Are we live? >> Okay, >> I'll call our meeting to order. Will we all rise for the flag salute and back the row? I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the
republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> And could we all remain standing for um a moment of silence for all those in harm's way and all of our military at home and abroad.
We could all ask it. We hear the echo. >> I think Yeah, it's from the uh the >> sound. >> Okay. The notice requirements of the open public meetings act of the state of New Jersey have been satisfied by the
inclusion of the date, time, and place of this meeting in the notice of regular meetings adopted by this board on January 6th, 2025. Such schedule and notice of meetings is posted in the municipal building, the Mount Olive Library, the board of education offices,
and the six schools was submitted to the daily record for publication on January 7th, 2025, and was filed with the clerk of Mount Olive Township on January 8th, 2025. I direct that this announcement be entered into the minutes of this meeting. And we'll take a roll call,
please. >> Mrs. Aquino, >> here. >> Mrs. Fence, >> here. >> Mrs. Faggera, >> here. >> Mrs. Mr. Fitzgerald >> here, >> Dr. Gordeno >> here, >> Mrs. Melendez, Mrs. Narcissis here, Mrs. O'Neal here, >> Mr. Orazilo >> here.
>> And with that, we're going to have a change of order. We're going to move our superintendence report to prior to our approval of minutes. So, you are off, Dr. Bania. Good evening. I'm so excited about tonight's um presentation. Tonight, we're going to be honoring our
fantastic um athletes from the fall season. And at this time, I'm going to be inviting Miss Katie Rubé, who works in our athletic department. Thank you so much for all her hard work. She is at every single event day and night. I think you live in at the stadium, do you? >> No, not really.
>> Sometimes. >> Well, it feels like that. >> It does feel like that, right? >> Well, thank you, Dr. Bani and the board for taking the time to recognize our student athletes this evening and their accomplishments that they've had this season. Um, Dr. Bani said, "I'm Katie Rubé. I'm Colleen's assistant." Um she
unfortunately sends her regrets. She is at the National Athletic Director's Convention. I won't tell you where she is. It's in a warm place, however. Um but before we recognize our athletes tonight, I really would like to give a special thank you to our transportation department. I know how many trips that
we have going out on a daily basis just for athletics. And they have an entire district that they have to deal with. And I work with them every single day. and I don't know how they do it, but they do find a way to get our athletes where they need to go to and from safely. So, I just want to say thank you
to the ladies in the office and all of our transportation drivers as well. Our fall season was very successful from football advancing to the state sectional semi-finals to athletes in cross country uh making their best personal times to our boys soccer team playing in state sectional finals. I
would like to congratulate all of our athletes and their coaches for a great season. We had three teams win their conference and section and those athletes are the ones that we will recognize this evening. Girls volleyball has always been a force to be reckoned with and this season was no exception.
They moved to a higher division in the conference and finished their season as the NJC American Division Champions. For the first time in program history, our girls tennis team won their division are the NJACK national division champions. And finally, our gymnastics team
continues to be a leader in the state, winning the league championships and the sectional championships. At this time, I'd like to call up Mike Redzinski, who is our girls tennis coach. Good evening. Uh thanks for having us. This is a special event for us
especially the um should I turn the face this way or doesn't All right. Uh especially for the girls tennis program. Uh it's been my seventh season here um in district as a tennis coach and uh this is my fifth year as a teacher. So it's been a a great journey. Um the
girls that are with us today, a few of them are um underassman, but one of them is a senior captain. I'm very uh excited to just share these honor and um communicate what we experienced this past season. So um thank you board members uh and Dr. Bania for having us.
Um this year was historic. Uh we finished the most wins in program history, an incredible 13-6 record, and for the first time ever, we were division champions with a 9-3 record. In the county tournament, we finished ninth out of 23 teams, our best result ever.
Our senior captain, Patricia Panda, led the way this season with an undefeated record in conference play, 6 and3 overall, and was named first team all conference. Freshman sensation Ana Chetri was named to the second team all conference after having an overall
record of 14 and five. Our dam dynamic duo uh first doubles Shadavada and Soia Yasar also earned second team allconerence accolades with a record of nine and three. Our second double doubles team of Kate Venus and Addison Barquetto also experienced a
positive season and contributed some key wins for the team when we needed it most. They finished with an 8 and8 overall record. Our first singles player, Katherine H, uh has to play the toughest girls in Morris County. She had the highest win total of any at this position since I've been coaching here
uh with seven wins. Congrats to all the girls who made this season so memorable. Uh with that being said, I'd like to just call them up and hand them the certificate. So, first up, I'd like to start off with our senior captain, Patricia Panda.
>> Hey, come over here. Next, I'd like to bring up Katherine who a junior on our program. Next up, another junior, Katie Beus. Another junior, Addison Baretto. Next up, another junior Baba Shalavada.
