Okay, that's done. Well, good evening. I'd like to call this meeting to order. This is the North Brunswick Township Board of Education, our conference and regular public meeting. Today is Wednesday, December 10th, 2025. Can we all please rise for
the pledge of allegiance? >> 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.
>> Mr. Ali, >> Mr. Carter >> here, >> Miss James >> here, >> Miss Keith >> here, >> Mr. Lori >> here. >> Thank you. Dr. Patel >> here. >> Mr. Singh, >> Miss Toast >> here, >> and Mr. Wen >> here. >> We have a car.
>> Thank you. The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Law was enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advanced notice of and to attend meetings of public bodies at which any business affecting their interests is discussed or acted upon. In accordance with the open public meetings law, the public notice of this meeting, which included
the time, date, and location, was distributed by 3 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28th, 2025 in the following manner. posted on the bulletin board reserved for announcements in the board office 25 Lynwood Place North Brunswick
mailed to the Home News Tribune [snorts] Star Ledger nj.com and the clerk of the township of North Brunswick and delivered to the nine duly elected board members. Well, good evening everyone. We're doing things a little bit differently this evening. We're going to be starting with our close session and
then coming out of close and then continuing the rest of our meeting with some presentations. So at this time we will motion to go into close session whereas section 8 of the open public meetings act chapter 231 PL1975
permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting in certain circumstances and whereas this public body is of the opinion that cir such circumstances presented exist. Now therefore be it resolved by the North Brunswick Township Board of Education that the public shall be excluded from discussion of an action
upon the here and after specified subject matters. The general nature of the subject matter to be discussed is as followed. Student matters. It is anticipated at the time that the above stated subject matter shall be made public at such time as the need for
non-disclosure no longer exists. This resolution shall take effect immediately. Can we please have the motion? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Favor. Anyone opposed? We can go to close session. Perfect. Thank you.
Okay. Okay. Well, good evening everyone. Um, could we please have a motion to return to open session? >> I'm sorry. Who? >> So moved. >> Oh, thank you, Miss James. >> Second. >> And second.
>> Second. >> Thank you. All in favor? >> Anyone opposed? We're back in session. >> Great. Thank you so much, Miss Hawk. Well, good evening everyone. It's great to see a large audience tonight for our last meeting of 2025. Definitely very
crazy to say. Um, but we have really some great presentations this evening. But first, I'd like to just start off um with something that um our board would like to take a moment to do. So, this
evening we pause to honor the memory of Rahm Turala who served the North Brunswick Board of Education from 2008 to 2014. Rahm continued to support our district longer than his board service, acting as our engineer of record through his
leadership at Distinct Engineering Solutions Incorporated, his company. His work during the site work of our new middle school saved our district and taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars as the lead engineer. His dedication, professionalism, and
commitment to the students and families of North Brunswick left a lasting impact on our schools and our community. He passed uh away last month suddenly. Although I did not have the privilege of serving alongside Rahm, we are deeply grateful for his his years of service
and the legacy he leaves behind. In remembrance of Rahm and in support of his family and loved ones during this difficult time, I ask that we join together in a moment of silence. >> Thank you. >> Well, Dr. Zakowski, I will turn it over
to you for a introduction to our presentations this evening. >> We're very happy uh to introduce our audit from Samuel Klein. Mrs. Jerry Stankwitz. It's great to see Jerry here. Uh I know all of us wanted Jerry here for a 30 minute review, but he Jerry I
know you have to go in three minutes. So uh all the good news in three minutes. >> Good evening. Barry Stanowitz, partner of Sleing Company. were the appointed by the board independent auditor for the district. Um we we recently issued the uh annual comprehensive financial report
of the district which was a result of our audit work that was conducted between August and uh let's say mid November. Okay. And based on our testing and we we test expenditures, we test payroll, we test receipts and revenues. Okay. We got good results from all of
our testing. important to know as board members that the the general ledgers and it's technical but you need to know okay the general ledgers are in agreement with the bank reconciliations all your expenditures were properly documented properly charged to the correct budget account charged to the correct fiscal
year and you are completely in compliance with the public school contracts law payroll items were paid properly timely uh payroll uh the taxes and withholdings were paid okay um all the records were cut off properly Um
there was no as we say in the business audit journal entries. Uh the records as presented by the administration but mostly attributed to Rosa and her staff were uh in in perfect order. I mean if there was a number that was told to you as this is our fund balance on let's say June 30th if she told you that number on
July 2nd. Well guess what 6 months later it's the same number which is a good thing because that means your records and the advice and the interim financial statement information that she gives you is correct and can be relied upon. you you it's it's bad to wait this long to know your real number as Dr. because he
knows from being in several districts. You don't want any surprises. But the numbers she provided to the district early on was good. So the records were presented in proper order, okay, and correctly. And the only thing that I will say is there was a delay in a piece of some of information coming out of the
federal government because of the shutdown. We still have to come back and finish that piece of the order that has to do with any federal compliance. Title one, title one D, title one SIA and IDEIDA. Okay. So we have to we have to do a little bit of work in that area as well as in your food service fund which
by the way you have a substantial operation going on there. We met last Wednesday at an exit conference with the administration and then we had a business operations committee meeting last Wednesday evening to go over the audit in in thorough thoroughly as a result of our testing and all the u I
don't know if it was harassment Rosa but all the questions that we asked and the back and forth emails telephone calls u we end up with a what's called an unmodified in the old days a clean opinion unqualified opinion on the financial statements that are presented to us and for the record we have minimal
