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. >> Annette, can you please take the role? >> Mrs. Feny, >> here.
>> Mrs. Schuler, >> here. >> Mrs. B >> here. >> Mr. K, >> present. Miss Decker present. Mr. Nicolang >> here. >> Mr. Quinn >> here. >> Mrs. Reynolds >> here. >> Mr. Thornton >> here.
>> Okay. I'd like to introduce our Spanish interpreter, Mrs. Susette Marie Carter. >> Hello. The New Jersey open public meetings law was enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advanced notice of and to attend the meeting of the public bodies at which any business affecting their m
their interest any business affecting their interest is discussed and acted upon in accordance with the provisions of the act. The board secretary has caused notice of this meeting to be published by having the date, time and place thereof posted on the bulletin board located in the hallway outside of
the administrative offices. and notice was provided to the Courier News, the Homes Tribune, and the Middle Sex Burough Clerk. Okay, we'll start with our presentations and we have our district student of the month. I'd like to introduce our student of the
month, Angelisa Martinez. If you could come to the podium, please. We're just going to share a few words. Tonight's student of the month is Angelisa Martinez, a seventh grader at Moger Middle School. And let me tell you, she made an entrance when I met her
today. She came into the office a little apprehensive, but completely stylish. As you can see, Angela Angelisa was rocking a tie that I absolutely loved. She later told me that when she looked back at old pictures of herself, she didn't think
that she had much style. I quickly corrected that narrative because her outfit today. But let's be clear, this recognition is not about is is about much more than style. Angelisa consistently
demonstrates a commitment to excellence. She is a hard worker, an active participant in class, and someone who goes beyond expectations. She takes her academics seriously, often checking Genesis before her mom even knows,
and is constantly looking for ways to improve. That kind of ownership at this age is impressive. She has a love of games, Mario Party, puzzles, quizzing herself for fun, and we bonded over our shared obsession with the daily New York
Times Wordle. She just keeps her brain sharp. She's also a proud member of the chorus where she enjoys learning new music and connecting with her classmates. In the classroom, she's described as being kind, a hard worker, and always willing to help others. Her
favorite music is pop and she described Bad Bunny's Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime performance as epic. Looking ahead, Angelisa sees herself becoming a veterinarian, a passion sparked through something she learned on
High Ready. That's what happens when curiosity meets opportunity. And when she's not focused on grades or future career plans, she's hanging with friends, singing karaoke, and playing hide and hide and seek. What she called silly stuff. I told her that's not silly
stuff. That's seventh grade joy. Angelisa is smart, self-aware, stylish, disciplined, kind, and excuse me, and kind. A combination that makes her a true leader in her
class. Congratulations. You're welcome. favorite part of the night. Okay, we'll move on to our district employee of the month, Mrs. Tammy Bloom. Will you please come? Mrs. Bloom is a steady, accountable
presence at both Moger and Woodland. When something needs to be done well and done right, she steps in and takes ownership. She does not wait to be asked and she does not cut corners. That level of responsibility builds trust and keeps
our schools operating at a high standard. What distinguishes her even further is how she shows up for others. She she supports colleagues without hesitation and extends herself to students in meaningful ways. Her
consistency creates stability and her professionalism strengthens the culture of the building. Students feel supported in her presence and her reliability is greatly valued. Mrs. Bloom's commitment, work ethic, and genuine care for our
school community make a real difference every day. We are fortunate to have you. Congratulations, Mrs. Bloom. Thank you. Okay, we will not be going into executive session until later. So, we will move on to our
announcements. And I am first. So, I don't have a report tonight, but I have a statement. I pride myself on on approaching my responsibility as the board president with professionalism, tact, and kindness
because I know that is the best way to serve our students. But it seems some people have mistaken that kindness for weakness. It takes a lot to get me to this point, but when I do, the side of me that doesn't let people walk all over me comes out. So, here we are.
Usually, I take things posted on so social media with a grain of salt because I know that it's a breeding ground for misinformation, rumors, and downright lies. People can disagree with decisions that we make. But when the content of the character of people who give their time to this district, month
after month, many of us for years, gets attacked, that's where I draw the line. We are all here trying to do good in this community. We have families and jobs and responsibilities like everyone else. But we make it a priority to serve
the students of this district. So now I feel that it's time to address claims that have been circulating publicly. I'll start with the class three officers because that is the most egregious claim, one that has been taken as far as accusing board members of stealing money
from the district. The misinformation being shared is that despite despite exhaustive efforts by our town council and taxpayers providing funds earmarked in the school budget for class 3 officers for two years, the issue is still stalled due to an
objection by Dr. Freeman and that the board is refusing to make that decision but had no problem asking for the money to pay for the officers. Here are the facts. The class 3 officers agreement was not stalled by Dr. Freeman personally. As
discussed at multiple public board meetings, the district asked the bureau multiple times over many months to add specific language to the agreement outlining how the $50,000 deposit was to be spent and making clear that the district is
only responsible for the salaries and training hours for the officers. Uniforms, equipment, training fees, and all other non-payroll related costs are the responsibility of the burrow. That has always been the agreement from the beginning. The board
agreed many times that the agreement wouldn't be approved until such language was added in order to protect our financial integrity as we get audited every year. I have emails dating back to at least August that explain our stance on that to the bureau. So, no, the issue
was not stalled by an objection by Dr. Freeman alone. The board agreed with that objection. That wasn't us refusing to make a decision. It was actually us making an intentional decision to protect this district financially. The reason the agreement is up for approval tonight is because the language
that we requested was finally added. As far as asking for the money to pay for officers, I don't even understand that statement. We didn't ask anyone for the money. We didn't have to. It was built into the budget and it has been for a couple of years. People keep asking
where did the money go? It didn't go anywhere. We never had an issue with the deposit. We only wanted its dispersement clearly outlined in the agreement, which it has now been. Other issues brought up are personnel related, which as the public has been
told many times, are legally confidential. While any and all of us may disagree with the actions of any employee, all employees have rights and there are laws that protect their privacy. When concerns are raised, they are reviewed and addressed by administration in accordance with
district policy and state law. The board is made aware of all employee related issues and takes them very seriously. Just because we can't give you answers to your questions doesn't mean there aren't things happening behind the scenes to address any issues that arise.
Protecting confidentiality is not avoidance. It is compliance with the law. The district does not and will not litigate personnel matters in public forums. The next topic I will address is the narrative of swift decline. The
misinformation being shared is that the district's operating budget has increased dramatically while student performance numbers have dropped. It seems a little dramatic to say that the budget has increased dramatically. The total budget has increased on
average 5% each year since Dr. Freeman became the superintendent. And that is not the increase to the taxpayers. That includes increases in state aid. When factoring in bank cap and health and enrollment waiverss, the increase to the tax levy is an average of 2.6% a year.
As we all know, the cost of everything has increased. A 2 to 3% increase doesn't even cover contracted salary adjustments or health insurance premium increases. I control a budget at work and it has increased by 10 to 15% every year. So, I would hardly call the
district's budget increase dramatic. And the increase has not come without benefits. In the past year alone, this district secured over $2 million in state preschool expansion funding, allowing us to provide free, highquality preschool to Middle Sex families. In one
year, we eliminated tuition for families, expanded access to early childhood education, and strengthened school readiness for our youngest learners. Next year, we will add four additional preschool classrooms, continuing that growth. Growth that brings significant state funding into
this community and expands opportunity for children. As far as student performance numbers dropping, that claim is not supported by the state's own accountability data. Before COVID, Middle Sex Schools consistently met state academic growth standards in both English language arts
and mathematics. When statewide testing resumed after the pandemic, our district once again met those same growth standards. That is not decline. That is consistency. The state's accountability system measures whether students are progressing year-toear compared to peers
across New Jersey. Those growth measures show that our students are moving forward academically at expected rates. Lastly, it has been stated that board meetings were cut in half by Dr. Freeman. That simply isn't true.
There have consistently been two board of education meeting meetings each month, and that structure is still the same. One of those meetings, the committee of the whole, is a public workshop session created in response to board members who wanted greater opportunity for discussion as a full
board prior to formal action. The workshop format expands dialogue. This was not something implemented by Dr. Freeman alone. It was agreed upon by everyone on the board at the time the committee of the whole meetings were implemented. As you can see much much misinformation
has been shared publicly. So I urge people before you sign or share something that negatively reflects this district, its superintendent, and the board, please be sure you get the facts from the source. Dr. Dr. Freeman and I have stated many times that we are always willing to discuss anyone's
concerns. Facts matter and the facts reflect progress. We will continue doing the work to move this district forward. That's all I have. So, we will move on to our superintendent of schools, Dr. Robera Freeman.
