inspire
current and future administrators, staff, and students for years to come. As we congratulate Mrs. Milwaukee on her retirement, we also celebrate the lasting impact of her years of service. We wish her all the best in retirement. It is certainly welld deserved. We know
she will enjoy making countless memories with her daughter Amanda, her son Kyle, her daughter-in-law Glenda, her granddaughter Leighton Elise, her grandson who is due in May, family and friends. We thank Mrs. Nowaukee for embodying what it means to be a great
leader and wish her many more years of good health and happiness. Mrs. Milwaukee, you were the princ the vice principal actually um when I was a student teacher at Marbor Middle School. So, and she was here even before that.
So, um this one is especially difficult for me. Um and I can't believe 22 years has gone so quickly. Congratulations and we wish you the best. Frank, I just real quick I just want to add that, you know, back in the day I
sat in the committee that hired Mrs. Milwaukee because board members sat on those committees 20 years ago and um I just want to add every word that you spoke because I've been involved in that school for the last 20 years and two words are never spoken. You know, she's
been an amazing administrator, amazing as a as a parent of a student that went there, as a grandparent of a student that goes there now. you know, you you you your words ring true. You know, we're going to miss Mrs. Milwaukee. I wish her the best and uh we're so lucky
to have her for the last over 20 years. >> Can I add something as well? >> I've never really obviously she doesn't my kids don't go to her school, but just being on the board and you know, speaking to parents, I've heard from other parents about how wonderful she
is. So, even you know, I just love the fact that our our principles, our educators are here for such a long time and I just want to say again that, you know, congratulations to her for her retirement. It's a big loss for us, but um it's great to hear that
everybody in the community and in the schools feel the same way about her and and her leadership and yeah, we're going to miss her. So, >> anyone else want to share? I I will just real quick um my both my kids went to
that school and she had um both an impact on both of them which was you know important but I really never got to know her until I sat in the seat on the board and be able to sort of you know interact with with Pat and she's always been warm welcoming professional highly
respected um she will be missed she you know big shoes to fill um I always believe that a public servant always wants to leave the place better when they than when they found it. And I think she's leaving Aro Middle School in
tremendously great shape. And I did the math real quick. If there was an average of 900 students per school year over her 22 years, she has touched the lives of nearly 20,000 students over the course
of time. Half our town's population if you think about it. Pretty amazing. Um, so thank you to her and to her years of service, um, and for the lives she's touched. And the last retirement comments for
Elizabeth Walsh. Liz is retiring from the district after 31 years of dedicated service. After joining the district in 1995 from the department of education, she has faithfully served as administrative assistant to the business administrator
for three decades. Through four superintendent, one acting superintendent, five business administrators, one acting business administrator. Her dedication, professionalism, and care never wavered. She built lasting relationships across
the district and truly loved her work. She will also be remembered for her wonderful storytelling, sharing memorable moments and history from across the district that brought both laughter and perspective to those around her. Outside of the office, she enjoys
traveling, especially taking cruises, and spending cherished time with her children and grandchildren. Her presence, knowledge, and warmth will be greatly missed. We wish Liz much happiness, relaxation, and many new adventures in this welldeserved
retirement. Congratulations, Liz. >> Mr. Malone, I did the math. 87 years combined for the three of these people who are retiring. Pretty amazing dedication to our to our community. So, thank you and congratulations to all of them. Um, may their next journeys be
amazing um and you know, rewarding as and you know, enjoyable. So, thank you. >> Can I just say one thing? I love that. I always say this that the whole adding stuff up. You know what would be really fun to do also when we have our educators come up here and we honor them
combining their years because I just found out that Mr. Hatter has been in the district for 22 years. That's incredible. So can you imagine if we start adding that up too? way up. >> That length of service is a dedication to this district and to the community
because people stay because they feel that they're making a value and that's that's where it, you know, tells you tells you a lot. >> Can I just I just want to make a comment about Liz. Um when I filled my vacancy appointment, she was really the first
face and first conversation I had with a district employee. um as we all know when you are come to the board there's a lot of paperwork it can be very overwhelming you want to make sure everything's done correctly and she was my first experience with that and she
has such such a kindness about her such a great soul um every conversation I had with her always ended up talking about other things because she's just so personable and no matter what she goes through she exudes joy and I just think
that's rare to find in a lot of people and she has it. So, I wish her the best of luck and health in her retirement because it's so welld deserved. So, I just wanted to make sure that I acknowledge that her smile, her kindness really did have an impact on me and what a great reflection of the school
district she is. >> What a very nice personal note. Thank you for sharing that. >> Brian, could I just I'm going to jump on what Kyrie said as well is because I had spent many times talking with Chris walking into Vinnie's office. I mean I mean um Liz walking into Vinnie's
office. Sorry. So >> now you talked to Chris walking into and even in the Cindy days. Um you know we had many discussions and we had a lot of fun talking about our cruises because she loved the cruise >> and I and I love the cruise. So now I'm going to wish her well as well and uh it
was really nice to have a smiling face and that you know friendly always friendly couldn't do enough to help you attitude which is was amazing. So I appreciate >> always respectful. She she really she loved her job
>> like she really loved working here. So >> okay, thank you everyone for sharing those thoughts. Um and Mr. Malone for your for your comments as well. Um moving along, I'm going to go to the last item on um for vote tonight, which
is the policy development and community relations matters. Miss Gandhi, would you read that? It's page 18. >> Policy development and community relations matters. One, first readings. Two, abolished policies. I so move.