if any journal entries I mean everything we're given, you know, if the receivables were 200,000, they were 200,000 at the beginning and really there was really no adjustments to any of the records because it was all presented properly. That's a tribute to we want to thank the support staff as well as Rosa and the rest of the
administration for their help in getting this this this far to be truth truthful. Um you know a lot of people can do the audit but but the audit opinion really comes out of the office and the personnel that you have working there. So we have a clean opinion. Okay. and we
have no comments that require a plan of action uh to be taken by the board. Um and and everything is working good. As long as everybody stays aggressive and uh you know up on things and there's a lot of review and proper training and
cross trainining, okay, you won't have a situation where I would come and give you a report that had other than real good results on it. So we had all good results from our testing and that's really it. So, um, right now I I believe there was a soft copy, a
digital copy emailed to everyone this afternoon. Once we finish the federal portion, which we have to do a follow-up report, then we'll get hard copy for anybody who wants one. But I don't I don't think that's going to be necessary. As long as we stay digital, I think we're good. So, in the end, we want to thank the board for their support and wish everyone a happy
holiday. And is my eight minutes up? My 20 minutes up? [laughter] No, I I do want to say uh Jerry, it's great coming back and seeing the work continuing to take that laser focus. You can't open up you can't the day doesn't
go by you don't open up a paper, an article, whether it's Montlair or some other districts, East Orange, and that their systems need to be overhauled and and taxpayers are on the hook. And so we have a great focus of providing the best for our children, but we all know that it's a balance to making sure every
dollar we spent, we know that it comes from the taxpayer. It comes from um North Brunswick and we're appreciative of your validation of our hard work to make sure that not only every dollar sings, every dollar is where it's supposed to be. >> Right. And you mentioned Monontlair. As
long as the business office is maintaining proper procedures, you can't have that repeat here. Um, I understand it's a nightmare and I don't know much more about it, but you you don't want that to happen here. And as long as everyone, including the board, stays aggressive in their oversight, okay? It
it can't happen and you you don't want to have it happen. So, uh, we're all set. And I think the only thing that the board needs to do is to accept the, uh, annual comprehensive financial report and enter into the records. >> We're going to have a public comment on the audit right now. So, if you could
just hang out a few more minutes, that counts part of the eight minutes. Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you, Jerry. >> Any any board members questions by Jerry? So, we have a we have a couple. >> At this time, [clears throat] we will have a public comment for our audit
presentation. If anyone from the public would like to come up and ask questions or speak about the audit in particular, this is now the time. We ask that you just state your name and you'll be given three minutes. All right. Seeing none, can we please have a motion to close the public
portion for the audit presentation? >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. Is anyone opposed? This session is closed. >> Thank you. Mr. Lori, would you please take item number 10? >> Thank you, Madam President. I would like to make a motion to accept the annual comprehensive financial report for the
school district of North Brunswick Township for the fiscal year ending June 30th, 2025 and the accompanying auditor's management report on the administrative funding, financial compliance, and performance also for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This also includes the system peer review report conducted on Samuel Klein
Company. >> Second. >> I'm going to take roll call on this one. Uh, Mr. Ali, >> yes. >> Mr. Carter, yes. >> Miss James, yes. Miss Keefe, >> yes. >> Mr. Lori, >> yes. >> Dr. Patel, >> yes. >> Miss Toth, >> yes. >> And Mr. W. >> Yes. >> The audit is accepted.
>> Thank you. Thank you, Jerry, so much. Have a happy holiday. >> Thank you. >> All right, Dr. Zakowski, would you like to introduce our second presentation of the evening? It's with great pride and honor to introduce our next recipient,
our our next presentation, our first recipient, uh, Miss Rona Hail's instructional aid, but she's more than that. She's a North Brunswick Blue and Gold. I don't remember anybody ever saying that, you know, Dr. Z, did you go here? Yes. You go to so many different
things. I go, yeah, but Rona was there already and she went to the JV game and varsity game. I only went to the varsity game. So, uh, she's everywhere. We like to say, and this is a word of the day, she's ubiquitous throughout North Brunswick. Everywhere. There's no person
more supportive the things that go on in North Brunswick. Uh, one of the first people to reach out, say hello to me, uh, when I'm my return as superintendent. so proud that we know how hard she works for uh our children and that she's going to be recognized uh
not only uh at our level, the local level, but also county level. And she's actually getting flown to California to be honored and and um be presented. But I would be remiss if I took full credit. I do take full credit. You're on my resume.
>> [laughter] >> So, um, but, uh, we have our Union Association President, um, Miss Pasner, will be here to say a few words about the selection of being Middle Sex County uh, instructional aid of the year and
also her supervisor, Miss Marcy Marks, our special ed supervisor. We want her to say a few words and if there's anything left un said, which I doubt because they have so much high regard, we'll come in and say something and put it part of the permanent minutes forever. So, and it's great seeing your
daughters here uh at every game, right? I mean, everywhere, even when you weren't playing. So, Miss Passner, Miss Hails, come up. Yeah. Why don't we come up? [cough] >> Hi everybody. Um, so as uh everyone knows, uh, Rona is a pair professional
here at MBTHs. She works with students within the possibilities program. Her responsibilities include observing the classroom while the teacher is teaching, uh managing and maintaining structure, data collection on student progress, implementing and modifying daily lesson plans, assisting students with hygiene
routines, life skills, assist students in their job placements. Rona is so proud when her students are able to go out into the working world. She's seen students she has coached leave the high school and go to the workforce and apply for jobs and obtain jobs. Um, Rona also received the North Brunswick Women's
Club um, 2024 influential woman of North Brunswick Service Award. Rona is currently the vice president of AIDS for the NBTA. Has been for the last four years. She was recently reelected by acclamation for a third term, which essentially means no one ran against her. She's doing such a good job.