Thank you, Madam President. My one announcement for tonight is prechool registration is now open for our baby blue jays. It'll be open until March 4th. And next week we are offering two evening pre-registration times on
Tuesday the 24th and Wednesday the 25th. No appointments needed. If you would like to come and pre-register your three or four year olds that meet that cutoff, that October 1st cutoff, please come out next week, it will be from 4:30 to 7
o'clock right here. And it was also publicized today and Thursday Thunder. Um, as Mrs. Pari just stated, we're expanding by four classes next year. So, there will be nine classrooms. And did I
mention it's completely free? So mark your calendars. Come on out. Come on out and pre-register your students. Thank you. >> Thank you. Excuse me. And now our business administrator board secretary, Miss Denno. >> Good evening everyone. I don't really
have any announcements from the business office tonight. Uh work on next year's budget is ongoing and I expect state aid figures to be out hopefully in a week or so. Um and then once that's done, the budget will be finalized and we'll have more information at that point. Thank
you. Thank you. We will move on to our liaison reports. We will start with our Middle Sex count or not Middle Sex County, our Middle Sex Public Library Board of Education. Wait, what is that? Is not like what is that?
>> Our Middle Sex Public Library representative, Miss Karen Gomez. >> Good evening, everyone. So, uh, the library board met on Monday, February 9th, and just a couple different updates and some information. So, the children's room at the library has been updated. I
got to take a look at it after our meeting last week or two weeks ago, and it looks fantastic. Uh, they're also promoting something called Blind Date with a book where you can go, the book is all wrapped, and you can pick whatever you want that sparks your interest, and you get to unwrap and get
a little surprise. And then lastly, um, they do this every year. read 13 books, get a chip clip. And if you read 25 books, you get a mug or a tote bag. And also too, for anyone speaking of preschool age children or younger, we do have a lift grant that we had gotten
which is literacy for families of students or children who are birth to three years old. So, we're going to be putting out information about that soon because we are partnering with the library with that as well. Thank you. >> Thank you. And now our NJSBA county
delegate and our legislative officer, Mrs. Sharon Schuler. >> Uh, so the New Jersey School Board's delegate assembly is scheduled for May 16th. Um, I will know more about the resolutions that will be presented after I attend the resolution subcommittee
meeting on April 14th. The next um, school board's legislative meeting is March 14th. Um if anyone wants updates regarding the um ongoing issues,
the legislative ended and there will be a new session. But um cap there was a capital watch u published on January 27th which um talks about a lot of the um education bills that either were
signed um or did not make it through that legislative session. and we'll see whether they come back. Um, if you have any questions about any of the bills, let me know. That's it. >> Thank you. And now our Middle Sex County SBA delegate and our Burough Alliance
leaison, Mr. Tom Thornton. >> Good evening and um, welcome all. Um, I was a little busy this past month. U, but I'm just going to go over to Middle Sex County. I attended the Essex, Ocean, Middle Sex, and Ocean County Union
County meetings. Um the Middle Sex County meeting was a um talk about the different bills that are sitting there or proposed or they just got signed. The cell phone ban which starts in September, which we have to
come up with a policy once they release the >> items. >> Items. Yeah. Um they also had been uh Gopal was in attendance. He talked about
uh the pilot the voting. They're still working on that with um school districts getting pilot money instead of the town's getting all of it or the town the county gets some of it too but the school districts getting some of that. Um
they talked about the chapter 44 the you know the increase in employee insurance is extremely high um if he didn't attend the meeting last night but we did um they he also talked about um moderating
modernization of the S2 school formula fund tied to enrollment. Um the next meeting I guess would be on Thursday, March 26, unsung heroes. Uh
that is at Sarville War War Memorial High School and the other county meeting is actually Wednesday, May 20th. That's at the Pines Manor. I think that's when I'll get my official certification for
uh new school board membership. And um that's it. The other ones, they don't meet the alliance does not meet until April. >> Great. Thank you. Okay. Now, our student representative, Mr. Kevin Wind.
Good evening everybody. It's funny. Last time I was up here, I asked for a snow day and left here is still here. >> Don't say it. >> Next time, ask for it and then ask for it to go away. Very
>> lottery numbers. >> All right. So, this month's been pretty short. Uh, we had a lot of off days, so there's not much to cover at the high school. Um, see, start. We had our sports. Our boys
basketball team, they're 17 and eight, and they're on the states. I think tomorrow is their first state game. They are, it's away. I'm not sure about high school, though. Um, the girls are 14- 11. Wrestling 17 and five. They just had their senior night. And bowling again is
on fire. They're 18-0. What's up? >> Yeah. Great. >> We had our winter spirit weekend pep rally this month. We had on Monday was was last week and Monday was team jersey day. Tuesday was cozy socks and birken
socks. Wednesday was PJ day. Thursday was graphic TE's and Friday was class colors. And the games they played, they played they did a new one. who was dressed to impress and they had a teachers versus students basketball game. That was really fun.
Our music scene had their winter listening room this past month. They had so they did a tiny desk concert which was in here right after school for like kind of a teaser for the actual listening room. Then on the right you can see that was the picture we all took
at the end. And in the top left you can see them playing the modern band playing at the pep rally. It's really cool. >> Okay. So this month instead of Zoom meeting with Mr. Cerna I actually went to the school um and I tooured and took
a bunch of videos and made a kind of a montage of Parker to show all the artwork and whatnot they've been doing. See if I can press Okay. >> Sorry guys. >> It was a good video. >> I swear it was a good video. I swear.
Yeah. Well, um let's see. It was they had their kindness challenge project. So students made every grade they made like winter related kindness art projects. So they had like snowflakes on the wall, they had snowmen, they had a Christmas tree with a bunch of nice stuff written
on them. And then they also had their Black History Month um project going on. So they had a big banner and a mural in the gym. They had a bunch of really I wish you could see it. Really good artwork on the walls as soon as you
walked in, like murals. and they're having each grade is having a big presentation uh coming up like really soon. We'll get it planned by the end of the day. Sorry about that. And then what's to come? I've said this four times in a
row now. We had we're supposed to be having college acceptance or college commitments soon. Nobody's committed yet, unfortunately. So hopefully this month we'll see our first ones. Um our spring sports are starting next month, so I'll be covering those. and hallway decorating. The theme was decided. It's
going to be Disney. That's all I got for you guys. Thank you very much. >> Sorry. Okay, we'll move on to the approval of our meeting minutes from last month. Superintendent recommends approval of
item 5.01 as presented. So moved. >> Second. >> Any questions or comments or concerns on meeting minutes from last month? >> Okay. Annette, can you please take the role? >> Mrs. Feny, >> yes. >> Mrs. Scheler, >> yes.
>> Mrs. Bichek, >> yes. >> Mr. K. Yes, >> Miss Decker. >> Yes, >> Mr. Nickel. >> Yes, >> Mr. Quinn. >> Yes, >> Mrs. Reynolds. >> Yes, >> Mr. Thornton. >> Yes. >> Thank you. We will now open the public comment portion of the meeting. Comments
at this time are limited to agenda items only. Please come to the podium and put your name, address, email address, and subject of your comment into the record book. Before speaking, please give your name, address, and subject of your comment to Miss Annette Gordano, business administrator, board secretary. Director comments and questions to the
board president. You may speak on two separate topics for up to three minutes each. Laura Thomas 109 Green Avenue. Um I have a question. I I've asked at many meetings of if you change things on the agenda from what we printed yesterday and the day before, were there any
additions or deletions that are in the new agendas that are here? >> Um, yeah, there are there were agendas. They're uploaded onto the on board docs. Okay. But they're not are they in this packet that we just
received? Did you get a packet here today? I did. Well, I then they should be correct. >> Yes, the changes are in the agenda. Okay. So, can you tell me what they were? Um, there were what is this? Um, hourly
aids. There were some added there. Um, the approval of a volunteer softball coach at Mogger and a Wong Elementary School SGI interior renovations. And Annette, you can
What is that for? >> That's an item just to approve an application that's going to the state about the um the Wong interior renovations to create classroom space. >> Okay, >> that's it. That's it.
>> Okay. So, I was going to talk on an agenda item that was on the other agenda. Um the new position for Rich John Helia is not on this agenda that I'm looking at tonight. No, it's not on.
>> It's not on It wasn't on there yesterday either. Yeah, it was >> It was on there because I even questioned you yesterday at the meeting about agenda item and it was on there because I remember I said to you um I see he's on the agenda but I don't see
anything. That was last month. >> No, it was last night. >> I know there but I'm saying that there was an approval for a preschool principal was last month. or was December. Yes, >> a transfer. >> So, I maybe I'm going crazy, but
yesterday I asked you the question because it was on the on the agenda that I had that said that you was going to be the um principal for the early childhood education. Correct. And I asked you, I said, I see that's on for approval tonight. My question to you was, I don't
see anywhere on there, are you going to be replacing him? And your answer to me was that's being discussed. Okay. So, he's not being voted on tonight then. That's taken out of the >> It wasn't there. The transfer was approved in December.
>> Am I missing it? >> No, it was there yesterday. >> Wasn't it on there? >> I don't know. >> Okay. So, it was taken off. >> All you have to do is send me it was taken off. >> No, it was not taken off. It was on the December agenda. If you go on to do that
box to the December agenda, it is on the December agenda. It was not on last night's agenda. I have a copy of the last >> we we all went through the agenda last night. >> Yeah. >> Yeah.
