--------- Good morning everyone. It's a pleasure to have you here and thank you very much for joining. I'd like to please call this meeting to order. The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act was enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advanced notice of and to attend the meeting of public bodies at which any
business affecting their interest is discussed or acted upon. In accordance with the provisions of this act, the state board of education has caused notice of this meeting to be published by having the date, time, and place thereof posted in the department of
education secretary of state's office. And notice has been given to the state house press cores, the governor's office, and the state board agenda subscribers. And as a quorum is now present, this meeting will come to order. May I please have a motion?
Thank you very much. Board member Bennett, may I please have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you very much, Dr. Johnson. Um, all those in favor, please say I. >> I. Very good. Um, we will be back um I believe at 10 o'clock. So, thank you
very much. Good morning everyone. Thank you so much for being here and for being online if you are. Um I'd like to please adjourn from um executive.
Whereas consistent with the provision of NJSA 104-12B, the state board will now adjourn from executive session to resume the open session portion of our meeting. Uh, may I please have a motion to do so? >> Motion.
>> Thank you very much, Board Member Pñena. May I please have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you very much, Vice President Johnson. All those in favor, please say I. >> I. >> I. >> Thank you. Any opposed?
All right, we'll carry on then. Um, I'd like to please ask if I could board member PA to have lead us in the pledge of allegiance. >> Absolutely. >> Thank you. I pledge algiance to the flag of the
United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Thank you. >> All right. Well, again, welcome and
joining us in August. I can't believe the summer is grinding on so quickly. Um, I'd like to um let you know that state board meetings are accessible to the public for viewing on the department's YouTube channel. And I would advise you that YouTube provides
readily accessible language translation options for closed captioning. If you are viewing this simalcast currently, you can use the settings option in YouTube for information about subtitles, auto translations, and closed captions
in multiple languages. Now, if I could please, I'd like to ask the board members if uh they would look at the minutes from July 2nd, and I'm asking for an approval for the minutes from July 2nd.
>> Thank you very much. Appreciate it very much. Board member Kenan. May I please have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you. I believe that was first from board member Bennett. Um are there any questions or
um anything to add to the minutes? Yes, sir. >> Okay, we have one abstension. Um um all those in favor, please say I to accept them. >> I
>> Thank you. Um, any who would like to uh not accept them to say nay? Hearing none. And an abstension has been asked for already with board member Jiada. Anybody else abstaining at this time? All right. The board uh passes for
the minutes on July 2nd. Public testimony. Uh, regarding that, we will not accept public testimony today as there are no educational topics on the agenda for discussion. But in September, the state board of education will hold testimonies over chapter 9, professional
standards, 9A, New Jersey educator preparation programs, and 9B, State Board of Examiners and Certification, to align the chapters with recently enacted state laws and other authorizing statutes. In addition, the state board
will also have open topic public testimony on any educational topic of choice. Further, this public testimony session will be held at 100 p.m. due to the state board members needing to complete a professional development
requirement earlier in the day. Registration for public testimony will open on August 21st, 2025 and close at 12 p.m. on September 4th, 2025. Um, now I'd like to before we go forward
with the student report, I'd just like to make an announcement on Commissioner Damer's latest achievement. and he's had so many, but we cannot, it would be remiss not to acknowledge this. The New Jersey Commissioner of Education, Kevin
Damer, received a 2025 career and technical education leadership award. The New Jersey Council of County Vocational Technical Schools, NJCVTS, presented him with the well with this
welldeserved recognition during its annual summer meeting last week. Commissioner Damer's leadership has brought to fruition an even stronger delivery model for relevant and effective career programming in New Jersey. The NJCC VTTS
reports that $275 million in state bond funding for vocational technical school expansion will create more than 4,000 for students which will result in approximately 1,200 additional vocational school graduates
per year. It supported 47 new career programs and 34 expanded programs in both high demand and emerging fields including advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, cyber security, global logistics and
unmanned aerial systems. Commissioner, we are very proud of you and thank you for everything you do. Thank you. He is officially making and creating more opportunities for students. And now speaking of students, we are thrilled to
have this year's student representative on the board, Kaen D. Rose, a rising junior at East Brunswick High School in Middle Sex County. Her advisor is Bonnie Ben Venand. Although she's not present today, she's doing a great job with Kalin. So Kalin, good morning and
welcome. I understand that you have remarks you'd like to share with the state board. When you are ready, please offer your remarks. >> Thank you, President Goldenberg. And good morning, everyone. As we head into the middle of summer, many New Jersey teens are enjoying their time off, hanging out with friends, watching
movies, or preparing for college. A key percentage of talented students spent their summer improving their leadership skills through the New Jersey Association of Student Councils Leadership Training Conference, also known as LTC. The conference is the
longest continually running leadership program in the nation and it officially celebrated its 70th year at the College of New Jersey in July. LTC hosted 205 delegates from over 50 schools across the state in 2025.
