Welcome to a meeting of the board of education of the Somerset Hill School District. Please be advised that this and all meetings of the board are open to the public and media consistence with the open public meetings act and that advanced notice required therein has been provided. This is a meeting of the board of education of Somerset Hills at
which formal action may be taken. The public will have an opportunity to be heard as shown on the agenda. The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act was enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advanced notice of and to attend the meetings of public bodies at which any business affecting their interests is discussed or acted upon in
accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act. The public notice of this meeting which included the time, date, location, and to the extent known the agenda of this meeting was distributed at 3 p.m. on July 9th, 2025 in the following manner. Posted on the bulletin board reserved for announcements in the board
office, 25 Alcott Avenue, Bernardsville, New Jersey. Hosted in the Bedwell, Bernardsville Middle School and Bernard's High School. Mailed to the Courier News and the Bernardsville News and posted on the SHSD website. Filed with the clerk of the burrow of Bernardsville, Far Hills, Peac and Gladstone, and Bedminster Township.
Delivered to the 10 duly elected board members. Mr. Lori, can we have roll call, please? >> Mr. Baker, >> here. >> Miss Ballard here. >> Miss Clark Emory. >> Miss Cooper >> here. >> Miss Gills >> here. >> Mrs. Gomez >> here. >> Mrs. Hoppy. >> Mrs. Santoro. >> Mrs. Ry >> here.
>> Mrs. Here >> we have a quum. >> Okay. Thank you very much. Executive session. The open public meetings act authorizes a public body to exclude the public from that portion of a meeting at which specified topics are to be discussed under circumstances where the public consideration of such topics will
clearly endanger the public or where um the personal privacy or guaranteed rights of individuals whose activities or affairs are to be discussed would be clearly in danger of unwarranted invasions and the matters about to be presented for discussion clearly meet the circumstances test of such act. The Board of Education of Somerset Hills now
adjourns its public session to reconvene an executive session for the purposes of discussing the following: student matters, negotiations, personnel, and litigation. And be it further resolved that the discussion in executive session be disclosed when the board's consideration of the subject matter has been closed or that such matter does not
adversely affect the rights of prospective current or past public officers or personnel of the board unless such individuals have in writing requested the disclosures of such discussions at a public meeting and provided such public disclosure will no longer clearly endanger the public interest. Can I have a motion to go into
executive session, please, Miss Cooper? And a second, Miss Gills. Okay, we're good. 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. Hi. Thank you everyone for coming this evening. Dr. Brochial will take the podium in a moment and um begin with the superintendent report and our student speakers.
Pardon my lateness to my own party here. So, we're going to kick it off with our middle school student representatives. We have cross country and field hockey that are being represented tonight. And our speakers from the middle school are
R.J. Donado and Julie Calbertt. So, I'm going to ask uh Julie and R.J. to come on up. >> How are you? Good seeing you again. do ladies first. >> Hi, my name is Julie Calbert and I am in eighth grade at BMS. I am one of I'm in
the house of Duke and I am a goalie for our field hockey team. We have won three games out of nine this season. We have improved a lot from last year since we had no winning games last year. Now that people Now that more people
have joined our team and decided to participate, we have gotten much better. We have improved both our defense and our forwards by being more aggressive for the ball and spreading out on the field. We have practiced almost every
day except for game days. I would like to thank Miss Paterno and machine for helping our team improve and start winning games. If we didn't have them, we would we wouldn't be three and nine right now. I like Miss Paterno because sometimes she
is tough and I like to coaches because they help you focus more and show that you need to not fool around. And I like machine because anytime that we would get a goal or the goalie saves the ball from going and she would bring us chocolate chip cookies,
although we would have to earn them. Our school has a scholastic book fair that was sponsored by the BMS HSA. We were all able to attend during our literacy classes. I like the book fair because it has all different types of books to
choose from. Action, scary, and humorous books. I recently just got two action books called That's Not What Really Happened and Tell Me What Really Happened. In addition to books, they also have
some goodies and toys to play with. We are in the student council election season for here at BMS. There are 13 kids running for offices student campaign videos will be played during our social studies classes so that we
can vote for who we think is the best candidate. Good luck to all of our candidates. Thank you for allowing me to speak. I will now turn it over to R.J. [Applause]
>> Uh, hello. My name is R.J. Donado. I am a seventh grade student at BMS. I am in the House of Ruckers. I play for the boys soccer team with 21 other students at BMS. I have been asked here to speak tonight about our soccer team and what we have accomplished. We did not start off the season well as well as we hoped,
going 0 and4, but we did have a three-game winning streak and ended the season with three wins. In two weeks, we will play in the playoffs, and we are hoping we can go into the next round. I would like to thank my coaches, Coach Cotch and Coach Davin. On the first day of practice that we did not look like a strong team, but the coaches believed in us and knew that we could be a great
team. After about a week of practice, my coach told me that I'll be the second seventh grade captain in BMS history. He believed in me and because he thought I could lead the team very well. Last few last week versus Madison, I scored four goals and found that I had broken the record for most BMS goals made in one
game. and every classmate and teacher were very supportive and kind to me when they found out. Next, I would like to speak briefly about the BMS color that is taking place on Tuesday, October 21st. There is still time to sign up for the color run, and this event is open to all BMS families and students. All participating students earn house points
for this exciting event benefiting the American Heart Association. BMS has enjoyed a great relationship with the American Heart Association for two years, and we were lucky enough to receive new equipment for them to keep all BMS students healthy. At BMS, we are heart healthy and stay active in fizzed
playing sports and physical demanding games. Lastly, I wanted to remind families and students that BMS is holding a virtual pumpkin parade. Students can upload a picture of their carved pumpkins on a Google form that is located on the house Google classroom pages. This picture will be displayed at
lunch on Halloween on a slideshow. Thank you for allowing me to speak here tonight. [Applause] R.J. and Julie, you guys did terrific. Uh great great work. Um I'm glad that um
R.J. pointed out that he's broke a school record. Uh that was so awesome and I I can't tell you how many people have told me about it in the middle school. So, it's a really big deal and congratulations and I keep hearing uh about how well Julie's been playing uh
in goalie as well and so um it's great things to hear. One thing that R.J. spoke about is the great work that's taking place at um at the middle school regarding the American Heart Association. And I
represent the district on um on a board with the American Heart Association. and I'm one of six superintendents that are um that confer with the executives at the American Heart Association and I was on a Zoom call today and they pointed out specifically the work that's taking
place at Burnersville Middle School. spoke about the color run and I want to point out that uh you all have only been really involved in this work for two or three years, but it is making a big difference outside of Burnersville and
people are seeing that and uh that starts um inside of your school and it starts with uh your leadership and your your activism and um you know I just want to point that out that uh the folks at the middle school um are doing great things with the American art
association. So, thanks for bringing that up. [Applause] And we have Nolan and Sophia here tonight to do the student uh report. And um I'm going to call up Sophia first, right? We're going to do ladies first
tonight. And um you're somewhere on one of these slides, too. >> Yes, I am. >> Yeah. So, >> hi everyone. It's good to see you all tonight. These past couple weeks have been very stressful and very chaotic, especially for the seniors. The first
college application deadline is actually today. So, everyone's finishing their college essays and supplementals and submitting them. And the next deadline is actually November 1st. So, this month is very chaotic and very stressful, but we're all going to get through this
together. Starting off with peer leadership, a little more background of what it is is that it's an orientation group of upperassmen that help the new students, freshmen, um, adjust to the high school.
So, we meet with them every Thursday or Friday in their gym class and they're assigned into groups for the whole semester and they have assigned peer leaders and we do a lot of activities with them every week and it just allows them to make those new connections with
people from other schools and allows them to to create bonds with their peer leaders as well. And we started meeting with them actually a couple weeks ago and it's been going very well. a lot of positive feedback. I'm already bonding with all of my freshmen and they're a
great group of kids and I everyone's just having fun with it and it's so fun. And also um last weekend Peer Leadership hosted our first car wash right in front of the
Olcott building. It was a huge success. We had around 55 cars come and we raised about $1,300 and it was from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. All the peer leaders volunt uh
volunteered. Um it was also not um it was very beneficial. We are donating the money to community in crisis and not only was it a huge success but it was also very fun for all the peer leaders. Um we had so much fun cleaning, washing
the cars. Um, so it was just overall a huge success. And going on with the clubs at our school, we actually hosted an activity fair a couple weeks ago in the media center. I think there will be some photos on the slides later on, but it
was also a huge success. Every club had a table run by the board of each club and students could just walk around and join as many clubs as they liked. Um, this is very beneficial for the freshman because it allows them to get involved and also other students too. I ran a
table at the activity fair uh for the hidden opponent and we had about 80 people sign up for our club. So, it is definitely a huge success. Um, and people hand out food, too. So, it's very fun. There's candy all over the place.
So, I know a lot of the students like it. And also with the school, we are having our homecoming pep rally and homecoming game next week. So it's a very busy week. Um the pep rally is run by the student council and everyone gets
involved. All the sports get involved. Um the choir is actually singing the national anthem. So we are just prepping for that this week. So it is definitely a huge success. All the students enjoy it and we have it at the end of the day on Friday. So, everyone's in a good mood and excited for the football game that
night. So, we're all looking forward to that as well. Um, going on with the sports, um, all of our sports are doing phenomenal jobs. Starting off with field hockey, we are 9 and seven and we have
been having some amazing comebacks recently. Um on our senior night we were down 02 at halftime but then we won 3-2 against Belvadier and it was a very memorable night especially for the seniors. Definitely a game I will never
forget and today we actually beat Franklin 93. So we've been having a really good um go of our season so far. We're about to start counties. Oh we started counties. Um our next game is Saturday. Um, so we
are just hoping we get far, but it's a great group of girls and we are all bonded and the team chemistry is just insane. So, um, I really think we'll go far this year. And going on with girls soccer, um, they are seven and three.
They are also an amazing group of girls who are so um, bonded. You can really see their team chemistry when they play. It's amazing to see them play um, to watch them play. Um they actually went against Ruckers Prep yesterday, one of
the best teams in the nation, and they lost one zero. But it was the first team Rucker Prep had played that they didn't demolish the other team. So I call that a win. And going on with um cross country, the
boys actually took the overall championship and division championship yesterday and it's our second ever Skyland title which is amazing. Um and the girls took the third in the Valley Division um out of I believe
eight teams. So our sports teams are doing very well. Nolan will go on about the football team and the boys soccer team and all of our successes. So, I will just hand this over to Nolan. Thank you. So, yeah. Uh, segueing into other
sports. Uh, boys soccer had their first game in the county tournament. They were the two seed, so they had a buy for two rounds. We were playing against the believe it was 10-seated Manville because they upseted the they upset the eight. And we won three nothing. Tim Ko
had a goal. He has a total of senior Tim Ko has a total of 15 goals on the year which is just awesome. Him and other captain other senior captain Jacob Marquez leading the team offensively to victory to their 12 and 0 start to the season. Big game playing our cross town
rivals Ridge Alcott Field I believe at 10:00 a.m. this Saturday in the county semifinal. We are looking to reach our uh first county first county semi-final uh in in the last three years. Prior to that, we had made it three years straight. So, we're trying to trying to
get back to some familiar territory. Likely we'll meet Pingri, which is always a tough opponent, but we were able to take them down my freshman year, and unfortunately, we lost to them in the county final my sophomore year. So, we got some familiar rivalries ahead, but we're hoping that we can come out on top. I mean, we certainly have the
talent to do it. Then, segment into football and uh talking about big wins. So, last time I was here, we were 3 and 0 and now we're 7-0 coming off this weekend against a great program, big school, Summit. We went onto their turf playing in the rain and we came out on
top in a one-score game, 1714. Let's give it up for the football. I mean, just look at that picture of Coach Simino. I think that right there shows how awesome that win felt. Uh, below him, we have our senior captain, Logan Stevens. And boy, is he the leader
of the team. We uh we didn't we didn't crack a touchdown in the first half. Uh we were down I believe it was 7 to3. Yeah, it was 7 to3 at halftime and he r he gave a rousing halftime speech in the locker room. He got us all fired up. We went we went back out there on a mission
and we weren't going to leave there with a loss. He had over 150 rushing yards in the game. He scored the game-winning touchdown and we're just so grateful to have a leader like him and just talent all around. Offense, defense. we forced to fumble against them, breaking up lots
of passes, huge tackles, and just great. Uh, also building off uh football, uh, we have a junior at Bernard's High School, Ben Balian, who does this thing every week called like the bit the blitz with Ben Balian in which he does like
question. He asks all the players on the team like a question and it it's super funny. You can find them on the Bernard's high Bernards football booster Instagram account. great way to get to know all us mountaineers and for him to uh build to build that experience for
his desired career in podcasting. Seguing off that, we got the new podcast studio which the uh the Crimson and uh the Crimson podcast has taken full advantage of. They even won a snow award already for an interview with field hockey captain Jessica Fu. Uh it's been
they've just been loving it. Posting a bunch of videos there. You can catch them on the Crimson YouTube. It was really a great addition that they are absolutely loving. Next uh I'll talk about the fall play which is coming up. It's always uh end of October. So we have a play the play
is Halloween weekend. So that October 31st is Halloween. There's a a play performance and very likely to be a home football game. So a lot lot for Burnersville residents to do that night. Then there will also be a Saturday matinea at 2 and Saturday 7 p.m. showing
and a Saturday 2 pm showing. It's the uh an old play called The Arsenic and Old Lace, which was it's been around for a long time. I know there was a movie in the 1930s, a movie adaptation all the way back then. So that play's been around for a long time. Uh
last time I was here, we discussed the new Genesis policy in which neither students nor parents can view it during the school day. And I would say the student feedback feedback to that has actually gone up a lot a lot and a lot of them wanting to see their grades
during the school day. And at our monthly student leaders meeting, we actually had a really productive conversation about it with uh Dr. Nigel and started presenting some alternatives that he then communicated to superintendent Dr. Brochial. So Dr. Nigel really does a good job of making
sure student voices are heard and that parts and on our part we do a good job speaking. So, uh, end off with a music update here as a member of the music program. Uh, in the jazz band, we got our three songs
and we're preparing them for the winter concert. A very cool arrangement of my favorite things from the Sound of Music. We also have a jazz arrangement of Silver Bells, a classic Christmas song, and then just a classic jazz piece in Autumn Leads. Um, as for the marching
band, the uh Mountaineers have shown this the Mountaineers show this season is titled Larger than Life. Uh, featuring music from the Backstreet Boys, the Jackson 5, the Beatles, and One Direction, including Larger than Life. Lots of boy bands. Common theme there.
