Okay. Thank you. And um good evening everybody. Notice is hereby given that in accordance with the open public meetings act chapter 231 the laws of 1975 notice of this meeting has been sent to all school offices officially designated
newspapers file with the township clerk and posted in the board of education uh office 48 hours in advance of this meeting roll call vote I'm sorry roll call please >> certainly Mrs. Assur >> here >> Mrs. Austin >> here >> Mrs. Pinterelli >> here
>> Mr. Rosini. >> I'm here. Flag salute. >> 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. >> Well, good afternoon everybody. Good evening. Um, one of the most bittersweet nights of the year, right? Um, it was just so nice to see everybody just chatting and talking. We started 15 minutes late because we don't want to cut into the fun. Um, again, bittersweet
is we say, uh, you know, good luck to some people and for others, we appreciate them for their service. Either way, it's a it's a win-win. So, um, we'll have uh time to to speak later, too. But um I just want to say
thank you for everybody for coming out and and we'll recognize those people later. Um we're going to move on to the committee reports first. Uh buildings and grounds. Anything to report? >> Yes, actually we had a buildings and
grounds meeting today just before this meeting. And just to bring the committee up to speed regarding our um heating and cooling that's going on in the schools.
As a reminder, we are experiencing some some air conditioning. Um, we had some challenges this year. And for those who have not ever heard the
way our system works, our system is a uh a two-pipe system. And that means that the uh hot water for the boilers uses the same two pipes that the cold water from the chillers utilizes. And you
can't have those run at the same time. So when we transition from heating to cooling or from cooling to heating, it takes about 5 to 7 days to make sure that the temperatures in the system are appropriate for either one or the other.
So as we know, mother nature has been quite fickle this year. We thought we had it covered with our heatwave and then when we woke up this morning even it was 57°. So we are
constantly moving and trying to make sure that we provide the best situation for staff and students. The other piece that we were talking about is that um the committee had asked
about what the utilities have been costing since the referendum. So I have put together a spreadsheet that started from 2021-22 which was when we started to bring the new systems up onto line.
the heating. Obviously, we have had some increases in electricity, not due to usage, but due to the power companies, but from 2021-22, we had a budget for utilities of about $211,000.
As of um April 30th this year, we have a budget of utilities at $361,000. So you can see that there's been an increase in these couple of years of
$150,000. So that that is a uh a point of reference as we move forward with budgeting. The other component that we wanted to bring to the buildings and grounds committee and to the board's attention is that there are certain
expenses that are associated with the air conditioning, not so much the boilers. The boilers cost roughly about $6,000 in maintenance per year where the air conditioning we have maintenance um
agreements that help us start up the chillers. We have had some repairs that needed to be made to the chillers. We had two frozen coils, one at Woodside, one at Halddrram. That was three grand. We had two other coils during the year
at Halddram. That was $3500. We had to replace Freon in both the chillers at Halddram and at Woodside at a cost of $4,500 each. We had some variable rate uh drives that needed to
be repaired. 17,000 at Roberge and um we had to replace 12 fuses at the chiller at Woodside. Also, we have um building automation
systems that tie into making sure that we can control all the rooms in the all of the buildings. That's a contract of about 15 grand a year. So just from July till now, that's about $75,000 that we've been spending
on maintenance and repairs. We also have to replace the filters in each one of the UNI events. That's about $20,000 a a year, which is again part of doing business. So, we wanted to make sure that we brought this
to the attention of buildings and grounds and to the board so that you're aware of the costs and how we're operating and wanted to ask if anyone has any questions.
>> Um, I don't have any questions. I was at the buildings and grounds meeting so um I understand it but um uh Len, you were the only one who wasn't there. Any questions? I don't have any questions, but thank you, Kelly, for laying this all out for everyone. I think it's important to be
as transparent as possible because there are a lot of questions associated with um the heat and air conditioning. So, I appreciate the clarity and I'm sure the town does as well. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Thanks. >> And that's it. Thank you. >> All right. Thank you.