Workshops at LTC focused on skills such as public speaking, project planning, and time management. During these workshops, delegates were able to share their passions, projects they've led, and those things they wish to improve. For example, a delegate shared how they
desired to overcome their social anxiety at LTC. And after using skills in public speaking, they were able to go up on stage and speak with ease. I especially saw delegates flourish in leadership during LTC traditions such as the games and leadership carnival where team
dynamics helped all students work together. Delegates were sorted into teams and many helped to organize tasks or volunteered to support the team in certain situations. One specific example existed during a challenge to name all NJ counties on a blank map. Delegates each shared where
they lived and patiently listened to others locate their home county as they worked through the map. Another task required delegates to complete two pages of NJ trivia. Working together, delegates determined that by dividing into groups to answer the questions, each team was able to complete the
challenge with time to spare. The NJSC state officers also presented this year's state theme at LTC's opening ceremony. NJ is united, understanding needs, inspiring talents, empowering dreams. I personally gave a speech on
how talents are nature and nurture. Talented leaders don't rely on luck or others to do the work for them. They devote many hours to refining their skills by participating in opportunities such as LTC. Delegates show that there are 205
different ways to be a leader. But what made them all exceptionally talented in leadership was the choice to dedicate their summer to personal growth. NJASC has been supporting student leaders across the state for decades through LTC. And after a couple of days, many
delegates form strong connections and gain advice that they take with them wherever they go. The leadership training conference fosters confidence, growth, connection, and leadership in every delegate. Thank you. >> Thank you very much.
Well done. Any comments, Commissioner? >> I think so. This is wonderful uh rundown of what happened in July and I think this is it directly translates to to us and the the one thing that I kind of took away was kind of working
individually. Some some of the individual students struggled and getting through the trivia, but working together as a group, they were able to do it with time to spare. And I think that's a not only is that a takeaway for you and your colleagues um but for all of us that working together if we
collaborate um we can get through it and with time or effort to spare. So I I appreciate that. This is wonderful. >> Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> Okay. Um,
regarding our uh committee reports, we do not have committee reports this month as standing committees did not meet during July, but we do have a petition for rulemaking. Uh, Rosemary Ken, the state board
received a petition for rulemaking from her on May 5th, 2025. The petitioner requested amendments to NJAC 6A9B-75 and 14.3 to allow holders of multi-state registered professional nurse license
issued by a state board of nursing that participates in the nurse lensure compact to qualify for a substitute school nurse non-instructional credential or an educational service certificate with school nurse endorsement in consultation. ation with
our commissioner. We have determined that an additional 90 days is needed to deliberate and allow time for the department to consult with the New Jersey Board of Nursing regarding a number of issues which can be found in the notice of action posted on the
department website. Also, we have another petition for rulemaking from Katherine Rubin's. The state board office received this petition for rulemaking on May 6, 2025. Katherine Rubin is an EDS certified
school psychologist. The petitioner requested amendments to NJAC6A14-4.7 to reduce the maximum instructional group size for emotional regulation impairment program. In consultation with our commissioner Damer, we decided to
deny the petition because current research does not demonstrate that reducing class size to a maximum of eight students is the ratio that results in improved academic or behavioral outcomes. Behavioral challenges also are
not exclusive to students eligible for student education under the ERRI classification. Therefore, adjusting class- size limits for only ERRI classes will not address the broader challenge of behavior management. Therefore, the
petitioner's request is denied. This notice can be found on the petition for rulemaking section of the department's website. And next, we'll go forward with the commissioner's reports. Thank you. >> Can I have a >> Sure, please. Vice President Johnson, you have the floor.