>> Thank you. Can I have a second, please, Mr. Hyatt? Discussions about the items on here. Anybody? Okay. Jane Cowsky >> for the sexual harassment policy.
Where do board members fall under that? Does that fall under non um was it I I forgot to bring my copy of it. Is it non like um non-emp employees or non-certificated employees or
>> It's a good question because I I asked a similar question and we're not employees, >> correct? Oh, I know. I do not get a paycheck. I know that. >> So, you know, >> I get joy, but no paycheck. >> This these two policies, well, this the new policy is strictly about staff and
it falls into two categories of, you know, sexual harassment that may occur to a staff member, whether certificated or non-certificated, right? And that could be harassment that occurs either from an employee or from a non-emp employee. But it doesn't mean the board
is not in part of this policy since we're not employees themselves. At least that's my understanding as how the policy is written or how the policy was presented to us. >> Mr. Gross, >> he agrees. >> That was different than what was said at Strauss Esme from their attorney. >> This is the exact policy that came from
Strauss. >> Yes. And then we had a follow-up conversation with the legal with the attorney from Strauss Cesme and he said that would be under non-certificated staff members would cover um employees but you can reach out to him. >> Okay, that's
>> is that your understanding or will >> you are non-certificate employees? >> Yeah, I don't think you're certificate. >> Okay, thank you. Any other comments or questions about this?
Seeing none, we're >> ready for a roll call, please. >> Mr. Hyatt, >> yes. >> Mrs. Jenowski, >> yes. >> Mr. Lolonski, >> yes. >> Dr. Msquitz, >> yes. >> Mr. Smith, >> yes.
>> Mrs. Balo, >> abstain. >> Mrs. Carrero, >> yes. >> Mrs. Gandhi. >> Yes. >> And Mr. Cohen. >> Yes. >> Thank you. >> Okay. We are up to liaison reports.
We'll start with the first one which is Freehole Regional High School District leazison. Mr. Hayyatt. >> Sure. Just a quick update. They're having their public budget meeting on April 30th at 7:30 p.m. But just note that the meeting starts actually at 6:30, but they're going into executive for uh an hour and they said they were
resume at 7:30. So if you want to uh attend the Freehole Regional District, it impacts us all. Um that's when they will have their budget discussion. So that's it. >> April 30th, I think you said. >> Uh it's April 30th. >> April 30th. 7:30 is the beginning of the
>> The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. But they're having they're going to executive. So >> So 7:30 >> 7:30 is when they promised to resume the public meeting. Thank you. Um, next is the Marbor
Education Foundation. Miss Gandhi, >> the Marbor Education Foundation wants to thank all of the community members who came out last Monday night to support the MEF at the annual Harlem Wizards event. We greatly appreciate your support. Thank you to all of our
sponsors. Um, a big thank you to our referee, Captain Joseph, um, Tomasic from the Marbor PD. Thank you to all the wonderful MTPS admin and teachers who played in the game, including Mr. Balone. Um, thank you to all of our
terrific volunteers who helped to make the night a great success, including some of the BOE members. Um, Sue, myself, Chad, Jenna, we were there. Final numbers are being are still being calculated on how much profit we made. Stay tuned for our next upcoming event.
Thank you. >> Thank you. >> You look good out there, Mr. Balloon. Not going to lie. >> Yep. >> He did a great job. >> You were You were magnificent. And his dancing is outstanding. Right. He doesn't mean cotton Joe.