Um anything on curriculum and policies? Mrs. Burkowitz isn't here. >> Uh no, not tonight. The next meeting uh is in the fall. >> Curriculum and technology. Mrs. Austin, anything? >> Nothing for tonight. >> Okay. Uh Mrs. Pinterelli, finance.
>> Nothing for tonight. >> Uh I have nothing to u report regarding negotiations tonight. And Mrs. Assur personnel. >> Nothing for tonight. >> Okay. Uh please take note of the committee meeting schedule.
And um I'm going to read this now and but I'm not going to read it later because it's the same rules apply. But we're going to talk about uh public comments for agenda items only. This is on agenda items only. When we get to non-aggenda items, the same rule applies. The Riverdale Board of Education is committed to encouraging
the citizens of Riverville and employees of the Riverale School District to speak directly to board trustees. In order to facilitate this communication, residents and employees are requested, one to sign them before speaking, two to maintain an appropriate sense of decorum, and three to limit their remarks to no more than five minutes. The board will also take
under adisement the written comments and opinions of non-residents that are submitted to the board secretary, being mindful of its responsibility to maintain the orderly conduct of meetings. The board retains the right to rule on such matters as the speaker's right to address the board, as well as the appropriateness of the subject being
presented. The board's decision in such matters is final. The board also reminds all members of the public that while it subscribes without reservation to the principle of keeping the community informed by policy and law, it cannot allow public discussion of personnel matters, nor can trustees comment on any
current or pending litigation. If a matter concerning an employee of the Riverville public schools is of interest or concern to a resident, the matter should be referred to the responsible building principal or the superintendent of schools by telephone, letter, or email. Um, is there anyone here who
wants to make a comment on an agenda item? There's a lot of people here and nobody wants to make a comment. Okay, I'm going to open it uh at uh approximately uh 7:20 and close it at 7:20 and move on to
the superintendent's report. >> All right, thank you. Good evening everybody. Tonight is a special night where we are going to be recognizing those of you for 25 years of service as well as those of you who are retiring from our district. I'm going to start with 25 years of service. And when I
call your name, uh, please come up and come over to my assistant Kathy, who I also do want to thank you for putting this night together for us and making sure everything runs very smoothly. Um, so 25 years, that's that's a lot of showing up with care and commitment
every single school day, supporting students, supporting families, collaborating with colleagues, and helping to really shape our school community. really proud that you are all a part of it for so long and that I got to be even a little sliver of being part of your
career for those 25 years. It's it's really the kind of dedication that is not just something to be celebrated but really something to be admired that you've been here and committed your career to to this community. Um there's all different roles that we're
celebrating tonight. um buildings and and experiences these individuals have left marks on generations of learners. Whether you're working behind the scenes or front and center in a classroom, you've all really made a longl lasting difference in the lives of the children
and their families. You've helped to build a strong and supportive culture. Um and tonight I really want to say thank you. Thank you for spending your career with us. So, it is my pleasure to recognize the following individuals. And when you come
up, please come over to Kathy and please stay standing so we can take a picture of you. Uh, first, Renee Pisano, Meg Norris, Julie Titzma, Jenna Encantalupo, Matthew Hefernan, Marcy Miller.
And I also want to recognize Scott Calibrace, but he's not able to be here tonight with us. Thank you and congratulations to all of you. Tonight, we also have the honor of recognizing an incredible group of staff members who are closing a meaningful
chapter in their professional lives, their retirement from our district. These individuals have given their time, their talents, and their hearts to our schools and to generations of students. They've shaped classrooms, programs, and people in ways that will be felt long
after they leave. Retirement marks the end of one journey, but the legacy of each of that each of them leaves behind is lasting. It is with deep gratitude that we take a few moments to reflect on their impact and celebrate their years of service. When I call up each of you,
just remain standing please as well so we can also get a group a group photo. Our first retiree tonight that we are recognizing is Lisa Batinelli. Lisa has spent this last 17 years making an extraordinary difference in the lives
of students who needed someone to believe in them. As a special education teacher, she reached some of the most struggling learners, helping them build confidence, love school, and achieve success both academically and personally. Through her patience and dedication, Lisa created classrooms
where students felt capable, supported, and understood. Lisa, thank you so much for your compassion and the care that you brought to your work each and every day. And again, he is not our next retiree is not with us tonight, but I do want to publicly recognize him. So, for the past
25 years, Scott Calibri has been a dependable and valuable member of our district community. As a member of the maintenance department serving the entire district, Scott has always been willing to lend a helping hand and go wherever he was needed. His proactive approach and strong work work ethic
helped ensure that our schools were safe, welcoming, and well-maintained environments where students and staff could thrive. Behind every successful school day are people like Scott, whose work hard work often happens quietly behind the scenes, but makes an enormous difference. We're deeply grateful for
his years of dedication and service to our school community. And again, he's not able to be with us tonight, but please help me to congratulate him. Over the past 11 years, Rich Holsworth has become part of the very fabric of Roers.