>> We went item by item. >> Thank you. Okay, I I'll double check that the agenda. I left that one at home because I knew I'd be getting a new one tonight. So, >> because this is the one that we were given yesterday before additions were
added today. >> Okay. Good evening. Cheryl Tarvis, 10 Judson Drive, Middle um on the agenda, the Middle Sex Community School has um amounts that are for residential
and non-residential students. And I was wondering if the residents were like, were we allowed to sign up our kids to go to the summer afterare program for
the $250 a week or was that still part of the kids that went all year round? >> I believe that's open to anyone. It's open to any Middle Sex resident that wants to
>> um also last night we talked about there was on the bills transfer there were there was $70,000 that was line item transferred into subs.
So does that mean that our line item for subs was then over? So we had to transfer money from another line item into subs and you want you want what was budgeted initially for subs didn't include all the village rate that
we would have and it didn't include all the leave of absence we would have maternity leaves etc and things like that. So yes, we transferred money from other accounts into the sub accounts. And in some cases, we transfer from the actual salary account. If Jane Doe is
going to be out for the rest of the year, we'll take her salary money and we'll put it towards the subs that we have there to cover for her. So that's why there's always movement with the sub accounts. >> Okay. So that was just the >> Do you move it twice a year or monthly?
>> Transfers. Yeah, monthly. Okay. Right. Um, and the other thing was that I noticed there was a line item transfer. Well, multiple line item transfers from library salaries to education technology.
So, was that the librarian salary that's being transferred into education tech technician or technology? >> What is the account? What is the account? >> It says transferred um library salaries to education
technology. >> That that could also be substitutes. We've had a librarian who's been out. So it could also be to cover for that librarian. Everyone out. Uh Melissa
Princ. Um okay. Uh, I thought I would get to the public comment portion before you guys voted on the meeting minutes. But before I get to that, the $2 million prek grant, a total
of $2 million to be spent across a certain amount of time, I'm assuming like it's a total of $2 million. Is it 2 million a year? Is it >> It's per pupil and it's not a grant. It's aid. >> Okay.
So are there requirements like you must spend a certain amount in a certain amount of years? >> That is the operating budget for the year. >> Okay. They give you per pupil and that's
your operating expense for the year. >> Okay. So then they define how many pupils >> there's 15 per class. >> Okay. And they allow you a certain amount of classes. Like so you're >> No. So we're given a universe. Our universe is 250 in middle sex.
>> 250 pre-K students >> student three and four year olds. That's what they have calculated is in middle sex. Okay. >> So as being a preschool expansion a district each year we expand. So last year we started with three classrooms.
This year we have five and next year we will have nine until we reach that 16. It's about 16 classes that we will need to meet the 250 universe. Correct. Okay. >> But each year it is a per pupil amount that is set by the state that is given
to you given to the district according to enrollment. >> How many kids you have? Right. So they're not paying for 250. You don't have 250. >> And actually that your projections are given to the state. We give our projections to the state in November.
>> So it is a separate budget from our regular district operating budget. Correct. And is there a time frame that the state gives? So like so obviously we max out at 250 students. Now clearly
whether you could get there or not you define your time frame but does the state say >> five years. >> Five years. Okay. So then when we get to 250 students at five years what happens? Does the state continue to fund us for our 250 students?
>> Okay. Indefinitely. >> Yes. Okay. All right. >> So, we and we were grandfathered in if you want. >> We were the last. Yes. So, we because we got our our um application in on time. Okay. >> Um or within a certain time frame last
year, they any new districts that are applying aren't getting the full it's a 6040 split. So, we're getting full funding and we're grand. I think it's just like obviously, you know, we're expanding. The goal is to get every prek
kid into prek for free. My question really, which was just answered, was does that end? You know, like >> I mean, obviously the state want, but yes. No, that's >> like as far as we're concerned right now in regards to one of the last
>> nobody making laws against it or voting built against it >> right now. We were one of the last districts to get in at the 100% financing or not financing but funded is what I should say. >> And districts that now join this year.
It's a 6040 split with the 60 going on the district and the >> not 100. >> Um and then you guys voted on the uh meeting minutes and I thought the public comment portion will be before that. So, I wanted to address it before you voted,
but um the regular public uh meeting minutes from 1226, I was here um for that. And the um same thing as tonight, we had uh district student and district
employees. Um, and I I was here for the prek employees being honored and they were recognized um on the Instagram, but there was like they were noted as Hazelwood School on the agenda. And I just want to make sure that like I'm
just trying to figure out why it said Hazelwood School, not preK district. >> That's their home school, >> right? But they were hired December 2024 as district prek. So like the other people who have been honored that are in
our district are listed as district employees. So why were >> they are housed at Hazelwood School? >> I mean I don't know which other district employees that you >> Michelle Nearter
um Bloom I know we just said was we did say Mogger >> was Mogger right >> and Woodland. Yeah they named both schools. So that's why I'm just saying they they're housed at Dieswood, but they were hired December 2024 as
district employees. >> Well, I mean I think it dep I think it depends on >> it depends on what >> I mean like where where they're I mean they teach at Hazlewood school, right? >> Only they don't go to any other school.
>> They they go to all of them but they're housed at Hazelwood school. >> That's like their home school, >> right? Well, I mean, Miss Neil is housed here at the high school, but she wasn't listed as a high school bus driver. She does the entire district. >> Okay.
>> Okay. So, I would just like that to be fixed clerically because Hazelwood is significantly under represented in the district employees of the month. In fact, dating all the way back to January 2024. >> Actually, they're not. They were recognized last month. Thank you.
>> They were district employees recognized last month. semantics. They were Hazelwood. Thank you. >> I have a problem with district employees being labeled as Hazelwood because now they're under represented and paperwork
wise people are going to go back and think that Hazelwood is not under reppresented. And we have many many fantastic teachers that do not travel in our district that are housed at Hazelwood School that deserve to be recognized. And Hazelwood as a school
deserves to be honored for their teachers that spend their time with our students. And I think that honoring district employees and calling them Hazlewood is a significant blow to the already very low morale of teachers at Hazlewood
School. And when morale is low at a school, that affects the learning of our children. So, I would like the clerical error fixed that those prek employees that were honored here on public record as
prek employees that were posted on the Instagram as our prek employees to be listed as district prek employees so that Hazlewood can be represented by employees that are at Hazlewood 100% of
the time. Christ Bennett 12 Grand a Middle Sex um it might not be on the agenda but I want to go back to what Thomas said about Mr. later. >> This right public comment right now is agenda items only. There will be another
there will be another session after. >> Okay, we will now close this public comment portion of the meeting. Oftentimes it may appear to members of our audience that the board of education takes action with very little comment and in many cases a unanimous vote. Before a matter is placed on the agenda
at a public meeting, the administration has thoroughly reviewed the matter with the superintendent of schools. If the superintendent is satisfied that the matter is ready to be presented to the board of education, it is then referred to the appropriate board committee. The members of the board committee work with the administration and the
superintendent to asssure that the members fully understand the matter. When the committee is satisfied with the matter, it is presented to the board of education for discussion before any final action is taken. Only then is it placed on the agenda for action at a public meeting.
Okay, we will move on to our personnel report by our committee chair, Mr. Todd Nicolai. >> Thank you, Danielle. The personnel committee met on February 10th. Superintendent recommends approval of
personnel action items 9.1 through 9.13 as presented. So move. >> Second. Any questions, comments, or concerns? Okay, Annette, can you please take the role? >> Mrs. Fancy? >> Yes.
>> Mrs. Scheler? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Beichek? >> Yes. >> Mr. K? >> Miss Decker? >> Yes. >> Mr. Nickel? >> Yes. >> Mr. Quinn? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Reynolds? >> Yes. >> Mr. Thordon?
>> Yes. Thank you. We'll move on to our education report by our committee chair, Mrs. Patricia Reynolds. >> Hi, good evening. The education committee met yesterday evening prior to the committee of poll and the superintendent recommends a retrieval of
items 11.01, 11.02, 11.03, 11.04, 11.09, 11.10, 10 11.11 11.13 and 11.15 >> so moved
>> second any questions comments concerns about education items okay and that can you please take the role >> Mrs. Feny >> yes >> Mrs. I need to abstain on 11.11 for myself. Um, and yes to the rest.
Actually, I'm sorry. I have to go back. I just looked at my notes too late. I have to recuse on 11.11 for Justin Marsh. Yes to the rest. >> Mrs. B. >> Yes. >> Mr. K. >> Yes. >> Miss Decker. >> Yes. >> Mr. Nickel.
>> Yes. >> Mr. Quinn. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Reynolds. >> Yes. >> Mr. Dorton. >> Yes. Thank you. Okay, we'll move on to our policy action items. Superintendent recommends the approval
of policy action items 12.01 to 12.04 as presented. So moved. >> Yes. Yes. Need a second. >> Second. Any questions, comments, concerns?
>> I have a quick question >> for the first reading um for committees. >> I just I know it's only the first reading, so this is why I'm working it up for time to discuss. Um there it still lists the
committee for policy, please. >> Yeah. Um it still lists the committee for policy and public relations. So I just only because the verbiage says the president shall a point and I don't I know we moved the policy committee to
discuss policies of personnel with the personnel committee policies of education with the education committee. So that that committee no longer exists and I I'm thinking it should be updated if unless we're going to bring it back. That's >> Yeah. So we're going to um we're
cleaning that up. So we'll we'll remove that because we did put policy within all of the other ones, >> right? Yeah. >> So we will fix that. >> Okay. Any other questions, comments, concerns?
