Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> I would like to call our meeting to order. I can have everyone's attention. I know there's so much excitement out there tonight. This is our favorite
meeting of the year. It's probably a safe assumption to say that I speak for all of us when we say that this is our favorite meeting of the year. Definitely the most fun. Um, so thank you for being here. Um, and so let's kick this off. Pursuant to the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act, NJSA 10:4-10,
adequate notice of this meeting has been posted to the district website under legal notices, in the board office, the schools, and on Cablevision Channel 118, and Verizon Fios Channel 24, and by filing such notice with the Township Clerk. Notice has also been provided that as of March 1st, 2026, future
meeting notices will only be published on the district website. This meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, May 19th, 2026. The board will take formal action on payment of bills and other agenda items. Mr. Wedel. The Old Bridge Township Board of Education acknowledges that the law of this state establishes that members of
the public, including members of the board, have the right to record public board meetings using audio or video recording devices, provided that the act of recording does not interfere with the business of this public board meeting. Therefore, the board makes it known that any such recording is to be considered the private recording of the individual
and in no manner represents the official record of this board. The board therefore takes no responsibility for such private recording and completely disavows any future use. Roll call. Ms. D'Antuono. Here. Mr. Dunn.
Absent. Ms. Jodry. Here. Ms. Mazzone. Here. Ms. Rogers-Patterson. Here. Mr. Slade. >> Here. Ms. Solakian. Here. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. And Ms. Francisco. Here. We do have a quorum.
Can everyone please rise for the pledge? 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. Christina, code of ethics.
The board member will vote to appoint the best qualified personnel available after consideration of the recommendation of the chief administrative officer. Okay, can I have a motion to please approve the minutes, items one and two? Ms. Mazzone, motion. Ms. D'Antuono,
second. Any discussion? Roll call, please. Mr. Dunn is absent, so we'll go to Ms. Jodry. Yes. Ms. Mazzone. Yes. Ms. Rogers-Patterson. Yes. Mr. Slade. Yes. Ms. Solakian. Yes. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. Ms. D'Antuono.
Yes. And Ms. Francisco. Yes. Resolution one and two for approval of minutes passes. Okay, report of our student representative, Jordan Rosenfall. You may come up. Hi, everyone. The weather is warm, the school year is wrapping up, and we have
some fun things to talk about. Over the past 2 days, we celebrated our scholarship recipients for the class of 2026. These outstanding students were awarded over $200,000 in scholarships. Both the evening and morning seller ceremonies
were great successes. On behalf of all the recipients, I would like to thank all of the donors, the staff members, and the students who helped make these events possible. Speaking of great events, today was our mental health fair put on with the help from our Hope Squad. And to say it was a
major success would be an understatement. Students were able to talk with mental health professionals, find ways to reduce stress, and learn about the importance of mental health. Add those opportunities with warm weather, some dogs, and dancing, and you truly had an amazing time.
Moving on to sports, where our teams are entering the championship portion of their seasons. Boys lacrosse has had a strong season and improved their game after game, while our baseball and softball teams have been battling each and every game. Our girls golf team took
big swings and came with a fourth-place finish at the GMC championships. The girls and boys track team had had dominant performances at the state sectionals this past weekend with 22 athletes moving on to the group championship meet.
Our boys volleyball team played hard today in the GMC championship game, and they wrapped up their successful season. Our girls lacrosse team is currently playing in the GMC championship as we speak. So, hopefully, tonight our girls can bring home a win. In the club world, a lot of clubs are
hosting their last events of the school year, with our Jewish Student Union hosting their annual challah bake event, the National Art Honor Society is hosting a paint and sip, our Middle Eastern North African Arabian Night dance, and we can't forget that our junior and senior proms are in the
coming weeks. We are also excited to welcome the freshmen to the Senate's ice cream tour, a sweet walk through the halls of the Old Bridge main building. Before I wrap up, this is my final time giving Old Bridge their final look on the high school. Being the student rep has meant so much
to me. I have been given so many new opportunities, I've learned many new things, I have made new friends, made choices out of my comfort zone, and I'm very proud. The support I have gotten through the year has helped me a lot, and I want to thank Mrs. Obdyke, Mrs.
Boriello, Mrs. Fazio, Mr. Mazurek, and Dr. Sasso for being some of my biggest cheerleaders through my high school years. Thank you for putting your trust in me, and thank you for allowing me to be your class president. It was lots of fun, and to leave this on a high note, tonight we
are here to celebrate some outstanding teachers in our Old Bridge town. These teachers, who continually have gone beyond and above for their students both in and out of the classroom, it is for their dedication and their commitment that they will be given the title of Teacher of the Year for their respective
schools. Congrats to all of the teachers. Have a great night. Thank you for an amazing year. As always, go Knights and go Knicks. Jordan, sorry. Wait 1 second. >> [applause]
>> So, before you go back to your seat, or scoot out of here, but I'm sure you're sticking around for a bit. Uh we would like to take a moment to thank you for your hard work and the positive impact you have made on our board meetings. Throughout your time as a student representative, you have kept us informed about the many wonderful things happening at the high school level, from
athletics to clubs, and student student activities and achievements. More importantly, you have served as a thoughtful and dedicated voice for the student body. Your leadership and commitment have been truly appreciated, and we are grateful for the time and energy that you have devoted to this role.