Um, so the lead the lead band director, Mr. Tesler, I've spoken to spoken on him a few times here. And the assistant band director is Jason Snyder. And the color guard director is his wife, Rachel Tesler, and percussion technician is Alyssa Jurgens. Uh, but it is student
leaders who make the marching band the most successful. Drum majors Christina Ricatas and Jack Cohen, who are student directors. Then percussion cap captain Lucian Feteri, who organizes the front ensemble and drum line. Color guard captain Cameron Bong and color guard
lieutenant Arianda Morales Canana, who coordinate and train the routines for our color guard. and field captain Evan Schwarz, who organized and rehearses our horn line. These enthusiastic and skillful student leaders have elevated our marching band to a whole new level of excellence unprecedented in the
program's recent history. This season, marching band is competing in the New Jersey Marching Band Directors Association competition circuit, visiting other schools, seeing many award-winning performances, and placing our target for the program's growth and learning goals. Bands compete by size
class ranging from group 1A, 1 to 40 members, to group 4A, 200 plus members. Being 24 members large, our band is not only in group 1A, but is also the smallest band among them. But we still we still got quite a sound as you hear
at the football games. Um, not only this, but we have scored within decimal points of the bands who have taken third and fourth place, making those schools nervous to lose to us. We have never been stronger and more excited to represent Bernard's High School in the world of the marching arts
and are optimistic in our capacity to place well at the NJMBBDA state championships on November 2nd hosted by the College of New Jersey. Marching band's next big performance will be at New Jerseys Music Educators Association festival hosted by Wayne Hills High
School. Schools that are competing in the NJ MBDA as well as schools who are not will participate in this festival to take home ratings rather than compete for placement. The ratings are gold, silver, and blondes respectively and caption awards
for best music and best visual will be awarded as well. This is an opportunity for the band to obtain a fresh perspective on their current performance without the pressures of placing in competition. see new and inspiring shows that are not competing in the NJBDA and celebrate the marching arts as a
wider culture alongside other schools. At last year's NJMEA Festival, we took home a silver rating and we're looking to take home silver or better this year. It's all from our student update and I'll hand it over to some other students who have accomplished some great things recently.
[Applause] outstanding uh report from all of our student representatives from the middle and high school. Uh thank you very much. Um so I'm going to introduce Anakonnie
uh who's a student here at the high school and she has some things uh that she wants to apprise the board of and after she does that uh we're going to honor her with a recognition for some outstanding work that she's done in the community. Miss Sony
[Applause] Hi everyone. Thank you so much for the opportunity for me to come and speak here tonight. My name is Anoxani and I'm a junior at Bernards. With the support of my brother, I started Rice Kids at a very young age when I found a passion
for ensuring food stability to people living in poverty. So far, we have raised $100,000 and are providing a stable source of food daily to 1,000 kids. Providing these children with food security is to ensure that they're they stay in school instead of dropping out
to work lowpaying jobs that help them just make just enough to put a little food on the table. We want to break the cycle of poverty by enabling education for these kids. And I want to continue and reach even more people with this cause. If you want to consider making a donation, you can do so through cash,
check, or our website. Thank you. [Applause] >> Okay, Miss Sonnie, you have to stand up again. We have a proclamation for you for all the beautiful work you've been doing.
So, this is a resolution from the board honoring you tonight for your vision, your effort, and your unwavering dedication towards service in the community locally, nationally, and abroad. Whereas, the Somerset Hills Board of Education gives special honor and commendation to those who volunteer
their time and their talents to help others. Whereas, you are a part of the high school community and you serve as an inspiration to your peers and to the staff at the high school as well. Now therefore, be it resolved that the Somerset Hills Board of Education that the members of the board hereby commend
you for taking the initiative to create Rice Kids as well as develop it into a large-scale organization while spreading awareness about the issues of food insecurity, poverty, and lack of education for children around the globe. When the Somerset Hills Board of
Education adjourns on this day, it does to honor your achievements. The board secretary is directed to have this resolution reflected in the permanent minutes of the board of education on this day. Congratulations. Very well done. That's yours. You're
welcome. Thank you. And we have another outstanding student from the high school who's going to talk to us about some great things she's been doing in the community and that is high school student Reagan Panick. Come on up. Hi everyone. Thank you for coming here
today and offering me the opportunity to speak. My name is Reagan Panic and I'm a senior here at BHS. Since kindergarten, I have been a member of Girl Scout Troop 60318 and I have devoted a lot of my time and energy to community service through my Girl Scout experiences.
During my freshman year of high school, I began working toward my Gold Award, the highest award a Girl Scout can earn. It requires at least 80 hours of service and includes a focus on sustainability. Throughout this project, my goal has been to give back to my community in an
impactful way. The Gold Award process encourages scouts to pick one specific root cause to work on, and I chose literacy for bilingual students. My goal and project was to increase the availability for bilingual of bilingual books for emergent bilingual readers
here at Bedwell. To support this, I donated and built a free lingual library for Bedwell. And I'm still seeking donations to help stock the library with bilingual books. Alongside my library, my goal has been to make reading fun for children of all ages. Because of this, I have organized for me and several other
BHS students eager to volunteer to visit Bedwell to run book clubs in the bilingual kindergarten classroom within the next few few weeks. And Miss Roth has been kind enough to welcome us into her classroom. This project has been rewarding and I appreciate the opportunity to work with Mr. Catelli,
Mr. Khoffer, Mr. Wolf, Miss Brutin, and Miss Roth. Please feel free to stop by and check out the Freelanding Library at Bedwell. If you would like to donate books for this library, please watch the Bedwell Friday folder for information on how you can donate. Thank you for all of your support.
[Applause] Come on over. What an outstanding project. Both of you just truly inspiring. Uh we have a slide um we have a slide up and you see your
lending library with the principal and uh such a great uh motivating project. Uh so the board has a resolution for your work. Uh and uh their resolution honors you for the planning and coordinating efforts to bring resources and excitement to the bilingual youth
here in Somerset Hills. Whereas the board gives special honor and commendation to those who volunteer their time and their talents to help others. Whereas Reagan Panic is part of the Bernard's high school community and serves as an inspiration to her peers
and the staff members at the school. Now therefore, be it resolved that the board of education that the members of the board hereby commend you, Reagan, for your community service to the students at Bedwell Elementary School through fundraising, constructing a little free
library, and leading a book club to motivate and support our youngest readers. When the Somerset Hills Board adjourns on this day, it does so in honor of the achievements earned by you, Reagan. The board of education secretary is directed to have this resolution
reflected in the permanent minutes of the board on this day. Congratulations. Well done. >> Congratulations to all the honores and thank you to the speakers tonight. I'm going to move on with the remainder of
um the superintendent report. Uh we have a uh and I I've shared this with the board in the past a um some new faces in our business office. Mr. Lori uh joined us last spring as did Jodie Smith who is our business office assistant. Um Amy is
an accounts payable and Julianne is in payroll. Uh we are in the process of our annual audit and we have an auditing firm that we work closely with. uh they come on site and they uh review um many
many of our practices and items from a fiscal perspective. Uh they will continue to work with our auditors uh over the next few months and they will continue to review all of our financials and uh we will deliver a final report to
the board as required. Uh but uh certainly it's it's a lot of um interesting work that doesn't necessarily get seen uh by the board on the dayto-day. So, I wanted to point that out and uh to thank Mr. Lori and his team for that work.
Anna Karolina Borbola Manari is the Bernard's High School um everyday hero for this month and uh she was recognized for September. Um she is an everyday hero who has been uh recognized for her
infectious enthusiasm for all that she does. And you can see in her photograph um she's very happy all the time. Uh she loves history. Uh she's a student who can be depended on uh to lead class discussions and to share her thoughts.
Uh she's energetic in her engagement in instruction and uh she relates um all of her assignments to research and understanding more about the world around her. Um she can't wait um in all fairness to leave the high school and to
make a difference to people in need. Uh she wants to get out into the community. Uh she serves at communities in crisis and does beautiful work there. uh she advocates strongly for the Latin American community and she participates in a lot of advocacy work outside of the
walls here uh at the high school to support anti-drug campaigns. Uh she makes positive um she gives a positive energy here to her classmates and to the school and it has capillared out um not only in our community uh but but far
beyond um Somerset Hills. So she is the high school's everyday hero for September. So, congratulations to her. Yep. We recently had the Travis Manion Foundation uh who provided a message uh
if not me, then who um as the bedrock of our community service actions at Burnersville Middle School. Uh we have a community service adviser there, Melissa Kimmel, uh who takes up uh a good part of that leadership there. On September
12th, uh Gil Balazant, who is a United States Marine Corps veteran and a mentor at the Travis Manion Foundation, uh presented to over uh 80 fifth graders at the middle school. uh he talked about the fact that character matters and
focusing on uh the character traits, the silent character traits of self-regulation, of kindness, and of perspective. So, it was very wellreceived at the middle school and we're very fortunate that u our fifth graders were able to be exposed to that.
The high school recently had uh their uh student activities fair. uh we call it come one come all. Uh it was held on September 26th and uh there were hundreds of students uh that came together to learn about uh the over 30
clubs that we have here at the high school and um it was a great opportunity in the words of Dr. Nigel for our students to learn about all of the amazing clubs and activities that we offer. Uh the leaders of the clubs run this fair and they do an outstanding
job. they reach out to our new students and strongly encourage them to participate in new activities. And that is one thing that I would share to any uh rising ninth grader and rising fifth grader is to uh be involved in your school at the middle school and at the high school level. Uh develop a group of
friends and uh that are outside of uh your normal dayto-day. Um Peg Doulson is our media specialist and she helped uh organize the activities fair as well and there were a lot of lot of folks there. um Mia was was there actively covering
all of the different and and various clubs um that are recruiting its newest members. So um great atmosphere and a great um great activity. The high school girl up club um has a
motto this is your year. Uh they have a passion for student well-being and they have a passion for mental health. Uh they have created a display case in the September showcase for positive messages and affirmations in our school community. Um they are also celebrating
Hispanic Heritage Month. They have partnered with the Multilingual Learner Club to do to create a display for Hispanic Heritage Month and I thank them uh for their leadership in this work for sure.
Our staff spotlight this month is Alex Haney. She's in her third year of teaching um as of September and uh she's no longer new to the middle school and uh she is um very much ingrained into the fabric and the culture of the
school. She joined us in 2023. Uh she teaches our seventh grade math students and our sixth grade math students for uh our intervention and um our intervention um and enrichment program. Um she is quoted as saying, "I love seeing
students understand discounts. Uh she loves teaching percentages and she loves um being able to kind of convey that out." So uh she's a very very important part uh to our middle school. She does serve as the faculty representative to the Somerset Hills Education Foundation.
Uh so she volunteers her time several times a month uh with that group and she's able to clearly articulate uh the needs and the desires uh for uh uh the education foundation. So she's a uh she
is our staff spotlight this month. Bedwell celebrated National Walk to School Day. uh they gathered at the library and that took place on October 1st and they walked more than a mile up uh up to their school. It was a beautiful day and um it's a great
tradition there at Bedwell. Um the fourth graders have taken over the morning announcements. Uh they've been doing a terrific job uh and they have been presenting and providing very critical information to all the students and uh it's great to see them uh stepping out of their comfort zone in
this area. the Bedwell uh Bedwell hosted a Hispanic Heritage Night in partnership with the Bedwell HSA for the entire Bedwell community that took place on October 9th. Uh there were multiple activities and artifacts donated by families and um
cultural crafts. Uh the committee worked diligently for a significant amount of time uh to make sure that this event uh recognized a very a variety of aspects regarding Hispanic culture. Uh they specifically highlighted Paraguayan and
Guatemalan culture. Uh as well we had a significant uh planning committee that included parents and staff members Katherine Martin, Allison Labber, Stephen Morando, Tatiana Gutierrez, Sarah McShane, Debbie Rkosski, Megan
Douly, Terresa Mc D Roberts, Scott Wolf, Jasmine Akayola, and Michael Catelli. So thank you to all participants and all organizers. It was tremendous. And we even have some video of Mr. Wolf
dancing. Uh so which was uh a big hit at the administrative meeting this week. We were the beneficiaries of an anonymous donation and the donation was clear in what it was intended for and it was intended for a new floor uh in the lower gym at the high school and uh that
work has been completed and uh we are looking forward to uh having the students utilize it if they haven't already. Uh, additionally, we continue to partner with Mashio's food services for this current school year. And, uh, tomorrow is Jersey Fresh Pa pasta and
meatballs at the high school for anybody that's, uh, so inclined. Um, it's always a big hit. Our marching band, Mountaineers, uh, as the high school report indicated, are doing tremendous. They're having a great start. Uh, they took fifth place in a
recent competition. they are competing against schools that are twice their size. Um, and uh, just a lot of great things are happening and uh, those of us that work in the old cop building are very uh, close with the marching band because they practice uh, right outside
and um, it's it is awesome. Like once uh, preseason starts up for the sports, they come out and and they play well into the, you know, well into the cold cold months. So it's it's awesome. Uh, it's awesome to hear. And I've been brushing up on my beagles on my Beatles tunes because um they practice a few of
them quite a lot and they're doing very well with them. So, um a lot of great things with our marching band. Sports are up and running. Uh Sophia, you're in another photo, right? Uh you photo of a senior night from field hockey and uh we
had a significant report um from the gang here tonight. And by way of reminder, you can buy your tickets uh online for Arsenic and Old Lace. Uh and we are looking forward to having them uh put their production on um in a few
weeks. And uh there's a host of ways to stay informed which we've spoken about at great length in the past. And we're trying to create multiple lanes for folks to um access information at uh at their convenience and at their pleasure.