>> Uh, thank you, uh, Madame President. I'd just like to acknowledge uh the fact that many of our teachers are involved in professional development and learning during the course of the summer. It's not always just time off for them. Uh
Dr. Keenan and uh myself, we had an opportunity to uh actually sit in on some of that professional learning uh yesterday at um Stockton University's Atlantic City campus. First of all, the campus is a beautiful facility right off
the boardwalk in Atlantic City. Uh but uh seeing a 100 plus teachers give of their time. They came in on Monday evening. They'll be there through Thursday evening uh to learn further about uh history. Uh the theme actually
for this year's uh annual Amastad Institute is moving forward, preserving our past, revolution, reaction, and uh reform. Uh as a personal note, uh as a former history
teacher and a current historian and researcher, um some of the things that were discussed in the sessions that I got an opportunity to uh sit in on were much needed, especially in regards to the current uh environment that we find
ourselves in where um people seem to be wanting to not only uh erase history but forget about things that have happen uh in this country. And so uh it was good to sit in and hear those teachers talking about uh the things that they're
going to be looking forward to bringing to their children, their students uh when school opens uh in September. So just like to share with the rest of the board that we had that opportunity. Uh Dr. Keenan was a very gracious host and I thank her for that. Thank you.
>> Thank you very much. >> I'm sorry. Dr. Keenan, did you want to add something? Uh, >> there it is. It was a terrific event and we were very also pleased to see Assistant Commissioner Ambrose there as well. So, it was it was a lot of fun.
>> Okay. Thank you. Sounds like it was remarkable. So, thank you for sharing. Um please commissioner sir >> there are uh no commissioner reports this month so if it's okay uh with you madam president we can move into the items for consideration. >> Absolutely.
>> Uh the first agenda item is appointments as a standing item. And today I present two candidates for appointment. The first is uh Miss Katrina Mcomes the uh to the position of assistant commissioner for the division of early
childhood services. uh and she will report as assistant commissioner directly to to me as the commissioner of education. And the second nominee is Mr. Ralph Hog as the assistant commissioner for the division of administrative
services. Uh again reporting to the commissioner of education. Uh with that I'll turn it back to you, President Goldenberg. >> Thank you very much. We had the pleasure of speaking with both of these fine individuals during our executive
session. Um, and I would like to now ask for a motion to vote on them together as a package at this time. May I please have such a motion? >> Thank you very much. Uh, I believe I heard board member Pena first and may I
have a second, Dr. Johnson? >> Second. >> Thank you. We have a second. Is there any discussion at this time? Um, I would like to just make the comment that they're extremely qualified and we're lucky to have them. So, um,
all those in favor, please say I. >> I. >> Do we need a roll call? All those all those opposed, please say nay. Are there um, anyone who would like to abstain at this time?
Okay. So, I guess motion carries. Thank you. >> Congratulations. I'm very excited. They've as uh previously serving in acting roles, they've both done an outstanding job and I'm I'm happy to have them join us in in a permanent capacity. So thank thank you and
congratulations to both of you. >> Moving to the next item, certification of school districts. Uh since the July state board meeting, the executive county superintendents have finalized 49 NJAC evaluations for school districts. I
am recommending 38 of these districts for certification. Ambrose uh is here with uh Robert Gregory to respond to any questions you might have. Um as we do have 38 um the the districts are included in your your packet. I won't read through them all uh for you here,
but um if any any questions uh come up, please direct them to these two fine gentlemen. >> Good morning. >> Morning. >> Good morning. >> Hello, sir. >> Any questions for us? Well, this is the most we've had brought
before us in quite a while. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> So, that's exciting. >> Are there any comments or questions from our board, from our student? >> Okay. Yes, ma'am. I believe board member
Bennett has something to say. If uh 49 were included in the QAC assessment and 38 are being brought forward for approval, I think that deserves a round of applause. Percentage-wise, that is not what we've been getting. So, we're pleased. And uh
on behalf of my colleague who could not be here today, Mary Beth Bry, I think she'll be pleased, too. >> Okay. We're pleased and we uh thank the board um Mr. Gregory um Dr. Schiff um Commissioner Damer for the work that
they did last year in reallocating uh points that helped us get to this point. So I want to thank the state board of education for making this possible. >> Thank you. Okay. Thank you. So, um, I need please a motion from the board to
accept the 38 states that were suggested to us. May I please have a motion? >> I'll make a motion to accept the >> Thank you. I heard Dr. Johnson first and uh, board member Bob, would you like to second it?