As this is your final meeting before graduation, we want you to know how proud we are to call you one of our own. We wish you continued success and happiness in all that comes next. Congratulations, Jordan, and thank you again for all that you have done. Thank you. Have a good night. >> [applause] [applause]
>> Okay, so we are going to move on to part of our meeting, recognition, uh the reason that most of you are here. So, at this time I'm going to ask the board to kindly as exit the stage and have a seat up front so that we can move on to our presentations. Actually,
>> Good evening. So, before we celebrate the amazing educators and staff members across our district, we do have a special uh a special event going on here today. I'm going to be uh I'm going to ask Mr. Slade and Ms. Jagri to join me here at
the podium as members of the Old Bridge Education Foundation. They do amazing work throughout the entire school year and tonight, so as Jordan mentioned, last night we were here 24 hours ago handing out over $200,000 worth of scholarships to our seniors. Today,
thanks to the amazing hard work, much of it on the weekends and behind the scenes, 12 educators are going to receive a grant from the Old Bridge Education Foundation totaling over $5,000 to help with really amazing
initiatives. So, at this time, Mr. Slade and Ms. Jagri, please come to the podium. Thank you, Dr. Sasso. So, every year the foundation hits the ground around this time of year uh to come up with new ideas to raise money. Uh it's not easy uh cuz all the grant money that we give out is from
donations. We do We've done flea markets. We've done the t-shirts. Um We've actually done the mayor cleanup, so we've actually gone out there and cleaned the streets of Old Bridge to raise money. And the the vendor fair as well. Um so
again, the more money you guys give towards the Old Bridge Education Foundation is the more money that we can give out to teachers. Um but I also want to thank the board, our board, and the trustees uh for their hard work. It's all voluntary work. Um as Dr. Sasso says, we've done stuff on
the weekends. We get together and we just try to brainstorm ideas on how to raise money uh to give money back to the teachers because as you all know, they most of the time they've got to go into their own pockets uh for projects and events that they want to do for their classrooms. So, we're here to chip in
and give away some money. Um there were 35 applications this year. It's the most we've ever had. Uh we were able we're able to give out 12 grants. Uh but in addition to that, with the help of Dr. Sasso, we're going to help a lot of the teachers redirect their
requests to other areas where they can get funding uh whether it be other grants, um some other nonprofit organizations, but so the teachers that didn't get ap- um grants, we're going to try to help redirect them to places where they can get funds. But,
without any further ado, let's give out some money. Um So, the first grant for $500 goes to the uh Schirra School. Their project is Steam Runway and this is going out to
Ms. Heather Marcello, Ms. Sandy Cherry, and Ms. Amanda Janks. >> [applause] >> Is she here? Is she here? Is she here? Huh? Yes. So, there's three checks in here. Yeah, Scott's right in the middle there.
You see him? >> [applause] >> All righty. More money. The next grant goes to Southwood. Uh, their project is the sensory project for Miss Gina Peterson for $350. >> [applause] [applause] >> The next grant goes to the Old Bridge
High School. Our senior to senior project for $500 to Miss Nicole Mandano. >> [applause] [applause] >> Okay, the next grant goes out to Schor School. Uh, their project is functional life skill project to Miss Sarah Muster
for $500. >> [cheering] [applause] >> The next grant goes out to Carl Sandburg Middle School podcasting equipment to Ms. Kimberly Mascarello for $990.
>> [applause] >> All righty, the next grant goes out to Southwood. Uh their sensory PE equipment to Ms. Margo Greenbaum for $300. >> [applause] [applause] >> Okay, the next one goes to Carl Sandburg Middle School for counseling conference,
$300, Ms. Carrie Ann Sylvestri. >> [applause] >> Hello, Carrie Ann. >> [laughter] >> Take pictures now? No, okay. All right, sit down. >> [applause] >> Next one is for Old Bridge High School, modular circuits, $565.95
to Miss Amanda Godfrey. Accepting this award Next award is from Memorial School for PE equipment, $400 to Miss Danielle Perot. >> [applause and cheering] >> The next one goes to Old Bridge High School for a projectile launcher to Mr. Timothy
Loprieto, $639.36. Here comes Timothy. The physics, yes, yes, yes. All physics, yes. Memorial School for sensory equipment, $400 to Mrs. Ashley Ayers. That's for Memorial. Anybody?
Mr. Foy, are you here? Yeah, there he is. Do you want to come and accept this on her behalf? Sure. All right, thank you. Yes, thanks. And our 12th award goes to Old Bridge High School Culinary Equipment, Ms.