And the last girl that was able to make it here tonight on short notice was is Ana Chatri. Thank. Oh, and with that, I'd like to bring up um oh, also congratulation to the other programs that are here tonight and the coaches. And with that, I'm
going to bring up Rebecca Nightheart. I'm a little shorter than he is. Uh good evening and once again I'm excited to be here to share our success of this past season. Uh thank you to the board of education for recognizing um our sports
teams and most especially um the women in sports and the success that our programs have had this year. Um our our gymnastics team had concluded this past year with a four pete season. Four was our buzz kind of word this year. Um many
programs don't get to experience um what we've experienced in a single year and our seniors this year have been able to do it for the past four years. Um we are uh fourth consecutive undefeated season, our fourth consecutive uh league
championship in a row and have um also qualified um with from sectionals into states um for the past four years. So that is pretty impressive that this senior group that we've had that unfortunately we are kind of sending on
to their next w um path and their next journey um have started a great history um from Mount Olive Gymnastics. Um the their success is a result of the teamwork and the commitment and strong connections that all of our athletes do
have here at Mount Olive. Um they do embrace the team first model and they dominated once again with yet another school record this year with a team score of a 112.975 at this year's league championship. Um I
also would like to extend a sincere thank you to Colleen and Katie for their support this season. Thank you Katie. She's here with us today. Um Katie is our go-to woman um with transportation, certificates, paying judges, and everything else in between. Um as we
kind of said at the beginning, she is always there for us. Um this particular year uh Colleen was able to get us an announcer for our senior um uh meet which was a really cool experience and u made it something for them to kind of
truly cherish and something unique that gymnastics doesn't normally get and we had an announcer that announced our our our event. It was uh a learning experience but also very kind of cool. Um, as we completed our ninth year of this program, our athletes continue to
make our presence known athletically and uh, academically. So, we're very proud of of their achievements. Unfortunately, Jen Hamilton, my assistant coach, is sick and not able to be here along with some of our other athletes. Um, and many of them are also still at practice
continuing to do gymnastics um, in their off high school season. Um, but I would like to recognize each of them and then call up the girls that are here. So, um, some of the athletes on our team, we had our senior Megan Rous who is a captain,
a four-year varsity award winner. She is an all-around athlete for us, an individual state qualifier, recognized by the league first team vault, recognized by the state, second team, and placed seventh as an individual um in states on vault. She currently has
tied our school record for vault with a 9.6. And Megan actually is here today. So, come on up, Megan. Here you go. >> I'd like to also recognize Kelly Hines, who's a senior, who earned our third year varsity award, and she was a four
specialist for us this year. Amy Rubenstein, who is a senior, our captain, four-year varsity award, all-around athlete, individual state qualifier, recognized by the league, first team allround, recognized by the state, second team all state, and placed eighth in the state individually all
round. Um, we also have uh Khloe Dau who's a junior, thirdyear varsity award winner. She was recognized by the league, first team on beam. Carly Faric who is a junior um thirdyear varsity award winner or bar specialist this year
and recognized by the league second team on bars. We have Ella Freriedman who is a first year varsity award winner as a vault and uh floor specialist. Um Kelsey Cowall who's a junior, thirdyear varsity award, um our beam and
bars specialist and given honorable mention recognized by our league. Avery Schroeder, who's a sophomore, secondyear varsity award w uh winner, uh all-round gymnast and individual state qualifier, recognized by our league, first team all
round by our state, second team all state, and currently holds three new school records on beam floor and all round. So, I can't wait to see what she has for us in our future. Um, up next we have Jasmine Tognull who's a sophomore,
secondyear varsity award winner, vault specialist, and given honorable mention at as the league, and she is here with us today. So, Jasmine. And I'd also like to recognize Charlotte Leonard, who is a sophomore, secondy year varsity um, award winner. all-round
gymnast, individual state qualifier, recognized by the league, first team allround, and third team all state. And last but not least, we had one uh freshman who Selena Hannah uh who earned her varsity award. So, every athlete in our program this year earned their
varsity award, which was an amazing feat for any program. Um, but we were really excited about the talent that we had. you can see the recognition that they were uh made by the league and state and we want to thank the board of ed for continuing to let us have this program. Um they've started nine years ago and
they've definitely made an impact on our town. So congratulations to the girls and up next I'd like to recognize Tom Mesca. Good evening. I'm uh Tom Resca. I coach uh the girls volleyball team along with Lee Clers. Um thanks again for taking
the time today to recognize the girls and the amazing season that they have. Thanks again to uh Katie and Colleen for all the work they do. Katie getting those buses there on time is never easy and it's always an adventure. So it's definitely not easy to do. So thank thank you again. Um like um Katie said
before, we are back toback. We won the title last year and we won it again this year. Um this is actually our eighth um title in program history, I believe, for conference championship. So we've uh we've been doing pretty good over the last couple years. I can't complain at all. Um yeah, just a bit. Um but it's all with the girls really. So they've
they've been great. >> Um this year >> did I shut off? Uh >> oh. >> It might have died. >> Did it die? Well, like I said, we have we've had a great season the last couple years. Um, and this year was no different. Um, we had several award winners throughout the
season, but I'm just going to call up the girls that are here. Uh, volleyball is still going on right now. So, that's why a lot of the girls aren't here. They're playing their club teams. Another reason why we've been so these girls play pretty much year round. So, some of the girls that uh showed up today that I would like to call up and recognize. Uh, we have one of our juniors who's probably one of the better
best athletes I've ever seen the last couple years here. when she's a sophomore, she'll be a junior next year. Jasmine Lar Roach. Uh we have one of our senior captains um who's as you can see there's already smiling. She's all smiles all the time. Um will actually wind up leaving as one of the all-time dig leaders in program
history for Mount Olive, Janessa Bazar. a broken arm. >> And finally, we have our sophomore um outside hitter who um last year as a freshman broke all kinds of records. This year as a sophomore, also did ended a season with over 300 kills. All right.
Um and on pace to probably break one of the all-time records for school history. Isabella Saria. Great job, Isabella. I guess that's everybody. So again, thank you for all that you do for us. We really appreciate it. Thank you. >> Thank you. Do we have any comments or uh questions
from the board for our athletes? >> Anything? >> I I just want to congratulate everybody. I know you're probably not going to stay to the end of the meeting when the comments are there. So, big congratulations to everybody who is here and who is not here and to the staff and
coaches and like everybody who put it this stuff together really makes a difference in children's lives for them to thrive and excel and I you know I always say I'm proud but like really my heart is so big from seeing all these awards and uh celebrations. So, thank
you. >> Anyone else? Mrs. Same same thing. Obviously, thank you to all of the staff, all of the athletes. It's a ton of work and uh really appreciate you. Also, thanks to your parents and your caregivers. Uh it's a lot of driving. It's a lot of meets and competitions. I
know. I've been there. So, also thanks to the parents who make all of this possible. The caregivers who make all of that possible because I know it's a lot. >> It's easy to forget the parents once it's over because now I sit around instead of being a taxi. The average parent gets thanked once every 20 days.
Fun little fact. Average once every 20 days. >> That's the marketing girl in her. >> That's all I'm saying. >> Anyone else? >> Can I just say I need a vocabulary lesson in volleyball. Killer. Kill digger. >> I'm learning now. Yeah.
>> That I want to say congratulations to everybody. Um if we have Dr. B. >> Our student lison is here if we want to do that. >> Yeah. >> Hi. So, okay. So, we're going to go on to our student liaison and then we're going to go into confidential session so that
everybody could go home and get warm. Okay. So, come on up. >> Hi everyone. So, sorry I'm late. Oh, you're cold. >> Oh, you're right on time. Perfect. Don't you worry. >> Okay. So, we have a lot today, but I'm going to try to be as quick as possible.