No one person it seems accesses um one particular way over another. So we like to create a lot of different lanes. Um we do have designs for a public vote on March 10th, 2026 for a referendum and we have started uh going back to late
August with uh promotion of these items uh starting with small groups and we're starting to ramp that work up. Uh we have uh some presentations to local governing bodies. Uh the Bernardsville Burough Council will present to on August 27th and we will present to the
Far Hills Burough Council on November 10th. And we will host um big sessions here at the high school on November 25th, December 18th, and January 27th. So looking forward to that. Uh all in
all, uh we have about 50 or so um events scheduled. um throughout to promote our uh our desires for u capital improvements throughout the district. One of the items on uh your agenda for discussion tonight through the student
services committee uh include the 202627 school calendar and the 2728 school calendar. It is uh indeed that time of year and um I do thank the uh the board and the committee for indulging me by
creating multiple uh multiple years of calendars so folks can plan out um some particular features for consideration. The extended school year program, there's an increase there from four weeks to five weeks and it's pre-announced inside of the framework of
the calendar. Uh we've moved new staff orientation from the last week of August to the week prior. Uh that's a three-day orientation session. First day for students is prior to Labor Day. Uh some of those features uh uh include advanced instructional time uh prior to
standardized testing uh which was a um certainly a driver with the board um in those discussions. Back to school nights have been announced in advance for alignment with our sending district in Bedminster. And um there is a winter break around President's Day uh for
students. The 2627 calendar has a extended school year program that starts on June 29th and it runs through July 30th. It's 4 days per week. Uh student athletes will return uh between August 10th and August
17th. And that's a uh sports specific calendar. Um, some sports are earlier, some sports are later. August 18th through the 20th is noted as staff orientation. Uh, professional development is August 25th through the 27th with a first day of school as
August 31st. In 26 27, there's a June 11 graduation day. Uh, spring recess is connected to Easter. Snow day givebacks are prior to and following spring recess uh which allows for undisturbed instructional time in April, May, and
June in advance of particular standardized testing. The 2728 calendar uh is very similar. There's just some shifting. Uh extended school year runs on the 28th of June through the 29th of July. Uh the
students return for athletics August 9th through the 16th with new staff orientation August 17th through the 19th. Staff development for the entirety of the staff is August 24th, 25th and 26th with a August 30th uh first day of
school uh proposed for discussion. There's a June 8th graduation day. uh for the 2728 school year, spring recess is not connected to Easter to provide more balance instructionally uh and from a calendar perspective throughout the
year. Um we are seeing as no school being noted for Good Friday and snow day givebacks for that year uh would be prior to Good Friday and on Easter Monday if applicable and uh that too has a reduction in
schedule interruptions. So, uh, Miss Santoro does, uh, chair the committee that oversees the schedule and so, um, I would imagine that would come up in discussion tonight. Uh lastly, we are in the process of assessing matters of school climate and
we're partnering with the Ruckers University uh School of Applied and Professional Psychology and the New Jersey School Climate Initiative uh to survey staff members and to survey students in grades 3 through 12 and to survey parents K to 12. Uh the intention
of this work is to uh have a have a broad understanding of uh what the baseline metrics are in the area in the on the topics of school climate and uh we're looking forward to uh working through that project with our uh
particular school climate teams and uh with a newly formed district climate team as well. uh this work will help to develop uh strategic plan work on behalf of the board uh that speaks directly to the needs uh that present themselves at
the school level. Um and so we're looking forward to conducting that work and um Miss Frena that does conclude the superintendent's report. >> Thank you very much. And I'm just going to ask for indulgence for our students and their parents for one second because I know you typically scadaddle before we
get into the business of the board. But um every month we have recognitions and we have students and staff that come here and are recognized and um it's it's always amazing. I just want to speak to all of you and say the level of impressive things that you're doing, the
level of engagement that you are showing in the work not just in your classrooms but in your community and for the thing referendum being an advocate for um referendum work. It is it is truly stunning and I um I couldn't I on behalf of the board I just want to say I don't
think we could be more proud um and keep doing what you're doing because it's amazing. So, so I will give you your leave if you do not want to stay and participate in the rest of the evening. But thank you so much.
Okay, while they filter out, um, we are going to move into public comments for actionable agenda items. I just do want to say before we move there, um I'm making it a practice before we open public comments at all to remind people
that if you can't make it to meetings, if um the timing doesn't work for you, we are um accessible to you all the time via email, we want to hear from you. We want your feedback. We want to know what your thoughts are regarding matters in the district. You can reach us each
individually by um you know through the board of education page, but you can also always email Mr. Lori, who's not only our business administrator but our board secretary and denote to him that you would like uh information disseminated to all of us and he will more than hap be more than happy to send
that to all of us um and we can let you know that we've received that for consideration. So I just encourage you to do that if you would like to engage with um the board. So public comments for actionable agenda items. We very much welcome input from the public. Public comments are welcome at this time
on any actionable agenda item. That means specifically items that we will be voting on this evening that you see on your agenda. Towards the end of the meeting, there is a second public forum on any topic. Please state your name and address. Comments are limited to three minutes. At three minutes, you will be interrupted and asked to pause to allow
any other members of the public who would like to speak an opportunity to do so. An individual may return to the podium to complete their statement after everyone else has had an opportunity to speak for a total of two times at the podium. Please understand that our public forums are not structured as question and answer sessions but are
offered as opportunities to share your thoughts with the board. In instances where the board feels there is a misunderstanding or inaccuracy, the board president or superintendent may address the comment. In accordance with New Jersey statute, the board will not discuss matters regarding specific personnel. Public comments will be limited to 30 minutes. A reminder for
all parties in attendance to remain respectful and that there should be no interaction between the speaker and the audience. No members of the audience should interfere with or interrupt the speaker's comments. Thank you. Thank you in advance for your input. Mr. Lori will be putting up his timer that will run to show you where you are in your three
minutes. Um and also Mr. Lori, is there a sign in sheet up there? I just like I just want to make sure that people know. So if you come to the podium, please just sign in up there as well as stating um your name and location. So, if there is anyone that would like to make a comment on actionable agenda item can
take the podium. >> So, my name is Christa Rudy. Um, I live in Gladstone. Um, I have a child in 11th grade, Gabrielle Rudy. Um, and my comment is on the hiring of the women's varsity wrestling coach, um, Tyler Natal
Nadali. Okay. Um, my concern is that I'm not sure or questioning the qualifications for him to coach a varsity sport um, especially at an elite level. Um, this particularly affects my
daughter since she is the only girl to wrestle on the team currently. Um, unless other children are currently wrestling, other girls are wrestling on the team, which I don't think so. Um, Tyler is a
young, inexperienced coach who has himself only wrestled one year um, in college um, at a low level. He has only coached um as an assistant coach uh with a assistant middle school coach. He's
never coached a varsity sport nor he has he coached a women's varsity sport. So my concern is um the efficacy um of his coaching um how he is going to be cohesive with the team um especially
with um with my daughter. Um we have not had the opportunity to meet him or reach out to him at this point. So these are my concerns before we move forward with hiring this coach.
>> Okay, great. Thank you for your comment. Is there anybody else for public comments on actionable agenda items? Nope. Okay. And can I get a motion to close public comment, please? Miss Anto second. Miss Cooper. Thank you very much. Okay. Then we will move on to the
approval of the minutes. I would like to ask for a motion to approve the public input and action and executive meeting minutes for September 17th, 2025. Can I have a motion? Miss Hoppy and Miss Ry. Thank you. And is there any discussion regarding the minutes?
>> No. Okay. Mr. Lori, roll call, please. >> Mr. Baker, >> yes. >> Miss Ballard, >> yes. >> Miss Clark Emory, >> yes. >> Mrs. Cooper, >> yes. >> Miss Gills, >> yes. >> Mrs. Gomez, >> I abstain. >> Mrs. Hoppy, >> yes. >> Mrs. Santoro, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ry
>> yes >> and Mrs. Frenda. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Okay. Thank you so much. Okay. We are going to move into the report of business operations. Um Mr. Baker left us this past month. Um I did my best to
scribe for him. Um I don't know if you would like me to give that report or if you would Okay. Okay. So, um, the business operations committee met on September 30th at 5:15 p.m. Um, and we covered a variety of subjects. The first
one was a demographic study refresh. Um, and we are that is basically we're undertaking a demographic study refresh based on current planning board movement across the different municipalities. Um, based on projects that have gone through and received approval for development.
Um the next item that we discussed was an audit update. The auditors have completed their in-house work and very preliminary exit conferences have taken place despite much more audit work to still be done. As outlined in action as an action item in last year's audit,
student activities accounts have been reconciled down to the penny. We are now planning and organizing to ensure that accounts all stay in good standing and reconcile appropriately. There is the possibility of creating a stipended position for custodian or student activities as it is a great deal of work
to oversee and um a centralized uh position may be very beneficial. Um we also discussed the future of our former athletic lights from um Alcott Field. The youth mountaineers football program has expressed an interest in these
lights um and for their use at practices on the grass fields. Um I believe an agreement will be drawn up for them to receive the donation of that equipment. Uh we discuss spectrometer diagnosis and donation specific to our science departments. An offer has been made for
free service of existing BHS science department spectrometers. In return for the service, the district would donate to the provider a spectrometer that has completely aged out of use for the district. So that is a wonderful reciprocal um opportunity for the science department. We then went into
discussing co-op pricing system through ed services of Mars County. We are considering joining their ed data program actually on the agenda for this evening which would allow for a broader swath of purchasing power for the district and with centralized vendor ordering across the district at a
savings. The cost to join would be 7,800 a year for licensing and to have access to their product at an additional cost of 2100 a year. we can have access to and work material to work and work materials and maintenance through ED services as well. This is outlined in action item number 15 on the agenda
under business operations. Um then we discussed the director of operations stipen. Um we discussed the stipen presently associated with this position for custodial foreman duties. The way the resolution was originally written terminated on June 30th. So action item
number 14 under personnel will retroactively continue pay starting from July 1st, 2025. Um we touched on the BHS math lab which will be back. It will be reinstated and the total cost for stipens for the math lab is $5,000.
We will be going out to RFP for our broker of record. We are getting ready to go out to RFP for our health benefits broker, a best practice we have been endeavoring upon for all of our service providers over the last several years. Um, our baseball softball facilities, we
will be replacing the softball field batting cage and it is not up to appropriate standard of use. We also discussed inquiries regarding disable disabil disabled access to bleachers seedings on the fields. It was indicated that no modifications are planned at this time and that there is a ramp that
does allow for access. Donation of wrestling mats. The district will be accepting the donation of two gym floor mats for wrestling from the Westwood Regional School District at an estimated value of $1,500. For reference, this is reflected in action item number 13A
under business operations. And that concludes the report of that committee for the month. So, if I could ask at this time for a motion to approve action items number 1 through 19 on the agenda. Miss Cooper. Second, Mr. Baker. And is
there any discussion regarding business operations? >> Yes, Miss Hoppy. >> So, when I was on the board, >> is your mic on? >> Sorry. When I was on the board years years ago for Gladstone, I was inquiring
about the um the ramp to get down to the lower field. Can you ex It didn't happen obviously, you know, and I'm in special education and I've always been an advocate. So, can you explain or someone explain
what's happening there? I could ask my husband, but I just don't see him enough. Well, as a board member, it's it's appropriate to ask us. >> Yeah, that's a good point. >> Yeah, sometimes husbands don't respond to their lives.
>> Yeah. Um so, at least this one doesn't. So, uh so we have a ramp >> um that goes down from the from the back parking lot. Um there's some history. >> Is there one that goes I'm sorry. Is it
the one that like hugs the school, the side of the school? >> So, >> you're talking about going to the >> So, there's a there's a drive. No, there's a driveway. >> Not so much a ramp, but more of a driveway. >> I know that >> by the softball field. >> Okay.
>> Okay. So, uh it's not perfect. >> Uh we recognize that. We've also have examined in in the far history >> probably when you were on the board representing another town >> um of of utilizing a particular piece of
land in the in the lower fields. >> Uh that project did require access from the shopping center. >> Oh. >> Um and that um didn't go anywhere. >> Um and then u that that particular matter sat dormant.
So, uh, the the best we can do on on behalf of the committee if that's a desire is for us to engage with our engineers on on options. Uh, we've spoken uh a lot about the lower fields in the last 12 months. Uh, even prior to
coming on and um it's tight back there. >> Um, how do you get to the baseball field? So you >> you go down the stairs >> if there's somebody on a >> like >> So if you to get to the baseball field, >> if you're >> if you're able, there's a stairway,
>> right? But if you're not >> if you're not able, you would have to park in the in that back parking lot >> and go all the way and roll your way if you're in a wheelchair, which is kind of >> That is correct. >> An issue. >> Okay. >> All right. >> We can make a note of it, though.
>> Yeah. That's something I would really like to see. >> I would just add you were both on the board. I mean, that that was definitely something that was very important to the board as part of a project that we unfortunately could not
proceed with. So, it was definitely something that the board prioritized in that project, but unfortunately, we just couldn't um we couldn't do the project because of access. >> Okay. No, I appreciate it. I just
>> Yeah. >> I put my two cents in. >> Is there an opportunity to just revisit for both the access for the ADA and for the fields at all? >> Holly, I'm sorry. I can't hear you at all. >> I'm sorry. I said, "Is there an
opportunity for us to be able to revisit >> um just for >> access as well as mission um fields as well?" You hear me? I'm sorry. >> Yeah. About a year ago, we did um we did appoint a engineer of record that we can
certainly engage engage them on and then report back to the committee. >> Thank you. >> Anything else for discussion for business operations? Okay, Mr. Lori, roll call, please. >> Miss Ballard, >> yes.