>> Yes. >> Thank you. >> I did. >> I did hear you right as he was speaking at the end. Thank you. And um are there is there any more discussion at this time? >> No discussion. >> Okay. Thank you for me.
>> All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> I. Could we um could we could we please do a roll call? I'm really not hearing everybody. I'm sorry. Could we do a roll call vote just to make sure? Thank you.
Okay, >> I think you've got it. >> Are >> your microphone's off. Board member >> Aanteio. >> Yes, >> board member Bob Rov. >> I approve. Thank you.
>> Mary Bennett, >> abstain. >> Client Kanan. >> Yes. >> Jack Fero. >> Jack, you're muted. We can come back to board member Fero
when he's able to unmute perhaps. >> Janette Pñena. >> Yes. >> Can you hear me now? >> Yes. Jack, can you please cast your vote? >> I approve. >> Thank you. >> Both candidates. >> Thank you, sir. Okay, >> Jack, we're on to item B. I need to know
if you approve item B, the certification of school districts. Board member Fero, we're um we're voting on the certification of school districts. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, sir. >> Ahmed Shahada. >> Yes. >> Ned Johnson.
>> Yes. >> And Kathy Goldenberg. >> Absolutely. Yes. Thank you. So, um so that motion carries. Thank you so much. Thank you. Uh, board member Bennett. >> Thank you. Uh, moving to item C,
resolution to accept donated funds. Today, I'm pleased to announce that the Medford Lakes Lions Club has generously donated funds totaling $250 to the Department of Education, the Marie H. Katzenbeck School for the Deaf. Therefore, I request that you approve
the acceptance of these funds for the sole use of supporting student activities such as field trips, yearbooks, and student clubs. Kathy Aling's here for any questions you might have, and I'll turn over to to you, Madam President.
>> Um, thank you. Do you want to say anything? >> Uh, no. Just that we do appreciate the continued support and the funds are being put to uh to good use with the students. So, thank you. >> Thank you very much. May I please have a motion to accept the donated funds?
Motion made I'm sorry. Motion made by board member Bennett. May I please have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you very much. Vice President Johnson. Um any discussion at this time? If not, we can vote. Uh all those in
favor of accepting the resolution for the donated funds for the Marie Kenback School, please say I. >> I. I. Any any opposed? Please say nay. Any abstensions? Motion carries. Thank you very much.
Thank you. Thank you very much. >> Thank you. Uh moving to item D, resolution for to approve appointment to the state board of examiners. Today I'm pleased to present for your consideration a resolution for the appointment of an assistant commissioner to the state board of examiners. The
state board of examiners are responsible for the revocation and suspension of certificates, determination of appeals of adverse decisions of the office of recruitment, preparation and certification, and determination of equivalent education or experience of
applicants who do not meet established certification requirements. The board is composed of volunteer educators from various areas of the profession, both in administrative and instructional positions. Therefore, I recommend
Assistant Commissioner Ambrose Ducket to the state board of examiners. Not only will his responsibilities include voting on the important matters presented to the board, but he will also serve as its chairperson. Dr. Jordan Shift and Ronnie Singh are here to address any questions
you might have. Any questions at this time? >> Hearing none, I'll ask for a motion to accept board member Ambrose to um Excuse me. I'm so sorry to accept the appointment for the state
board of examiners. May I please have a motion? Thank you very much, board member Kenan. May I please have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you very much, Vice President Johnson. Any discussion or questions at this
time? Hearing none. All those in favor, please signify by saying I. >> I. >> I. >> Terrific. Thank you. I. Any opposed, please say nay. Any abstensions at this time?
Motion carries. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> And madam, >> congratulations. >> Thank you. >> I think I think >> um
congratulations. >> And that concludes our items for consideration. Uh Madame President. >> Okay. So, um, is there any new business that board members would like to share at this time?
Hearing none, um, I would wish you all a very happy remainder of the summer and enjoy your families. Uh, may I please have a motion to adjourn. >> Thank you very much. And a second was made. All those in favor, please say I.