[laughter] Um, she tirelessly advocates for the AIDS of North Brunswick, which they make up more than a quarter of our membership. Um, she is our member benefits chair. always shares with our members great ways they can save money, which is especially helpful for for our aids. Um although she previously served
in roles in the PTA and the Girl Scouts, her most recent organizations are the North Brunswick Soccer Club Assistant Coach, the North Brunswick Township Rescue Squad Auxiliary Member, the North Brunswick Township of Education Association, the North Brunswick Women's Club, the list goes on and on. Um and all of these organizations help to
promote public education. They benefit the community of North Brunswick. Um, Rona has worked with students in our community and have given them a voice within our community. And Rona's personal and professional goals have always been to help others be the best that they can be. She does this by
believing in people and making sure that they believe in themselves. She's always volunteered in her North Brunswick community. She wants to make our community a better place. Her advice to anyone entering the profession, um, because I asked her, she said it would always be that they should believe in themselves and do the best uh, to their
own ability. Um, additionally, she would say that they should always be true to themselves. Rona is the epitome of a great ESP. First, she does her job well, puts her heart and soul into helping her students succeed in school and out of school once they go into the workforce. Secondly, she's active in her
association, has taken on leadership roles within it. She tirelessly advocates for herself and the rest of the North Brunswick AIDS with passion and determination, and finally, she cares about her community. She works where she lives and volunteers where she lives. She wants to make her community a better place. This is why we nominated
her and of course why she won. So congratulations. [applause] >> Beth Beth said everything, but I have a little something too. Surprise, I'm here. Um, good evening. It is truly a pleasure to be here tonight to recognize someone who means so much to our school
community, Miss Rona Hales. Um, I've had the privilege of working closely with Rona in her role as par profofessional in her autism classroom. And I can honestly say she is one of those people who makes everything better by just showing up. Day in and day out, she brings professionalism, integrity, and a genuine love for her students and
colleagues. Rona consistently goes above and beyond. She's always on time, always ready to help, and always willing to step in wherever she is needed. In addition to the amazing work she does with the students, she also serves as a union representative, which you already said, um, advocating for her colleagues and
thoughtfulness and respect. She makes sure people feel heard, and that matters. In the classroom, Rona is truly the heart of the team. She brings contagious energy, whether she's encouraging the class to participate in spirit days, leading exercise groups, or running afternoon meetings with enthusiasm. She has a special way of
making hard work feel achievable. And she is always encouraging her students to do their best. She also shines in moments that require patience and calmness. Rona is incred incredibly skilled at supporting students with challenging behaviors and deescalating difficult situations. Her steady presence helps create a safe, positive
learning environment for everybody. Rona naturally steps into leadership roles when needed, but she's also the ultimate team player. She always supports her co-workers and jumping in and collaborating without hesitation. And if you know Rona, you know she's reliable to the core. She's never absent, always volunteering to help and giving her
100%. Her impact doesn't stop in the classroom, but last year she was also nominated as most influential woman at North Brunswick. We should have talked about this part with me, but it is cool. [laughter] Um, an honor that reflects just how deeply she impacts our students and our school community. Rona truly represents
the very best of what an educational support professional should be. She makes a difference every day, often in quiet but powerful ways. Rona, we love you and thank you for everything you do for your students. And I can't think of somebody who's more welld deserved. [applause]
[laughter] >> Well, thank you for being here. And again, you know, Rona has been a steady, welcoming, and uplifting presence in the North Brunswick Township schools for many years back to when I even was a student here. She is often the first face our students and families see
always the one that they could turn to. Her warmth, her professionalism, and her deep care for North Brunswick made her not just an essential part of our school district, but a beloved figure in North Brunswick all over through all. Whether she is supporting students through challenging moments, stepping in
wherever needed, or simply offering a kind word that brightens someone's day, Rona, you lead with heart. Your dedication goes far beyond your role. You are a fabric of our community and someone who is consistently putting others first, which helps create a safe,
nurturing environment for our schools. On behalf of the entire board of education, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude to you. Thank you. And we will read the proclamation which you'll be able to take home this evening. >> Okay. I am going to read the resolution
for Miss Rona Hale. Um, be it resolved by the board of education township of North Brunswick County of Middle Sex in the state of New Jersey that the said board of education recognizes the outstanding efforts of Rona Hail's instructional par profofessional at North Brunswick Township High School and expresses its sincere appreciation for
her dedicated services and meaningful contributions to the students of North Brunswick. hand. Whereas the board of education of the township of North Brunswick extends its warm appreciation and heartfelt thanks to Miss Hails for being named the 2026 Milis County Educational Support Professional of the
Year. Whereas, this award stands as a wonderful reflection of Miss Hails's steadfast professional and personal commitment to supporting students with ongoing empathy and kindness. Now therefore, be it resolved that public re recognition and commendation be given to
Rona Hales for her unwavering compassion, selflessness, and outstanding generosity to the students of North Brunswick Township. Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be entered into the official minutes of the board of education, and that a copy be presented to Rona Hails
as a token of the board's appreciation and gratitude. Congratulations, Miss Hails. [applause] >> [applause] [clears throat] >> I had to say something so I had to write it cuz I don't like being incentive attention. Um, first give praise to God.
Next is Dr. Z, the board of ed, the MCA and the MBTA. Thank you for this incredible honor. I also want to sincerely thank my family, my friends, my co-workers, and my co my work family as I call you guys. um all the support that you guys give me, I truly
appreciate it. [clears throat] I'm not someone, like I said, that loves a lot of attention. So, it's a little uncomfortable being up here. Um I didn't think I did all these things. I mean, I did all these things, but I didn't realize I did all these things. Um
um I was raised to believe that doing your job was what you're supposed to do. Not just to keep a job, but you're supposed to do that so you can influence other people, you can help your co-workers, you can help students. And that's the way I was raised. And that's what I hope I'm portraying to you too. Right there. Those are my two babies.
Um, this is I really do love my job. I I love the people I work with. Not everybody, but no. GOOD. [laughter] [laughter] Just being honest. Okay. Um, but now, like you said, I'm scheduled to attend um NEA ESP National Conference in
Anaheim in March. So, thank you for giving me those bad day off. I appreciate it. [laughter] I do look forward to learning there with the workshops they're going to provide, listening to the keynote speakers, and networking with other ESPs from all over the country. Thank you again from the
bottom of my heart for this recognition. I truly appreciate it. I appreciate all of you coming. I feel so so honored. I really do. I'm humbled. [applause] Happy birthday to me on Friday. Congratulations. >> Congratulations.