>> So, for past events on November 24th, we had Powderpuff, as you all know. The juniors did lose. It's okay. We're going to come back next year. Going to come back strong. And the seniors won 36 nothing. Oh, >> it's okay. It's okay. We got this next year. I believe in us next year. >> It wasn't even close.
>> No, it was not. No. Zero cappa induction also happened on December 4th and that was really nice. I was there. It was really beautiful. And Snowland happened on the 6th. It was very successful. All our students had a great time and we had a Kona ice court for the first time and they all seemed to really enjoy that. So, we're going to try again for next
year. We had our first Lego League state championship this weekend and it was very successful. All the teams did amazing and it was incredible to watch. Winter band and the coral concert was on the 10th and both went very well. The students did amazing and the music was
really beautiful. We have SBA testing. We had that on December 2nd through the 4th and we find out who wins um and goes to regionals on the 17th. So the winners go to states in March and it's in Atlantic City. So very exciting. teacher of the year and educational support
person of the year were announced which were Mrs. Livingston and Mr. Johnson and we're very very happy for them very proud and one of our multilingual students Mariana Rea received an invitation to the Champions of Growth Gala and awards ceremony which is coordinated by the Morris County Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce.
So we're very excited for her. >> That's great. >> And the Air Force Junior ROC had a holiday party on the 12th. So for athletics, a lot happened this past week. Winter track and field did spectacularly at the Ocean Breeze in Satan Island on the 8th. Senior Cadence
Rupright won the MEI record at the 55 meter hurdles with a time of 7.73 seconds. I know. Senior Ryan Foley set a new MI record and school record for the 600 meter dash with a time of 1 minute and 22.56 seconds.
>> So, Cadence is now third in the state and Ryan is second in the state for their respective events. Very proud of them. It's an amazing thing. It really is. It >> really is. >> Kendall Pizzerusa was named to the All Morris County team, cross country team. She was seventh at Morris County Championships, sixth at state
sectionals, and qualified for group championships. So, that is amazing. She is a freshman, I believe, and she did absolutely amazing this season. The Mount LA wrestling team also competed at the Southern Regional Holiday Tournament, and it featured eight top 20 ranked teams from across New Jersey.
Four wrestlers placed into finals. Colin Smith finishing second place at 157 pounds. Justin Bulock also finishing second at 175 lbs. Nico Gonzalez also finishing second at 215 lbs. And Jared Martini at heavyweight. He captured first. Very proud of them. And they have
their next home match against Pope John this Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Boys basketball also had their first game on the 12th against Dover, which they won. And girls basketball has their first game this Tuesday. So, we're very excited for them. And the Mount Olive Hockey team had their first game on the
12th as well against Madison. So for upcoming events, ACT and SAT registration is still ongoing and that ends on the 30th of January. The SAT is going to happen on March 18th and the ACT is going to happen on March 11th. I actually have to register for that, but
that's okay. Teacher recommendations are also happening right now for scheduling. And spirit week is ongoing. Tomorrow is dressed as your favorite holiday movie character day. The winter orchestra concert is on the 17th and we have a pep rally on the 19th. So, we're very excited. We're planning all of that right now. And the alumni panel, which
we do every year, the seniors come back and talk to us about what their experience was like getting into college, applying for it, and that's going to be on January 6th. So, I'm personally going to be attending. I've attended every year and it's really amazing to see them all come back and share their experience. It's amazing thing that the school puts on. And for a
little bit of club information, mocktail's defense case is on January 13th and the plaintiff case trial is on the 20th. And if they win, they will progress to the quarterfinal mockt trial rounds on 28th. So crossing our fingers for them. And the high school rock and roll academy has a concert in the pack
on January 30th. That is all for me, but as you can tell, we're very busy this month. >> Yes. >> Any questions or comments from the board? Did we all take all those notes down? Not at all. >> Thank you very much.
>> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> And with that, I will take a motion for us to uh go into confidential session. >> So moved. >> All right. We >> all those in favor? >> I. >> Okay. We're in confidential session.
I call us back into session. Can we take a roll call, please? >> Mrs. Aquino, >> here. >> Mrs. Fenton, >> here. >> Mrs. Faggera, >> here. >> Mrs. Fitzgerald, >> here. >> Dr. Gordano >> here. >> Mrs. Melendez, >> here. >> Mrs. Narcissis >> here. Mrs. O'Neal, Mr. Orzillo
>> here. >> Okay, with that, we're going to move on to the approval of the minutes. And I'm going to pick on Mr. Ozilla. Would you please make a motion for the approval of the minutes? >> I'm sorry. What? >> Yeah. What?
>> Sure. Miss Finn, you can. >> Um, I'd like to make a motion to approve the minutes 2.1 to 2.2. >> Second. >> Okay. Okay. Do we have any questions or comments from the board? >> Nope. Seeing none, we'll take a roll call. Mrs. Fenton, >> yes. >> Mrs. Aquino,
>> yes. >> Mrs. Faggera, >> yes. >> Mrs. Fitzgerald, >> yes. >> Dr. Gordano, >> yes. >> Mrs. Melendez, >> Mrs. Narcissis, >> yes. >> Mrs. Mr. Ozillo, >> yes. >> And with that, do we have any
communications or petitions for the board or Dr. Bania? >> No. >> Anyone? Nope. Seeing none, we will move on. Uh we already did our student leaison report. Dr. Banji, do you have anything in addition? Nope. All right. With that, we'll move on to
our personnel committee report. >> Thank you. >> All right. So, >> you're up. >> We met 129. All were present. We had an athletic physical update which I think is going to excite a lot of the sports people. Uh
the committee reviewed the new arbiture athletic registration and medical clearance process. Parents will soon be sent the howto graphic explaining the new online app ba appbased software. The arbor platform will replace the current
paperbased process and will allow for convenient uploads from mobile devices which I find very exciting. Our jumbotron update the committee heard from Dr. B. Thank you. Regarding the um jumbotron scoreboard at the high school,
the district has identified a successful candidate soon to be approved by the board and take on the media manager position for the district. Another one uh responsibilities include serving as the district's main point of contact for display, screen operator, maintaining
technical knowledge of the display, uh managing preloaded content which is advertisement, student created broadcasts, etc. and overseeing graphic shows during games. Um, human resources has nominated the Mount
Olive School District is top workplace in New Jersey uh for New Jersey.com. The top workplaces are determined by employee engagement surveys that is taken anonymously by all district staff members via their mobile devices. Once
the results are tabulated in January, Top Workplace notifies applicants if they're in uh receipt of a designation or not. Uh being awarded the designation will further incenti incentize the
employees to join the district. Um frontline human resource management system. The human resource department was happy to report that the project timeline for the new HR management system software is ahead of schedule.