MICHELLE GEORGE. YEAH. >> [applause] [laughter] >> SO AGAIN, THANK YOU. AND AGAIN, ALL THESE GRANT ALL the grant money comes from donations. Um we're going to start looking for new board members, new trustees. Um give us more money and we'll give up
more money. So, thanks again. >> [applause] >> Shall we? Yeah. All right. This is our cue. Good evening. My turn. Thank you for attending the Old Bridge Township Public Schools Teacher and Educational Service Professional
Recognition Program. The Instructional Council is an advisory committee comprised of teachers, a paraprofessional, administrators, and central administration staff. Along with me, council members this year include Rachel O'Neal, John Daley, Mike
Matassa, Britney Fuentes, Sally Fazio, Nancy Coglin, Tim Gottfried, Stacy Winters, Shannon Rosenbaum, Ryan Sobin, and Andrew Lewis. The Instructional Council oversees the Teacher and ESP Recognition Program. On
behalf of the entire Instructional Council, congratulations to everyone being recognized tonight. This year, we received a total of 357 nominations from across the district. These nominations highlighted and recognized the dedication of Oldbridge
teachers and staff. 158 nominations were from staff, 128 from parents and guardians, and 71 from students. We'd like to share some of the quotes from the nominations about the phenomenal staff in our district taken
directly from our colleagues, parents, guardians, and students. He holds great relationships all throughout the district providing support where needed. She collaborates closely with colleagues openly communicating and offering
valuable insight when challenges arise. Even when a student is having a difficult day, he responds with calmness, empathy, and compassion. She is always the first to respond when someone needs help, and everyone trusts she makes decisions that are best for
children. She creates a warm inclusive environment where students feel safe, valued, motivated to learn, and families feel supported and involved. He is patient, supportive, and committed to making sure students truly understand
challenging material. He's usually the first call when there's a problem or project that needs to be completed, always willing to help the entire district. She's always willing to help anyone in the classroom and beyond, often anticipating needs even before they
arise. He's always willing to lend a hand, whether to support a student, assist a colleague, or do whatever is needed for the good of the school. He is a trusted, caring presence who helps create a school community where
every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. Across every school and role represented by this year's candidates, one theme arises unmistakably. Old Bridge is united. We see unity built through care,
commitment, and community. And tonight, as we honor this year's 20 remarkable recipients, we celebrate how their work embodies that united spirit. Each one shows what becomes possible when educators lift together.
Whether it's creating classrooms grounded in mutual respect, empowering students through preventative programming, nurturing confidence in young readers, or modeling the joy of learning, each educator shows that when we invest in one another, we rise together.
Their stories, spanning preschool to high school, general education to specialized support, remind us that excellence is never a solo act. It's the collective heartbeat of teacher, student, and family working side by side, proving that when we are
united in purpose, every child's potential becomes possible. Tonight's recognition will include a PowerPoint spotlighting the 2026 Teachers of the Year and four educational support professional recipients while we share some
highlights about each recipient. We ask that all honorees please make your way to the center when we call your name to be celebrated. And now our honorees. Lisa D'Onofrio, M. Scott Carpenter
Elementary School. >> [applause] [applause] >> It's an Old Bridge community, so we're giving them a pass. >> [laughter] >> Danielle Donatelli, Leroy Gordon Cooper Elementary School. Ms. Donatelli addresses challenges by
remaining flexible, proactive, and student-centered, adjusting programming and supports to meet the evolving needs of both students and staff. She sets herself apart by expanding relationship-based preventative programming that empowers students to support one another. Ms. Donatelli, unfortunately, could not be here with us
tonight. Jamie Inacio, John Glenn Preschool. >> [cheering] [applause] >> Ms. Inacio has initiated meaningful programs such as Hearts Across America, and has taken steps toward forming a fundraising committee, recognizing her
importance in community involvement. Her students' joy and obvious love for her are a true reflection of the positive and lasting impact she has made on their lives. >> [applause] [applause] >> Kim Polema, Virgil I. Grissom Elementary
School. >> [applause] >> Ms. Polema is truly deserving of this recognition because she consistently goes above and beyond for her students while flying under the radar. She never seeks recognition or praise. She does this work simply because she cares deeply about her
students and our school community. >> [applause] >> Nicholas Massone, Madison Park Elementary School. >> [applause] >> Mr. Massone is patient and kind with children of all ages. He participates in fundraisers and spearheads the Play
Unified program. He is a tremendous asset to our school and we're lucky to have him as our full-time phys ed teacher. >> [applause] >> Jennifer Walsh, James A. McDivitt Elementary School. >> [applause] >> Ms. Walsh is an incredibly intuitive
educator who builds strong, meaningful relationships with students and families. While Ms. Walsh is a teacher who puts in time and effort into her students' individual growth, she additionally serves as a mentor, grade level coordinator, and PTA liaison, ensuring the success of her team and the entire
school. Ms. Danielle Perrault, Memorial Elementary School. >> [applause and cheering] >> Ms. Perrault is an ever-evolving educator and an even more remarkable human being. During times of personal adversity, she remained a steady light
and role model ensuring that everyone around her felt seen, valued, and heard. Her impact will be felt for years to come. >> [applause] >> Eden Edelson, William A. Miller Elementary School. >> [applause and cheering] >> Ms. Edelson is highly deserving of
Teacher of the Year due to her dedication and positive impact on the entire school community. As the phys ed teacher, she consistently creates an inclusive and encouraging environment where all students feel welcomed, supported, and motivated to do their best.