>> Miss Clark Emory, >> yes. >> Miss Cooper, >> yes. >> Miss Gills, >> yes. >> Mrs. Gomez, >> yes. >> Mrs. Hoppy, >> yes. >> Mrs. Santoro, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ry, >> yes. >> Mr. Baker, >> yes. >> Mrs. Frenda, >> yes. >> Motion car. >> Okay. And does anyone have anything for
new or old business um besides the item related to accessibility for business operations? No. Okay. Then we will move on to the report of the curriculum committee. Miss Cooper, please. >> Curriculum committee met Wednesday, October 1st for two hours and 15
minutes. All committee members were in attendance and we were joined by Dr. Burchil, Dr. Butler, Dr. Edertton, Mr. Schwarz, and Dr. Walker. First, Dr. Walker joined us to discuss funding options for students on free and reduced lunches who hope to receive dual enrollment credit for for Satan Hall
dual enrollment courses. Unlike the other institutions we partner with for our dual enrollment classes, Satan Hall does not offer reductions in fees for students receiving free or reduced lunches. To help these students participate in Satan Hall dual enrollment, Dr. Walker proposed using
funding from the virtual academy budget to cover dual enrollment fees. Support for students enrolled in virtual academy courses would not be affected. The committee unanimously supported this proposition and thank Dr. Walker for bringing this issue to our attention. Next, uh, the committee agreed to offer
a math lab at the high school that provides extra math support. Uh, students who have questions or need extra help can just show up to the lab, which usually occurs right after school. The committee also supported offering the math lab before school, at least occasionally, to accommodate students
who have after school commitments. Since our last committee meeting, Dr. Edertton and Mr. Schwarz attended training sessions on the new NJSLA assessments and joined us to discuss what they learned. First, Mr. Schwarz reviewed the hardware and technology requirements for
uh the NJSA for NJSLA testing. Uh to be used for testing, all Chromebooks will need to run the latest operating system. Since the district is one to one for devices in K through eight, the district acquired 50 new devices to use at Bedwell and BMS in case extra devices
are needed. at at the high school. The district already has 280 devices for use and testing to accommodate the approximately 400 students who need devices for testing. The district has purchased 250 more devices, 50 of which will be set
aside for emergencies. Mr. Schwarz also described the department's his department's testing of the network to ensure that the district has the necessary bandwidth to accommodate the sim simultaneous testing of so many students. The network successfully passed all tests indicating that it can support this that this connection
simultaneous connect connection of up to 3,000 devices. Dr. Edertton then discussed updates regarding the NJSLA field testing that will be conducted at all three schools between October 27th and November 14th. All students in grade
four through 11 will will undergo ELA testing and all students in grades four through eight will undergo testing in math as well as students enrolled in math 8 uh algebra 1 geome geometry or algebra 2 in the 2425 school year.
Unlike the NJSLA test in the spring, the field test will not be adaptive. Instead, the results from this test will be used to sequence the questions by difficulty for future tests. Generally, students will undergo 60 minutes of testing and reading, 120 minutes of testing in writing, and 60 minutes of
testing in math. The field results will not be used to measure student achievement or for school accountability, and no scores will be provided to students, parents, or the schools themselves. We also discuss briefly discussed the benefits and limitations of moving to a onetoone technology strategy at the high school.
Generally, the committee agreed that this change is probably not needed at this time, so but we can revisit it in the future. Uh, next, in response to a board member's request, Dr. Butler repeated the district's updated practices related to the mechanisms for families to opt
their children out of specific texts due to religious beliefs at Bedwell, which the committee discussed at our meeting in August. These mechanisms were also reported out during that month's public meeting and summarized in our board update. Just as a reminder, to create these mechanisms, Dr. Butler met with
our attorneys and worked with Bedwell administrators and teachers. The entire administrative team met with the board's attorney during the summer administrative retreat for an update on legal matters, including Mammud. A plan was developed and shared with teachers on their first day of professional
development. Prior to receiving access to their students schedules in August 2025, each family was required to acknowledge receipt of information regarding their ability to opt students out of instruction due to strongly held religious beliefs. And remember, all Genesis forms are synced with Google
Translate. Since it was anticipated that Bedwell might have the largest number of parents who would use this opt- out procedure, Dr. Butler developed a plan for Bedwell teachers to send home advanced notice of notice of readalouds which might not be visible in the curriculum. This advanced notice will be distributed through school newsletters
in the weekly Friday folder form that was sent to all parents and guardians was shared with the board board's attorney for review before it was distributed via Genesis. Um at our meeting, Dr. Butler reported that she had recently been to a county meeting where at the time of the meeting, none of the schools at the
meeting started the year with a plan in place, preferring instead to wait for more clarification and direction from the NJ Department of Education. Note that today this uh the New Jersey Department of Education has provided no guidance related to this issue. The majority of the board fully supported
and appreciated Dr. Butler's leadership in this area as well as the district's efforts related to these procedures. However, one member believed that the district needed to be more proactive in identifying texts that might be concerning to some families. All other committee members disagreed. In fact, most of the committee was concerned that
taking additional steps to accommodate the court's ruling might be associated with significant risks. First, we may no longer be compliant with state mandates regarding uh the teaching of diversity and inclusion. Second, additional steps might be may be too logistically challenging for our teachers and administrators, increasing the
likelihood that books, including diverse characters and family types, might be re removed from our schools, making it less likely that the district follows the core principle in child education of windows and mirrors. The majority of the committee strongly agreed with the need for children to see themselves and others in the books they read. Finally,
the committee also briefly discussed a concern related to the high school social studies curriculum, which has since been resolved. And that concludes my report. >> Okay. Thank you very much, Miss Cooper. Um, then at this time, I would like to ask for a motion to approve action items
number one through five on the agenda, Miss Cooper, and a second, Miss Sanurro, and any discussion related to curriculum. >> Yes, Miss Skills. >> Okay, I just have to go through some of these. Uh the curricul uh the report by Nicole says prior to receiving access to
their students schedules in August 25 each family was required to acknowledge receipt through Genesis through Friday folders. My question is what is meant by advanced notice will be distributed through school newsletters and the
weekly Friday folder because um well first of all just to to just address this quickly since it was anticipated that Bedwell might have the largest number of parents it would only apply to Bedwell because it's just elementary. So it's K through five in
our district K through four. just those are the only grades affected by my by Mimmude V. Taylor. What do you mean by newsletters? Like >> um all of the Bedwell teachers send home like the grade level teachers and I have
to give a shout out because we have so many of them here. And I have to give another shout out because all of this was done again prior to the start of the school year and our teachers did not know about any of this until their first day of PD and they got all of this
together. So I I applaud them for that. They send newsletters home to the parents in their class. They don't all send the same type things home because they really communicate with their families to see what is the best means of communication. Some of them send
things home via email. Some send home print copies, some send home both. Um, so it's really a a two-way communication between teachers and the families in their classroom. For the related arts teachers, say the um the media
specialist who is doing readalouds with different classes and and is really servicing the entire school. Um she does not do newsletters to individual families. her information about the books that she's going to be reading are sent out via the Friday folder, which is
their official means of communication. >> Okay. So, if Miss Smith is teaching a lesson on Wednesday and it brings in um it's not just LGBTQ plus, it's other materials as well. Will she send a letter home
saying on Wednesday we are cover, we are reading the story, we are doing this lesson. What they are out >> what they are doing is first of all anything that's in our curriculum is visible to all at all times. The readalouds that are being sent home are
the things that are not part of the curriculum but are part of what teachers do on a daily basis. They are being sent home in advance and it might look a little bit differently. There's not just a one way like a one answer for um for example a third grade teacher and anyone
who wants to correct me out there you can. um a third grade teacher may be going into the narrative unit of study um in uh writing reading. Uh so they would then send home at the beginning of the unit these are the readalouds that I
will be doing as we enter this um area of study. It may look a little bit um different in some teachers may say you know in the next two weeks these are the books that we're going to be reading. Um
and then parents have an opportunity to say, you know, I'd like my child excused from that book. >> Okay? Because the understanding I have is each and every time. >> So the Supreme Court says whenever, >> which translates into each and every
time >> you have to inform the parents >> and parents are being not like, hey, this is what we're covering this month. It would have to be if it's a monthly thing, then I would assume you would have to be very detailed on what day
lessons are being taught or stories are being >> anytime they have a a a problem with any kind of a book that's being read, the teacher would keep track of, I'm reading that on Wednesday, >> right? So, they give the parents notification. >> They may say to a parent, "This book is being read on Wednesday."
>> But that's what they're going to say there, we're going to be reading these books. If you have an objection to the book, your child can then exit during that time. >> Okay. My understanding is that it's each and every time. So, it's a weekly thing,
monthly. >> I I don't I don't feel the justices were that specific. >> Yeah. Whenever translates into each and every time >> and each time a book is going to be read, you know, if a book is going to be read in a classroom, parents know that
>> and they know the date. Well, they don't need to know the date because >> they do. >> That's what the Supreme Court says. And I know no one agrees with me, but six court justice >> if a book is going to be read and a
child is not there for that book, then they will be taken out of the class for that time. >> But do you get parental notification? I don't want my child in this lesson. >> Yes. Yes. But you're not just solely relying on the teacher's knowledge of it because that's a lot to put on them.
>> Parents are asked to send something to the teacher and the principal if a book that's going to be read is something that they do not want their child exposed to. >> Okay. I'm still confused on that because if you're sending out a monthly newsletter, which is what it is, right?
A monthly newsletter. >> Some of them are doing monthly, some of them are doing weekly. They're not all doing one thing. They're they're communicating with their classes in the way that works for their classroom. >> Well, that's why I think we not I think I know we should have a policy. The
Supreme Court put it on the board to do this, not the administration through >> and there may be a policy at some point, but what we did was, and I think we were really proactive. Policies take a while. Policies go through two readings. What we did was make sure that what the
justices wanted done was done prior to the start of the school year so that parents have that right as soon as school started. >> But they specifically say the board not administration. >> Well, we would have you would have never
the board would have never had anything >> up last month. >> Yes, last month I was told. >> No, it's just you know I was It was in Genesis. The parents clicked on it. >> Well, I mean, we have a very detailed practice in place.
>> That's not what the Supreme Court is saying that we must do. We must form. It's saying the board. So, we must form a policy. Administration has nothing to do with it. And I understand you kind of had to get a heads up on that >> because we couldn't have done a policy
in August >> that quickly. >> Um, but I have more notes on this. >> Can I just Dr. Brochel, could you possibly weigh in on the administrative versus board policy aspect and the way that administration acts on behalf of
the board um very regularly in implementation and policy often follows as was most recently done with our cell phone procedures. >> So essentially absent any policy the administration does act on
behalf of the board on in many many different ways. I think Mimmude Taylor is an example of us interjecting ourselves into the process so we could we could be um in alignment with the Supreme Court justices
um >> temporarily you mean because eventually it falls on the board. >> So at this point what we did was we developed procedures. If those procedures change in the future, then they change in the future. But we did
assert that authority to outline the procedures that we wanted to follow that we felt were inconsistent that that we felt were consistent with the ruling. Um, we vetted that out with legal counsel who were in full agreement with
our approach. And um candidly, I feel like the work that was done, you know, in this area by the administration was a benefit to the board, was a benefit to the families that wanted to have that option and availed them to those
opportunities. Um, in the event that the board is dissatisfied with our approach, um, I would ask that they discuss it with me in committee. >> Okay. It's not that we're unhappy or I'm
unhappy. It's that that's not what we were instructed to do. And you talk a lot about lanes. >> I do. >> And the Supreme Court says the board. So that's our lane. And I understand why you felt the need to make a procedure
because we couldn't do a policy that quickly, but when I brought it up last month, I was met with people yelling at me and saying it's on Genesis and it's on the Friday in the Friday folder. And that's not what they are talking about. They mean each and every time a story
book a lesson that is religious parents find I don't want to say offensive because it's not offensive but I guess to them it's offensive or outside of their religious beliefs. We have to let them know. Well, I think
that for the moment of of clarity here, the administration was uh inquired extensively um by the committee um in committee about this process.
We I felt like we answered um the inquiries from the committee satisfactorily and comprehensively. um absent any further uh policy, this is what we intend to follow. I feel like
we're splitting hairs because there's a comprehensive effort um by the educators here to fully inform the families and I'm concerned that there's a narrative that's inconsistent with that. >> No, you're you're putting words in my
mouth. I never put any blame on the teachers. They have a lot on their plates. No blame on the teachers. That's an unfair assumption. >> No, I I certainly don't want to put words into your mouth, but you know, I if we're having this discussion here,
this is how um it's it's being translated, you know, at my level. >> Okay. Well, let me just continue that because I I just can't >> Can I Oh, I'm sorry. >> I'm sorry. I just I I didn't want to lose this one thought. Um you mentioned
something about any book that that might be objectionable. We have um I am grateful that we have a community that is really filled with religious diversity. We could never assume what someone may or may not object to. That was one of the reasons um that we said
any book that's going to be read, you know, we will tell parents about because we could I would never presume to ask our teachers or or anyone to say, you know, I think people might think this might be objectionable. That's why we're telling them every book that's being read.