[laughter] >> [snorts] [snorts] >> All right, let's go. One more. >> [clears throat] [applause] >> back down. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> You want me to? >> Okay. Hello everyone. We are doing some board
recognitions. Um we are in a transitory period where we have regretfully two of our current board members. Um this will be nearly their last meeting. Um they have served for several years. Zire
serving one term since January of 2023. Um and Colleen Keefe as well. And I'm really just here to say a few words for Zire and his term of service. Um, >> come on down. >> So, we had not previously met. Um, I met
Zire when he came in on the board and as we're currently going through and experiencing >> it is [laughter] >> it is a a tough transition when you're saying goodbye to a friend. Um, so this is definitely bittersweet because I'm
sure this is not the end for you, Zire. In your three years that you've served, I've saw that you had a heart for public service, that you genuinely have a heart for children, and I'm grateful for having to have met you, and has been a wonderful three years being both a friend and a colleague. Um, I feel like
your passion has shown itself through your love for SEAL, your concern about student discipline, your concern about food insecurity and working for food pantries, your service on the fire company, your resume is also expansive. Um, and it seems that your desire to
serve is definitely embedded in your DNA. So, I want to thank you for your time. I want to say that you've been a true value ad on this board and I wish you nothing but success in your future endeavors. ALL THE BEST. [applause] >> [applause] >> THIS IS UNEXPECTED. WHEN I SAW MY WIFE COME IN, I was like, "Something's up
here." [laughter] Um, so I don't know. But honestly, this is great. So, um, I had no intention or inclination of, you know, running for anything. When I did, I was like, you know what, I do this in school. Um, you know, my mom was police officer. I grew
up in Planefield. So, I was like, you know what? like let's let's get it a shot. Sure, I may had a good ballot position when I first won, but um you know, people still had to vote, right? So, this was um it was a good experience honestly. I learned a lot. Uh being on
that end of the dis, you know, at least a schoolboard level, it's it's not what you expect. Any you know, I guess office isn't what you expect, but this was a eye openener. You learn I learned like I said, I learned a lot. It was really really eye opening. It was fun.
working with good people and um having the ability to really be one of one of a whole and representing you know thousands of students and our staff. It was great. So um you know now I'm off to just hurry up and finish school, finish my doctorate and see what happens next.
But um this is it was great being being in school doing this you know working on the policies on a back end and now and trying to implement it in real life on a school level. It was it was a lot of fun and um thank you all and um thank you for that for your WORDS [applause]
>> for everything you've done for us. >> I don't have words for Colleen per se because this is my assignment, but I I love you, Colleen, and I wish you nothing but the best. You have been a great friend and a great colleague as well. and I'm going to turn it over to Haley for the rest. >> Thank you. If anyone else from the board
would like to say a few words from the deis about Zire, this is your opportunity to as well. >> Yeah, >> I can add in um >> I Alicia I know said a lot of great things. So I'll just add I know Zire and I were elected together [clears throat] in the beginning. So it's really been a
pleasure to get to know you learning the processes of the board and working together. You've always been supportive and a great colleague to work with. As Alicia said, your commitment to the students and the families of the town really shines through in your personal life and in the work that you've done
with the board. So, thank you again truly for your commitment. >> Thank you, [applause] sir. Definitely just a quick sentiment from me as well. Um, though we come from different walks of life, you and I share something in common. and it's having such a big loss of life um in our
immediate families at such a young age and we have bonded over the fact that we just want to make those individuals proud by serving our communities um and we started at such a young age and so I will forever remember you as my young
colleague here and I will definitely miss you very much. The board likes to tease us sometimes on that. Cheese [laughter] me sometimes on that. But um we will miss you tremendously and I know that you will not be a stranger. So thank you. [applause]
>> Yeah. Come pictures. >> Oh yeah. >> Oh so this is Kizra. Um she she's from South North Brunswick. So she went to high school here. She graduated a year before Haley. Me and Hay are both class of 2012. So yeah, she's 2011. So um she
is a big reason why I'm here too because when we were first got married was during co literally during co we got married on April 1st and um we were looking at places to move from cuz we were in Highland Park and then you know she was like I know North Brunswick. I went there um it's a good place and we
were like okay like let's do it. you know, when we first moved here, I didn't change my voting stuff from where I I lived in Planefield and then um you know, thing elections really got important and like politics changed and I was like, "Okay, let's do this." So, we're here. We've been here and God
willing, we're here forever, you know, but we just got to, you know, afford a house one day here. But yeah, thank you. >> Thank you so much. >> Can everyone come down and take a group picture?