It's okay. I got a lot to say about you, Rich, so you have time. As head custodian, he took tremendous pride in his work and in the school itself. It was something that was evident the moment you walked through the building. I've often stopped by Rich's office and commented on how clean
and beautiful the school looked, a reflection of the care, dedication, and professionalism that he brought to his role every single day. Rich helped create an environment where students and staff could feel proud to learn and work, and we are so deeply grateful for all of his years of service. Thank you,
Rich. for 27 years. Carrie Orbaji Carrie has brought an extraordinary care, dedication, and heart to the to her work as a second grade teacher. Carrie cared deeply about the success of every child who walked into her classroom. She was the kind of teacher
who would spend late evenings thinking about her students, wondering what she could have done more or how she could have supported each and every one of her ch of her students. I know this firsthand because as her former principal, we have had many conversations where it ended by me saying, "Carrie, stop worrying. You're
doing fine. You are doing everything you can for those students." And she had this attitude until her up until today. Um, so Carrie, thank you so much for your incredible dedication. and you will be missed. For 29 years, Lisa Nielsen has been one
of the defining faces of Roersge. When you think of Roers, you can't not think of Lisa. She has become such an important part of the fabric of this school community through her warmth, care, and her dedication that she brought to her role as a kindergarten teacher. each and
every day. For so many families, Lisa was the very first person to welcome them into our school community as they sent their first child off to school for the very first time. She had a remarkable gift for building trusting relationships with both the students and the parents, helping children feel safe,
excited, and also helping the parents feel comfortable. And they loved her from the moment they walked into her door. We are incredibly fortunate to have Lisa be the face of the first experience that so many of our families have. Thank you so much, Lisa, for
everything you've done for 32 years. Kim Sanuli. >> Kim has brought something truly special to Woodside. As a kindergarten teacher, her craft was was nothing short of remarkable. Somehow she could command the attention of a room full of
5-year-olds as if every word she said was gold. We have had many conversations over the years about how amazing it was to watch her hold the attention of children of that age with such ease. At first, I thought Kim must have had some kind of magic trick. But over time, I
realized that the magic was simply Kim herself. She taught with such warmth, love, and genuine care that her students just naturally wanted to be their very best for her. They wanted to please the teacher that they admired so deeply. And that speaks volumes of about the kind of educator and person that Kim has always
been. We are so incredibly grateful for the heart and dedication that she brought to her profession every day. Congratulations, Kim. For 28 years, Kathy Sonell Kathy Sonel created the kind of kindergarten classroom that children couldn't wait to walk into each morning.
Her classroom was filled with kindness, lots of patience, and joy that you can feel the moment you stepped through her door. She had a special way of making every child feel comfortable. And for so many of our students, Kathy was the reason why they fell in love with school. The experiences that she helped
create built a genuine excitement for learning at such an important age. She understood that kindergarten was so much more about academics that it was also about making children feel cared for and helping them believe that school really is a place that they belong. Kathy, thank you so much for everything you've
done. And I don't know what's happening our kindergarten teachers. Okay. for 36 years. Kim Olri For For 36 years, Kim dedicated herself to helping students learn, grow, and believing themselves. Whether she was teaching second grade or working in basic skills, Kim had a remarkable
ability to make every child feel special. She created a welcoming classroom where kids felt safe, valued, and comfortable sharing their ideas in rich and meaningful discussions. Sometimes students needed a little extra support and Kim was able to recognize the special gifts that each one of her
students had. She knew how to connect with those children, rebuild their confidence, and help them see their own potential even when they felt like they were struggling students themselves. Kim, thank you for giving that confidence to our students and for everything you've done. Congratulations.