>> Yeah. >> Okay. Um Annette, can you please take the role? >> Mrs. Parent. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Scheler. Yes, >> Mrs. Bich. >> Yes, >> Mr. K. >> Yes, >> Miss Decker. >> Yes, >> Mr. Nicolai. >> Yes, >> Mr. Quinn. >> Yes,
>> Mrs. Reynolds. >> Yes, >> Mr. Thornton. >> Yes. >> Thank you. We move on to our facilities and finance report by our committee chair, Mrs. Amanda Pchek. >> The facilities and finance committee met on February 9th. Superintendent
recommends approval of the facilities and finance action items 14.01 01 through 14.12. So I'll move second. Any questions, concerns, comments on facilities and finance action items.
>> Okay. Annette, can you please take the role? >> Mrs. Par. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Schuler. >> Yes. >> Mrs. B. >> Yes. >> Mr. K. >> Miss Decker. >> Yes. >> Mr. Nichol. >> Yes. >> Mr. Quinn. >> Yes. Mrs. Reynolds. >> Yes.
>> Mr. Thornton. >> Yes. >> Thank you. Um, any ongoing business from the board? New business. Okay. Then we will open our second public comment portion of the meeting.
Comments at this time can be on any topic. Please come to the podium and put your name, address, email address, and subject of your comment into the record book. Before speaking, please give your name, address, and subject of your comment to Miss Annette Gordano, business administrator, board secretary. Direct your comments and questions to
the board president. You may speak on two separate topics for up to three minutes each. Good evening. Hi, my name is Marie Glover. I am the owner of Precious Lment Day Tracare in New Jersey, which is seven minutes from here. I'm calling to seek for partnership to partner with the
district to see how we can work together to better our children education. Um, so thank you for the opportunity to present. Precious Moments Academy respectfully requests approval to serve as a private early childhood provider within the Middle Sex School District. We are an early childhood learning s
excuse me center serving children from six weeks through preschool. Our mission is to ensure that every child ages kindergarten socially confident, emotionally prepared and academically ready. Our program emphasizes early literacy, language development,
foundational ma math skills, family engagement in excuse me in education, partnerships that support students social emotional growth, structured routine and independence, developmentally appropriate play-based learning um before and after care. Our
preschool curriculum relies on New Jersey preschool teaching and learning standards and focuses directly on the kindergarten readiness benchmarks. We we aim to strengthen the district's early learning pipeline by preparing students before they enter Milick Elementary Schools. Our goal is to part in
partnership supporting Middle Sex families and ensuring students arrive in kindergarten ready to thrive. We respectly we respectfully request our consideration your consideration and welcome next steps in your department process. Um I don't know how this goes. It's my first time here so sorry if I
stumbled a little bit but I do have some flyers. I do have a little bit of information about us, but we are up the street. Melanie actually graduated from you guys last year and she's one of our teachers in training. So, we do work with the community to ensure that the kids get the betterment. So, we do partner with the libraries, the police department. I actually got a call today
that I'm going to receive a certification for working with the Middle Sex Fire Department and because I've been such an advocate for them. So, I don't know who I could hand it to or how I go about doing that. You >> Thank you very much for the time. >> Thank you.
Thank you so much for the opportunity. English. >> Thank you. Have a great evening. >> Cheryl Tarvis, 10 Jetson Drive. Um I was looking out on the um because I wanted to see what job openings, how many job openings there were and stuff.
So I went out on the website. Um but I did find that the board corner hasn't been updated since May of 2025. I was wondering if we could update that on a regular basis. And also um there
was underneath um underneath Miss Margaret Gadana's um section in there um the student uh population special education had a couple different categories. It was in
with like the budget numbers that's in there. It's like called the resource. Um, but anyway, that actually hasn't been updated since 2425. So maybe we can update that and then I don't have to ask for it each time I
come. Um and then the other thing is I just want to reiterate that yesterday when we were here um that we thought that was a good idea and I think you guys should too that the agenda meetings or the work
sessions I forget what you call them >> committee as a whole um be broadcasted just like it is tonight because there's no reason why it shouldn't. there's nothing that you're talking about that refers to an individual. Um, and it's
all public. So, I think that you guys should really consider s recording those as well. Thank you. >> Thank you. For the record, Linda Rochetti, 316 Bound Road, Middle Sex, New Jersey. Um,
my question for the board tonight is basically what is the problem? Uh why at this point can we not solve any of the problems that plague this community and its educators? Why are we losing teachers almost weekly to other
districts that see their worth? Uh why are we retaining and protecting teachers that harass the student body and make a mockery of this community? I'm going to try to make this as fast as I can. Um, some of some if not all of it seems precise and
calculated, favoring those that bow down to you with unwavering loyalty and disregard for accountability and consequence. I've silently watched over the district for the last seven years that our daughter has been receiving an education from only to be disappointed
time and time again. I have seen good teacher treated badly and liked teacher treated even worse. throwing up their hands in disgust or silencing themselves and dimming their light for the sake and safety of a paycheck. Just another
number of security. I happen to be very attuned to the general vibe of the town and its members. I care deeply for its children, parents, and educators. I feel that I have a civil duty to uphold the idea of what is wrong versus what is right,
unbiased and unprejudiced. So, I can't address Mrs. Freeman, but Mrs. Prrenty, um, you're both in a position of great responsibility to make these schools better, and the community relies on your integrity. The stories I
have sought, and my instincts very rarely fail me. I have uncovered some damaging evidence. Although I have never spoke with you directly because I don't believe that either one of you really have the ability which Danielle proved to me just
recently to be completely transparent without the >> district. How is that? How did I prove that to you? >> Well, we had a conversation and I called you and I reached out to you and you told me that you don't understand why people are not open to speaking with
you. Correct. And I responded to that to which there was >> I said I said let's talk tomorrow. >> Okay. And that didn't happen. >> And I said I was free pretty much all day. Right. >> You you had the opportunity to call me the next day as well. Did you not? >> True. I did. >> Right. I I don't have anything to hide
or to prove. So I'm not going to chase you if you want answers from me. I offered myself to you. I said I'm free all of tomorrow. You could have called me at any time. But please continue. >> Fair enough. I'm sorry I misread that comment or I thought a ball was in your
cart. Um, so let me pick up where I left off. Being transparent without the lawyer by your side, I would like to give you the opportunity to clear the air and speak openly for yourself. However, I suspect your hands are tied and that is just not possible. Uh without getting too
personal, I know that I'm not even going to read this part because it's void and kind of unnecessary. Um I'm sure with you you and your husband's combined salaries, you're able to take care of your children with the best education possible, which I don't feel that our
children are being given that opportunity. Um, I'm fully aware that you've paid your dues and so to speak have done all the things that you have to do, but I was personally denied those liberties. Um, and I don't even know if it's worth
continuing because I really don't want to get into an argument. >> Well, because I'm not really sure how my mine and my husband's salary has anything to do with yours with board business. Yeah, but you you just said it. You said mine and my husband's salary. That has nothing to do with board business. If you want to have a
personal conversation, we can do that outside of of the board meeting because this is you personally attacking me and that's not going to happen. >> I am not allowed to address and it is said in the beginning of how we are allowed to address people. I cannot address Dr. Freeman personally. >> Correct. >> So who do I address?
>> Right. So you are addressing you addressing me but you're also attacking me personally. My salary and my husband's salary and how we spend our money or how we provide for our family is not has nothing to do with board business. But you brought it into that. But you brought it there.
>> But it's not directed to you. >> But it is. You said I'm sure that your hus your salary. >> Do you want me to read exactly what I wrote? I will because it addresses Dr. Freeman. Just if you're what the the point is if
you're going to make claims if you're going to make claims that are going to defame somebody, please be sure that you have facts and not just I heard from somebody else. >> Dr. Freeman and her her husband's
salaries are and again >> fact as she just said if you're going to defame someone >> I hope you have read the policy >> and that it's not a threat Mr. K. It's not a threat. It's part of our
>> It's public knowledge. >> It's part of >> I received that as she was talking to you through her. I think this is getting a lot. >> Okay. I am more than welcome to have this conversation in private if you are willing to be clear and transparent with what is happening in the district. Okay. I find it ironic that yesterday
afternoon all of a sudden the class three officers are on the agenda. Okay. laughing at our res >> if anyone wants to read this. >> You can finish. >> You can finish. >> I think our time's up. Well, I was interrupted.