I >> I didn't want to go that detail, but I just Good job. How many points did you score? >> I definitely had a foul shot. So, that's one. >> And I think I scored a two-pointer. So, three. >> Okay, >> that was good. >> That's good.
>> Oh, thank you for that. >> Marbor Township Leazison, Mr. Lansonski. >> Okay. Thank you for Steve and the township for bulk pickup does not begin by zone until the end of April. The township reminds residents that bulk collection does not begin by zone to the end of April. No
bulk may be curbside at this time. Placing bulk items in the street before scheduled collection day can create serious safety hazards for everyone in the community, including pedestrians, children that play in vehicles. Items may be brought to the recycling center with a free online permit during open hours. Township appreciates your
cooperation. The Big Rig Rally, Saturday, May 2nd from noon to 2:30. 2 to 2:30 is quiet time. A hands-on experience with the big trucks. Free. There's no registration required. Mother's Day Farmers Market. Saturday, May 9th from 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Crafts, candy, pastries, flowers, and food. Everything to spoil mom. The event will be held inside the recreation center. Township is holding a Marorrow 250 essay contest. The township is calling on all middle and high school students to submit their papers by May 24th. Students are encouraged to draw on
a variety of sources such as local archives, historical documents, and community perspect perspectives to support their respective ideas. Submissions should demonstrate thoughtful analysis, clear connections between past and present, and an understanding of what America 250th
anniversary represents to Marboro Township. Submissions should be between two to 10 pages. All essays can be submitted beailed to sina marbor-j.gov. More information on this contest and other Marbo 250 events are on the township website under the historic
commission section. Last weekend in Old Mammoth, the annual Mammoth County tradition continues from revolutionary war landmarks to hidden gems. Mammoth County's rich history comes alive during the weekend in Old Mammoth. Free admission to visit over 50 historic sites and museums. Marwell will be
participating. Please visit the Old Brick Reform Church, 490 Route 520 on Saturday, May 2nd from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, May 3rd from noon to 5:00 p.m. That's it. >> Thank you, Mr. Lansky. >> I have a question about that. Sorry. What he said.
>> Go ahead. I'll ask afterwards. Go ahead. um for the essay contest. I know the the town is obviously promoting it, but do you think something will go out from the school um just for the middle school, you know, just so that they know because I feel like if teachers or if they're kind of spoken to directly, that may
encourage them to want to submit. >> Yes, we did send something out to the to the families. >> Oh, okay. Great. Thank you. >> Yeah, I got it like last week. >> And I love the big rig rally. It's so much fun. My kids love it. Um, so yep, >> the big rig rally was my whole life for
35 45 years. >> Mr. Mr. Loski, um, I I may have missed it, but you said I think I think you mentioned that there was a Mother's Day farmers market. Is that you said indoors? Is that at Is that indoor? >> That's indoors at the rec center. >> Okay. So, it will be indoors at the rec. I wasn't sure if I missed
>> recreation center. Yep. Indoors. >> And then I just curious. I I understand Lyn Frank Lyn Franco um retired. So, who gets our >> Steven Delina? >> Okay, >> he's he's my contact now. >> Okay, great. >> I was just curious because I wasn't sure
how it changed, but thank you. >> All right. Any other questions for Mr. Lewansky? Thank you. Um, Monmouth County School Board Association, Miss Carrerero, >> no update to share. >> Thank you. uh New Jersey Schoolboard Association
leaison, Miss um the New Jersey School Board Association will be having their uh tech summit on May 8th. It's virtual. Um has a lot of good topics can go over Robert's rules um and and a couple other things. Uh civility um there's a there's
about 15 topics listed there. So that is all that's come out. They released a theme for the workshop. I saw a couple people had registered. I know Chris, that's a group registration, correct? So when we know if we want to go, it's kind of just all grouped in together. >> Perfect. >> And that's all I have from school.