Mount Olive holds a distinction of being the first school district in the state of New Jersey to operationalize front lines position control roster platform. Administration will begin their formal training in February
and then our district hire and inv uh vacancy updates. Currently, the district is looking to fill paraprofessionals and nursing opening districtwide this month. College students who are home on holiday break are encouraged to apply for substitute teaching positions. All
openings are updated daily in Apple and interested applicants are encouraged to frequently visit the district's website in order to see open positions. And we talked a little bit about some confidential matters and that's about
it. It's all good news. >> Any questions or comments from the board? >> Anyone? Nope. Okay, seeing none, we will move to our finance committee and Miss Fitzgerald. Yes, the finance and
operations committee met December 9th. Uh, in attendance were myself, Dr. Bania, Miss Shoning, Miss Faggera, and um we had a guest of Ms. Fenton as well. Um we also had our um architects Greg Somjen and Josh Thompson um come to the
meeting as well and that is where we actually spent the majority of our time. Uh we met with our architects to review um the Mount Olive High School guidance project. Um reviewed all of the different floor plans, potential options, potential costs, potential cost savings. That's an ongoing uh conversation, but a lot of really great
uh options and we're just trying to keep uh be smart with our budget and our dollars as we're looking at all of those. Um, we also talked about um our audit. Um, as you know, I think we had talked about this. Um, our audit was due uh the 5th, but uh due to federal
delays, I'm going to read this exactly because it's uh it's a money thing. So, due to federal delays in the publication of the 2025 edition of compliance supplement guidance for auditors to conduct federal single audits, which is federal grants, uh there was discussion in New Jersey that districts would have
to submit two audits, which is fun. one without the federal single audit and one with this would actually greatly increase costs and so a lot of the school districts were not in agreement with the unnecessary work uh work and cost us included. So as a result the New Jersey Department of Education updated
their guidance which now allows us um you know greater uh flexibility u for the districts who are subject to a federal single audit. So all in all we just don't have to pay twice which is great. That's the sum of that. uh Tins Road parking lot. We are looking for an engineer to do a study of the property
to determine um any water runoff issues. We want to make sure that we those are not a problem. This is a project that's likely to be the 2026 2027 school year. Uh in terms of the budget, our 2627 budget, uh Miss Shing and Dr. Vania have held preliminary and follow-up meetings
with each school and department to establish the process and expectations for that. If you've never seen the budget process, there's like eight billion steps that go into setting a district budget and um we have many more to go, but this was an important step as well.
Um and then you already covered the jumbotron, so I'm not going to do that. We also um uh scanning documents. So a lot of the document work that we do is very much paper. It's printed. And so um uh Miss Shoning and Mr. Moore met
virtually with the district copier and printer vendor to discuss digital scanning of documents. Uh we're going to start with student records, personnel, and business office uh vouchers. Um and the vendor is going to show off the um software at the director's meeting on the 22nd, but it's we we need to go
digital. It's important. We have to still have paper, but digital is really important as well. Uh Miss Vero, do you remember how long we have to store those things? Do you remember that fun stat? Was it a hundred years? >> Yes. >> 100 years >> minimum. minimum. >> It's crazy. >> So, fun fun fact. Uh, which is why
obviously paper but um digital are important. Uh modular needs, as you guys know, we are going to need to install temporary trailers at the middle school for the 2627 school year. We looked at the um location that that is going to be and the one that is going to make the most sense. Um and so, uh that will be
coming soon as well. And then on um just the grant updates um we did receive I got to scroll down to where it is. Which one did we receive, Miss Shoning? >> NJ cool. >> We received the NJ cool grant.
>> NJ cool grant. And then the one we did not was the safety grant. Correct. >> Um the uh secure um Yes. Where that was a $180,000 grant for the blue security lights that we wanted to display amongst the campus. But what um Miss Shoning and
Mr. Karify are looking at are some other ways that we could potentially get a grant for a different type project that would be potentially covered under a grant. So no is not a no. There's still some other um opportunities that they're exploring as well. And I think that will cover it.
Any questions? >> Any questions or comments from the board? How many hours did your your meeting go about that? >> It was not a record setting meeting by any means. What were we at? Two hours. Two hours. That felt reasonable. It was definitely not a three or four hour meeting. >> Three hours. >> All right, fine. It was almost 3 hours. Only three.
>> Let's two hours. >> Two hours. >> Two. >> It all together. >> Twoish. It felt very quick because it was so enjoyable. >> Dr. Janna, your thoughts on a two-hour meeting. There you go.
>> All right. With that, we'll move on to our curriculum and instruction committee report. That's Miss Figuera. Thank you. Our agenda was chalk full. So I have a lot of information to share. Please bear with me, but it's um I feel it's important information. Uh we did
meet on December 8th in Dr. Bania's office. All committee members were present except for Mrs. McDermott. We did have some guests join us at the meeting. Uh Mrs. Z and Mr. Felman from the high school, Mrs. Wilkkey and uh Deb Huffman also were guests at our meeting.
We started discussing the dual enrollment which Dr. Regan shared with us with CCM. Um we also discussed the grading at our high school and we discussed a zero grade. Um Mrs. Z and Mr. Feltman provided an overview on grading
procedures at the high school. They explained that a zero is used as a placeholder for missing or incomplete assignments to encourage students to complete and submit the assignment once the assignment is completed. however, and turned in, it is reviewed and graded
by the teacher and posted in the grade book. Teachers are asked by building administration to send home individual grade updates as the middle at the middle of each marking period. We also discussed program of studies and
Mr. Felman reviewed course changes for next year. Changes included mostly course title changes to make more clear course progressions and pathways. Um, also an explanation of the dual enrollment process and the expectation to expand opportunities with CCM next
year was included in the summary. We also discussed attendance loss of credit. Mrs. Z and Mr. Feltman reviewed notification and program strategies to improve student attendance and recovery of missed classroom time. that reported
that parent notifications are sent to parents through real time at the designated benchmark times outlined by the new New Jersey Department of Education after four absences, 5 to nine absences, and 10 absences when the NJ DOE deems student truency.