>> Well, they are pretty specific with what books >> that's a um we don't have any of the books in Mammud. Those nine books are not in our library. They are not in our curriculum. So, >> have LGBTQ books for >> I'm talking about the nine books that
were in the Mammud decision. >> Yes. But it also fall any any book that is in that topic. It's they're not just speaking about those nine books. I I would not presume to think that. Are you suggesting that anytime a book
that has a maybe a gay character? >> I'm not suggesting it. The Supreme Court >> and that's why we're we're sending all all books home. Parents need to make their own decisions. >> We need to be in compliance when the Supreme Court it doesn't matter that it emanated from one state. Once it's ruled
on by the Supreme Court, it's the law of the land. feel confident we're >> well and I think I think we're in violation of that right now and I can even point out um >> hold on a moment I just I just want to I know that other people want to weigh in but Miss Gills has um was recognized to
speak so she has more >> I can wait if she wants to >> No you want to go ahead >> you wanted to speak >> okay so >> sorry um I know that we have a lawyer here
welcome Welcome. Um, I know that there's going to be a lot of stuff in the newspaper about whether or not we're following policy, which is something that Burdens takes very seriously. Um, I am on the curriculum meeting. I did discuss this with everyone. I think
there might be some um misunderstanding with the narrative that's been going around because I'm hearing a lot from a lot of different people, too. So maybe you can
tell us what the policy is that was handed down from the Supreme Court so the public knows what it is and what is done from other school districts and to follow this and how I feel that we're
going above and beyond in developing policies to um help parents make decisions. isions um as to you know what is appropriate and what is not appropriate for their
child to participate in which is and you know as an educator that's a big deal you know so anyway >> so I just want to understand Miss Gill's point in terms of when you say I think you use the word whatever in the >> they use the word
>> well you you're saying that they use the word whatever and I want to understand what it is that you're trying to today because I am because in terms of how other districts are doing it, this is very new, right? This happened in June, so school just started and so we don't
necessarily know how a bunch of other schools are doing it, how they're handling it. I think that um Summer Hills is handling it the best way that they understand how. So, if you can just explain to me the word the Can you read
to me that portion or >> One second? I got to find that paper. At our September 17th meeting, I raised the question of how this district would comply with the Supreme Court June 2000 June 27th decision in Mimmud v. Taylor.
No procedure was presented, no motion was made, and no no direction was given. Yet, three days later, a district-wide letter went out announcing a new plan invoking our committees and claiming to act on behalf of the board. That action
was never authorized, and that letter is riddled with errors, legal, procedural, and factual. Error number one, the letter limits notice to readalouds, not visible in the curriculum. Quotes, the Supreme Court's injunction says the board the board must give notice
whenever one of the books in question or any other similar book is to be used in any way and allow them to have their children excused from that instruction. Narrowing in any way places this
district out of compliance with a federal injunction. Error number two, the letter relies on parents acknowledgement of an annual genesis form. The court's word was whenever. That means each time a covered work is
used. A one-time blanket form does not meet the standard. So the Genesis thing would not pass muster. Error. Error. Number three. The letter omits the phrase any other similar book. The court deliberately extended its injunction
beyond the specific titles named in the case. Leaving that out misstates the scope of the ruling. Error number four. The letter describes a plan for teachers that was never reviewed or approved by this board. Under NJSA18A
col 11-1 C. Only the board may make, amend, and repeal rules for the government and management of the public schools. No administrator may substitute a plan for >> I'm just going to interrupt for one second. Are do you have the actual section of the Supreme Court ruling that
you're >> I have what I what >> No, but Miss Gills, I'm actually looking for because you're you're quoting something that the Supreme Court said. So, I was looking for the actual wording that the Supreme Court used in order to decipher. >> Well, I'll just finish reading this. Maybe it'll answer that error number
five. The letter cites the August curriculum committee as a source of direction that committees are advisory only. I sit on both policy and curriculum. Neither committee ever reviewed or approved this. And the New Jersey School Boards Association states
in best practices for board policy committees. The main function of the policy committee is to make recommendations to the full board for action on policy. ultimately new or changed policies requires an affirmative vote of the board. Error number six, the
letter claims that procedures are being carried out on behalf of the board that inverts the chain of authority under NJSA18A col17-20. The superintendent acts under rules and regulations prescribed by the state
board and as directed by the board. The board directs the superintendent implements. Error number seven. The letter tells families the district must await NJ DOE guidance before acting. That is wrong. A Supreme Court injunction is binding the moment it is
issued. The NJDOE cannot delay or dilute federal law. Error eight. The superintendent has also said we should wait and see how the case unfolds. The case has already unfolded. It's final. The duty to comply is immediate. And underlying every one of these errors is
the same point. The Supreme Court assigned this duty to the board. The very first word of the injunction is board, not superintendent, not principal, not administration. The board must notify, the board must allow and
the board must act. So I have a simple question. Who reviewed this letter before it was issued? If no one on this board saw it, if no vote was taken, then a single administrator just spoke for a governing body without authority. Therefore, I move that this board
formally resend the superintendent September 20th letter and adopt the following amendment to bring our district into full legal compliance amendment parental notice and opt out procedure pursuant to Mimmude v. Taylor. >> Well, to making an amendment, we have an
open motion right now. So, we're not going to enter in another we're we're not going to open another motion. Um, we have an open motion right now. So, if you're talking about introducing another motion, that has to wait until we finish. >> I I don't think that's what I'm doing,
but you can stop me if that's what you think I'm doing. >> Well, Miss Gills, it seems as if that's what you were trying to do. Um, I was looking for specific language from the Supreme Court that states the whenever because it seems as if you have taken
the Supreme Court language and created your own conjecture. So, that's why I was asking my own. Wait, Miss Skills, I was trying to understand what what you're parsing out from the Supreme Court. That's why I wanted to know what the Supreme Court's language was, not necessarily >> I don't I don't have the case in front
of me. I >> I have dissected that case. >> But you But see, that's the thing. You have dissected it. So, I'm trying to find out what the language that you're talking about. I will look for that supreme that language the whenever and I will have to get back
>> whenever. Whenever. >> Whenever. Right. What did I >> whenever. I think >> I said whenever. Yeah, I was saying whenever. Um, so I'm gonna find that language and then if you can just give me a little bit of time, but I think that there are some others that would like to speak of. If you're not if only
if you're done. No, if you're not done, >> may I have to just interject that there was no letter sent to parents on September 20th? >> No, there there there was a board >> sent to the board. >> So the Sep the September 20th wasn't >> Oh, it didn't go to the parent.
>> No. And I took an effort to clarify that. Thank you because I thought it did. He did mention that and and just I'd like can I jump in too >> or is she still you're still >> No, go ahead. Nicole, go ahead. It's fine. >> Oh, I don't want to cut you off. So, >> don't worry. Go ahead.
>> So, just I mean so this is an just to fill in the board. This is we had discussed this extensively at a meeting. This she's reading from I think majority from an email that you had sent the committee following the meeting. Couple things. We discussed this procedure
extensively in our August meeting. >> Um you were which you were present. >> Yeah. >> So number one that's that you said that we never discussed it before. We had discussed it and you were there >> and I reported it out in our August meeting. >> I think I said we didn't give permit. We didn't >> No, you said we did recently said that
we didn't discuss it. So that is that is incorrect. But more than I don't want to debate interpretations of Mood versus Taylor, but I would like just to make a few points. Um first I'd like to commend Dr. Butler and the administration for taking such a proactive approach to developing such a a robust mechanism for
addressing the its potential implications on the advice of our paid experts in educational law. I applaud them for their leadership and in this area and remember we're taking steps that no other district in the area is has taken to ensure ensure adherence to the ruling. Through this mechanism, we
can recommmit to public education's mission of serving all of our students, including those whose families have deeply held religious beliefs that may object to some elements of our curriculum, while ensuring that students who have have access to materials that diverse identities within our district.
Remember, it's critical that students have the opportunity to see both themselves and others in the materials they read. vast majority of this committee fully supports following the guidance of our legal council whose advice is grounded in law and tailored to the district's responsibilities under New Jersey statutes. It would be inappropriate and risky to substitute
that expertise with the interpretations of an individual board member. Our collective commitment to follow our council's recommendations ensure that the redistric remains compliant and focused on what truly matters, our students. >> Okay, Nicole, you understand this is not my interpretation. No, it seems
>> these are words that come from the Supreme Court. It was a 63 split. It was written by Justice Alo with also Justice Thomas. Dissenting I think was maybe sort of my I can't remember the
dissenting um opinion but but we let me just go through some of the things you said. Okay, you talked about Genesis. It is not allowed a blanket notification like that just through genesis. That is
disallowed by the Supreme Court. >> The Supreme Court says no genesis. >> No blanket notification. Not no genesis. They wouldn't I I would I don't think they would even know about genesis. >> But no blanket notification. >> I don't think the Supreme Court actually
said no blanket notification. >> No blanket notification. I'm in the opinion right now and I'm I don't see >> you're reading the whole case right now. >> I'm concerned to read it and like >> I'm but I'm literally searching no
blanket and it's saying zero. >> Okay. I I think you need to like maybe >> No, I'm the whole case. >> I'm looking at the slip opinion right now. >> Whatever. >> I Okay. >> Um no blanket notification. Um note here you wrote that. Do you have it in? Do
you have >> I don't have that. >> Okay. So, >> I brought my notes. NJ DOE has provided no guidance. We do not need guidance from the NJ DOE. This is coming from the Supreme Court of the United States.
It it supersedes anything. Um although one member believed the district needed to be more proactive, that one member was me along with six Supreme Court justices, including um Justice Roberts. First, we may no longer be compliant
with state mandates regarding diversity and inclusion. The sup the Supreme Court rulings supersede state laws. So if a state law >> can I ask can I ask you what it is you are exactly looking
>> we need to make a policy. >> Okay. So that >> so you want the board to make a policy. >> I don't want the board to make a policy. >> I'm saying based on everything that you've read you're saying that the Supreme Court has said that the board should make a policy. >> They name specifically the board.
>> Okay. And so a policy cannot be created tonight. >> Right. I understand that. So, so in this particular >> moment, I'm asking you what is it that you're looking to do >> that we start working on a policy because we are
we are in comp we're not in compliance. We definitely are not in compliance. It falls on the board. >> Okay. So, my question No, no, that's not my opinion. The board is in there. My question is right now in this present moment, what are you asking the board to
do? >> That we start forming a policy >> in this present moment. >> Well, I'm putting it in the bucket. >> Okay. >> That we talk about it. >> Okay. >> But I don't I mean, I was shut down at that last meeting with three people yelling at me,
>> okay, >> about a Supreme Court ruling I have nothing to do with. I didn't rule on this, >> but we need to be compliant. And when I read things like we have to ask the NJ DOE for guidance, no we don't.
>> And when and when it says if it conflicts with state law, the Supreme Court supersedes state law when there is a conflict. I mean, if we were in 1861, most of you would be fighting for the Confederacy, thinking that states do
things. >> So, Miss Gills. So, Miss Gills, Miss Gills, >> I'm sorry, >> Miss Gills >> to everyone there. >> I'm sorry that was >> there's no everybody for decorum of the meeting. There's there's no >> the basis of the civil war the state
rights or Miss Gills. Miss Gills, >> I'd like to call the question >> supreme the state rights. >> Okay. Miss Sancho is calling a point of order. What is your point of order? >> Incorrect. Yes, because we're still arguing about
state laws, but when a >> Wait a minute. Ruling has to >> I I can't finish that thought. >> That's because there's a point of order on the table and that goes directly to the chair in conference with the attorney. Every all discussion stops when a point of order is made. So a point of order is made, the chair has to
give a ruling on the point of order. That is done in conjunction with the attorney that is sitting next to me. So Miss Santoro is asking for a point discussion to what our agenda items are for But it is in curriculum. >> You're speaking about You're speaking about the civil war and I don't think that's a problem.
>> No, but the civil war was about state rights over federal rights. That's not the basis of the civil war and what you're talking about. Does it conflict with state? I would like to make I would like to make >> if it does excuse there is a point of miss you have to stop speaking. There is
a point of order on the table and nobody else can engage in discussion until the point of order is ruled on. So in conference with the attorney right now she is trying to explain that speaking about states rights versus federal rights the confederacy that none of that has to do with matters before the board
as the chair and I am going to look to Megan to confirm because I I will not just unilaterally make this assertion but that those matters do not pertain to any of our present curriculum discussions and I would like to rule
that that discussion needs to come to an end >> but it's in the curriculum report >> but matters the ma matters related to the confederacy and states rights are not in the curriculum report >> okay but state rights is mentioned we have to see if it doesn't conflict and
it makes no difference if it conflicts the federal law >> I am clarify something I want to bring the discussion >> to curriculum it curricular items that are on our agenda for
So the agenda is showing action items one through five. >> Yes. And that that that is a reasonable request. >> I mean I can address it here or I can address it as a public citizen private citizen if you prefer.
>> You you you are w if if at some point you would like to make a a statement as a member of the public that is absolutely >> we are in violation of this ruling. >> Okay. >> And no one seems worried about the skills. It's not that nobody is worried about it. Everybody is working very hard to make sure that we are in compliance.
The question that I have posed to you right now is what do you want to do about it tonight? There's nothing that can be done about it tonight and a mo a motion a point of order has been made. So, we're trying to go back to the agenda so that we can finish the
business that's here. >> Okay. I want to discuss at the next committee meeting without screaming, without yelling, without saying that the state's laws. >> Okay, we don't need >> Okay, I don't even know why
>> is going to go on which I would believe would be the policy agenda. >> Yes, >> I would like to request that our attorneys be present for discussion during that committee. I I would also like to say that is not the recommend that's the re uh the the committee
curriculum committee recommends against moving this to the policy committee. >> I'm sorry. Can you say that again? >> The curriculum committee recommends against moving this to the policy committee for discussion. >> Do you want to keep it in curriculum meeting? >> No, we don't we've already discussed it at two different meetings. I think we've the the majority of the committee is is
is >> I would also like to make a clarifying clarifying point here. Um and the the full board can weigh in on this as the majority is who makes these recommendations is we have not to the point that Megan has made many times.