>> Yeah, just let us know when you if anyone decides and we'll put you on the agenda. >> Perfect. Thank you. >> Great. Thank you. Any questions for Miss Balmo? Thank you. Um and now we are up to scope. Dr. Msquitz,
>> no report. >> Thank you. And we are up to CPAD. Miss Janowski. >> Thank you, Robin and Angie. CPAG will be hosting a virtual webinar in May with the special education ombbudsman. CPAG is pleased to invite families and
district staff to a special virtual evening featuring Tracy Gillespie, New Jerseys special education ombbudsman. This timely and informative session is designed for anyone who supports students with disabilities, parents and caregivers, general and special education teachers, related service
providers, and school administrators and aims to strengthen shared understanding, collaboration, and effective problem solving in special education. Miss Gyps Gillespie will address critical topics that impact both families and school teams, including what free appropriate
public education or FAPE truly means in practice, parental rights and shared responsibilities under special education law, constructive ways to prevent, address, and resolve disagreements, proactive collaborative strategies such as facilitated IEP meetings, local
resolution approaches that support effective communication, trust, and early problem solving. ving. This session is designed to foster collaboration, enhance mutual understanding, and support positive outcomes for students by helping families and districts work together
more effectively. Whether you are a parent seeking clarity and advocacy tools or a district leader committed to partnership and compliance, this evening will offer valuable insights and practical guidance. CPAC will also be hosting a virtual IEP webinar the
evening of Thursday, May 28th. The presentation will focus on general IEP understanding, how to use school data, writing good goals, and parental concerns and rights. More information will be sent via email from special services and posted to the CPAC Facebook
page closer to the date of the webinar. Please stay tuned for CPAC's last meeting of the school year. Information will be sent via email from special services and posted to the CPAC Facebook page when the date is scheduled. If you need additional resources and advice
from other parents and guardians, please check CPAC's website and Facebook pages as there is a lot of information on both. Thank you, Mr. Denowski. Any questions for our report on CPAC? Thank you.
We are up to old business. Anybody for old business? Thank you. We're up to new business. Anyone for new business? Okay, we are up to the second round of public comments.
>> Valentina Mendes. >> Good evening. Um, I do support obviously and I know you all do, the adoption of a sexual harassment policy for staff. It is required and it is necessary. After reviewing the policy though, I do have a serious concern about accountability,
uh, consistency, and follow-through. The policy is clear. It states that the district must take all steps necessary to prevent harassment. It requires a grievance process to be initiated immediately upon receipt of a complaint. It even defines harassment as a conduct that is severe, pervasive, and
objectively offensive. And it explicitly includes conduct that occurs electronically or on online platforms. They're not just policy choices. They reflect actual established law. Under New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, NJSA 105-12,
sexual harassment is recognized as a form of unlawful discrimination and board members are not exempt from standards of conduct. Under NJSA18A-1224, board members are required to uphold public trust and act with integrity in
their roles. Those are strong standards, but that policy applies to staff. They do not apply to this board. And that's not a gap. It's actually a pattern. I previously brought brought forward a civility resolution focused on safety, respect, and accountability. It was
discussed. It was acknowledged as important and then nothing happened. At this point, it feels like it was treated as optional or even worse as a joke. There was also a proposal raised by Mrs. is a net se to require sexual harassment training for board members just as it's
required for staff. We were told at the time that no appropriate training could be found and again nothing happened but you could have that scheduled for a future date. So now here we are adopting standards which matter for employees while continuing to operate as a board without clearly defined standards for
yourselves. That's inconsistent and undermines your credibility. Board members should not only be held to these standards, they should also be protected by them. No, no one serving in a public role should be subjected to sexual harassment, including members of
this board. We have already seen situations in this community involving conduct in electronic communications, including comments of a sexual nature about a board member's body, which many would reasonably view as inappropriate and inoffensive and offensive. Yet there
is still no policy governing board members, no defined expectations, no clear process, and zero accountability. If you're serious about respect, professionalism, and safety in this district, those expectations must start at the top, and they must apply equally.
So tonight, I am not just raising a concern, but I am offering you a solution. I have drafted some notes. It is not my job obviously to write your policy. That is where you all come in. But I do have some notes and I genuinely hope that you take it seriously.
So I know I'm at time in about a couple of seconds I'll ask for an additional few seconds after. But I did give a couple of notes here that I can email. But I did make copies for anybody who is interested and I have them here. But it does cover what sexual harassment could
be considered based on the policy you have there. the scope of conduct, what reporting would look like to the board president, the vice president, the superintendent and board counsel. I do have about review and response timing. I do have some interim measures and some
real consequences for board members which could include formal censure, removal from board leadership positions such as president, vice president, and committee roles, referral to appropriate authorities if applicable, and any other action permitted by New Jersey law. I do
have a commitment to accountability and any sort of legal alignment. So, I do have notes here. I do hope that you take this seriously. You said you did and nothing happened. So, here we are today. Thank you. >> Thank you, Miss Mendes. I appreciate
your notes. I will I will accept them. Anyone else would like to speak? Miss Borenstein. Hi, good evening. Robin Bournestein from Marbor. Um, I'm gonna wear a few hats up here, so but hopefully I'll make it
quick. Um, throwing off my CPAC hat for a moment. I just wanted to go ahead and recognize Mrs. Milwaukee for a lot of inclusion that she did. Um, she worked with us a lot on like the band and musicals that were done and offered the
ability for students that might find it hard to be in attendance at the events to still be able to go and see the performance. It was typically done during the rehearsals um or to see any of the band or the chorus when they couldn't actually go to the performance because it might just be too much for
them. but to offer during their rehearsals to be able to attend. It was a wonderful opportunity for the students to be able to go and still sort of be a part of what was going on in the school that they attended. So, we definitely look forward to being able to continue
those exclusive events with whoever happens to fill her shoes. They're big shoes, but whoever happens to fill them. Now, I'll switch my hat. Um, and just wanted to also recognize Mrs. Walsh.