Congratulations again to everybody. I wish you guys the best of luck. We'll miss you. >> Congratulations. Thank you very much. And thank you, Mr. President. That concludes my report for this evening. >> Okay. Thank you. Um it's really is is
something to see such terrific people, terrific teachers. Um Mrs. Arbaji was our entryway with our oldest child into kindergarten. Um so it was it's very uh special and hope she has the best time
as well as everybody else. But Mrs. is our baji was you know when your when your oldest goes to school and you have her and you're like yes so um and congratulations to everyone else by the way that's not to be I'm talking
about my oldest and I guess this talks about age matter uh birth order matters because my last had Mrs. Sanulie and at that point we're like yes but we already knew what the system was like but thank you again to Mrs. Sanulia and Miss
Clandenni is here too. It was my third. Okay. Um, thank you very much everybody and we're going to move on to the board secretary report. >> Okay. Congratulations to everyone. Uh, just want to bring to the board's attention if you have not already spoken
to me about the workshop, the school board's workshop in October, please reach out to me. Also want to bring to everyone's attention that the school board candidate nominating petitions are
available and this board has three three-year full-time terms available for um anyone who is interested in running for the board. So the packets are available in my office or online. And
then also just to bring to everyone's attention that um Rivervale is going to be going through a um a reassessment. So that is on tap for the 2027 year. And that's all that I have to report
tonight. >> Okay. Thank you very much. Um so we're going to move on. Uh or do we want to take a break or do we want to take a break or move on? Yeah. So, I think we're going to take a a break right now because I don't know
that everybody else wants to see all the general resolutions. I mean, you're welcome to stay because they're really really cool. They're probably some of our best. That said, I think we're going to take a break so we can still mingle and congratulate everybody and then we'll start again in a bit. Okay.
Okay, we are all set. We're back on. >> Oh, okay. Terrific. Um, so we are back um to general resolutions G1 through G9. >> I'll move it.
>> I'll second. >> Uh, thank you. Uh, discussion. Um, Okay. Um, roll call vote, please. >> Certainly. Mrs. Assur, >> yes. >> Mrs. Austin, >> yes. >> Mrs. Pinterelli, >> yes. >> Mr. Rossini,
>> yes. Um, moving on to business resolutions B1 through B14. May I have a motion, please? >> So moved. >> Second. >> I'll second.
>> And any questions or discussion? >> Okay. Roll call vote, please. >> Certainly. Mrs. Assur, >> yes. >> Mrs. Austin, >> yes. >> Mrs. Miss Pinterelli. >> Yes. >> Mr. Rosini. >> Yes. And moving on to P1 through P26. May I have a motion, please?
>> Anybody? >> So moved. >> Anybody? Second. >> Second. >> Thank you. Discussion, questions. Um, personnel just reminds me of the nice uh event we just had here with everybody and the the
retirees and the people who spend so many years working for us. So, it's just it's terrific and we're we are lucky to have these people. Um, anything else other than my just uh going on about things?
Um, no. All right. Roll call vote, please. >> Certainly. Mrs. Assur, >> yes. >> Mrs. Austin, >> yes. >> Mrs. Pinterelli, >> yes. >> Mr. Rosini, >> yes. Okay. Uh, I'm going to open the meeting uh with regard to public comments on
general items. Um, the same rules apply as to agenda items that I discussed earlier and I'm going to open it up at 7:48 uh to public comments on general items. Any you want to make a comment on a general item? Okay.
All right. Um, seeing nobody else who would potentially make a comment on general items, I'm going to close it at 7:48. Um, old business. Uh, new business. Okay. I know we're going into close session. Can we have a motion to close
go into close session? >> I'll move it. >> And second. >> I'll second. >> Okay. We're going to go into close session. We're not going to come back out. Um and um thank you very much for