>> [applause] >> Jennifer Peyton, Walter M. Schara Elementary School. >> [applause and cheering] >> Ms. Peyton collaborates closely with colleagues, references shared instructional practices, and speaks with care and optimism about student growth. Her reflective practice, flexibility,
and belief in the potential of every child have a meaningful impact on students' confidence and success. >> [cheering and applause] >> Teresa Maza, Ellen Alan B. Shepard Elementary School. [cheering] Yes. Ms. Maza states, "Watching a child gain
confidence in reading is so rewarding, but witnessing the trust that develops through open communication, collaboration, and shared commitment is what stays with me. It becomes a turning point in a child's self-confidence and belief." >> [applause]
>> Jennifer Maraconda, Southwood Elementary School. "I feel at peace knowing my son's education is in amazing hands with Ms. Mar- Maraconda. Ms. Maraconda has come to understand that students today face so much more than academic challenges, which has made her even more committed
to supporting the whole child." >> [cheering and applause] >> Nicole Bongiovanni, Voorhees Elementary School. >> [cheering] >> "Ms. Bongiovanni Ms. Bongiovanni steps in with calm compassion, helping children feel grounded and understood during their
most difficult moments. Ms. Bongiovanni believes the greatest moments are not only measured in progress reports, but in the quiet confidence of a student who begins to believe in himself." >> [applause] >> Alana Greenwood, Jonas Salk Middle
School. >> [applause] >> "Ms. Greenwood is the best teacher my daughter has ever had. Ms. Greenwood's main goal is to foster a love of school where a student is welcomed, appreciated, celebrated, and respected.
>> [applause] >> Fran Capone, Carl Sandburg Middle School. Ms. Capone is a great teacher who understands her students' needs and allows them to germinate into future mathematicians and engineers. Ms. Capone explains that each year her students
needed her to be more than a math teacher. They need moral support, someone to listen to their problems, and most importantly, they need someone to accept them. Kristen Whitney, Alan McDermott Grade 9 Center. >> [cheering]
[applause] >> Ms. Whitney has pursued professional development to raise the bar and give our kids equitable opportunities in academics, athletic, clubs, and now bringing our kids throughout Old Bridge every week for community-based service
experience. Steve O'Brien, Old Bridge High School. >> [cheering] [applause] >> Mr. O'Brien feels privileged to help facilitate positive memories for today's students and appreciates that through these programs we're able to ensure that all students can share these meaningful
experiences. >> [applause] >> Timothy Clark, elementary educational services professional. >> [cheering] [applause] >> Mr. Clark provides consistent individualized support that helps his student feel safe, confident, and
successful while working collaboratively with teachers and staff to meet student needs. >> [applause] >> Katherine Cusick, elementary education services professional. >> [applause]
[cheering] >> Ms. Cusick has taken the initiative to learn Braille, master various forms of assistive technology, and develop strong orientation and and mobility skills in order to better support our students. She greets every child with a warm
smile, making each one feel valued, loved, and appreciated. >> [cheering] [applause] >> Mark Palmieri, secondary educational services professional. >> [applause] [cheering] >> Known for always lending a hand, Mr.
Palmieri is the person students and staff turn to when technology issues arise. He approaches every situation with patience, knowledge, and a friendly demeanor. He has a unique ability to explain
complex technical concepts in a clear, approachable way, empowering colleagues and students to feel confident rather than overwhelmed. >> [applause] >> Johnny G District Educational Services Professional
>> [cheering and applause] [cheering and applause] >> Johnny G has been an integral part of Elbridge Schools for 28 years. He has been one of the main contributors to the educational facilities. He holds great relationships all throughout the district, providing support where needed. He always greets everyone with a
smile and is eager to assist. >> [applause] >> We do have one more special recognition to share. This year, Kelly Education selected Keyshawn Henry from Sherratt Elementary School >> [cheering]
>> as You have a fan club, Mr. Henry. >> [applause] >> I love that. >> [applause] >> That's beautiful. There is more. But wait. >> Let me Let me get up there with this guy. Thank you.
While we get our pictures taken, I do want to announce that this year Kelly Education selected Mr. Henry from Shull Elementary School as paraeducator of the year. And and just something beautiful to know that
Old Bridge is home to such wonderful people. This is the second year that a paraeducator for Kelly has been selected from an Old Bridge school, from Shull, the second year to be a winner from a national pool of candidates. So, congratulations.