>> I was also putting I was also putting my time into there. So, yes, you may you may finish. >> We'll give you um >> No, because it's not there because >> three minutes. >> You guys are allowed to do whatever you're allowed to do and then when someone opposes that,
I don't feel like I'm allowed to finish. So, what I'm going to say is that when people make a public comment, for the most part, I never interrupt, right? But that felt like a personal attack. >> I'm sorry. And I did not intend it. That's why I kept everything blanketed,
open statement, like not even mentioning people's names. >> That's why I interrupted and I normally do not do that. I give people their >> is public knowledge. What that's they're public workers, so salaries, yes, are allowed to be disguised. I give I give so
>> I give people their three minutes and I >> anybody who's been here before I do not usually interrupt people >> because it is your time. It is your three minutes. That felt like a personal attack. So I needed to speak up. I will give you your three minutes starting now. So please continue.
>> I feel like the rest of this is really not relevant because it's personal to me but um I guess I'll continue. So, um, I raised myself and my two brothers, um, while I was in high school, I had a full-time job, and I had a good GPA. I
received a scholarship to the University of New Mexico. But, however, the summer prior to embarking on that chapter of my life, my father had told me that he would unal alive himself should I go. So, I stayed to protect my family. There were no ceremonies, no awards, and no recognition. Um, what what was unselfish
and right for the sake of family, and at this point, I have no regrets. This is my first semester at the school of hard knocks. My father passed December 16th. I now have voice to speak my truth with an unwavering guidance from above. Um, at this point, I'd like to say that I'm
not quite sure what the greater agenda is. Um, I stand before you today representing a very cold, tired, and overworked and disheartened community that is desperately seeking your guidance. and will you give that to this
community? Will you get off the soap box and feet on the ground and fight for the right of this community or will things remain status quo? Um I have also taken the advice of one of the board members and have employed a real estate agent. Uh we will be selling our beautiful home
on Bound Brook Road this spring. Um a home that we have worked on blood, sweat, and tears for the past 13 years. And unfortunately has come to the point where we can no longer stay in this community. My husband and his family have called home for 65 years. It pains me to say goodbye to all the beautiful families and friends that we have made
over the years thanks to the birth of our daughter, but we are growing and moving forward to greater experiences. We need to find our tribe. The journey continues and sadly it cannot continue here. We owe it to our daughter to show her the possibilities the world has to offer her worth and shield her from
systemic abuse and oppression. So I thank you for all being a part of this great learning experience for us, the teachers, the parents, the concerned community members and my daughter friends for showing me how truly beautiful humans can be to each other when their hearts are open and pure.
Sadly, I I'm just not even going to read the rest of it, but it sucks that we have to go and we have to leave this community because we have made a lot of friends and we have had a lot of good support, but I think a lot of more work has to be done and I think there needs to be more transparency. I think things can't just show up the day of because
pressure is put on. So, that's Thank you. Kristen Bennett 12 Green A. Um, just to start, I want to say that Middle Sex High School's swim team have won. Hayden Bennett had a great season and made it to GMC. So, thank you Mr. O'Donnell and
Amy Radowowski for helping her out. But I am here expressing my deep growing frustration regarding the current state of our school district. I am not alone clearly in these feelings. Many parents who attend board meetings share the same dissatisfaction and we are worried that decisions made by the administration and certain board members are eroding the
integrity of both our district and our town. The number of suspensions there have been especially in Aubber school alone is troubling. It negatively impacts learning environment for all of them. My daughter is a seventh grader. Like come on. She's had three teachers squished in and out. It is ridiculous.
>> These holes in staffing look bad and it makes middle sex look bad. staffing shortages at this time. I'm unsure whether my child who's been a recurring threat or not threat but target of bullying has even has access to her own guidance counselor. That position hasn't been filled yet and I know there's a wonderful guidance team at Mocker but
the specific one she's bouncing and that's not fair and it is at no point Miss Morland's fault. That uncertainty alone speaks volumes about the gaps in support services that our students are in need. In looking at the open positions on the board of ed website, it is out of date and I don't believe a
French position was even opened on there. I could be wrong, but looking at the out ofdess of it now, I question it. Um, equally concerning is what appears to be the misplacement of capable educators and administrators coupled with what many perceive as weekless spending. So, for example, this decision
to hire a prek support team should intend to provide obviously meaningful support to teachers and bring support to students or families throughout the district. But one individual was hired, just graduated college with no experience. While everybody deserves the opportunity to grow. We're all new and we all start. Um, you know, she's still
trying to establish does not seem like the best fit for the needs of our staff and students at this time, especially since the program is still so good. Somebody with more experience would have been a better choice in my personal opinion of 23 plus years of teaching. The conduct of some student more of
board members has also raised concern. conduct. Elected officials are expected to maintain professionalism and rise above personal conflicts, especially on social media. Our community deserves leadership that reflects integrity, restraint, and a focus on student success rather than divisiveness. I am
not at all writing to be inflammatory, but to be honest, polite conversations and carefully worded remarks have not led to a meaningful change. Parents are troubled by what we see as a lack of transparency, instances of suspected favoritism, and repeated failures to prioritize the well-being of our children. And while speaking out may
create tension, my priority is and always will be the safety and success of all students in this district. Ideally, more parents would attend board meetings regularly, but they should not be required to attend meetings simply to advocate for basic accountability. I'm not saying the board or administration is requiring the parents at all. Correct
that. But their time should be spent coming to these meetings to celebrate the accomplishments of the students and the staff. Um, but unfortunately, many of us feel that this trust now is compromised. Why has it taken so long to also implement fundamental safety measures when the town council has
expressed readiness to support them? The hang up over language took a ridiculous amount of time and your students and staff safety should always come before your language. And while I may not present a portfolio of documents, transparency and honesty are not optional and they are essential. So, as Pink once said, leadership isn't a
title, it's a test. At this moment, many in our community believe that this test is not being passed or even met. And I urge you to reflect seriously on these concerns, restore transparency, and refocus on what truly matters, the safety, education, and well-being of every student in our district. And with
all of that said, and I'm going to make so many enemies here, I believe it's time for the parents to work together and propose a vote of no confidence and follow the lead of our teachers. Thank you. >> Thank you. My name is Amy Curtis, 150 Lincoln Boulevard. It's not really a Well, it is
a question, but it's also a comment. Mr. K, I watched your two videos that you posted on Facebook and we're talking about transparency and we're talking about being kind and not bullying people and I
saw you bully somebody across from you. Is that correct or incorrect? >> No, no, no. She she shouldn't she should be reaching to you. >> I'm asking you. Yeah, but you
should you have to direct your comments. Go ahead. You can >> you can raise issues about anyone but the all the comments should be addressed to the president. >> Okay. Okay. Um my concern is is that
well number one the superintendent's name is Dr. Freeman. So, I watched the video three times and you actually she was called Dr. Williams, which is concerning, right?
Um I also think that don't we want isn't the goal of all of this to make sure that we're a bigger, better community, that everyone gets along? If we're doing things as adults that we wouldn't want our children to do, I mean, you won't
even look at me. You're yawning. You won't even look at me. But that's okay. >> When you say, >> can I respond or is this >> cuz I would like to know that I've been harassed before by this patron. So, this is very uncomfortable for >> I promise you just when you say you >> okay, >> you're addressing him, then you're
you're not so >> in Mr. Do. >> Okay. >> Did this Mr. those but as long as you're talking to the board president as you're talking >> that's the issue. >> So I don't think it's conducive for our kids. I mean we're supposed to be the
example correct or incorrect. Yes. And I feel like transparency is not about videotaping somebody when they're uncomfortable. I don't think we're getting any answers or doing anything critical. I think it's about trying to catch somebody doing something and
that's not how it should be. Is that correct or incorrect, Miss Frankie? >> I agree. >> I mean, I agree that we're not Nobody should ever be trying to catch somebody, right? >> That's I don't know that that's happening. That's not what I'm saying. I just feel like we've had the same
superintendent since 2022 and her name bears repeating. Dr. Freeman, not Dr. Williams. Right. >> That is her name, Dr. Bar. >> So,
that's all I have to say about that. And thank you. And listen, you're okay. Thank you. >> So, since I was just personally attacked like you were, am I allowed to respond to you to that or >> if you have concerns, you can. Yes, you
can bring them to me. >> Yeah. I mean, being an ADHD neurody diversion, sometimes I do slip up with names. It was an honest thing. I also said just being in when I pointed over here. So I was looking at her. There's no context giving. It was taken completely out of order and it's a public meeting. So if someone doesn't
want to be recorded in a public meeting as a public official, my remain my comment remains the same. Don't serve. Like you don't come in this venue. Don't come in here. Don't come in here and make me feel threatened because I did of something. And it's the issue where I have to protect myself from people who are harassing me and following me around
to say ridiculous stuff. >> Mrs. I'm still a little aggressive. How he is speaking is a little aggressive. Well, he's he's addressing me. So, >> yeah. And it's like I feel like it's wise to have this type of discussion for that type of thing. But
>> if I did misname it, I apologize. I didn't even catch that. But that's a simple scope. But uh >> yeah, >> we're talking about public recording. Record all the meetings. There's not a problem. Record all of it. Public meetings still dealt with.