Progmatically, the high school is working on time recovery strategies for students to a uh for students to avoid failing a course. However, the absences must be reported and cannot be removed from the record per NJ DOE requirements.
Additional strategies to encourage students attending school are currently being explored. Um, another topic of discussion was the 2026 2027 school year planning uh for special education programming, student
enrollment in special ed programs, and availability of classrooms. Mrs. Huffman provided an overview of anticipated enrollment, special education programs, and possible location of programs. Space for providing in district specialed
programs and services continue to present facility and location challenges for us. Mrs. Wilkkey discussed the middle school student camp. Um, she's developing a plan and a budget proposal to offer summer camp for students failing courses
to prevent retention. We also discussed the grade five field trip. Our elementary schools are continuing plans for a fifth grade field trip and all four of our schools um have a trip planned to provide a variety of outdoor educational opportunities and
experience for our fifth graders. Dr. Bangia discussed the Freedom to Read Act and provided a summary of the act. To sum up, someone with a vested interest um who objects a library material,
I'm sorry, uh objects to library material must give a formal request for the removal process. The request must specify which parts of the material are objected to and the reason for the objection. Decisions must be made by a review
committee, convened by the district, and final decisions rest with the board of ed. The material that was challenged, regardless of the outcome, cannot be challenged again for removal for at least one year's time. Um, another topic was the robotics and
our ox gym facility space to run programs continues to be challenging. A new location for robotics must be determined in order to use the ox gym for statemandated fizzed classes. Um, another topic we discussed was
summer camp. Our elementary principles are exploring a kindergarten orientation camp for several half days to take place in August. The purpose is to prepare students for learning and classroom routines. um parents and guardians would be responsible for pro providing
transportation arrangements for their child if they attend. And we concluded with our technology report. I >> just want to add that um Dr. Rean just gave me some information that we're um entered an agreement with um CCM for
sociology, US1 honors and English for honors starting next year. So it's a great starting point for us. And I also just want to recognize Dr. Rean. she will be leaving us at the end of the month as um Miss McDerman returns from her leave. Um we are incredibly thankful for um Dr. Regan's time in the district.
You know, certainly she jumped right in and certainly was doing the work that was needed to be done in the absence of Miss McDerman and I can't thank her enough for her partnership and her hard work and continue the good work that was done before. And you know, we'll be forever thankful um for her. Thank you.
>> Do we have any questions or comments from the board? >> Real quick, uh Dr. Banjo, when we will when when will we know that Robotics has a has a equitable spot? >> We're in the process of reviewing it. So, I've been working closely with the high school administration and the facilities to kind of determine what we're going to have to do. >> Because I know there season's starting
like tomorrow >> and I just in the future, and I know you're aware of this, but in the future, these are things that I think would be be better for all of us to I hate to tell wrestling program or basketball program they couldn't use the gym like a month before their season began. So, >> I certainly respect that.
>> Thank you. And have we found a new location then for robotics or are they having to move in and out of the gym? >> We're all hands on deck. >> Yeah. Is that fair? All hands. >> Thank you. >> Any other questions or comments?
>> Yes. I'd like to take a minute to thank Dr. Rean for all of her hard work in the dual enrollment. Um I know she's not going to be here after this month. I guess she's done >> two weeks. >> Two weeks. >> A week. So I won't but in a week I won't see her again in personnel committee but
I think she's done a remarkable job in really pushing the dual enrollment forward. So please thank her for us. Yes. >> Yes please. I concur. >> Fine. >> Any questions or comments? Can I just add maybe for the next conversation or
um interest of research in the attendant attendance loss of credit and the notifications that go out some of them um don't take into account while I know that the state mandated to send out the notifications um they don't take into account some of the federal law under
IEPs and 504s adding to some of the um anxiety and mental health of the students that already have a 504 due to them as well as the tone of some of those notifications and some of the staff isn't fully aware of all of those regulations either. So maybe we need to
do a little bit more education around that with with all of them. >> Sure. >> Anyone else? >> Yes. I I have one comment um regarding is robotics but also regarding the programs that are every year that we know and we have knowledge
of that like the drill, the challenger competition, the robotics, thell um so I think that that I I guess it is already included in the annual program of the school district. So it shouldn't
take us for surprise that the organizations are requesting a specific facilities or a place for them to practice even the drill or the challenger or robotics uh lll. Um and it
should be a good practice uh to plan that in advance >> and not at the last minute trying to figure it out where those kids are going to have practice. and uh nevertheless even uh to put on
those coaches to find out where those practice are going to be. So I hope that the administration um building facilities are working on that and counted that for every year because that happens every year and the seasons runs
the same dates. >> I agree. >> Thank you. I think our our district is lucky that this is an issue that we have so many programs but the planning piece >> ahead of time for the space. I >> if I may just comment almost every issue
I would say 90% of our issues are due to lack of space. So, I'd like everybody to keep that in mind and why we really when we go out for the referendum hopefully next year. Um, you need to keep this in mind because we are trying real hard to
keep every program running uh seamlessly, but it's getting very very difficult. >> Yeah, we're out of space. >> And and I didn't mention but as well as uh gymnastic >> gymnastics, volleyball, wrestling, you know, all those >> it's been a struggle.
>> Yeah. Yeah, I mean we have girls wrestling going up to an outside gym right now >> in order in a >> practice >> to practice because of the space, you know, issue that we have >> and we're still doing great, which I am so proud of everybody and the way every
thing moves. I just can imagine. >> And with that, okay, any other questions? Okay, we'll move on to our policy and governance, Miss Melendez. >> Okay. Uh the policy committee met on December 8th and all members were
present. Uh Dr. Banana as well. Uh the committee review guidance issued by the New Jersey Department of Education on November 5th, 2025 addressing parental op out rights in respond to the Supreme Court decision in Mammud uh versus Taylor. Also, the committee discussed
new policies 3281 and 4281 regarding inappropriate staff conduct. Also, the committee review bear with me as always. The committee review multiple regulations updates including several
related to the freedom to read act and the new regulations 2530 uh regarding to resources. Regulation 2535, library resources. Uh 9130, complaints and grievances 2430,
co-curricular activities previously discussed at the October 6 policy meeting. The committee review the new board uh member orientation packet as new members are upcoming in January also >> and those regulations and policies are going to be put on the board agenda at
the end of January as um a new um policy committee is seated and they have time because we have to have the two readings. We didn't want to do it with one committee then stop and do it with another committee. So we're going to >> So the first the first readings will be for January. >> That also helps with the new board too.