>> [cheering] >> Thank you to Steve Jajeski, Susan Walsh, and the students in the TV production program for facilitating this presentation. Thank you to Adrienne Klein and the photography students, Adriana I believe we had tonight. Uh we also want to thank each of the building administrators for their support
throughout the Teacher of the Year process. And finally, a big thank you to Trish Olson, Debbie Noor, Bob Weiss, Andrew Borriello, and the PT Presidents Council. >> [applause] >> And one more favor, don't leave for a
second. The board is going to make their way back up to um our seats. We do have to vote on this recognition, so I want to make sure it goes through. Uh but I'm sure they have uh a few words that they want to share with everyone in the crowd. So, if you can just bear with us for 2 minutes, I'd like to thank again Ms. Keeler, Ms. O'Neal, a wonderful
program, the the Instructional Council, and pause for 1 second and we'll be right with you. Everybody's getting free x-rays of us when they leave here. Okay, so if I can have everybody's attention. So, don't mind us. We're up here
squinting. We can't see any of you. We're completely blind up here. Just so you know why we're making all these weird faces. Um These lights are blinding. >> want to we want to make sure we we come to the official part of the recognition. So, we're going to get started on that. Christina, would you like to do number one? I would like to congratulate all the
teachers for recognition. You guys did a great job. I was nominated 50 years ago, but I was never recognized. Thank you very much for your service. Move the board to approve the retirement of the following staff members with deep appreciation for the years of dedicated service to the district. Elizabeth
Elizabeth Payon, Shepard grade four. Stacy Walsh, uh Salk Middle School. No, Carl Carl Sandburg. Um Marcy Eberbach, Carl Sandburg. Sheila Evans, Carl Sandburg. Amy Vax, Shera
and Alexis Horbat, Madison Park. Totaling 128 years of service to our district. Congratulations. Good luck on your retirement and thank you for your continuous years of service to our students. Are any of our retirees here this evening? If you are, please stand. I
don't know if any of you are here. I don't see I can't really see. >> [laughter] >> So. Congratulations to all of you. Okay, um so number two, move the board commend the following teachers for being selected Old Bridge Teacher of the Year recognition recipient for 2025-2026
school year. And move the board commend the following support staff for being selected Old Bridge Education Support recipient for the 2025-2026 school year. Can I please have a motion for items 1 through 3? Ms. Omar motion. Richards-Patterson second. Any
discussion? I have something to say. Tonight we gather to celebrate some of the most truly special and amazing people. Teachers, paras, and ESPs who whose dedication, compassion, and commitment have made a lasting impact on all of their students, families, and colleagues.
Teaching is so much more than lesson plans, tests, and homework. Great teachers inspire uh inspire confidence, spark curiosity, and help children believe in themselves. The people people we honor tonight do all of that and more every single day. Teacher and ESP of the Year is not just
a title. It represents patience during difficult moments, encouragement when students need it most, and the ability to make every child feel seen, valued, and capable of success. Your classrooms are a place where students feel safe to learn, grow, and dream bigger.
You lead with kindness, creativity, and heart, and because of that, your influence influence reaches far beyond the walls of your classrooms. To your families, colleagues, and students, you already know what an incredible person and educator they all are. Tonight simply gives us the opportunity to publicly recognize the
difference they make every single day. Thank you for your hard work, your passion, and your unwavering dedication to education. Our schools, our community, and most important, our children are better because of all of you. Congratulations on being named teacher
or ESP of the year. This honor is truly well deserved. >> [applause] >> Anyone else? I'll say something. Uh we gave away money, we're giving away awards. Who's better than Old Bridge? Congratulations. >> [applause]
>> Congratulations to all of the recipients. I also want to thank you all for uh spending your career in Old Bridge and dedicating your time to our students. Not only to the teachers and the ESPs, but the support staff and
staff all around Old Bridge. Great job and thank you. >> [applause] >> I also want to say thank you to our and congratulations to our teachers of the year, our ESP recipients. Also congratulations and thank you to our retirees.
Congratulations to our grant recipients. Um to our teachers of the year and our ESP recipients, thank you so much for your hard work and your commitment to our students and families and staff. And I also want to thank our student rep Jordan and for her service as well.
Thank you. >> [applause] >> I just want to echo that. Congratulations and thank you for all your hard work and dedication. These awards were so much deserved. I wish we could do more and best wishes to all the retirees.
And the person that won the projectile launching, I'm curious what that's going to be. Maybe we'll get an invite. That's going to be physics. Thank you. Anyone else? Okay, I'm not sure I can really top everything that has been said about all of you this evening. So, just
congratulations and thank you for your dedication to our students. >> [applause] >> All right, let's have a roll call, please. Ms. Chaudry. Absolutely, yes. Ms. Mazone. Yes. Ms. Richards-Patterson. Yes. Mr.
Slade. Yes. Mr. Sulkowski. >> Yes. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. Ms. D'Antuono. Without a doubt, yes. Mr. Dunn is absent. Ms. Francisco. Yes. Resolutions 1, 2, and 3 for recognition carries. Congratulations to all.
>> [applause] >> All right, we're going to take a 2-minute break. You sure you don't want to stay for the rest of the enjoyment of this meeting? >> Okay. We are going to pick up where we left off. Thank you for sticking with us if you're still here.