You sit down. >> Yeah. All right, Colleen, just hang down for a minute. Okay, so I'm definitely not one to speak off the cuff. So, I have something written
and we are going to try to get through this, you and I. So, okay. Tonight, we honor someone whose presence on this board and in this community has been nothing short of extraordinary. For
more than 10 years, Colleen Keith has devoted herself to the North Brunswick Township DI school district with unwavering dedication, strength, and integrity. From her initial appointment in 2015 to her three consecutive elected
terms in 2016, 2019, and 2022. Yes, I had to do some research. Colleen has been a constant source of stability and leadership through every challenge and every season of change. She has served as board vice president and for most of
her tenure, she led our negotiations committee with a sharp mind and a remarkable ability to balance firmness with compassion. Colleen has been our board's history book, our reference point, our reminder of how far we've come, and our guide to how to move
forward responsibly. Newer members learned so much simply by watching how she handled herself, thoughtful, prepared, and always centered on what was best for students and staff. I had the privilege of working closely with her for five and a half years, and those
years mean more to me than I can express. Colleen is someone I looked up to from the start. She didn't just teach me how to be a better board member. She taught me how to carry myself with confidence, grace, and purpose on this board. She became a voice I trusted, a
partner I could rely on, and someone whose example shaped the leader I am today. But even beyond the work, Colleen became something far more meaningful to me. She is a friend in every sense of the word, steady, loyal, and quietly supportive in moments when it mattered
most. There were times in my life when I was hurting, overwhelmed, or simply trying to find my footing, and Colleen showed up. Not loudly, not for recognition, just with genuine care, an open heart, and the kind of presence that reminds you you're not alone. They
say a person's character is revealed by how they show up when no one is watching. And Colleen showed up for me in ways that left a permanent mark on my heart. Her goodness extends beyond this board table and into every part of her life. I've had the privilege of getting
to know her beautiful family who reflect the same warmth, kindness, and authenticity she brings to everything she does. Megan texted me and said she wishes she could be here tonight and she loves you. North Brunswick is better because of Colleen. This board is
stronger because of Colleen. And I am better because of Colleen. And we say goodbye to her in this role. and I already know how deeply she will be missed not just for her knowledge and leadership but for the compassion, wisdom, and humanity she brought to every discussion. She is truly one of
the most selfless people I have ever known. On behalf of our entire team, Colleen, thank you. Thank you for your decade of service, your dedication to our community and our schools and the countless hours you poured into this. But thank you most of all for your
friendship. We love you. We appreciate you and we will always be better because you were here. >> Thank you. [applause] >> Um, I thought I was in a rush to get my comments in. Um, but I definitely do not want to miss this opportunity to tell you, Colleen, I am so grateful to have
met you. I think that you definitely have been an encyclopedia of knowledge. Um, as you can all tell, this emotion cannot be feigned. It is real. It is palpable because Colleen really has served this board well. She has served
for quite a tenure. Um, and you will be sorely, sorely missed. But this is not the end. I wish you well. I wish you success in whatever you do next and I trust that there's nothing but good things for you. So all the best and thank you for sharing your family with us as well. >> Yes.
>> Well, we have some of our previous um board members here. So >> they came out Kyle as you know this work is done as a family of thought commitment to children community and I'm just so happy to see all of our friends
and former friends and you know Once you even though you leave the board, you never leave the family. So, we know you're going to be part of it. And you were active before the board. When I first met you, the PTO president running around selling cupcakes and parsons. I
might have bought one too many, but that's a n. But, uh, I do invite some of we have some wonderful board members that you serve here. Uh, our council, current council president, Amanda, and of course, Clarabel, our county surrogate. uh Barry, a former board
member uh and Dave Brockman uh who just uh left the board last year and now is working with us as a part of our team. But I would offer any of you I know calling so much rush down here. Anybody want to say a few words? I always put on
the spot. >> All right, come on back. [laughter] Yeah. >> Yes. >> Oh, we don't need your sign. [laughter] >> It's a board president that fast. >> You're not timing me either, right?
Jonathan, you're not timing. [laughter] >> Um, so hello everybody. Uh for those who don't know me, Barry Harris, uh former board member and president and uh so I actually when I joined the board, uh was on the same ballot as as K. And um you
know, I just have to say thank you for for everything that you did. Uh we worked very closely together, very hard, some long nights um specifically on negotiations. Sorry, I don't mean to bring that up. [laughter] >> Sorry.
Um but uh and and I also too remember you know after a couple of years I remember you were vice president and I was interested in that position and we talked and you said you know what you should and as a matter of fact I'll support you 100%. So um always humble always supportive um you know learned a
lot from you. Uh it was a it was a pleasure and honor to to work with you and I wish you nothing but the best. >> [applause] >> Now, I I do have to admit a mission. You You're wonderful, but your husband's also wonderful. For about 15 years, I've
been calling him Dave. [laughter] Name is Bob. Never once did he ever correct me. [laughter] I I want to thank you, Bob, I think it is. But come on up, Bob. [laughter] True story. They say, "Who the hell's Dave?
That was Frank. [laughter] >> Come on up here. Thank you for sharing. Colleen and Dave's Dave. Bob is always there [laughter] every game. >> But I would ask >> Yes. Dave, why don't you get up here so I don't mess up Clarabel, Amanda, come
on up. And we want to take some pictures. And while we're up here getting ready for pictures, I'm gonna turn the mic over here. >> Yes. Great. >> We know you're moving a few words, but tonight you're on spot. Um, thank you all. It has been an incredible journey,
an incredible honor. I have had the privilege of serving with amazing, amazing administration, amazing board members. We have amazing staff who do incredible things. Although we may not have always agreed, Beth, we always came to a resolution. It's always for the
best of the students. I appreciate all of you. I appreciate the residents of North Brunswick. I appreciate this district. Um, I look forward to hearing all of the great things that are going to continue. Amanda, thank you so much for your friendship. [laughter]
Um, it has been an honor and a privilege. Thank you so much. [applause] Let me do it one more time. Board members, I know photo op. >> The last thing you want to do is a photo op, but [laughter] so many people care about you and thank
you for your service. >> [cough] >> Madam President, >> you do have the authority maybe for a short reset. >> Yes. >> General motion is always attended. >> Yeah, you could. Yeah, you just Yeah, you just make somebody to ask for a motion.
>> Okay, so for we are going to go into a quick recess to celebrate our guests. Um, so can we have a motion to take about a 10-minute recess? >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> No opposed. We can go for a break.
Great. Okay. Can we please have a motion to return to open session? I'll move. >> Second. >> All in favor? Is anyone opposed? We're back in session. >> Thank you. Well, Zire and Colleen, hope
we surprised you. [laughter] Um, and again, thank you to all of our um guests this evening, all of our previous board members that were here. Um, it was always great to see everyone and it's a great showing for both
Colleen and Sire. So, we will return to the rest of our meeting. Um, Miss Keefe, would you please take item 13, meeting minutes? >> Yes, Madam President. I'd like to make a motion to approve the following board minutes. Regular public meeting minutes,
November 19th, 2025. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Is anyone opposed? The minutes are accepted. >> Thank you. Um, Dr. Zakowski, do we have any communications this evening? only the ones that we discuss in close session student matters.