I. And good summer wishes to everyone. Thank you. Part: 2
All right. Thank you. I'm ready when you guys are. We're good. We're on. Okay. Thank you. Good morning, everyone. It's a pleasure to have you here and thank you very much for joining. I'd like to please call this meeting to order. The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act was
enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advanced notice of and to attend the meeting of public bodies at which any business affecting their interest is discussed or acted upon. In accordance with the provisions of this act, the State Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be
published by having the date, time, and place thereof posted in the Department of Education Secretary of State's office. And notice has been given to the state house press cores, the governor's office and the state board agenda subscribers.
And as a quorum is now present, this meeting will come to order. May I please have a motion? >> So move. >> Thank you very much. Board member Bennett, may I please have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you very much, Dr. Johnson. Um, all those in favor, please say I.
>> I. >> Very good. Um we will be back um I believe at 10 o'clock. So, thank you very much. Remember that teacher who changed your life? You could be that teacher. New Jersey has some of the best public schools in the
country with competitive salaries and valuable benefits. Be that teacher. Visit teach inspire.nj.gov. Remember that teacher who changed your life. You could be that teacher in New Jersey. You'll help shape the next generation
alongside a dedicated community of educators. New Jersey has some of the best public schools in the country with competitive salaries, valuable benefits, and a solid pension plan. So, be that teacher. Make an impact. Teach Inspire New Jersey. To learn more, visit teach
inspire.nj.gov. Go. If you're a teacher, you've had students tell you how much you mean to them. And for everyone who does, more feel that way, but may not say it. Remember that teacher who changed your life. You're that teacher to a lot of people. Teach.
Inspire New Jersey. If you're a teacher, you've probably had students tell you how much you mean to them. And for everyone who does, there are more who feel that way, but may not say it. You can't know how many, but it's more than you think. Because you've
done more than teach. You've inspired. Remember that teacher who changed your life? You're that teacher to a lot of people. Teach. Inspire. New Jersey. Jersey. inspe Jersey. Visit the teach inspire
Punto NJ puto. Hold off. Remember that teacher who changed your life? You could be that teacher. New Jersey has some of the best public schools in the country with competitive salaries and valuable benefits. Be that teacher. Visit teach inspire.nj.gov.
Remember that teacher who changed your life? You could be that teacher in New Jersey. You'll help shape the next generation alongside a dedicated community of educators. New Jersey has some of the best public schools in the country with competitive salaries, valuable benefits, and a solid pension
plan. So be that teacher. Make an impact. Teach Inspire New Jersey. To learn more, visit teach inspire.nj.gov. If you're a teacher, you've had students tell you how much you mean to them. And for everyone who does, more feel that
way, but may not say it. Remember that teacher who changed your life. You're that teacher to a lot of people. Teach Inspire New Jersey. If you're a teacher, you've probably had students tell you how much you mean to them. And for everyone who does, there
are more who feel that way but may not say it. You can't know how many, but it's more than you think. Because you've done more than teach. You've inspired. Remember that teacher who changed your life? You're that teacher to a lot of
people. Teach inspire New Jersey. Jersey in speed. Visit the teach inspire punj. will go off. Remember that teacher who changed your life? You could be that teacher. New Jersey has
some of the best public schools in the country with competitive salaries and valuable benefits. Be that teacher. Visit teach inspire.nj.gov. Remember that teacher who changed your life? You could be that teacher in New Jersey.
You'll help shape the next generation alongside a dedicated community of educators. New Jersey has some of the best public schools in the country with competitive salaries, valuable benefits, and a solid pension plan. So, be that teacher. Make an impact. Teach Inspire
New Jersey. To learn more, visit teach inspire.nj.gov. If you're a teacher, you've had students tell you how much you mean to them. And for everyone who does, more feel that way, but may not say it. Remember that teacher who changed your life. You're that teacher to a lot of people. Teach
Inspire New Jersey. If you're a teacher, you've probably had students tell you how much you mean to them. And for everyone who does, there are more who feel that way, but may not say it. You can't know how many, but it's more than you think. Because you've
done more than teach. You've inspired. Remember that teacher who changed your life? You're that teacher to a lot of people. Teach. Inspire New Jersey. Jersey. invitto.
Jukov. Remember that teacher who changed your life? You could be that teacher. New Jersey has some of the best public schools in the country with competitive salaries and valuable benefits. Be that teacher. Visit teach inspire.nj.gov.