Okay, moving on to our superintendent's report, Dr. Sasso. Plenty of Plenty of seats up here in the front for those of you in the back. Um I know Miss Walsh is in the back. I don't think Mr. Gajewski is with us tonight. I don't know. Miss Antona, do we know where he tonight? He is out in
the heat with the girls lacrosse team who just completed their fourth straight GMC title win with a score of 16 to 3 against Monroe. The goalie Melanie hit her 100th save and player Layla Von hit her 100 points.
>> [applause] >> So, congratulations to the girls lacrosse team. Thank you so much. Uh so, I'll be brief tonight. Uh but tonight's meeting is another great reminder of what makes Old Bridge Township Public Schools such a special place to work.
And the work that's happening across our our district continues to support the vision outlined in the Bridge to 2028. First, I want to congratulate all of our recipients this evening. Your passion and commitment truly represent the very best best of Old Bridge and directly
reflect our strategic priority of excellence in education. I also want to thank the Old Bridge Education Foundation for their continued generosity and support of our students and staff through tonight's grant presentations. These grants help bring innovative ideas and meaningful opportunities directly
into our classrooms. And this type of a grant opportunity directly advances all three of our strategic priorities of excellence in education, fiscal resilience, and the whole child. In addition, I would like to recognize
the incredible support our community continues to show of our graduating seniors. At last night's senior scholarship ceremony, more than 200 of our seniors from the class of 2026 received uh scholarships in excess of $200,000
awarded through the generosity of local organizations, families, businesses, alumni, and community members. Truly a special evening. On behalf of the board, I would also like to personally thank our principals, staff, and school communities for the
many invitations we received to concerts, performances, celebrations, classroom activities, athletic events, and special programs taking place all throughout our district. Over the past several weeks, it's been incredible to witness the talent, pride, and spirit
that exists in all of our schools. These moments serve as powerful reminders that education is about far more than academics alone. It is about creating experiences, relationships, and memories that that shape the whole child. As we continue moving forward together
through the bridge to 2028, evenings like tonight reinforce the importance of staying focused on our mission, trusting the process, supporting one another, and continuing to provide outstanding opportunities for every student who walks through our doors. Thank you, and
as always, Oak Ridge united. Thank you, Dr. Sasso. Do we have any correspondence? None to report this evening. Would anyone like to make a special committee report? Yes. Uh April 30th, we had our student services meeting.
Uh we discussed the curriculum schedule, which is currently under board review. Uh science grades 3 through 5 is getting new materials. Uh grades 3 through 8 are getting new curriculum. The Magic School AI, uh which is a very teacher-controlled environment to uh
drive critical thinking for proper prompts, um is being looked at. Multivariable uh calculus and AP cybersecurity are being added to our uh AP course schedule. Uh we will have 921 students signed up
for AP classes next year, which is pretty impressive. Um we are adding LLD and MD classes. Multilanguage learners uh will program will be expanded in Sandburg. There's going to be a soft opening in the works for the adult high school.
Uh three elementary portal pilot math programs are being run right now to look for new math curriculum. The Wilson reading program is being expanded by adding 12 staff. The revision of the elementary school handbook will be done for the 25 for the
26 27 school year. Uh they also touched on the multi-tiered uh support systems, PLC days. Uh they're starting to review and work with the OBA about the middle school and high school scheduling. Uh possible middle school change for the 27
28 school year. Uh they're expanding the e-sports program to include a career path. Growing the early college program. Uh Mr. Domino and transportation are working to make sure that there are more than enough buses for next spring. And that was the
end of our report. Thank you. Anyone else? Okay. We will move on to hearing of the residents on agenda items only. Okay. Seeing none, I will close this portion of our meeting. And we don't have anything under policy.
For curriculum and professional development, can I have a motion for items 1 through 4? Dantino will move. Mizone will second. Any discussion? Roll call, please. Mr. De Santis. Yes. Mr. Slade.
>> Yes. Mr. Solokowski. Yes. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. Miss Dantino. Yes. Mr. Dunn is absent. Miss Jodry. Yeah, Miss Jodry, sorry. Yes. Miss Mizone. Yes. And Miss Francisco. Yes. Resolution 1 through 4 for curriculum
and professional development passes. Finance, items 1 through 11. Can I please have a motion? Mizone motion. Jodry will second. Any discussion? Roll call, please. Mr. Slade? Yes. Mr. Solakowski?
Yes. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. Ms. Dantuno? Yes. Mr. Dunn? Is absent. Ms. Jordy? Yes. Ms. Mazone? Yes. Mr. Richard Patterson? Yes. And Ms. Francisco? Yes. Resolutions 1 through 11
for finance carries. Athletics, items 1 through 3. Can I have a motion? Dantuno will move. Ms. Elmore will second. Any discussion? Roll call. Mr. Solakowski? Yes. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. We'll move to
Ms. Dantuno. Yes. Mr. Dunn is absent. We'll move to Ms. Jordy. Yes. Ms. Mazone? Yes. Mr. Richard Patterson? Yes. Mr. Slade? Yes. And Ms. Francisco? Yes. Athletics
resolutions 1 through 3 passes. Non-certificated personnel operational, items 1 through 3. Can I have a motion, please? Jordy will move it. How about office? Did we skip that? Did I? Non-certificated personnel office? >> I have four items there. I did. Okay. I
did I like skipping that one. Okay, so back to non-certificated personnel office, items 1 through 4. Can I have a motion, please? I'll move that one, too. Excellent. Thank you. Second? Anybody? Second it. Mr. Richard Patterson with the second.