This isn't a there's a Supreme Court ruling, but legal entities are still trying to catch up with the implications and implementation in New Jersey schools. We employ a legal policy writing firm. they
are still working to understand the implications of this ruling and how to implement proper policy and develop a framework. So for us as lay people, none of us who have argued before the Supreme Court, the rest of us except maybe Miss Ballard are not admitted to the bar. Um
none none of us have that level of understanding to start engaging in policy writing that will be in the type of compliance that you are asserting with the Supreme Court ruling. So until the entities that we employ give us the framework for how they
interpret which is their this is entire function and job I do not see any purpose in this going to the policy committee until we receive that information because there is no one sitting at this table that is qualified to write that policy right now
>> but we get the policies from Strauss estr and then we tailor >> it hasn't been developed yet that's my point they have not put anything out there is no framework There's no structure. Everybody is still working to catch up. This came out in June. Bush immediately immediately put out their
guidance as far as that Supreme Court ruling went. Our district went so far as to immediately implement their suggestions. And to clarify further, the administration, almost monthly, weekly
puts processes out on behalf of the board. The board does develop policy, but the administration implements processes all the time. And yes, we are the policy we are the the policymaking body, but they act on our behalf with great regularity. And they have done so
in an expeditious comprehensive manner. And I do not I I I would like to put it to the board. Would they like it to go back to policy before we receive legal framework from Strauss as >> my recommendation to the board um is to understand that I interact uh often
multiple times a week with your policy adviserss and I will assure you that when they release uh something that certainly the entirety of the board will be availed to that. >> Are we pushing for it though? Are we asking Strauss Esme for a policy? So, I
have a unique way of uh speaking with folks down there and I would say yes. Um I've been clear. They've been clear as well on their position on um where they are. Uh and the be the best I can say to you in the entirety of the board is that
they are actively working on it. >> Okay. And I just another point I just wanted to like when you when this is written that says we have to consult with NJ DOE or see if it conflicts with state law it makes no matter when it
comes from the Supreme Court. We have to implement it even if it conflicts with the state law. And a lot on this board don't like that. They want to go with state law over federal. That's not how it works. It's the supremacy clause.
federal supersedes state if there's a >> we're wandering into territory again that has >> well it's mentioned in the report >> um so we're wandering into territory again that has nothing to do with the matters before us um Mr. Baker I think I
heard something >> I'd like to call the question please >> okay uh Mr. Baker has asked to call the question can I get a second on that Miss Ry and I'm going to need roll call on that Mr. Lorig >> Mr. Baker. >> Yes. >> Miss Ballard. >> Yes. >> Miss Clark Emory. >> Yes. >> Miss Cooper.
>> Yes. >> Miss Gills. >> Yes. >> Miss Gomez. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Hoppy. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Santoro. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Ry. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Brenda. >> Yes. >> Okay. Thank you. So that ends discussion related to the policy and person policy. I'm >> very sorry. I just wanted to say before
we >> please I just want >> you can't it's a Holly. It's a it's a procedural it's a Robert's rules procedural thing. there can't be any more discussion related to the curriculum matter. I said policy because we were yapping about policy but it's actually the curriculum. So the the that
the question has been voted on and now we need to take roll call for the open motion for curriculum please >> on action items one through five. Miss Clark Emory. >> Yes. >> Miss Cooper, >> yes. >> Miss Gills, >> yes. >> Mrs. Gomez, >> yes. >> Mrs. Hoppy,
>> yes. >> Mrs. Santoro, yes. Mrs. Ry, >> yes. >> Mr. Baker, >> yes. Miss Ballard. >> Yes. >> And Mrs. Frenda. >> Yes. >> Okay. Thank you very much. >> Uh personnel. Miss Ballard. >> Thank you, Miss Brenda. Um the personnel
committee met on September 30th. Um the entire committee was in attendance. The meeting began at approximately 6:15 p.m. Uh some of the issues that we discussed have already been covered. So I'll just briefly uh run through them.
Uh the math lab is being reinstated as previously discussed. We went over pending leave of absence requests. Um we discussed the direct director of operations stipend for the role of custodial employment. Again this has been addressed. Um but this the story is
the stipen was never continued in the budget. So this is a correction. Uh Dr. Brochel proposed a change in the procedure for the evaluation of the superintendent of schools. Um Dr. Brochel will give us updates in October and January in executive session and
indeed that happened. Um all relevant in info will be uploaded to the schoolboard site early which would give board members five weeks to complete the evaluation. Uh the goal for us is to eliminate the need for special meetings. Um a committee member mentioned the
possibility of using alternative evaluations and that is something that we can investigate. Uh the only requirement of this particular statute is that the evaluation will be completed by June 30th, 2025. And that concludes my report.
>> Okay. Thank you very much. Then at this time, I would like to ask for a motion to approve action items number 1 through 18 on the agenda. Can I have a motion, please? Miss Ballard, and second, Mr. Baker. And is there any discussion related to personnel? >> Can I ask something? >> Oh, yeah. Yeah. Yeah.
>> I'm sorry. So uh personnel is like um I'm just regarding the question about the >> we can't discuss specific matters related to personnel. Yeah. >> Okay. >> Anybody else? >> Nope. Okay. Mr. Lori, roll call, please. >> Miss Cooper,
>> yes. >> Miss Gills, >> yes. >> Mrs. Gomez, >> yes. >> Mrs. Hoppy, >> yes. >> Mrs. Santoro, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ry, >> yes. >> Mr. Baker, >> yes. >> Miss Ballard, yes. >> Miss Clark Emory, >> yes. >> Mrs. Frenda, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> Okay. And my apologies um things got a
little jangled. I did not ask for old and new business for curriculum. So at this time I would ask if anybody has any items for old and new business for curriculum and or personnel for future agendas. Yes. >> Just uh regarding the math lab and um you know this is has been a conversation
with Ben Mister right that they are always concerned that we have different um criteria and and placement. So my question is in the math lab for example one is how do they communicate um to the students or parents and if it's only for
support like for people that are behind or if someone was to advance you know like if um if there you know someone that says oh you know what I I would like to go to geometry or to any other thing is that the possibility
>> it's really designed for students who are struggling in whatever class they are currently taking. >> So, if it's something that they're um or not even just struggling, but have questions about the current course that they're taking, not like a course that they would like to take that they're trying to get ready for.
>> Thanks. It's extra help. >> Yes. >> Okay. And is there anything new or old for personnel? >> But wait, didn't Holly want to say something for curriculum? >> If it's not new or old, if she wants to add something for new or old business, but the discussion for curriculum,
>> right? I think she wanted to say something So yes, if it is something for new or old business, that's what we're that's where we are right now. >> Okay. >> Oh, you can you can say thank you. >> Thanks. I just um before I just wanted
to say without the meeting going by to say thank you to Dr. Butler and the administration, the teachers for working so hard on the policy. Um I think it's it's really important what was stated about
and I will just read it. Making it less likely that the district follows the core principle on childhood education of windows and mirrors. Children must be able to see themselves and others in the books they read. >> Okay. Thank you. Is there anything else for new or old
business? >> Nope. Okay, then policy take it away. >> All right. Um regulation discussion of policy 5460 high school graduation was carried to the next meeting. Uh
regulations on second reading was 55 516 which is the use of electronic communication devices. Um a health concern was raised in read the fells. All the phones in and out seems like they may get dirty, spread germs. Maybe wipes could be provided. Um 5511 dress
and grooming. Concern was raised once again about uneven application of regulation between girls and boys. Concern also raised about possible push back from parents. It was noted that now the handbooks and the regulations match. We followed that with the board bylaw
discussion. The option of changing from our current operation as a board of committees to a committee of the whole was presented. This is an extension of last month's discussion of how board meetings are working for board members. Committee of the whole would involve eleation of individual committees and
add a second public meeting. All the committee work would be done in public with all the members present. The committee of the whole meeting work session would be held in public. The board would work their way through every committee. Typically, no votes are held. Voting would take place in the regular
public meeting. Dr. Brochel offered the following. Adult volunteers have a shelf life. As it is, the committees are robust and comprehensive. Administration can dive in. Meetings and discussions can be in depth. As for the committee of the whole, committees meet one after another. Interest in discussions can
Wayne after several committee meetings. By necessity, committee meetings are shorter on the committee of the whole. Plus is that everyone hears the same messages and engaged at the same time. Possible results. Members know less. Administration may provide less information, won't be as robust, may not
have time to provide appropriate context. uh work sessions in public committees typ typically meet for one hour each. So we're talking about a long session. Currently our committee structure is strong. Committee reports are thorough and well done. Um Dr.
Brochel concluded that not one one is not better than the other. They are just different. The committee discussed this. Uh these are the following points that were raised. Uh this could help work stay focused without us drifting into administrative issues. Um maybe everyone
in the board in one room has value. Sometimes we need to sit through information twice, may move faster, may not be able to address all issues, may keep us from taking a deep dive would lose the multi-layered approach within the committee. The committee recommends
a discussion by the wider boy board at some point. We then moved on to the civility policy. We looked at a modified policy by stra as provided by Dr. Broch only to kickstart the process. He did not weigh in as it is a board governance
matter. So the onus is on the board to create policy. We discussed sorry page uh how do we conduct ourselves and what our expectations for the meeting. Um and
these are some of the points. Speaking from an operational perspective, adhering to proper procedure and protocol, holding every individual accountable. Uh the board meetings in public are governed by parliamentary procedure. But currently there is no
equivalent mechanism in committee meetings. Um apply our board norms in committee. Stay focused on board topics. Don't put admins in position of managing acting as referee for board meetings. Becomes tenuous for administration.
better to manage personal struggles and differentiate between that and board members, public officials. Issue of perception. We have a collective responsibility to monitor each other. Um to be in agreement and abide with each other, no
lies, no threats, importance of words, being extraordinary uh extraordinarily careful of words that may have a loaded meaning. Um and we left with the question, is there a structured way to handle those things? Um and this dis discussion will have to
be continued. Um we moved on one again once again to policy 5756. Um as we do not conduct new committee business via email, some issues raised in an email after the last meeting remain to be addressed. Uh there was a
discussion about transitioning. There seemed to be confusion as to the role of doctors associated with the school district and interactions with students. Dr. Brochel stated multiple times and with great clarity that there is never a circumstance in which transitioning
would be suggested or facilitated. It does not and would never happen. The role of the district is to create healthy and safe environment for folks who identify as transgender. The school is guided by a memorandum of agreement with the police department, starting
with in-house professionals before calling home, a need to stabilize before engaging other parties. The policy is followed to a tea. Again, there is no facilitation of conversations between a child and a medical doctor. If a student combines in an adult, they are asked
questions such as, "What facilities do you want to use? Are your friends, teachers, parents aware?" If they don't want to tell their parents, the student is advised to think about talking to their parents. If a student provides an adult and says they are okay, there is no further action taken. Flexibility is
part of the policy. The goal is to get all parties to work from a safe place. Guidance is based on the policy which is based on the New Jersey law against discrimination. The guidance is informed from the law. The policy is informed from the guidance. SHSD follows the law.
SHSD follows the policy. Sylvia expressed her view that she believes it is dishonest not to share this information with a parent. She also suggested that a template be created for distinguishing between elementary, middle school, and high school students as there are many variables between age
groups. There are no such carveouts in the law against discrimination. These changes would effectively make SHSD a district that ignores the lad. Sylvia also asked how students who utilize chosen names over legal names appear in Genesis. Dr. Brochel clarified that
discussion further in a follow-up email. Some of the key points as well as information in reference to parental considerations are shared here. Parental considerations. The following are circumstances where the parents will know about their children's transgender
status. When the child discloses it to a parent. When parents lock into Genesis, if the child has requested to be referred to by a different name at school. When a child who is transgender in is subject to a risk assessment conducted by the risk assessment team,
parents would be notified of the risk assessment and any further actions determined by the discret. During that process, it may be disclosed that the child is transgender. Notably, if the nature of the I'm sorry, that's a continuation of the sentence. Notably, if the nature of the referral
is directly correlated to the students status as an individual who identifies as a transgend as as transgender, I'm sorry. The administration adheres to the policy established by the board for transgender students and makes every effort to ensure its accurate and consistent application. If the language
ever changes, either through board action or outcomes from well settled litigation that informs board action, we will certainly respond accordingly to ensure compliance with the board's policy. The meeting ended at approximately 900 p.m.
>> Thank you, Miss Ballard. Um, so then at this time I would like to ask for a motion to approve action item number one on the agenda. Miss Gills, in a second. Miss Hoppy, it's hard to see you over there. Okay. Is there any discussion related to policy?
>> I have a few things very quickly. Um, L prohibits blanket notification, but it does not prohibit a more comprehensive policy. So, that's incorrect. Um, and guidance was just that guidance. The
only law falls under L, which means we cannot do blanket notification like I wanted. You cannot. We are not allowed to do it. But we you can tailor the policy. That is not um prohibited by law. That's all.
>> Can I um just to clarify what I believe you're asking based upon what you shared with the committee. You believe strongly that there should be a procedure for an elementary child and then a potentially
a different procedure for secondary. And it would be good, it would be good if it was more detailed. So even if students read it, they would get a clear understanding of what's step one, what's step two, what's what is step three and
and are we ever bringing a child to a psychiatrist because you've kind of gone back and forth on that. I know at one meeting you said >> so I'll be careful about that. >> That is absolutely >> you cannot you cannot attest to things
that did not happen that Dr. that's that's you're making evaluative comments about him right now. You can >> No, I'm not. I'm this happened in committee. >> You're saying but you're saying he's gone back and forth on it and that is >> I give you the example what Heather you remember when you were surprised about medical and I said yes medical and I
said Dr. Brochel and he said to you medical that was in committee and then it turned into no just a psychiatrist but that's an MD2. So, you're saying no child would see an psychiatrist without parental notification?