>> Thank you. Thank you. >> Kevin 359 Detroit Avenue. Uh, switching routes a little bit here, but I'm I'm here to talk about your upcoming policy changes for the phone ban. Um, as a representative from inside the school, I know I know it's a lost
cause to ask you guys to not ban them and that's the student inside of me speaking but nonetheless I would like to make a statement from the perspective our of our teachers not not just our students because I I get insider view from them
directly um I I think the phone ban isn't is a solution for an issue that doesn't really exist to be honest we have we have rules for students our teachers have the discretion to say you can't
bring out your phone and if you do I'm saying I'm giving you detention or I mean every class also has a phone caddy and teachers have the discretion to say put your phones up at the beginning of class and if I see you with it out I'm giving you detention and those rules have worked. If a teacher doesn't want
students to have their phones and a student has their phone they get in trouble. Um, but if you guys ban phones from here, you remove that discretion from teachers. And I could ask a bunch of
teachers to even sign a petition. And I would get a bunch of signatures from teachers saying that they do not support a phone ban. And the reason for that is because whether we like it or not, the phone is a learning tool. Um, teachers ask students to take pictures of their work all the time. Google Classroom. Um,
and all I mean all the time I'd be I'll be doing work in class and instead of handing it in to the teacher directly, they want you to take a picture of it and do it through the internet because it's faster and more efficient. Um, but more importantly, whether we like it or not, artificial intelligence is a
learning tool and it's banned on school Chromebooks and so the only way for students to access it is through phones. And so getting rid of iPhones getting is getting rid of artificial intelligence. And to us young people, artificial intelligence has the same potential to
be what the internet became 20 years ago, right? Um, so at the end of the day, if the board of ed makes a phone ban that punishes the teachers who actually use the phones, um, so I guess what I'm trying
to say is I know an updated phone policy is inevitable, but please keep the teachers discretion in mind. I think it's per perfectly achievable to make this policy kind of up to the teachers um instead of banning it overall because
again you're punishing the teachers who actually want to use it. That's all. Thank you very much. So, I'll just there was a law that was signed just recently in January that mandate that all New Jersey schools and all New Jersey boards of education have
policies that go into effect for next school year that have a bellto bell ban on cell phones. So by law, the board cannot give the discretion to the teachers during the school day as to whether or not to have cell phones starting next year.
>> But the board does have discretion to make their own policy, right? >> No, it will only but it must by law it must ban cell phones from bell to bell starting next year. >> My apologies. >> And >> storm the governor's um championship for
that. Well, um, in that case then at the end at the end of the day, maybe find out a way to give students artificial intelligence access. That's up to the teachers discretion because that's again, it's going to be a very important learning tool in the future.
>> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Uh, Amy Carai 115 Place. Um, and I apologize I came late. Um I am working and I do have to go back to work after I leave here. Um but I felt it was
important to come to speak. Um my question is why do we not have resource officers for every single school? My understanding is there's three going to be approved or approved. So the um
class three officers, they're not um resource officers. So they're more like it's like a it's security more than um so SRO's student resource officers are more for the like building relationships with the students and you know like if they're having problems at home they can
go to the SRO. Um the class 3 officers are more like security um to god forbid you know somebody tries to make entry into a building that doesn't belong here that is armed or whatever that class three officer is responsible you know for handling that.
So I just wanted to clarify resource resource officer versus the class 3 officer. >> Okay. >> So um right now the agreement is for three. Um it's three to start and then with in talks with the chief and the
district it may expand from there. >> I do know in public media it was promised that there was to be five. So there it was never promised that there were five. Um the original discussion with the town was that
originally when this all came up came up which was probably 2022 um there was a discussion with the um burrow that we would have six but the it was going to be a 50/50 split. So this the district was going to pay for
half and then the burrow was going to pay for half. when they were doing their budget, they realized that that wasn't something that they could do. So then we had to budget for the total expense of salaries and training salaries. Um, and at the time we had to budget for three.
So it was never promised that we that was an original discussion with the burrow but because things the dynamics of the agreement or the the talk had changed it changed to three with the intent that it will expand
which is interesting because sorry not five six it was six okay and I do remember it was after a school shooting and I believe it was Dr. Freeman that came out and I don't remember if it was a letter sent to everybody or a post. I can't remember the specifics, but the
specific number was I believe five. So to your point, if we're communicating with the community, we shouldn't be communicating inaccurate numbers or promising something that can't be delivered. Is that fair enough?
Because people are going to assume this letter came out, this post came out, it is from a superintendent. This is happening. Why wouldn't you think it's happening? I think that it's not fair to the community um at all. And I think we deserve
better. We just deserve better in the whole school system. My son has been going to school here for four years. Every single year, I'm like, it's going to get better. this teacher, he's gonna have this teacher, this is going to happen, whatever. It's next year, I'm
getting through. It never seems to get better. And I don't understand how there can never be. There's no progress here. And it breaks my heart because I want to move at this point. I want to send him to private school and I can't. He says, "I can't
afford it." So, we're stuck here. So, I'm here speaking. For example, music. We had no music last year in Hazelwood. Now we come back this year. Mr. Copeland happens to be back. Now he's gone again. We get an email from the principal about
him being gone. And our students are getting sufficient music education. Oh, and I asked my son, "What did you do in music today?" Oh, we played on the computer. That's not music class. Why do they not have recorders? Why do
we not have music presentations with singing? We used to have an art and a music assembly. My question is who was responsible in the past for organizing that or getting that approved and why isn't it happening now?
>> For getting what approved? >> We've had in the past a music assembly. Who was responsible for creating that at Hazlewood and why are we not doing that now? I don't know who was responsible for that before, but I will find out.
>> Why? And then my question is, if you don't know, does that mean that that's not happening in the other elementary schools? >> I don't know all of the events that happen in all of the other elementary schools. So, I couldn't >> That's really disappointing to me. Then
you should know we have spelling bees because I I don't think we do. if we're not having music celebrations, art celebrations, whatever it is. When I grew up, when I grew up, we had music. We had a music teacher that had music
and instruments and we did for in front of the parents. We sang, we did these things. We don't have that here. And even we can't see what's at school. My son has an assembly. There's no pictures. We have social media. There is nothing on our social media about what
happens in the school. Why shouldn't you be proud about the things that are teaching, the things that are going on the walls, the activities that are happening within the district? I see nothing. I don't know what goes on. My son has an English teacher.
He has had probably three or four writing assignments this whole year. We are celebrating 100 days of school, right? He has had no writing homework. How are you in third grade and you do not have writing homework? Is it a curriculum problem? I don't understand
that. Did have Did you bring that concern to the teacher? Did you ask >> at the at the one meeting that we're allowed for the year for the with the teachers where I had all three teachers at once in about seven minutes. So, no, that was not sufficient for me. >> I mean, you can always reach out to
teachers. >> You can I do work. >> Well, I know we all do as well. I'm just saying if this, you know, if that's a concern like it's a >> she saidern she said and again I don't know if it's her or the curriculum. She does not give for example spelling
homework. So they get spelling words but they have no spelling homework. So for two weeks we're supposed to practice at home however we want to practice other than going on the Chromebook and playing a game with writing in the the Chromebooks
are ridiculous to me. Yes. At some point they're they're our kids need to have educational computers and things like that. When all you do is sit in front of the Chromebook at school for music, for math, for this, for that, that's not helping our children.
It I I just don't understand why we're not striving for better. My best friend goes to a different school district. It is not by any means exceptional. But the things I see that go on there compared to the things that go on here and it's a smaller community. We are
small enough where we should be able to provide at least a meet of an expectation. When I get rated at my job, I want to at least meet my expectations. We shouldn't have all this angst from parents and and trying to figure out a
new talk. Not everybody's going to come to these meetings. Not everybody's going to want to talk up here. They have better things to do. they have to take care of their families. They work. They this just very disappointing that just because people aren't here doesn't mean they're not talking about it in the community.
And I just ask again, do better. Our kids are worth it. And I don't understand why this level is just it's just not being set. Thank you. >> Thank you. Good evening. Uh, board of ed. Uh, Dr. Freeman,
>> I was going to say you started off. >> I'm sorry. Can you just state your name? >> Bruce. I'm sorry. Bruce Sanders, 10 Venice Avenue. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Um, Mrs. Parent, you mentioned that the schools are excelling. Okay. And in the
the middle schools, I it may be the case. Do you happen to know what our last test scores for the high school in math were? >> So, just really quickly, I didn't say excelling. I said we were progressing. >> Okay. >> Um, and there's a difference there.
Um, and I don't I don't know off the top of my head what the test scores are. did see them when when they were posted. Um I know that last night we had an education committee meeting and we went over now this is not state standardized testing but we do um we do benchmarking
which is uh what are they called? What do we use? Um >> yeah but what are they called? Like what is the overall thing of them? Uh >> it's a state >> universal screeners. So, we do benchmarking um and Miss Gomez
did a presentation last night that showed um it was how many grades was it all grades? Yeah, up to 11th grade. Um and it showed um end of the uh beginning of the year and middle of the year, which is where we're at so far. um and
all but I believe one or two grades improved um at least I guess I think it was three percentage points from beginning of the year to middle of the year. Then we'll also do an end of the year benchmark assessment. Um so that's what I do know and again I
don't know the state numbers off the top of my head. I do remember seeing them. >> Okay. So let me just advise you the English the percent of high school students in this school for English last year was 54%. That's okay. But the percentage of high
school students in this school for math was 15.7%. Proficient. That's not acceptable. I hope that those numbers are going up. And uh we'll I I was going to question, do we know when those numbers come out
from the state of New Jersey? Does anyone know when that comes out? >> The school performance reports will be out shortly. >> Okay. Because I I think I remember you doing a performance evaluation last January, so I would have thought maybe >> No, we we do it in October. So we present all this the scores in October.