I worked with her a decent amount as the secretary for the PTO and I know in the beginning when I took the role a number of years ago, I had a never- ending supply of questions and she was always willing to answer any questions that I had. It was always with a smile, always
upbeat, always happy and whatnot. She was a pleasure to speak with on the phone, through email or anything. And she's definitely going to be missed. Again, another set of big shoes to fill. So, whoever happens to fill those shoes, we look forward to, you know, hopefully being able to work with them as well.
We're going to miss both of them and but do really wish both Mrs. Milwaukee and Mrs. Walsh very well in their retirement. They definitely do deserve it. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mrs. Mrs. Bournestein. Anyone else want to speak?
Seeing not motion to close public comments. Miss Guerrero second. Miss Gandhi. All in favor? Anyone opposed? Thank you. Um, Miss Mendes, I just wanted to point out, and you may have you you may have missed it, but there
were several reports out that I did make on the sexual harassment um motion that Miss Seawart made back in November of last year, right? We are being trained as a board on May 5th by NJ Kasa. All right. Um, and I did provide several
different um, you know, reports out on that. And in fact, at the the last meeting, which is not the March 24th meeting with Windsor and app, but the meeting prior to that, I even shared with the scope of the the training. So, um I I'm thankful for the recommendation. I just wanted to make sure you were aware. And that training
is actually occurring next meeting at 6:00 p.m. an hour earlier so that we can accommodate the regular board meeting and parents who would like to arrive here for the 7 o'clock meeting start because they do um come with their kids for um the impact part. So, I just wanted to make sure you you were aware.
Thank you. Um, seeing that there's no other items on our agenda tonight, >> I have some responses to public comment. Yes. Um, I didn't want to steal Mrs. Bournestein's thunder, um, so I didn't chime in for Mrs. Walsh's, uh, retirement comments, but working on the
Dugan PTO, um, Mrs. Walsh was a special a very special person to us, uh, with our building use forms and last minute pleads to please just try to get it done this week because we really want to have our events. She's always very accommodating. Robin worked with her directly. I was more indirectly. Um, but
I know from on behalf of a lot of the parent organizations and people that worked with her on a weekly basis, a daily basis, uh, she's going to be she's going to be very very missed both to see her and just to interact with her. Um, so with that being said, I also wanted to address Valentina. Um, I wanted to
thank you for your advocacy um, for just women in general. Um the great thing about Title Nine um under our new federal administration is it doesn't know any boundaries. Um women have protections against sexual harassment uh
with or without policies or without knowing the um boundaries of a boardroom or a classroom. Um and your advocacy and just bringing that to light. I hear you up here saying, you know, it's treated as a joke. It's not a joke. um someone
who went through it. It impacts me very much um you know just even sitting here today. So I thank you for coming out and continuing to speak up on behalf of you know the students, the staff, the board members and everybody who has to work in
an environment where that may god forbid someday be a reality for them. So thank you for coming out. >> Thank you. Any other comments? Last item on our agenda is the executive session. We have a motion for to move into executive session for three particular items. One is a matter of
attorney client privilege. One is for personnel matters and the second and the third is for negotiations. We expect it'll take about 60 minutes. We don't anticipate coming out back out for any public action and according to you know as the issue was raised regarding the home instruction since we do not have to come back out to take that it can be
done retroactively. Um we will adjourn in exec for the night. So, can I have a motion, please, to adjurnn to execute? >> Could I have a second to Dr. Msquitz, will you second? Dr. Msquitz, >> will you second? >> Yes. Dr. Mwood seconds. All in favor?
>> Anyone opposed? We are adjourned. Thank you to Exec.