>> Yeah. Any other anything else, Miss Melendez? >> No. That's See, >> any questions or comments from the board? >> No. Okay. Seeing none, we'll move on. I have board subcommittee and parent teacher association liaison reports. Do
I have anyone from the public? >> Nope. Okay. Anyone from the board with um liaison reports? >> I do. I'm reporting on behalf of the Flanders PTA, the FPTA. Despite a week delay, we had a very
successful winter late celebration with show choir performing and Santa made an appearance at the event as well. Um, we have a lot of exciting events coming in the new year like the Boys and Girls Dances coming up, a Valentine's Day cookie event, After the Bell is
returning, as well as family book club, um, which are just a few of the events that that are planned as of now. Any comments or questions from the board? Nope. Okay, we will move on. I will save
my comments to the end. So, no report for me for now. And public comments on action items. Members of the community may comment on any action item prior to board discussion. Please state your name and address for the record. All comments must be respectfully presented. Abusive
or obscene comments will not be tolerated. And the mic is open. And that's for action items. Okay. I see none. We will close that out. And with that, we will move on to the approval of our action items. Dr. Chano,
I'm going to pick on you. >> Thank you, Madam President. Recommendation of the superintendent uh move uh action items 7.1 all the way down to 10.4. >> Second. >> Any questions or comments from the
board? >> Nope. Okay. Seeing none, we will take a roll call. >> Dr. Gordano >> abstain on 8.14 the letter B yes to everything else >> Mrs. Aquino >> yes
>> Mrs. Fenton >> yes >> Mrs. Faggera >> yes Mrs. Fitzgerald >> yes Mrs. Melendez >> abstain in 8.6 anything related to Angela Sanchez and yes to everything else >> Mrs. Narcissis.
>> I just want to say thank you to the football booster club for their donation and yes to everything. >> Mr. Orazillo. >> Yes. Especially 9.3. I like 9.3. >> What was 9.3?
>> Should be mandatory. >> We got everyone. >> We're good. >> Okay. With that, we will move to public comments. Students, parents, employees, and community members may comment on any item of interest pertaining to the Mount Olive School District. Please state your name and address for the record. All
comments must be respectfully presented. Abusive or obscene comments will not be tolerated and the mic is now open for public comment. Aha. That's nice. Martin WSwaller, 25 Woodrest Avenue, Bud
Lake, New Jersey. Um, I wasn't going to make it here tonight, but my wife yelled at me and told me I got to go and I had to bring flowers. >> Oh, I thought she was going to say get out, but okay. I love your wife. >> So, I have to I know you do. So, I'm going to get the flowers. These are from my wife and our Wells family to Lisa and
Lisa. >> Thank you so much. >> Thank you, Julia. Um, you know, I've been coming to a lot of board meetings over several years and lately I've been dealing with some family problems of passing over relatives. So, I haven't been here as much as I'd like to be, but I'm still a
pain in the neck from people as Summit knows by emailing her or texting her and all the other stuff to staff people. But I I want to say that our board of ed now is probably in the best shape it's been in years. All right. and that is attributed to obviously to Lisa and Lisa
and the other board members. Um, as you know, I've had issues with some board members in the past from their unethical behaviors and tasks, but I think now going forward, we're in a better place, and I hoping that it stays that way going forward. Um, I'm very proud of where Mount has come from and where it's
going. I'm looking forward to the future. Uh, I'm in this town for a long time. My wife won't let me leave yet, but like I said, there's there's a lot to be said here. Um, so I want to finish off with two things. One, thanking Lisa and Lisa for your time served on the board. You got us through some of the
toughest times in Mount Olive over the past several years and thank you for that. Number two, I also want to talk about uh something which Mary does who's on town council about giving giving back to students in the district. I don't know how we know but the man middle
school puts a list together where allows people like myself to buy gifts for for needy parents and people kids children in need. I'd like to see that not just come just from the high school I mean from the middle school but they bring that down to the elementary schools and to the high school. We adopted three
kids uh my family and we spent a lot of money on them cuz we wanted to. But it was such a great time shopping. Me and my wife, we were out shopping. Then we said, "Wow, this is so much fun buying for these kids." We got to buy them shoes, clothes. Our kids are older now. We don't really get that much. Now they
just order it on Amazon. It gets delivered to the house. But there were obviously kids also in the high school in some elementary school. But it's mainly done from the middle school and the middle school then puts it down and if the kids happen to have kids in elementary school or high school, then they get mentioned. But there are also
other kids that were still missing who may not have the best holiday spirit or or financial situation. So I'd like to find out if we can extend that great program that they've been doing here in the middle school forever cuz I've been doing it for at least 10 years helping marrying them get the gifts that we
bring it up to the high school and bring it down to the elementary school so all the kids can get something for holidays. And and the last thing I like to say, besides us buying gifts for the kids, we actually buy gifts for the parents, too, because parents who may not have enough money to buy their children's what what
they love to give them, but we go out and we buy them restaurant gift cards so they can bring their kids out to a nice dinner. Um, and so I I'd like to see that we can grow that. Um, and I know the Mount Olive Soccer Club took like
50% of all the kids, which is absolutely amazing. Um, and you know, we don't give credit to some of the other clubs outside, but they give back so much of people don't know, but like I said, a lot of families I would have taken more. I called Mary said, "There's any kids that were missed. You need more." We would have
given more, but I'd like to see if we can bring this up. Whatever the middle school's doing, they're doing it right. We see if we can bring it a little up to the high school and make sure that it goes down to the elementary school because we had two kids, one kid from the middle school, two kids from elementary school. And I think we're just missing some kids that need a
little love. And that's about all I have. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. I think Miss Bellow probably is helpful for organizing that with the guidance counselors. >> Yes. I need to inquire about this list because it's not something that we would issue.