>> Sure. >> Okay. I have never under the impression that we are providing any form of medical services to our students. That has never
been my not once. So I I do not want that completed in any way, shape or form. I have never believed that. I think the district has been extremely clear how this policy is implemented and it has
been consistent for the three years that we have been discussing now. It has never changed and it is implemented with fidelity to the policy which the polic to the law which keeps the school
district in compiance and where we need to be but most importantly it protects children >> Heather you don't remember September 11th curriculum when you said medical and I'm like yes medical and Dr. Brochel confirmed that
>> you're hanging on a word I don't >> you were surprised that it was medical you were surprised >> because you were under the impression We're okay. We're not we're not going to go back and forth. Miss Santo is attesting to what she did or didn't say. We are not going to go back and forth on
what people said or didn't say. Um nor are we going to make unprovable assertions about things that were said by um our superintendent. So um if there is anything else, >> I have some things to say. >> Yeah. Um I just I'm just going to start
with first of all I want to thank the policy committee for considering the items I requested at at the last meeting um in uh in policy. But I just have a couple of other comments. First I want to start with what I'm most alarmed by and I am just flabbergasted by the
indication that a board member suggested that the district or the doctors hired by the district would suggest or facilitate gender transitioning. Our as as Heather said, our schools do not and legally cannot facilitate, support, or suggest any student's medical transition. As we know, medical trans
care decisions, including those related to gender identity, are made by families and licensed healthcare providers, not by teachers or administrators. The district's responsibility is to ensure that all students are treated with dignity and respect in accordance with New Jersey's law against discrimination and department of education guidelines.
Supporting a student's right to feel safe and uh and respected at school is not the same as endorsing or directing medical choices. It's simply complying with the law and fulfilling our duty as a district. If a board member truly believe that the district is facilitating a gender transition, then this concern should be raised,
documented, and addressed immediately given that this is a clear violation of the district's authority instead of being discussed in committee. I'm also deeply concerned by the suggestion in itself. It feeds public distrust and con conspiracy conspiracy narratives about schools overstepping parental roles or
keeping secrets from parents. It undermines educators prof professionalism and subjects them to unwarranted suspicion. And it distracts from the board and administration's legitimate responsibilities. It might even show the district's ability to provide support to our uh LGBTQ
students, which is highly concerning. I'd also like to talk a little bit about uh the discussion of 5756. Um I like the majority of the policy committee and the board fully support 5756 and have fully supported the policy
since its original adoption. However, I disagree with the decision to discuss it again in committee at the last meeting. I believe the decision to discuss it yet again without any change in in the law or the operations of the district deeply undermines the power of the majority of our board, the will of the board, and this board's commitment to its
established norms. I also worry that continually revisiting this policy could make our transgender community feel less safe, especially if students perceive that their rights are up for negotiation at every meeting. It also sets a bad precedent and could erode public trust in the functioning of the board, especially if the public feels that one
member can dictate the agenda against the will of the majority. More importantly, continually revisiting settled topics can distract from our other priorities such as improving student achievement. Um, I recognize that the curriculum committee did re revisit our opt out policy at this meeting month's meeting
as well. So, I know that the policy committee is not alone in this practice. I just encourage committees in the future to avoid the continual relitigation of settled topics. We can do better than this. >> Okay. I would like to address that. The only reason >> Wait, wait a minute. Wait a minute. I need to find out if there's anybody else
that has something to say regarding policy. >> Yeah, >> I totally understand everything. But um one thing I I always think is very important the communication with parents. So just this fact to see the um about the genesis, right? like if they
log in and they can see a different name. That's my only concern, right? Like that will be I mean and it's different each each age but I would love that um communication that's all like before you go and to log in and it's like the same if I see a 6.0 in the in
the C right in a grade and like how is the I'm the last one to know like I would like to hey just your you know your son is going downhill in this grade. So that's my thing in that um in
that in those notes, you know. So but >> just to uh speak to that, the policy does offer um those discussions to take place between a school official and a child. Um, specifically the board's
policy speaks to um I think the wording is inadvertent or unintentional um disclosure. Uh so as an example, you these are things that and I'm sort of mimicking like you're a child like these
are things that you have to be aware of if you if this is your intended name change. This is and and this is what you want to be referred to. this is what um that would mean as far as like Genesis as an example. So there are discussions
um where the child is is what is fully informed of that. Um but certainly you know our policies on our website um you know and and the board has elected to to bake those accommodations in between a school official and a child so there is
an awareness. Um so >> no thank I I just want to to make that like for me it's always I want that the community right and I want them to feel safe of course but yeah that was my only
I'm always trying to be included >> Dr. I just wanted to um say something uh briefly. One of the best parts of my job is being in schools. Um it's where I'm the happiest. I I go there as often as I can
and I've been here a long time so and I'm you know from New Jersey. So I spend a lot of time saying to our staff and our kids you know how are you doing? Um, recently I have heard from some of our staff members that they're worried about
their colleagues and their students in light of some discussions at our meetings. Um, knowing the members, every one of the members that sit on this board, I can assure them when they say that to me that every single person on this board cares deeply about our staff
and our students and cares about their dignity and their sense of belonging. I know when Dr. Brochial says all means all, he means it and so does the board. So, first I hope that we can as a group convey that to our staff and our students and all of our listeners. We
have a lot of listeners out there who um really are listening to these words. It also made me think that when we report out on testing data, there are subgroups that we cannot report out on because the number of students in that subgroup is so small that we would risk identifying them and the state withholds public
reporting for privacy reasons. I would posit that the same may be true when we talk about our trans students. Um, which we do often. In 2024, estimates for the transgender population in the United States by the USA facts report suggest
less than 1% of adults identify as transgender. Other surveys like the one from the Williams Institute estimate the transgender population is about6% of Americans aed 13 and older. Over the years, I have spoken to parents of some of our trans kids. And and I'm talking
kids. I'm not talking about numbers here. Um I would say that overall they are on a journey that they never expected to be on and a journey that they might not have chosen for their child, but they love their child. They know their child and they know what they think is best for their child and they
expect that we will care for the child they send to us each day. I think continually talking about this very small subset of our kids um it it puts them and their families in a position that could be harmful especially given
that their journey is already probably challenging. So um you know I just wanted to kind of speak to our LGBTQ plus kids and their families and tell
them you are supportive. Thank you. Is there anybody else? >> Yes, >> I agree with you, Dr. Butler. I think having these transgendered students that is cannot be an easy path to travel.
That's why I think involving the parents is helpful if there's no abuse on the end of the parents. The only reason it's brought up today is because last month I was asked not to speak on it and I confirmed that in an email that I would
not speak on it last month and then it was brought up anyway. That's the only reason it's being mentioned again. That's it. I understand the LA does not allow blanket notification. I also don't agree that we don't keep secrets because we do
even if it's just for a few weeks or a few months. We do keep secrets and I just want to make sure Dr. Brochel do any of the students ever can they see a psychiatrist without you informing the parents.
So >> because that's the medical that you said >> if there is a child >> that is at risk of self harm um of
anything that would require the our internal assessment team to to initially intervene. We would then make a determination as to the next step. If there was a reason that they were
going to hurt themselves, um, as an example, >> you have to tell we would engage a team. That's when we would engage a team. >> What do you mean a So like if a >> So a risk assessment team. Okay.
If I could add to that, if I could add to that, >> call the parent procedures in place, >> right? Because if they're presenting as suicidal, then you have to call the parents. >> But if they're not presenting and they're just happy as can be in their new gender
>> and they're just hesitant to tell their parents, um, because I I do believe these kids when they transition are happy. They're finally their authentic selves. But do they ever get to a part point where you are having them treated by a
psychiatrist not because they're suicidal because you would involve the parents immediately by policy. Um is there ever a point that they would get to a psychiatrist level with no parental notification. >> So doing some reflective listening in
your hypothetical you are asking >> if a child is placed in front of a psychiatrist or a medical doctor. Yes. >> When there is no presenting concern for their safety. >> That's your question. >> Yes. >> No.
>> Okay. Thank you. >> I I would just add to um PASS is is a an organization that we use. It's the um psychiatric emergency services. Um if we have a student that um is in immediate
risk and needs to be screened by PES, the parent has to come here >> from the suicide policy, right? like triggers it. >> I mean pest themselves would never see a child without the parent being present. >> Well, right because the suicide policy then comes in.
>> Well, I mean that's also pessarm, >> right? No, you have to tell the parents then. >> Um I just wish that we could do a framework especially for the older kids who might look at this policy and see what the steps are. But if if you guys
aren't on it, that's fine. >> Well, wouldn't special education and the guidance counselor be aware of the guidance department know the steps and which they would take and then they would talk to the teach like there is >> the the policy allows for everything to
be done on a completely individualized >> in the school. So I guess Yeah. >> So again, why this is being talked about under policy 5756 specifically is a mystery to me. We're
talking about this again. We have talked about it for three years. Nothing has changed. The district's approach hasn't changed firmly standing discussion on this is unfair to our transgender students and families. And I
firmly stand that needs unless the majority of the board disagrees with me. It means to stop at this point until there are changes that would warrant another conversation as >> you know I'm not really good at Rogers
Roberts or so this is my question to you is there a way that the board can vote tonight to say as it seems the majority of us do that we are perfectly fine with
that policy and that we in fact support it. >> I just conceded that. >> So So what what can h >> what can happen is when we wrap when we after we conduct this vote if someone
were so inclined they could make a motion to affirm that this board affirms policy 5756 in in its present form. a roll call could be taken that would be that would uh that would that that would end you
know any controversy over where the board stands on it >> this ballot >> uh spoiler alert I intend to do that and the other thing I would like to say and Sylvia I am not debating this with you >> you were never requested not to speak
and in my most generous analysis of that I can say it's a misunderstanding but you were never directed not to speak in the email. >> No, we're not doing back and forth. >> We're not We're not doing back and forth. Miss Miss Ballard is making a statement. Mr. Baker,
>> like to call the question. >> Okay. Thank you very much. Um, we need a second on calling the question. Miss Hoppy. Okay. And we need a roll call. Mr. Corey. >> Mr. Baker. >> Yes. >> Miss B. >> Yes. >> Miss Clark.
>> Yes. >> Miss Cooper. >> Yes. >> Miss. >> Yes. Mrs. Gomez. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Mrs. Santoro. >> Mrs. Ry. >> Yes. >> Mrs. >> Yes. >> Okay. And now we can take roll call on um policy item number one.
>> Miss Gills. >> Yes. >> I do have a question in that one. Can I >> policy 15? >> We end we just we ended discussion. >> Okay. So I mean yes. Okay. We we that
was the vote was to end discussion on policy. Um >> Mrs. >> Mrs. Santoro, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ry, >> yes. >> Mr. Baker, >> yes. >> Miss Ballard, >> yes. >> Miss Clark, >> yes. >> Miss Cooper, >> yes. >> Mrs.
Okay. Thank you very much. Is there anybody that has anything for new or old business? Miss Ballard. >> I would like to make a motion to affirm policy 5756. >> Okay. Is there a second? Okay, Mr. Agory, do you have that?
>> Okay. And can you do roll call on that? >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Mooper, >> yes. >> M. >> No. >> Mrs. Gomez, >> I abstain. >> Mrs. Mrs. >> Mrs.
>> Yes. >> Okay. Thank you very much. [Applause] And while student service, is there anything for old or new business? My apologies for policy.
>> If it's for the policy, I just wanted to um like the way is written. >> That's okay. >> Like uh the dress and grooming, >> I think like the ele in the part that it says elementary dress code, I like like it's on bullet points, >> but then when you go to middle school or high school, it's like two bullet points
and then all is a paragraph. So I think >> yeah that's a formatting thing we can certainly >> because I think it's easier for high school to say okay no they say we can use the other things >> we can abs that yeah we can absolutely update formatting and just reapprove it. Yeah thanks >> um >> okay yeah
>> having taught middle school for a long time um I know that the policies need to be slightly different between elementary, middle and high school. >> Are you speaking to a specific policy? Um the dress code, excuse me, I'm sorry.
>> Um I do know um as a woman that I've had male teachers ask me to speak to females because they feel very uncomfortable speaking to them and I don't blame. And
so when we talk sometimes about unequal um how do I want to say sometimes I have problems with words um >> application >> discourse on it application you know that's what it comes down to a
lot of the time and I know we all know this and I know everybody who's listening knows this um policies are are wonderful Um but they also require
um not only um the school's implementation of them but also um parental uh cooperation with them. >> Okay. >> Thank you. I have to say I agree with her and the only thing that worries me about the dress code is that I think
females will probably be dress coded more because if you look at what they're wear like the items they're not allowed to wear. You don't usually see a guy in a cut off shirt or a deep V. So my fear
is that the dress code isn't going to be fair to the females. But I don't really know how to rectify that. >> Well, you know, we just we just >> updated this. So, we're going to wait. We're Yeah, we're going, you know, out to see, you know, our building level
administration is aware of the changes and how they will um implement it with fidelity. Um, student services had no meeting and no action items. However, Dr. Burchil very kindly teed up the calendar discussion.
So, if everybody should have copies of the Oh yeah, yeah, yeah. I'm sorry. Yeah, but um yeah, yeah, yeah. So, there will be discussion regarding um the calendar, right? >> But there's no report. >> Correct. I would just say um Dr. Bush
detail on the calendar. We discussed, you know, the behind the calendar. >> Well, you want me to make the motion first so that we can have discussion? >> Okay. I was just saying that there was no report. Okay. So, I just need a motion to
approve action items number one through three on the agenda. >> Miss Cooper and a second. Miss Santoro. Thank you. And now discussion. >> Okay. I'll just jump in for a second because Dr. Gave a lot of detail. You guys
will be putting them on is the plan correct Dr. Bush over next month to be app. So now is the opportunity to have any more discussion around if there's any comments. >> Yeah. Miss comments.