Remember that teacher who changed your life. You could be that teacher in New Jersey. You'll help shape the next generation alongside a dedicated community of educators. New Jersey has some of the best public schools in the country with competitive salaries, valuable benefits,
and a solid pension plan. So be that teacher. Make an impact. Teach Inspire New Jersey. To learn more, visit teach inspire.nj.gov. If you're a teacher, you've had students tell you how much you mean to them. And
for everyone who does, more feel that way, but may not say it. Remember that teacher who changed your life. You're that teacher to a lot of people. Teach inspire New Jersey. We cannot, it would be remiss not to acknowledge this. The New Jersey
Commissioner of Education, Kevin Damer, received a 2025 Career and Technical Education Leadership Award. The New Jersey Council of County Vocational Technical Schools, NJCCVTS,
presented him with the well with this welldeserved recognition during its annual summer meeting last week. Commissioner Damer's leadership has brought to fruition an even stronger delivery model for relevant and effective career programming in New
Jersey. The NJCC VTTS reports that $275 million in state bond funding for vocational technical school expansion will create more than 4,700
new seats for students which will result in approximately 1,200 additional vocational school graduates per year. It supported 47 new career programs and 34 expanded programs in both high demand
and emerging fields including advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, cyber security, global logistics and unmanned aerial systems. Commissioner, we are very proud of you and thank you for everything you do.
Thank you. He is officially making and creating more opportunities for students. And now, speaking of students, we are thrilled to have this year's student representative on the board, Kaen D. Rose, a rising
junior at East Brunswick High School in Middle Sex County. Her advisor is Bonnie Ben. Although she's not present today, she's doing a great job with Kayn. So Kalin, good morning and welcome. I understand that you have remarks you'd like to share with the state board. When
you're ready, please offer your remarks. >> Thank you, President Goldenberg. And good morning, everyone. As we head into the middle of summer, many New Jersey teens are enjoying their time off, hanging out with friends, watching movies, or preparing for college. A key percentage of talented students spent
their summer improving their leadership skills through the New Jersey Association of Opportunities such as LTC. Delegates showed that there are 205 different ways to be a leader. But what made them all exceptionally talented in leadership was the choice to dedicate
their summer to personal growth. NJASC has been supporting student leaders across the state for decades through LTC. And after a couple of days, many delegates form strong connections and gain advice that they take with them wherever they go. The leadership training conference fosters confidence,
growth, connection, and leadership in every delegate. Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> Well done. Any comments, Commissioner? >> I think so. This is wonderful uh rundown
of what happened in July and I think this is it directly translates to to us and the the one thing that I kind of took away was kind of working individually. Some some of the individual students struggled and getting through the trivia, but working together as a group, they were able to
do it with time to spare. And I think that's a not only is that a takeaway for you and your colleagues um but for all of us that working together if we collaborate um we can get through it and with time or effort to spare. So I I appreciate that. This is wonderful.
>> Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> Okay. Um, regarding our uh committee reports, we do not have committee reports this month as standing committees did not
meet during July, but we do have a petition for rulemaking. Uh, Rosemary Ken, the state board received a petition for rulemaking from her on May 5th, 2025. The petitioner
requested amendments to NJAC 6A9B-75 and 14.3 to allow holders of multi-state registered professional nurse license issued by a state board of nursing that participates in the nurse lensure compact to qualify for a substitute
school nurse non-instructional credential or an educational service certificate with school nurse endorsement in consultation. ation with our commissioner. We have determined that an additional 90 days is needed to deliberate and allow time for the
department to consult with the New Jersey Board of Nursing regarding a number of issues which can be found in the notice of action posted on the department website. Also, we have another petition for rulemaking from Katherine Rubin's. The
state board office received this petition for rulemaking on May 6, 2025. Katherine Rubin is an EDS certified school psychologist. The petitioner requested amendments to NJAC6A14-4.7 to reduce the maximum instructional
group size for emotional regulation impairment program. In consultation with our commissioner Damer, we decided to deny the petition because current research does not demonstrate that reducing class size to a maximum of
eight students is the ratio that results in improved academic or behavioral outcomes. Behavioral challenges also are not exclusive to students eligible for student education under the ERRI classification. Therefore, adjusting
class- size limits for only ERRI classes will not address the broader challenge of behavior management. Therefore, the petitioner's request is denied. This notice can be found on the petition for rulemaking section of the department's website.