Okay. >> But this actual school performance reports, they come out usually March, April. >> Okay. Okay. So, I just wondered if that came out. That was the first point. Hopefully, you guys have a program in math that will will improve those scores. And if you're getting that
initial thing already, maybe that's happened. So, hopefully that did for last year. Uh, second thing, I understand we had a protest in this school. Now, Todd and Sharon, I don't know if you guys remember when we were in school, we did protest, but Mr. Dan
would not allow us to protest during school time. I understand we can't fight the idea of protests and we protest because student our teachers weren't getting their salaries. Okay. But I was wondering if you guys could review the
policy in the student handbook on protesting. I know a lot of students if they got a chance to get out of school and protest lunch, they'll do it. So, I just think that it might be worth um reviewing those policies and seeing
if there's anything to be done. Just a suggestion there if we know that something like this will happen again. I I want to commend um Mr. Rean because I think they handled it very well. There's a lot of issues around that whole situation, but I think they did handle
it very well. Um one point to make, there's things you can do. You can't penalize major league, but you can say an absence occurred. Teachers can go about pop quiz today. So, just a thought
there. I would ask that the student or the board of ed take a look at the policy in the student handbook. All right. And lastly, the big question about everything I'm hearing, and I want to commend you guys because I think things have improved in
terms of communication. It's a lot better now. you are answering. Before it was just like you guys would sit there, we'd ask a question, we get nothing. All right? Until you find it on a web page. I have a suggestion. The big problem what we're hearing here is it's a lack of communication.
You have meeting minutes after this uh for this for this session. Is there any reason and here's my question. any reason why after the meeting minutes another addendum to the meeting minutes is what were the
questions brought out and what are the answers so people it would take a month you know the next month being approved people can go back to the meeting minutes and say oh they had a question on this they had a question on this so then you're communicating to the whole community not individuals who asked the
question but to the entire community that could solve a lot of the issues that you're having That's what I got. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Thank you. Good evening. I apologize if I'm not catching our breath. I I sprinted here from the car like I barely made public
comment. Um very >> sorry you know who you are but just state your name and address 608 Clinton. >> Thank you. >> Uh first I would like to applaud uh my friend and peer for former peer uh Kevin
for his um comment. I do I do believe the board should reconsider how student representatives are to speak within the board. They are non- voting board members and they should be able to speak not in public comment but they they should be able to participate in new
business and they they are board members by they're not just a a symbol of uh sorry I'm catching my breath this uh they are not just symbols of the school they are they are by by law they are board members and by the bylaws they are board members they're not voting but
they're still members of the board and should be treated as such. Actually, he he can speak. He didn't have to go to the public comment portion. And maybe that wasn't >> I told him. >> Yeah. And maybe that wasn't clear to you, so apologies. Um, but anytime like when we say old uh ongoing businesses or
new business, if you have something like that, you can bring it up. Um, or you can do the public comment. That's up to you. But >> thank you. >> But thank you for pointing that out. So, because maybe he wasn't aware of that. >> All right. Uh, great. Great comments, Kev. Uh second would be to the uh I
guess thank you for approving getting through with these class three officers. Uh they're very much needed a very long process to do so. Um I do think the board should be looking to not have these almost severed talks with the burrow. I think the burrow and the
school should inherently really work together a lot more than they have uh in this last past couple of years. strains of DPW, the strains with a real lot of the burough services. They should be
they should be the board should try the uh should really try to work together with the town, not like these separated talks. It shouldn't be that you're trying to negotiate with police like it's some private event. It should be negotiating with the police as if
they're you're collaborators. U Thank you. >> Agreed. Thank you. have to sign again. >> Um, just Yeah, just put your name just or just put a two next to the first time you signed it. I
just so that we know you were there. >> Okay. Um, I think I've asked this question before and I'm not sure that I got a really clear answer. Um, kind of like a two-parter here. So, my daughter has received in fifth grade um high honor role, first marking
period, second marking period um honor role again. However, and she's been in tutoring, she went all summer and she continues to go to tutoring um Huntington. So, this is all extra. So, it's school after school and school during summer.
Um however, her state scores reflect that she's reading at a third grade level. She was handed a piece of paper and it was highlighted third grade level. She's intelligent and knows what that means. So, can someone just explain the
discrepancy between how she's being graded in school in class versus the reflection of the state scores and what they imply. >> So, this is your public comment portion and you can use it as you want. >> Okay.
The board can't really respond to that question though. Okay. Because it's a student issue and there's confidentiality. >> Okay. >> What I would recommend is that if anyone has issues pertinent to your individual child, especially that might have to
>> do with their priv privacy, >> that you try to bring it through the proper chain of command, which would or not command, but communication, I should say. >> Okay. Sure. So, who who should I direct this question to then? Well, I don't have a grade, but usually the teacher
and if not then building principal or vice principal or guidance counselor and depending on how you satisfied you are with that. Okay. >> Uh >> you can go up to the superintendent. Okay. >> Um next question. And
so then that just kind of confused me because we have had students come up and be I guess honored or showcased and um they've had presentations on the personal student. So I just want to bring in not that I need the
recognition because Mrs. Vasquez had already reached out. Um, but also my daughter and three of her friends had started a kindness club in her school, fifth grade. So, amongst all the bullying and the knife drawings and all
the comments that have been happening at the middle school level, you know, the fourth and fifth graders are aware because they all talk and they'll have older friends and older siblings of what's happening with, I guess, the violence rhetoric. I just want to have
it stated that I'm super proud of the kids that go the other way and do things in the name of kindness. So >> a question, but agreed. Yeah, we don't need the recognition, but it is just nice to know that that is also happening. It's not all bad.
>> So wonderful to reinforce the good, too. It's nice. Thank you. Drive, New Jersey. Um, I was here last night. I saved her for all the presentations and Dr.
Freeman's blowby-blow detail of her response to the town's mudslinging thing we have going on here, which hopefully now has come to an end because everybody's had their side to say, which I agree. Everybody has a
right to that. But a lot of good things came out of that last night and a lot of good things come out of things here, but then nothing happens with them. So, um, I asked a question too about the French
teacher being replaced with a half-time French teacher being replaced with a full-time Spanish teacher because I was curious to know what this full-time Spanish teacher was going to do
if it was if the original was a halftime French teacher. Could could you tell me when you guys voted to replace the French half French teacher with a full-time Spanish teacher, was there any
discussion about what the full-time Spanish teacher was going to do? Like, and you know what, you could even say to me, she'll pick up some classes or whatever. I mean, like, I just like an explanation of how we went from a half a teacher to a full teacher. So, I just
correct me if I'm wrong, but it originally was a full-time French teacher, correct? >> No. >> Okay. I I know we were having trouble finding a French teacher. >> So, if to go back to this this past summer, it's difficult to find a French teacher
and a part-time French teacher. So, actually this summer, we proposed a full-time Spanish teacher. It would be more attractive first of all that um people are not looking for part-time work, they're looking for full-time work
>> and we would be able to utilize them as you're saying they would be able to do other classes. No, no, I just want to explain the process so that you have a clear answer. Mhm. >> At the end of the summer after we
decided to go to a Spanish, someone applied that was before the French and they had the proper certification and we moved forward with the French. However, that they did not remain with us. It was a commute for them. So, they they
actually lived in another state and they bit off more than they could chew. So with that, it opened up a vacancy again. So we went back to the original plan from the summer because again, world language teachers are very
difficult to find. Spanish, French, Mandarin, all of them, they're very difficult to find, but part-time it compounds. So we went back to um looking for a Spanish teacher. Also, there was even a parent who came here at one of the meetings. You may have even been
here when they spoke up and said, you know, have you even considered Spanish? My my child, I would really like them to have a language. >> And we had considered that. So again, we were able to find a Spanish teacher who was approved
>> last month. Last month. And to answer your other question from last night, there are 92 students that were you're welcome, which I planned on emailing you, but since you stood up, here you are. >> Highlight the answer here. Thank you. >> 92 students. >> Okay.