>> Yeah. Anyone else from the public for public comment? Going once. Going twice. I think I spot Santa in the audience. >> Okay, I will close out public comment then.
>> All right, old business members of the board may comment on any item or topic that was previously discussed by the board. Anyone? >> Madam President, I I don't know if this is old business or new business, but I'll have all this combined. >> Dr. Andrew, just a thought that that letter you sent to the board uh from the
mayor that I know he sent to everyone with Alders Gate and that struggle with the smell the sewage plant. Is there anything we can do to help the township from the DOE standpoint with our students having I think I brought this up before, but there's got to be something we can help the help the township. I know the township's the
mayor is doing everything they can legally. Is there something we can do to lean to be a little heavy? >> We pursued every legal course we had. Um and Mr. Deborra can probably speak to it more than I can, but last year we did work with um one of the attorneys um at the firm who has specialty in
environmental law and we ran this down left and right, up and down and as um mayor pointed out into the letter since it is a private facility, you know, there's not so much we can do and our hands are kind of tied. So, we did pursue legal action last year and wrote
letters, reached out to EPA with our contacts, but just like the township, we came to dead ends. Can we go to like the press or something? I mean, it's just our kids are and our staff are in this building inhaling it and they don't even live in this part, you know, they may not live there. I'm just just trying to see to help the township out a little
bit if we can just, you know, piggy back on them to try to get the ball rolling a little bit more for >> to at least embarrass the owners of that sewage plant. I mean, it's just it's horrible. >> We can certainly pursue something from a public standpoint. Mr. Gert, I did have a conversation out further on that with
the state. There is litigation that the township is. So, it is in court or try to move forward with that. >> Okay. >> I think I'm sure. >> Yeah. I was going to say I'll have Bill Sullivan follow up again from our firm. He talked to the Department of
Environmental Protection. There is a pending uh private litigation from the uh township against the uh entity there. So, they are pushing it. >> Maybe we can piggyback on that or do something. >> Absolutely. Correct. No, we'll we'll continue >> or even add our letter to it. I I think
what's really important for us and the public to know as the mayor said that this the more the more letters the EPA gets >> the better off we >> the better off we are. I will say on a personal note as you know I'm married to
wastewater treatment equipment salesman I had a big concern. So not that it's right. However um the smell we smell is is not what makes you sick. I mean, it could physically make, but like you're not
going to get bacteria unless you're actually in it. >> So, but no, seriously though, because that was a concern of mine, like, you know, >> it's a concern of everybody's >> and it's but you mean it's it's mentally anguishing to live like that. But as far as uh like
bacteria, inhaling bacteria that far away there, >> it should not be a problem. But I was I think some of the odor produces headaches for some individuals. >> I mean, and it's freezing cold out right
now and you still smell it. >> You drive by and that's disgusting. >> Crazy. >> The running joke is hold your breath as you drive by and it's 16° out. >> Whatever we can do to help. And honestly, as a as a as a a student, um you know, especially like some that
don't have the best concentration, that definitely does not help a learning environment. >> So, >> and I can share with you, Dr. Gerardano, our efforts last year that we documented as a as a board as our outreach to the EPA as well as our legal um course. >> I just I was just meant because I know
the township is is doing the best they can if we can just help them and anything anywhere possible. So, >> it's like Miss Fence said, the more letters EPA gets from our township and people in town, maybe the other governmental agency in town, >> I'll write another letter >> and we and I mean there's the DOE that can help us too with the with with with
the EP. I know it's >> the DOE is the lesser everyone down there, but >> we worked there something. I mean, there's a new governor coming in. There's going to be a new commissioner of education. Who knows? I mean, there's there's, you know. Yeah. >> So, we'll see. >> Anyone else? I think that's a combo of
new business. Do we have any new business as well? >> No, that was it. >> Okay. No new business. All right. I'll move on to members of the board may comment on any items of interest pertaining to the Manalo School District. So, we have board and administrative comments. Dr. Gordana,
I'll start with you. >> Thank you, Madam President. Um, I would just like to thank you and Miss Fenton uh for the past, I believe, four years for both of you because I believe you both got on. I know Miss Fenton was almost a full year and I believe you were about 3 four months I think before
I'm not sure exactly but um for those three years we may not always agreed but I've always respected you both of you um and I know we've buted heads over several things but I never lost that friendship that we always had before any of us were on the board or at least when you got on the board I've been on the board already um and I just want to say
I I whether I agreed with things you were saying or or the way we were going to implement. I never believed or never thought that your decisions weren't based upon what you thought and felt was best for our students at Mount Olive. So, I'd like to thank you. I'm proud to said I was at your first campaign at Jersey Girl when
we kicked it off when you the three of you ran with uh Mr. Sako and uh and uh hopefully you guys stay involved and I would love that especially as we push forward the referendum. So, thank you for your service. >> Thank you. Thank you, Miss Fitzgerald.
Yes, to Lisa and Lisa. Um, one of my favorite quotes is there's no limit to the good you can do if you don't care who gets the credit. That is the best summation of this job. And so, um, I thank you so much for all of the good that you did that this district saw, but
even more so for all of the good that you did that nobody will ever know about because that is a lot of what we do. and it's not all glamorous additions and um you know all sorts of things that are nice and forward facing but so much of this work is behind the scenes and you guys have given so much time in so many
years and we are very appreciative so thank you >> Miss Melendez >> well Lisa and Lisa what a duel thank you so much for your service and
your relentless effort um because like she said it's a lot of work what every one of us does behind the scenes. But those two seats are are even more uh because everything is funnel on those
two seats and and you have been present all the time and discussions, good discussions, right? And deep discussions and reasoning and analysis and hours uh of meeting and reaching out. So I really
appreciate and um all your effort. I'm going to miss our conversations. So I hope that if we see each other like you be that day in the gym be putting the the campaign sign and all that. So
uh keep it up and thank you so much for because your dedication was sincere and it helped us uh to get today where we are today. Um, so see you around and merry merry Christmas.
>> And I need one more comment.L competition, a state competition was this past weekend and was a success. Uh, I volunteer and it's it's fantastic seeing all those teams and those little brains
uh going out and our students judging the competition. Wow. >> So, man, I it was give me goosebumps having our uh juniors and sophomore and
a group of nice coming back and they've been the judges on those compet state competition which helped them a lot in the future and for keep forming them in future professionals were grounded.