And next, we'll go forward with the commissioner's reports. Thank you. >> Sure, please. Vice President Johnson, you have the floor. >> Uh, thank you, uh, Madame President. I'd just like to acknowledge uh the fact that many of our teachers are involved
in professional development and learning during the course of the summer. It's not always just time off for them. Uh Dr. Keenan and uh myself, we had an opportunity to uh actually sit in on some of that professional learning uh
yesterday at um Stockton University's Atlantic City campus. First of all, the campus is a beautiful facility right off the boardwalk in Atlantic City. Uh but uh seeing a 100 plus teachers give of their time. They came in on Monday
evening. They'll be there through Thursday evening uh to learn further about uh history. Uh the theme actually for this year's uh annual Amastad Institute is moving forward, preserving our past, revolution,
reaction, and uh reform. Uh as a personal note, uh as a former history teacher and a current historian and researcher, um some of the things that were discussed in the sessions that I got an
opportunity to uh sit in on were much needed, especially in regards to the current uh environment that we find ourselves in where um people seem to be wanting to not only uh erase history but forget about things that have happen uh
in this country. And so uh it was good to sit in and hear those teachers talking about uh the things that they're going to be looking forward to bringing to their children, their students uh when school opens uh in September. So just like to share with the rest of the
board that we had that opportunity. Uh Dr. Keenan was a very gracious host and I thank her for that. Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> Oh, I'm sorry. Dr. Kenan, did you want to add something? Uh, >> there it is. It was a terrific event and
we were very also pleased to see Assistant Commissioner Ambrose there as well. So, it was it was a lot of fun. >> Okay. Thank you. Sounds like it was remarkable. So, thank you for sharing. Um please commissioner sir >> there are uh no commissioner reports
this month so if it's okay uh with you madam president we can move into the items for consideration. >> Absolutely. >> Uh the first agenda item is appointments as a standing item. And today I present two candidates for appointment. The
first is uh Miss Katrina Mcomes the uh to the position of assistant commissioner for the division of early childhood services. uh and she will report as assistant commissioner directly to to me as the commissioner of education. And the second nominee is Mr.
Ralph Hogue as the assistant commissioner for the division of administrative services. Uh again reporting to the commissioner of education. Uh with that I'll turn it back to you, President Goldenberg. >> Thank you very much. We had the pleasure
of speaking with both of these fine individuals during our executive session. Um, and I would like to now ask for a motion to vote on them together as a package at this time. May I please have such a
motion? >> Thank you very much. Uh, I believe I heard board member Pena first and may I have a second, Dr. Johnson? >> Second. >> Thank you. We have a second. Is there any discussion at this time? Um, I would like to just make the
comment that they're extremely qualified and we're lucky to have them. So, um, all those in favor, please say I. >> I. >> Do we need a roll call? All those all those opposed, please say nay.
Are there um anyone who would like to abstain at this time? Okay. So, I guess motion carries. Thank you. >> Congratulations. I'm very excited. They as uh previously serving in acting
roles, they've both done an outstanding job and I'm I'm happy to have them join us in in a permanent capacity. So thank thank you and congratulations to both of you. Moving to the next item, certification of school districts. Uh since the July state board meeting, the executive
county superintendents have finalized 49 NJAC evaluations for school districts. I am recommending 38 of these districts for certification. Ambrose uh is here with uh Robert Gregory to respond to any questions you might have. Um as we do
have 38 um the the districts are included in your your packet. I won't read through them all uh for you here, but um if any any questions uh come up, please direct them to these two fine gentlemen. >> Good morning. >> Morning. >> Good morning.
>> Hello, sir. >> Any questions for us? Well, this is the most we've had brought before us in quite a while. >> Yes. >> Yeah. >> So, that's exciting. Are there any comments or questions from
our board or student? Okay. Yes, ma'am. I believe board member Bennett has something to say. If uh 49 were included in the QAC assessment and 38 are being brought forward for
approval, I think that deserves a round of applause. Percentage-wise, that is not what we've been getting. So, we're pleased. And uh on behalf of my colleague who could not be here today, Mary Beth Bry, I think she'll be pleased, too.
>> Okay. >> We're pleased and we uh thank the board. um Mr. Gregory, um Dr. Schiff, um Commissioner Damer for the work that they did last year in reallocating uh points that helped us get to this point.
So, I want to thank the state board of education for making this possible. >> Thank you. Okay. Thank you. So, um, I need please a motion from the board to accept the 38 states that were suggested to us.