>> Okay. So, that that's the story of >> So, that's enough for a full time. >> Correct. And if there are holes in the schedule, trust we will build of the schedule. Um, and then there were some concerns in your timeline you brought up
about sewer bills and water bills and storage of salt. Um, how are those things being taken care of now? Are they still issues? >> So,
>> all those things, are they still issues? >> The the sewer the sewer bill is a non-issue. Sewer bill is a non-issue. The salt is a non-issue. We've um went a different way with that. >> Um and the water bill, I'm >> not sure. I we haven't gotten word that
is correct. >> Not a non-issue, but we haven't that it's still an issue. Correct. >> We don't know. Now, are you getting water bills? >> No, we have the water is now in our name. So, >> so you're getting we get our own water
bills. And as Mr. K said last night, we will plan a meeting, a shared services meeting where an something like this topic can be brought up and that we would be able to resolve it. >> Okay. Yeah. Because this is clearly a communication issue, you know, and I how
are we going to know that this committee is formed? Like will it will it represent like on a monthly like being part of that everybody deserves? >> So um not necessarily a committee. We were saying that we may have try to have like a
>> shared services. >> Yeah. Or or and and have a whole a whole meeting with the burrow and the board which obviously would have to be a public meeting. So it would be it would be advertised. Um >> there's no less on spot for beyond this time. >> Oh, I'm sorry. We will add that. >> You're fine. Thank you. But I would say
that we are already on the move and it's already healthy taken. So, well, I guess I'll let you know and then we'll we'll let everybody know how we're proceeding. Okay. All right. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Lord Thomas 109 Green. I apologize for
my little arangitis here. Um I some questions were being answered. So, I wondered if you had the question that I asked last night about how many students did not fulfill the requirement for re-registration. >> I do not have that information tonight,
but I will have it for you. >> Okay. And talking about questions prior, I've been asking at several meetings, but I have not gotten any answer. The luncher to date, any idea? I thought that.
>> Yeah, I I will get back to you. I don't want to give you an incorrect figure. >> Okay. Well, this is probably like the fourth time I'm asking and I don't get any answers. So, >> okay. >> That would that would be great. Um I just have a question. So, we're doing
three class three officers. Can I ask you why it went from three from five to three and why can't we make it five? So, it the original discussion with the burrow was actually that it was
going to be six. Um, and then because I guess I don't know what their reasoning was. I don't know if it was when they were doing their budget, they realized that they couldn't cover the 50% of it. Um, so we had actually budgeted in only a certain amount because we were going
to split the cost with the burrow. Um, and then we had to rework our budget to cover the total expense. So for now it is three with and in the agreement it says in the agreement that um in talks
with the chief and what is needed that that can increase going forward. So okay okay my three to start my last question is um obviously money is an issue here. So I have some paperwork of transfers. I
don't know if anybody can explain this to me. So, security that was contracted um $109,591 was transferred from that account to a
salary security account and it's listed as a new security position. Can I ask you what that position is or was >> Okay, we will have to get back to you because we don't have the actual the exact
>> You don't know. So, you made a new position, but you don't know who what that position is. >> Yeah, I don't we I'm not sure why it says new security position, but we will they will look into that and get back. >> So, it says that again. Um that was the
October 1st 24 meeting and then another transfer was made November 1st 24 meeting of $7,000 to the new security position again. Okay. >> I'm just you're saying in 2024.
>> Yeah. And then my last question is um Rich Sean, you going to this new position is that salary paid out of that funding that comes from the state that doesn't it's not coming from the board
of education. Okay. Thank you. Yes, that salary is being paid for by the uh preschool expansion fee. >> I just wasn't sure if I could answer because you said somebody's name, so it's personnel. That's why I >> won't say that next time.
>> There wasn't a principal last year, but now we're going to have one this year for how many kids are. >> I mean, we have a new program, so you know, the program is expanding. So yes, we are we're going to have a principal now and that salary is going to come out
of preschool aid. So it's not >> part of our budget. >> A principal for some few kids to me doesn't >> Well, there's going to be nine classes next year. >> How many students? >> Well, there's 15 in each class. Correct. >> Still that's >> Yeah. >> For a salary of $160ome,000
even though it's not our money. I'm just saying. Is it a mandate to have the principal? I'm sorry. Is it required to have a principal >> for preschool? >> You have to have
oversight. >> Okay. You have to principal oversight for the preschool. So, yes, that's what we've decided to make a principal. Melissa Zac, 6 Princeton Drive. >> Um, I believe it was last meeting. Uh, I came up here because I missed the
December meeting. So, I'm referring to the minute. Uh, I actually asked about uh the same transcript that was just talked about positionwise. Um, so I would like to make an official statement.
Good evening. I am seeking clarification regarding the recently approved transfer of a principal effective July 1st. While the board approved a transfer, I have been unable to locate any prior board action creating or approving a prek
principal position, nor any adopted job description establishing such a role within the district's organizational structure. A transfer resolution presumes the existence of a lawfully created position. In the absence of
formal board action establishing that position, the transfer the transfer appears procedurally incomplete. Given that the effective date has not yet occurred, I respectfully request that the board refrain from finalizing
this transfer, refrain from creating a new position solely to cure a procedural defect, and instead return the principal to his original properly established position until full compliance and transparency can be ensured. This request is made to prevent potential
governance and grant or aid compliance issues before they arise rather than attempting to address them after July 1st. I'm asking the board to correct this proactively and ensure that any administrative structure changes are properly created, publicly approved, and
clearly documented prior to implementation. Thank you. That's my official statement. Now, is it nice that $150,000 salary is being paid by the state? Yes. Is it nice that we uprooted
an entire school's ecosystem and that ecosystem, the biodome is dying? No, we have a failing principle in my opinion and they are not tenured. We do not need
to be saddled with other districts mistakes. We do not need to, in my opinion, have this mistake
on our payroll at a $160 plus thousand when we can just move the principal who we spent a lot of money fighting who won. This has been a long road and I understand that while we can't, a win
doesn't necessarily put the person back to where they should have been, a win does indicate that the correct paperwork was not done. Just like the correct paperwork is not done. That prek position was never formally created on a board agenda unless you have one. I did
ask last month. I did not get anything and I honestly expected to see it on this agenda. Um, and I don't. So again, it's not till July. So you're not technically out of compliance because he is not in that position. I'm asking the
board to just not approve it. You It was approved under a lame duck board of education at the December meeting and I'm asking you to not approve it. Uh my other question is
how much we talked about budgeting every year for security for right the class I understand it was only three because of the I hear those answers how much was budgeted like what is the budget what was the budget line I don't know that
exact number right now obviously but we can get you that well I'm just saying like okay we know we only have enough money for for three, right? So, like is there an estimate? Can somebody give me some sort of estimated number?
>> Okay. Would it be under the security contracted account? I believe that's where it is. >> Yes. Okay. >> I believe so. So, under the lame duck board on December uh in the December
meeting, uh transfers were approved from November. Uh they're all listed as November 1st, 2025 and anybody can go back and look at the monthly transfers list and you will see
that the money from security contracted was transferred three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine 10 times, three times to special services for a new RBT position. Doesn't sound like security to me. and one, two, three,
four, five, six, seven times for substitutes totaling $200,000 out of our security account. So, while I do believe that this back and forth between the town and the board is a
communication issue, looking at that, it also looks like a funding issue. It looks like the stall now September we were press released right that we were going to get the class three officers.
I mean I believe that we heard now based on you know how things progress that should it be approved in October we were looking at like January February between hiring training time. So now we're approving this and if the town approves
it, you're looking at next year and according to the budget transfers, it looks like we lost $200,000 of our security money. So the stalling doesn't look good when you look at the budget transfers.
Thank you. just to respond to a couple things. One, when there's if there's a question about a staff transfer or hiring or >> the question, >> I'm sorry, >> mine was just the position of prek
principal. >> Okay. >> Right. So if that those those are question questions about positions or and and budgets and things like and procedure are questions that the board can typically comment on if they want to and they ask but uh questions about why
individuals were transferred to certain places or why those are questions that are personnel issues and can't be answered. Uh, and as far as the creation of a new position, it's not
necessary to create a new position for if there's already a principal position in the district. You don't you don't need to create a new position on the roster on the uh >> you had your time. >> Yeah. >> So, that's over. I'm going to respond, but
>> Okay. >> It's on the back and forth. >> I waited till you were done. No, I'm just saying the position was never created. It wasn't there. He wasn't transferred to a position that was created. That's my that was my concern. I just want to be clear. >> And I want the answer is it didn't need to be created because you don't need to
create a position for when there's already a principal that's hired. You don't need to create a new position to transfer them to a new assignment. >> That's that's the answer. I Okay, so I just to be clear,
>> just to be clear, there was never a prek principal. Never. The position was never created for prek principal. >> It doesn't need to be because there just it's it's not specific to prek. We have principal position already in the district. That's why
>> it was already approved by the board. >> A prek principal was already approved. >> Just an extra principal >> because it's an extra position. We're adding a principal. So like >> no >> need to create abolish. So why do we why do they do that then? >> There is not an additional principal
hired. So we didn't need to the board didn't need to create a new position to hire a new principal. The amount of principal positions already approved match the number of principles in the district. >> Hear your answers.
Okay, we will now close public comment portion of the meeting and go into executive session pursuant to chapter 231 PL1975 also known as the open public meetings act authorizing a public body to meet an executive private session
under certain limited circumstances and the set law requires the board adopt a resolution at a public meeting before it can meet in such an executive or private session. The Middle Sex B board of education hereby determined that it may be necessary to meet in executive session on February 19th, 2026 to
discuss matters involving attorney client privilege, confidential student matter, confidential personnel matter. So moved. >> Matt, can you please take the role? >> Yes. >> Yes.
Yes, >> that no action is expected to be taken after the executive session.