>> Thank you. All right, Mr. Squino Europe. >> No, I have nothing. >> No, I'm just kidding. I'm just kidding. I'm just kidding. >> Say Ditto. >> What happened to Ditto? >> Ditto. Ditto. No, really. I mean, everything was already said. I just want to thank the both of you. Um I don't know who's going to sit here next to me.
>> Oh, no. >> But that's This is the coveted seat. I'm going to miss I'm going to miss you. >> No, it's not. But it is when it's >> Don't you see them on mute like whisper? >> It's been Yeah. years that we've been here. But thank you. Thank to the both
of you. >> I'll skip over you and leave you at the last. Okay. Well, Mr. Ozilla, >> I'm going to ditto what everybody else said, but also thank the both of you for taking me under your wings and teaching
me some stuff and I wish you the best. It's been it's been an honor. Thank you, >> Mr. Thank you both for all of your help and guidance over the years. I mean, a lot has been said already, and like was
mentioned, others may not know all of the time and dedication and behind the scenes work, but we know and we recognize it. You guys will sorely be missed, but know that your mark has been made and those are some two pretty big seats
that we have to fill that you're sitting in right now. But also, thank you for your friendship that's developed over the years because of this Thank you. >> Can I say something before you? >> Oh, can I say anything?
>> We'll allow it. >> Dr. Ba. Well, certainly I don't want to, you know, restate the sentiments of the rest of the board, but you know what I would like to say that my transition into this role was unique and certainly both you, Lisa and Lisa, Lisa squared,
um, were there at every step of the way and I can't thank you enough for your unwavering support, not only for myself, but certainly for the rest of the district. And that's one of the things I think we're going to so miss about you, that your focus was always on the students. you're always available and
our conversations, the hard work, as Lauren pointed out, the unseen work that has goes on day in and day out. Thank you for your leadership. We would truly be missed. >> Thank you. Okay. Should I circle back around? Wait, Miss M. Toning, did you actually want to say something?
>> I see her biting her tongue and she normally doesn't want to speak. >> I I just wanted to thank you both. you've always been very supportive and understanding and always willing to listen to explanations for things that we wanted to do and why and I just
really appreciate your support. >> Thank you. All right, I'm going to give you it, Mr. Benton. Do you want to go first or do you want me to go? >> So, I'm you know, I'm not a huge public speaker, but I I wanted to say a couple things. First of all, I want to thank you all as a board and administration
because I do believe in everything you said about us because it's the same about you. Um, we have always been able to agree to disagree. We have always been able to have the hard conversations. We've always been able to support each other. And I think that is
like something that is invaluable in in this position. And I really am very grateful to have served with you all um doing this because it it really makes it worthwhile and the amount of
time that we do spend I can say it was worth it and it w it really it's because of everybody here is what makes it worth it. So thank you. Um and I just want to say it's been an honor. Um I've almost been here five years Anthony. It was
four and a half years. Yes. I came on I came on midterm so I I did a year and a half but who's counting? Um but I just want to thank um everybody um administration um parents everybody for
uh trusting um being able to communicate with us because that's so important and um the the dedicated time and effort that like again everybody puts in. I also want to wish uh Mrs. Brett and and Mr.
Petri uh well wishes on their upcoming term. I do really believe they're going to be a great fit because I do believe they can also do the things that we have been doing and just carry on. But I honestly I'm going to really miss you guys. So I'm I might be sitting in those
seats once in a while just to like make faces out here or something. But thank you guys. I really am very humbled by being honored to be picked and and voted on and and work with you guys. So, thank you.
>> Okay, I wrote my thoughts down because I'll ramble. >> I wrote them down and I lost them because it's been one of those days. >> And I promise, Dr. Gardaniano, it was not more than a page and a half. I promise. Okay. So, as I sit here tonight, I'm filled with absolute
gratitude, pride, and a touch of disbelief that it's my last meeting and that this time's coming to an end. Serving on this board for almost four years. It was 3 years 10 months. It's been one of the most meaningful and yet
challenging challenging experiences of my life. When I first joined the board, as well as we all do, I thought I understood the role involved in this. and I quickly learned that public education is not just about policies, budgets, or meetings that run longer
than anyone expects to finance meetings. It's about the people, all of you. It's about the students who walk into our buildings each day with hope and potential. It's about the educators who show up with dedication and heart. And it's about our community, all of you,
that deeply care about what goes on in these schools. And to my fellow board members past sitting here, past and present that have sat here, I want to thank you all for your commitment, your integrity, and your willingness to engage in thoughtful, sometimes
difficult conversations. While again, we don't always see eye to eye, we always shared a common goal, and that's what's about what's doing best for these students. And I'm really proud of the the work we've accomplished together. And then to Dr. Bangia, Miss Shoning, and the administrative team. Your
leadership and professionalism, your steady guidance made this role not only manageable, but really rewarding. Your expertise and tireless efforts behind the scenes often go unnoticed, but they are essential to make everything that makes this district run. To our teachers
and our staff, you're the heartbeat of our schools. Your impact extends far beyond academics. You shape, nurture confidence, character, and futures. And I I thank you for your resilience, your creativity, and your unwavering belief
in our students. And to the parents and community members, thank you for holding us accountable, for advocating passionately and partnering with us. A strong school doesn't exist without an engaged community, and this this district
definitely is proof of that. While I step away from this role, I do so in confidence in the future of our district. The leadership is not about one person. It's about the continuity and the collaboration and the shared purpose. And I know this board will continue to move forward with those
values at the center of its work that our students are at the center. And I finally want to thank my family for trust me their patience, their support. Board service is a volunteer role, but the time commitment is very, very real. Thank you for understanding my late
nights, the tough conversations, the secrets I have to keep, and the hour endless hours spent preparing for meetings, endless phone calls. It's been an honor to serve as part of this board, and I leave this position grateful for the opportunity I've had, and proud to
have served, and I'm forever committed to Mount Olive School District, and I'm sure you'll see me on the other side of that podium or in some other role serving our kids. Thank you. All right, with that I'll say for the last time I will take a motion to adjourn our
meeting. All those in favor. >> All right, we are done. We are closed. >> Thank you.