May I please have a motion? >> So, moved. >> Motion to accept the report. >> Thank you. I heard Dr. Johnson first and uh, board member Bob, would you like to second it? >> Yes, I did. >> Thank you. I did hear you right as he
was speaking at the end. Thank you. And um are there is there any more discussion at this time? >> No discussion. >> Okay. Thank you >> for me. >> All those in favor signify by saying I.
>> I. >> I. >> I. Could we um could we could we please do a roll call? I'm really not hearing everybody. I'm sorry. Could we do a roll call vote just to make sure? Thank you.
Okay, >> I think you've got it. >> Your microphone's off. Board member >> Aante. >> Yes, I I I vote uh to approve. >> All in favor of >> board member Bob Rov.
>> I approve. Thank you. Mary Bennett >> abstain Kanan. >> Jack Panero. >> Jack, you're muted. We can come back to board member Fenero when he's able to unmute perhaps.
>> Janette Pñena, >> can you hear me now? >> Yes. Jack, can you please >> I approve I approve both candidates. >> Thank you, sir. Okay, Jack, we're on to item B. I need to know if you approve item B, the certification of school
districts. Board member Fero, we're um >> I approve. >> We're voting on the certification of school districts. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> I approve. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, sir. >> Amed Shahada. >> Yes. >> Ned Johnson. >> Yes. >> And Kathy Goldenberg.
>> Absolutely. Yes. Thank you. So, um so that motion carries. Thank you so much. Thank you. Uh, board member Bennett. >> Thank you. Uh, moving to item C, resolution to accept donated funds.
Today, I'm pleased to announce that the Medford Lakes Lions Club has generously donated funds totaling $250 to the Department of Education, the Marie H. Katzenbeck School for the Deaf. Therefore, I request that you approve the acceptance of these funds for the
sole use of supporting student activities such as field trips, yearbooks, and student clubs. Kathy Aling's here for any questions you might have, and I'll turn over to to you, Madam President. >> Um, thank you. Do you want to say
anything? >> Uh, no. Just that we do appreciate the continued support and the funds are being put to uh to good use with the students. So, thank you. >> Thank you very much. May I please have a motion to accept the donated funds? Motion made I'm sorry.
Motion made by board member Bennett. May I please have a second? >> Second. >> Second. >> Thank you very much. Vice President Johnson. Um any discussion at this time? If not, we can vote. Uh all those in favor of accepting the resolution for
the donated funds for the Marie Ksenback School, please say I. >> I. >> I. Any any opposed? Please say nay. Any abstensions? >> Motion carries. Thank you very much. Thank you very much.
>> Thank you. Uh moving to item D, resolution for to approve appointment to the state board of examiners. Today I'm pleased to present for your consideration a resolution for the appointment of an assistant commissioner to the state board of examiners. The state board of examiners are responsible
for the revocation and suspension of certificates, determination of appeals of adverse decisions of the office of recruitment, preparation and certification, and determination of equivalent education or experience of applicants who do not meet established
certification requirements. The board is composed of volunteer educators from various areas of the profession, both in administrative and instructional positions. Therefore, I recommend Assistant Commissioner Ambrose Ducket to
the state board of examiners. Not only will his responsibilities include voting on the important matters presented to the board, but he will also serve as its chairperson. Dr. Jordan Shift and Ronnie Singh are here to address any questions
you might have. Any questions at this time? >> Hearing none, I'll ask for a motion to accept board member Ambrose to um Excuse me. I'm so sorry.
Resolution to accept the appointment for the state board of examiners. May I please have a motion? >> Thank you very much. Board member Keenan. May I please have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you very much. Vice President Johnson.
Any discussion or questions at this time? Hearing none. All those in favor, please signify by saying I. >> I. >> Terrific. Thank you. I Any opposed, please say nay.
Any abstensions at this time? Motion carries. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> And madam, >> congratulations. >> I think I think >> um
congratulations. >> And that concludes our items for consideration. Uh Madame President. >> Okay. So, um, is there any new business that board members would like to share at this time?
Hearing none, um, I would wish you all a very happy remainder of the summer and enjoy your families. Uh, may I please have a motion to adjourn. >> Thank you very much. And a second was made. All those in favor, please say I.
I. >> And good summer wishes to everyone. Thank you.