Sorry. Mr. Richard Patterson with the second. Any discussion on this section? Roll call, please. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. We'll move to Ms. Dantuno. Yes. Mr. Dunn is absent. We'll move to Ms. Jordy. Yes.
Ms. Mazone? Yes. Mr. Richard Patterson? Yes. Mr. Slay? Yes. Mr. Solakowski? Yes. And Ms. Francisco? >> Yes. Non-certificated personnel office resolutions 1 through 4 does hereby pass.
There's four people. Okay, now we're going to non-certificated personnel operational items 1 through 3. Can I have a motion? Richards-Patterson a motion. Ms. Malone will second. Any discussion? Roll call, please. Ms. Dantuno?
Yes. Mr. Dunn is absent. Ms. Choudhury? Yes. Ms. Malone? >> Yes. Ms. Richards-Patterson? Yes. Mr. Slay? Yes. Mr. Solakowski? >> Yes. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. Ms. Francisco? >> Yes. Non-certificated personnel
operational resolution resolutions 1 through 3 does hereby carry. Non-certificated personnel other. Can I have a motion for items 1 through 6? Ms. Malone will move. Malone with the and Dantuno.
>> No. Malone and Slay. I'll third. A lot of volunteers tonight. Any discussion? Roll call, please. Mr. Dunn is absent. Ms. Choudhury? Yes. Ms. Malone? Yes. Ms. Richards-Patterson?
Yes. Mr. Slay? Yes. Mr. Solakowski? Yes. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. Ms. Dantuno? Yes. Ms. Francisco? Yes. Resolutions 1 through 6 for non-certificated personnel other passes. Certificated personnel items 1 through
47. Can I please have a motion? Dantuno will move. Mr. Patterson will second. Any discussion? Roll call, please. Ms. Choudhry. Yes.
Ms. Mazone. Yes. Mr. Patterson. Yes. Mr. Slee. Yes. Mr. Sulikowski. Yes. Mr. Venketesan is absent. Ms. D'Antuono. Yes. Mr. Dunn is absent. Ms. Francisco. Yes.
Resolutions 1 through 47 for certificated personnel does hereby pass. Do we have any of our new hirees here this evening? Come on up to the stage so we can congratulate you. >> Okay, non-certificated personnel
transportation. Can I have a motion for items 1 through 8? Ms. Mazone, a motion. Mr. Richard Patterson, a second. Any discussion? Roll call, please. Ms. Mazone? Yes. Mr. Richard Patterson? Yes. Mr. Slade?
Yes. Mr. Solikowski? Yes. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. Ms. Dantuno? Yes. Mr. Dunn is absent. Ms. Choudhury? Yes. Ms. Francisco? Yes. Resolutions 1 through 8 for non-certificated personnel transportation is passed.
Transportation items 1 through 3. Can I have a motion, please? Choudhury, I'll move it. Mr. Richard Patterson, a second. Any discussion? Roll call, please. Mr. Richard Patterson? Yes. Mr. Slade?
Yes. Mr. Solikowski? >> Yes. Mr. Venkatesan is absent. Ms. Dantuno? Yes. Mr. Dunn is absent. Ms. Choudhury? Yes. Ms. Mazone? Yes. Ms. Francisco? Yes. Resolutions 1 through 3 for transportation carries.
Supplies, equipment, and services items 1 through 15. Can I have a motion? Ms. Mazone, a motion. Choudhury, I'll second. Any discussion? Roll call, please. Mr. Slade? Yes. Mr. Solikowski? >> Yes.
Mr. Venkatesan is absent. Ms. Dantuno? Yes. Mr. Dunn is absent. Ms. Choudhury? Yes. Ms. Mazone? Yes. Mr. Richard Patterson? Yes. Ms. Francisco? Yes. Resolutions 1 through 15 for supplies, equipment, and services passes.
Okay, so please take note that we are back in the cafeteria next week for our meetings. Miscellaneous items 1 through 8. Can I have a motion? Ms. Owen motion. Ms. Jordy I'll second. Any discussion? Are you saying you don't like your
meetings on the stage? We will not have to be blinded next week everyone, aren't you excited? Yay! All right, any discussion? Did I ask that already? Okay, roll call. Mr. Zalewski. Yes.
Mr. Venkatesan is absent. Ms. D'Antuono. Yes. Mr. Dunn is absent. Ms. Jordy. Yes. Ms. Mazzone. Yes. Ms. Richard-Patterson. Yes. Mr. Sleigh. >> Yes. Ms. Francisco. Yes. Resolutions 1 through 8 for miscellaneous carries.