>> Thank you. Um all right. At this time we can move to our reports. Assuming that there are no old business or new business, we can move right to your administrative report. >> Yes. Thank you, Madam President. And um Miss Keefe, Mr. Ali, nothing left to be
said, but I do want to thank you um and add to I think the value added as a superintendent from my perspective. I'll start with uh Mr. Ali. Um, you know, you're part of a rare fraternity that not only gives themselves to the
children representing the board of education, but also giving to as a volunteer fireman, giving to the community, embracing, and although it's great to hear that your wife is a graduate because all great things come out of North Brunswick. So, we see that
you chose well, but [laughter] we want you to know, as I said earlier, you're part of a fraternity. Although I've only worked with you since July, we met before that. And um I can tell you I've really been impressed and I look forward to continuing uh speaking with
you because you have uh you've been able to communicate on various levels. uh your PhD, your uh service to the community, your understanding of the uh greater political scene really found it very engaging. Uh I will miss our
discussions, your questions, but you always, as you see, as the former board members come, it's always part you're always part of what we do here, and we certainly know it's not going to be a goodbye. So, thank you. And Colleen, um again, selfless attitude. I
I I don't have enough words. It was so um refreshing and so nice to hear so many uh people respecting what you do and noticing, right? You never want to be noticed, but they noticed that you just did the work and um such an impact.
And how many years ago I saw you working so hard at Parsons and doing everything and even arguing with uh the late Bruce um our our principal Rothenberg, right? So you just and and
making sure you always had every child represented. never wanted to credit. And uh you saw your colleagues come out tonight, your current colleagues, uh the team members, and we certainly learned how to um be more professional and be
better servants to our community and our sta our students. So, thank you for all that you've done. And personally, I again, I do apologize not knowing your husband's name, but [laughter] um personally, you've been certainly a guide because you're true north and everything you do and you really
exemplify our true north compass. So, thank you again, Zire and Colleen. Thank you. >> It's such a >> wonderful evening. Sad mixed ble mixed emotions. U good evening to our millions of viewers. Uh, speaking of wonderful members, I just want to say Grayson and
Mia, thank you for continue representing us as a team. You're part of this team as well. I was at the uh cheerleading and football banquet, emphasis on cheerleading banquet. Um, [laughter] well, we football, we we mentioned him a little bit, but the award winners
captain, the coaches award. I just really want to thank you for representing yourself, your families, the district, and our team here as you sit up there. It's it's certainly nice to see you um out there and and representing us as well. And speaking of
representing Mia, um I'm looking so forward to being there December 15th. And people should know Mia is getting another award uh young peer advocate award at the town council meeting on the 15th. And so I know um our the president [snorts] and myself will be there and
board members who could make it. Uh we want to be there and and wishing you continued success and thank you for all that you do for the students and being part of our team. Speaking of the high school, um I don't want to take any of your reports, but it was so nice to see um Tim Howard on a virtual meeting in
the media and mass and social media class. Tim Howard, former he was alum, a former US national team professional soccer goalie. He was gracious enough to donate his time and our students were able to uh pose questions and conduct an interview and a very valuable learning
experience. Our select string students at the MBTHs orchestra recently bought uh brought some holiday cheer at the senior center. So, thank you again reaching out to the community to our our orchestra. Our holiday pops concert at the high school is December 18th, which
is Thursday. It was originally scheduled for the 19th. Things were moved. So, it's the 18th. Um, please join our music department. And when I say music department, the entire music department, all the elementary music teachers, the middle school, Lynwood, they all come out because I've
been lucky and fortunate enough to really uh enjoy our music department. The elementary schools have had a couple uh Jud and Janna Adams and uh last night was the middle school. It was great to see the middle school perform at [snorts] the middle school auditorium.
It just uh was a wonderful evening and more more to come. I know Monday I believe is Parson's tomorrow actually is Lynwood. So we're excited. The music uh program really uh symbolizes what we stand for. Really integration of all our
students coming together and making a beautiful sound together. So, uh, very happy and and part of that, um, we were very happy to see the food drive, um, take place, uh, that night, uh, on the 18th with continuing support because we
also had to toys for tots at the Jud music concert, which was I think I went Monday night or when I went to see uh, the Jud concert, our our staff raised with the toys for tots $300 with the police department. So, we're very happy
to see that and um continue to do all of our wonderful work together, the entire wishing everyone this entire holiday season. Please be safe, happy, healthy uh with you and your loved ones. I'm so grateful that um this community always
comes together and supports each other in time of need. So, if you see someone, wish them a happy holiday and and brighten their day with a smile. Um we have such so much to be thankful for and thank to all of you coming tonight and supporting our board members, our
recipients and uh us as a board. So madame president that I'll uh invite you. >> Thank you. All right. At this time we will rem we will move to our student reports. Good evening. >> Thank you and thank you Dr. Zakowski for
the kind words. Um, the past couple months have been pretty busy for the student government executive board. We've been doing a lot of planning and we hosted a dodgeball tournament in November. That was a fun time for everybody involved. We only had four teams this year, which I mean obviously
was a lot less. We usually try to go for eight, so it was less, but it kind of made it more fun cuz you could actually watch every single game since they weren't happening at the same time. So, it made it feel a little bit more competitive. Um, which was nice. And we are currently getting ready for our winter pep rally, which will be the week we get back to school after break. and
that'll be followed by our um that pep week is the week we get back from break and pep rally is Friday of that week and then we have the talent show later in January. And the class of 2027 was busy with the successful bunk cake fundraiser and volleyball tournament. They're getting ready to hold their biggest fundraiser of the year with the class of
2029 and that is their pocket pocketbook bingo and basket auction and that takes place in February. Sorry. Um, the student government organization is also hosting a cake decorating contest this Friday. We have almost 20 teams that will be showing off their decorating skills and then get to enjoy
the dessert when it's all over. A >> that's it. Thank you so much. >> Thank you so much. >> Okay, our committee reports. We will start with how about Mr. Ali, our education committee chair.