Board secretary and board business item number one. Can I have a motion, please? Ms. Owen motion. D'Antuono I'll second. Any discussion? Roll call. Mr. Venkatesan is absent, we'll go to Ms. D'Antuono. Yes.
Mr. Dunn is absent, we'll go to Ms. Jordy. Yes. Ms. Mazzone. Yes. Ms. Richard-Patterson. Yes, absolutely. Mr. Sleigh. Yes. Mr. Zalewski. Yes. Ms. Francisco. Yes. Resolution 1 for board
secretary and board business passes. Can I ask a quick question? Of course. Just a quickie. Just for that resolution, I'm just I just like where does that go from here? So, we're going to have that resolution which I obviously it's What? But do we like
Sure, so well we will have a certified board resolution that'll be drafted tomorrow, signed, and then I believe what is going on is the New Jersey school boards is collecting all resolutions from across the state and then submitting as kind of a
lump some document to hopefully just have some things passed in in the state and just kind of get the conversation going a little bit more with a little more attention to the matter. Thanks. I'm going to open the hearing of the
residents on any school district topic. Okay, closing hearing of the residents. Does anybody have any old or new business they would like to discuss? Yes. Um I did want to mention that our food service meeting was a very enjoyable
one. Lots of laughter and I know and I want to give credit to the food service committee, Pam Toney, and the food service staff to work through the challenges and things like that because the beginning of the year did not start out that way
with the food service meeting, so it was great to see the progress and everyone working together. It was an honor to attend the Knights and Tykes graduation the other day and the senior award night last night with $200,000
in scholarships awarded and then this morning to see the subject areas and the clubs and both academic and the trades and the number of students that came this morning and got received more scholarships, so great
things are happening this week and it was nice to be part of it. So, thank you for the invitation. Okay, so yeah, the board has had a lot of invitations and thank you. We absolutely love them. I mean, I try to make all of my if I can. And so we had the
the Civil War the Carl Sandburg had the Civil War reenactment. It was so much fun. There was a few of us that shot off the cannon sitting here on the board. It was me, Christina, Jay. I think that Yeah, that was it as far as the the cannon shooters. What a thrill that is.
So thank you Mrs. Bracken for inviting us to that. The preschool graduation Knights and Tykes was incredible and it was awesome to see like some of the alumni come back full circle. So that was just amazing. Today this
morning I went to the Sherrard Wax Museum. Grissom has one coming up. Thank you for the invite. The Future Business Leaders reorganization meeting was yesterday or the day before. Yesterday, I'm sorry. Thank you for that. It's just amazing to
watch these children that are just so ambitious and informed. One of the one of the students there was talking about our board meetings and the budget and the things that she knew was just incredible and I hope that we see more
students like that join our meetings. We always encourage that. And then we had the senior awards last night. For me it was a first time and it was just so special and seeing everybody light up and we're getting you know, close to the end and then we close it out with Dr.
Sasso giving out his award. It was really nice. So thank you to the schools for always including the board. We just it's a thrill for us. And happy Memorial Day to everybody. Hope you have a safe weekend and we'll see you next Thursday at the high school ceremony.
Anyone else? Okay, I just I add one other thing. Um, so I know that the Sandburg, Salk, and the high school participated in Music in the Parks this past weekend. Um, I don't know all of the results for every group that participated, but I do know a little
bit. Um, Ms. Me had sent us some information and told us that the wind ensemble, I'm sorry, the select choir, wind ensemble, and competition orchestra traveled to Allentown High School to participate in adjudication in Music in the Parks. After their performances, they headed to Six Flags Great Adventure for fun and awards. The choir received a
superior rating and first place travel choir. The band received a superior rating and the orchestra received an excellent rating. So, congratulations to all of the students and the staff um that put all that together and participated, did really well, and also had fun riding all the roller coasters. So, congratulations to all of you.
And that's all I have. And thank you for whoever reminded me about reminding all of you that the entire district has early dismissal this Friday. We are closed on Monday, and then early dismissal on Wednesday, May 27th for a
teacher staff PLC. So, early dismissal on Friday, no school on Monday for Memorial Day, and then Wednesday, May 27th, PLC. Early dismissal across the district as well. And then the high school and the middle schools, I know you guys know you have
testing tomorrow and Thursday, so half days for you guys as well. So, so just to be clear, high school, middle school, Wednesday, Thursday, everybody on Friday, everybody's off on Monday, and everybody has an early dismissal on Wednesday. And
for the record, the projectile is for a new physics AP class. It's going to be tremendous, so great stuff. I want to invite >> Thank you. Okay. Are we off the following two days or we weeks after of June? The beginning of June, they're off to The kids are off to Are you trying to get the parents
ready to keep our kids home all summer? Is that what you're trying to do? Get us eased into it? Okay, if nobody has anything else, then I am going to ask for a motion to go into closed executive session. I didn't get that one. From the zone? And then
Okay. Richard Patterson second, and all in favor? I. All right, we're going to the exact Thank you all for coming. Thank you for coming. Thank you for sticking with us. Have a great night and a great weekend. Even though it's only Tuesday.