>> Okay. Thank you, Madam President. Um the education committee met on Wednesday, December 3rd at 6 PM. We have a few updates in various areas. So I'm going to start with assessments and grants. So we received several updates pertaining to some of our um programming that we're
doing. So we were introduced to Taproot which is going to be a a new social emotional learning software that's they describe it as spiritual interactive and this is going to be a part of our overall initiative to just help some of
the students acclimate to life postco you could say and just really feel together in school. is going to come on a first come a first- serve basis and we're going to cap it at 40 students per school and um it's really going to be parents who are going to be having the
choice to say hey I want my child in this or not well I want my child in this and we're also seeking we're also preparing to reboot our professional learning communities and really just with the focus on rethinking and reimagining the structures and expectations just ensure that we have
the most impact um from those groups In addition to that, we discussed the impact grants and the forthcoming um New Jersey Department of Education visiting literacy task force engagement. We're going to have some some updates with that coming through. And lastly, for
substance and grants, we have we have some we re some update received updates regarding our ESL tutoring services and preparation for access for EOL's testing. So staff training was uh was will be begin on January 6 and then
testing for that will start in February and end on March 28th. And we also reviewed some latest information from the preschool program. Really just reflecting our continued con commitment to early education development and really high quality prek programming
in the area of constru curriculum instruction technology reviews details presentations from the um implementation from amplify math which is our program for grades um 5 through 8. Um and we talked about algebra 1 and
some of the different um areas within within that level math that was led by our math supervisor Miss Lamagra and Alonzo. So this curriculum is really designed to anchor the math progression
across grades and we have both print and digital resources, parent supports, and we're going to have really just structured intervention strategies. And the good thing about this is going to be bilingual. So, we're going to have English and Spanish, which has really been a headache in the past. And the
program has different levels of scaffolding. And we they broke it down to five goals that really are going to just be tiered, but hopefully help engage the classrooms and just engage the teachers and students. And then we also welcome Mr.
Neller. Um we have updates pertaining to grades 9 to 12 science and that was from Miss Lampair who presented our recommendations for high school course realignment and their presentation was really robust and it was it was good to to see and learn about some of the
things that are going to be happening. Really the goal is to align the science with some of the future college and career pathways that are happening in you know right now but also is going to be just advanced in the next few years. We had no updates from um pupil and
personnel services and we had a few policy updates. So for our second readings we had policy A5117 which is our interd district school public choice. We just had to update the policy and regulations replacing the older ones. We had policy A2535
which is our library material. And that new policy is just going to update the standards around library materials and selection and review policy 2530 which is our resource materials which just includes updated guidance preparing pertaining to our
instructional materials. And lastly, we had policy 9130, which is pertaining to public complaints. And that's just outlining procedures for receiving, reviewing, and responding to to those concerns. And that's all for the
education committee report. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair. Um, Mr. Carter, business operations. >> Uh, sure. Thank you, Madam President. Uh, the business operations committee met on Wednesday, December 3rd. A presentation was made by Mr. Senitz
reviewing the audit report. Uh we also received status updates on multiple projects related to the referendum including updates for the dehumidifier for the pool at NBTHS as well as additional bathroom upgrades which will begin which have already taken place at MBTHs and will continue to take place
throughout the district beginning summer of 2026 and continuing into 2027. uh lace on the rod grants. Lynwood is the last school to have the HVAC controls upgraded. Those are essentially like the brains for our HVAC system. So,
um this should be completed by winter 2026. Uh air sampling testing which had favorable results at all the district schools. Timeline for the FY27 budget state aid announcements will be released on February 2020 February 26th, 2026.
um and elementary school student uh dismissal policy updates which will go into effect January 5th. That concludes my report. >> Thank you, Mr. Carter. Uh Dr. Patel, human resources. >> Good evening. Thanks, Madam President. Um the human resources committee
relations committee met on Tuesday, December 2nd to discuss various personnel topics. For those on tonight's agenda who are retiring, the board thanks them for their services and wishes them well. There are new staff and daily and long-term subs substitute hires on tonight's agenda. We welcome all those new members to our district
and we look forward to having you work with us here in North Brunswick. The committee also discussed reassignments that are on the agenda and we thank those staff members for taking on these new roles. As of our committee meeting, any remaining vacancies for the 2025 2026 school year continue to be in the interview stages and will be posted
until they're filled. All of our current openings can be found on our district website, social media pages, and posted in each of our buildings. For any teaching positions, alternate route, and traditional route, candidates are both encouraged to apply. We discussed any current and upcoming leaves of absences
and how those positions may be filled via daily subs, long-term subs, or six teaching periods. MSKA announced that the annual New Jersey governor's educa education support person of the year were submitted by each school and will be announced by each school's administration on Monday, December 8th.
The board looks forward to recognizing those staff members and wonderful achievements at the upcoming board member. Lastly, Dr. Zakowski and Miss Kea discuss a potential pathway to our professional award, a new initiative designed to support and recruit exceptional district student teachers in a high need certification areas such as
secondary mathematics sciences as well as K to2 bilingual and ESL. For more information will be a forthcoming after winter recess. And that concludes my report. >> Thank you. painfully. One last time, Madame Chair, negotiations. >> Not at this time, Madam President.
>> Thank you. And um our liaison to New Jersey school boards and Middle Sex County School Boards and the township, Mr. Lori. Any updates this evening? >> Yes, thank you, Madam President. Good evening, everyone. Um I attended the Middle Sex County School Boards Association meeting on Wednesday, uh
December 3rd. Uh seems like we had a lot of meetings going on that night. That's probably why I was the only one there from North. [laughter] Um, among the items discussed, they they put out a bunch of lame duck uh bills that are being proposed. They're not sure if any of them are going to get anywhere. Uh, one pertaining to charter
school reform, another to the non-renewal process, another to pilot revenue sharing, uh, one on school funding, one on cell phones, and another on uh, consolidations. So, we're not sure if they'll go anywhere, but uh, they did put it out there that it's lame duck and people are throwing lots of
stuff out there. Uh there was a field service update from Maryanne Freriedman who's been to North Brunswick a couple times. Among the things she discussed, uh there are dates out there for new board member orientation. I think procedurally new board members have to get their fingerprints done. Once that's done, they get an email address and you
need that email address to sign up for new board member orientation. So more to come and hopefully our our newbies can get there as well. Um she did note, madam president, that there's a new tool for the board self-ealuation. Uh it's not a mandatory thing like the superintendent's evaluation, but there
is a new tool out there for consideration this year. Um and then uh we we enjoyed a program on uh school security uh that was led by the superintendents from South Planefield and Woodbridge Township. Very informative. Thank you. That concludes the report.
>> Thank you, Mr. Lori. Um and on just on behalf of the entire team, I mean, thank you all so much for stepping up, our committee chairs, um this year. We, you know, all do great work individually, but when we come together as a team, it's it's even better. So, thank you for
everyone, you know, stepping up into the roles that, you know, you have and it's been an honor serving alongside our vice president this year. Um really a great team we have. So, thank you for everyone that stepped into leadership roles and individual roles on each committee. So, thank you.
Um, all right. At this time, uh, Mr. Wen, would you please take item 16? >> Yes, Madam President, I would like to make a motion to approve the administrative, student, and committee reports. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Anyone opposed? All the reports are
accepted. >> Thank you. Um, at this time, we will do a quick review of our agenda. As stated at the beginning of the meeting, the uh board members received the agenda prior to tonight's meeting. We all have had time to review it. So, at this time, we
will do a quick review of our agenda for December 10th. [clears throat] Starting on page three and then pages four and five, any changes to the agenda will show in bold. Pages six and seven.
Pages eight and nine. Pages 10 and 11. Pages 12 and 13. and wrapping up our short agenda on page 14. So, at this time, we will have a public session on agenda items only. If anyone
from the public would like to come up and speak to anything on the agenda, this is now the time. We ask that you just state your name and you'll be given three minutes. >> Okay. Seeing none, can I please have a motion to close the public portion of the meeting?
>> So, move. Second. >> All in favor? >> Anyone opposed? This session is closed. >> Thank you. Um, Mr. Ali, would you please take item 20, our consent agenda? >> Sure. Thank you, Madam President. >> I would like to make a motion
to approve the following to approve the following consent agenda items. Personnel, curriculum, miscellaneous, finance items 1 to three, policy, and transportation. >> Second. I'm going to do vocal on this.
>> Uh, Mr. Ali, >> yes. >> Mr. Carter, >> yes. >> Miss James, >> yes. >> Miss Keith, >> yes. >> Mr. Lori, >> yes. >> Dr. Patel, yes. >> Miss Toast, >> yes. >> And Mr. Wen, >> yes. >> All the resolutions and um >> motions are approved. >> Thank you.
Okay, at this time we can jump to page 14 of our agenda, item number 21. We will have a public session on any matter. If anyone from the public would like to come up and make a comment on any matter, this is now the time. We just ask that you state your name and
you'll be given three minutes. Good evening. I might have turned it off, Beth. Sorry. >> Good evening, North Brunswick Township Board of Education. My name is Beth Pasner, president of the North Brunswick Township Education Association. Um, I
just wanted to um give an update of um currently our PEP and FASA uh programs that we have. Um through the NJA, the NBTA is eligible to apply for over $60,000 worth of grants uh through PEP and FAST programs. Uh the goal of these programs is to involve parents and
families in their children's education through programs and events to help improve student achievement and ensure that families feel welcome, connected in our schools along with building community support and involvement. Um we do this every single year. We have access to the $60,000. Um, and I just
wanted um to give you an update as we concluded our fall session of that. Um, the events that we did um this fall. Uh, this fall we were able to provide funding for the following events that took place at our schools. Uh, we did meet the principal night at John Adams. Meet the candidates night for the board
of ed. Tips for a successful school year at Lynwood. Um, a $1,000 food donation to the North Brunswick Food Pantry. PBSIS rewards for NBTHs. Touch a truck at ECC. Trick-or- treat bag making at Parsons. family fitness night at Lynwood and families learning together breakfast
at Parsons for a total of $13,429 for the fall. Uh we're looking forward to all of our upcoming winter and spring events. Uh so I just wanted to give you an update of that for our fall report. Um we also want to say thank you so much to our outgoing board members. We have immense respect for anyone in the
community who sacrifices their time and energy to an often thankless job like board of education. Um, Zire, um, although your time on the board of ed was was short, uh, one term, we appreciate all your hard work and dedication to making our school community a place that focuses on our
school's social and emotional well-being. Uh, we know that you are active in the community, and this will probably not be the last time we're seeing you. So, we wish you the best. Um, Colleen, uh, you have been a staple on the North Brunswick Board of Education for a very long time. You've
served on many committees, but most most notably and of course the one our association knows you the most from is from negotiations of course. Um although we didn't always see eye to eye, we know that you have always had the best interest for the North Brunswer community at heart. We you have dedicated your time. You've shown commitment to that community. The NBTA
appreciates your service to that community and we wish you the best as well. Um and we wish you all a wonderful holiday season, happy new year and a great winter break. So thank you. >> Thank you. Anyone else from the public? >> Thank you, Beth. Seeing none, can I
please have a motion to close the public portion of the meeting? >> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Is anyone opposed? This session is closed. >> Thank you so much, Miss Hawk. Thank you all for a wonderful year. Thank you for a great last meeting of 2025. On behalf
of the entire board of education, we wish you all a wonderful holiday season and a very happy new year. Can we please have a motion to adjourn? >> So moved. Second. >> All in favor? >> Anyone opposed? We are adjourned. Thank
you.