>> So So my concern of course as the bed representative is um that that will you know it can be conflicted with uh with many um with with our students the parents that have kids on high school and on the on elementary and middle
school. um because it changes a lot. So I don't you know like B minister is not so um I don't agree so much to that calendar change. So I just want to express that because it's the >> yeah um to that point I did have
extensive uh conversations with um Miss G and uh many of her requests were honored in the calendar. Um the start date was not um but many of the other requests were honored and and frankly
made sense. Um and the one ask I have with Bedminster is I know that with professional development oftent times you tend to bring in presenters and speakers whereas Somerset Hills tends to um do it internally. Um I I'd like to
see an internal movement or consideration in Bedminster so there could be alignment uh amongst the grade levels and particularly as we're talking about the transition up to high school too. Um that way um some folks from Bedminster and Somerset Hills can um
have greater level of connectivity. >> Super. >> I just wanted to thank Dr. Dr. Butler and the administration for putting in so much uh time and effort and thought into these calendars. It is really meets the priorities of our board and or of me
personally and of our board discussions and um very happy with it. So, thank you very much. I'm really excited that we're finally able to start just a little bit earlier for for the benefit of our students. >> Um I think for my clarification, which I've asked before, maybe it would be
helpful for the just to briefly explain why we want to shift the calendar to before Labor Day so that you know more people might Oh, okay. >> So, we've been discussing this over the course of the last several months in
committee and getting reported out here in the public that you know really we're looking to obtain the most amount of instructional time for our students prior to the
test. Um it also so that just in and of itself benefits our students in third grade we start testing at a defined date by the state there's no I
mean there might have groups of students that it also provides benefits to such as seniors As um college applications move earlier, it gives them more time with their guidance
counselors in advance of that which they have to have because our guidance counselors only amount of time over the summer. So um for the most part, seniors can't have access to guidance until school returns.
So those are the two general reasons we felt that um the additional instructional time for our students um as well as some specific benefits for certain groups of students is what we're looking for. And um you know this is
this is being done by districts throughout New Jersey. We're seeing more and more um districts begin before Labor Day within the nation. New Jersey is one of five states left that starts after Labor
Day. Um you know, so I think that there's a move to this in general, but really to boil it down and give our kids more time with their teachers in the classroom. Sorry. Yes. I mean I think that's a big one and like some of the those testing
you know some of the other states have a full month more of instructional time before before these these AP tests and other you know similar tests. And I think this would just give our especially our high school students who may already a lot of whom are already
back doing sports and um you know just a little more time with their teachers. But just clarify this is not with only high school students in mind. This is this is for the totality of our student population to increase instructional time to the greatest extent possible.
>> Okay. Is there anybody else? >> And and I will just note I'm sorry. That's why we're making a shift in the calendar. We're not adding additional days, you know, we're just shifting it earlier. >> Okay. Anybody else?
>> Sorry. One more question. Sorry. The spring break is is going to be now different also like Bister. That's right. >> Uh well to my knowledge you haven't created your calendar yet. >> Yes. >> So you can always you can always match it. >> I like it.
>> Thank you. >> Thank you sir. >> Okay. Anybody else? Okay. Then roll call, please. >> Mrs. Gomez. I abate >> Mrs. Hoppy.
>> Yes. >> Mrs. Santoro, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ry, >> yes. >> Mr. Baker, >> yes. >> Miss Ballard, >> yes. >> Miss Clark Emory, >> yes. >> Miss Cooper, >> yes. >> Miss Gills, >> yes. >> Mrs. Frenda, >> yes. >> Okay, moving on to board announcements. The views and opinions that are may be
expressed by individual members of the Somerset Hills Board of Education during board announcements are solely those of the individual board members and do not reflect the views, opinions, policies, regulations, andor positions of the Somerset Hills Board of Education andor any other individual members of the board. Does anybody have anything for
board announcements? >> Nope. >> Oh, wait. I do. I do. First of all, I think Dr. Brochel's idea about two meetings a month is very good to talk about committee and the public. And thank you, Dr. Butler, we're always appreciative of you, not just this month.
>> Okay. Anybody else? >> Can I just say thank you to all of you keeping me in the loop with my knee replacement? Thank you very much. Um, you know, I I was concerned that I would
be missing out on a lot of information and you guys just really were helpful and very kind to me also when I left and I thank you very much. Yeah, it's nice to be back. >> We're glad to have you back and walking
well. >> I will say it's nice to know that you know Dr. We are here. >> Oh my god. Oh, thank you. I do appcate. >> Okay. Anybody else?
Okay. Then we are going to move on to public comments. Forgive the speed with which I'm reading. I'm just trying to move it along. Public comments are welcome at this time on any topic. Please state your name and address. Comments are limited to three minutes. At three minutes, you'll be interrupted and asked to pause to allow any other
members of the public who would like to speak an opportunity to do so. An individual may return to the podium to complete their statement after everyone else has had an opportunity to speak for a total of two times at the podium. Please understand that our public forums are not structured as question and answer sessions, but are offered as opportunities to share your thoughts
with the board. In instances where the board feels that there is a misunderstanding or inaccuracy, the board president or superintendent may address the comment. In accordance with New Jersey statute, the board will not discuss matters regarding specific personnel. A reminder for all parties in attendance to remain respectful and that there should be no interaction between
the speaker and the audience. No members of the audience should interfere with or interrupt a speaker's comments. Thank you in advance for your input. As always, please refer to Mr. Logori's timer, which will countdown your um your remaining time. And um you will be um
asked to pause at three minutes and um if all speakers could please just sign in. Yes. Hi, I'm Sarah Falerano, president of Somerset Hills Education Association. As president of SHA, I'm using this moment to celebrate and give thanks on
behalf of our executive board. So often in life, in our world today, which is filled with misinformation, political or personal agendas, it's easy to only focus on the negatives. Tonight, I want to ensure that everyone here hears the amazing things going on in our schools
and our people working in those schools hear the thanks that they deserve. and too seldom receive. We thank our teachers here in Somerset Hill School District. Teachers don't simply teach content, they teach life skills. From our prek to our AP teachers, they teach our students how to work hard,
persevere, think critically, and treat others with respect. Teachers take the daily lessons from our statemandated standards and make them into thoughtful and engaging lessons. They expose students to topics to broaden their schema and create independent thinkers
communicating with parents and families about all the amazing things happening in the classroom. We thank our par professionals who work one-on-one with some of our most special students. We thank our nurses who take care of our students while allowing grace and dignity to our students.
We thank our secretaries who keep the schools running and organized day-to-day. We thank our custodian and maintenance crews who allow us to be safe and comfortable. We thank our tech department who keep us online even in a power outage and our students safe from unneeded distractions. We thank our
coaches and extracurricular adviserss who teach competition, inclusion, commitment, teamwork, and sportsmanship. We thank our counselors and CST members who are constantly ensuring our students have the supports they need. We thank our administrators. Their support, not
only day-to-day in our buildings, but long-term collaboration teams are invaluable to our success, which directly impact our students. We thank this board of education's partnership and commitment to make policies and committees that are relevant and right for our students. We
appreciate the thoughtfulness and carefulness in which decisions are made. You and our administration provide opportunities where our staff can create environments with high academic standards where each student can meet their own potential and where we continue to can continue to be an
outstanding of community of teaching and learning. From teachers to paras maintenance and admin, we have a truly amazing staff hired not just for their skill but because of their knowledge and their merit and most importantly because
they care. All of I've mentioned are all st strong qualities of excellent public education. And last, thank you to students. Without you, none of us would be here doing what we love. Never forget that we see you. We hear you. And we will never stop making decisions with
you in the forefront of our mind. We all know that divisiveness is the enemy. So, we thank all of our staff by leading example by example with patience, dignity, and respect to each other and our students and teaching that together we can achieve anything for them. Thank
you. >> Thank you for your comment, Miss Falerano. Um, good evening, board members. I'm just going to read what I'm going to say. I miss the golden bachelor, so you know this is important. Okay, so my name is Jen Walsh. I'm a proud parent and
supporter of the high school wrestling program. I want to start by thanking you for all you've done to improve our schools and our athletic programs. Your efforts have been truly made a difference for our kids. They are loving the lights. Thank you very much. I'm here to tonight to respectfully advocate
for Coach Ryan Abbott, a volunteer, and to express concern for our lack of volunteers support in the wrestling program. From the moment Coach Ryan joined the team, he made an incredible impact. He built relationships with every wrestler, not just the top
performers, and gave them confidence, focus, and belief in themselves. He's a type of coach who doesn't just show up for practice. He helps with everything, including the tedious but essential behind-the-scenes tasks like scheduling, attending seating meetings, and making
sure every small detail runs smoothly. That kind of dedication is rare, especially from someone volunteering their time purely out of love for the sport and the kids. Right now, our wrestling program is running with very limited adult support. While the schools
we compete against often have 8 to 10 coaches in their wrestling rooms, we now have one head coach and one assistant coach. When my son was preparing for the regional tournament last year, his coaches arranged for him to train at other programs and each of those rooms
had multiple coaches working with those athletes about 8 to 10 and we're not providing them highly technical instruction correcting form and giving indivi indiv individualized instruction. My son came home amazed by the level of
support those programs have and how much it helped him improve in such a short period of time. Wrestling is a sport that demands technical teaching, constant supervision, and indiv individualized coaching. Without enough adults in the room, it's impossible to give every athlete the attention and
development they deserve. Coach Ryan's absence will leave a real gap, not just in numbers, but in leadership and in heart. Those of us who have been at every match have seen firsthand where Ryan's focus always is on the kids safety, growth, and well-being. I
understand there are limits to what can be discussed publicly, but I sincerely ask that this situation be revisited with fairness and transparency. Reinstating Coach Ryan Abbott as a volunteer would strengthen the wrestling program and send a powerful message to th that we value fairness, mentorship,
and the people who go above and beyond for our students. Thank you. Thank you for your time and for your continued commitment to our student athletes. I'm also going to add I am an attorney and watching this whole discussion. I will say that when you when a when a decision
comes down from a court of law, you would employ a a law firm like I work at that would then summarize it and have extensive extensive opinions on that on that opinion from the court. And it just seems like a waste of time that you should just
employ a professional to say what it said. It just that's what you should do. I'm sorry. >> Thank you for your comment. Thank you for your comment, Miss Walsh. >> Hi. Uh Maria Ortiz Meyers. I live on Ambar Place here in Bernardsville. And
um you'll forgive me because I had not planned to speak today. I was really just coming to observe. But I wanted to take the opportunity to thank you all for your work and your dedication, your commitment to the staff and faculty of
our our wonderful school district, our our entire community, and in particular our students. I want specifically to thank doctors Bolshell and Butler because from what I've heard today, I believe that your straightforward
explanations of our district's approach to some difficult topics is well intended and informed by a great deal of expertise, which I appreciate. Um, I am not an attorney, so I won't give you any opinions on any other issues on which
I'm not qualified to speak, but I will say that I I teach in Rucker's information informatics program. And um, I look forward to you spending your valuable time on issues that affect 100% of our students right now and in their
futures, just as you did with the calendar that affects a 100% of our students. and you did that so efficiently, beautifully. I commend you. I look forward to hearing about your um deliberations about artificial intelligence, coaching our kids through the cognitive,
behavioral, and emotional handicap or uh obstacles that those present um and getting away from divisive issues like policy 5756. Um, I want to thank you for affirming that on behalf of all the students that I have interacted with at Ruckers and
the ones that I interact with um, monthly as part of my research now for seven years. And um, yeah, thanks guys. You're doing a good job. Thank you for your comment. [Applause]
Hi, I'm Craig Kajano, 189 Washington Corner Road, Burnsville. I am profoundly disappointed in the board's actions this evening in affirming policy 5756. You all are entitled to your opinion,
but I have to say you are in the minority. A Mammoth County University poll, which is a respected polling organization, has said that 81% of New Jersey parents favor parental
notification. 81%. You couldn't get eight and 10 people to decide where we were going to go for dinner tonight. Yet, eight and 10 people of parents support gender notification.
But you're entitled to your opinion. What you're not entitled to are the your facts. And Miss Santoro, I am profoundly disappointed in your characterization of policy 5756
as well law. There is nothing further from the truth. You have asked what has changed in the last three years. Let me explain what has changed in the last three years. And let me explain why this
issue is more important than the 1% of the population. Because it goes to the very heart of the parent teacher relationship, the school family relationship of transparency.
In February 2025, 8 months ago, the appellet division said in Hanover v Plankton
that the defendants rules were too broad. Hanover had implemented blanket notification, meaning knee-jerk reaction. If a child comes in, the parents must know. The
court did the court said that that was over broad. What it left open, what it did not forbid was boards creating their own policies. It only stopped blanket
policies that automatically notify parents. The judges left room for districts to consider the students age, weigh any harm and use clear casebycase
procedures. On top of that, so if our district goes beyond what the appellet division says is necessary, we are keeping secrets from parents. At the same time right now in the third
circuit, Heaps v. Delaware. In that case, Delaware Valley was sued. >> Um, Mr. Kajiano, my apologies. I do have to interrupt and allow other speakers if they choose to.
>> Hi, Brad Ike, 6 Fence Road. Um before I start with my uh remarks, I just want to say these board of educ education meetings are wild and I commend all the sane people of the board. Um good evening Dr. Brochial and members of the board. While I applaud the decision to
finally hire a wrestling coach for the girls, I'm here tonight to express my concern over the recent termination of volunteer wrestling coach Ryan. Ryan has been an invaluable part of the Bernard High wrestling program for years. His technical knowledge, his steady presence, and his commitment to every athlete, even as an unpaid volunteer,
show just how much he cares about our kids and about the sport. He's given countless hours, often long after practice ends, helping to keep the program organized and to make sure our wrestlers grow, not only in skill, but in confidence, character, and resilience. What makes this decision even more frustrating is that wrestling
has long fel has long felt like one of the least uh resourced programs at our school. These kids practice in small, outdated spaces, old uniforms, have minimal home matches, and often receive less attention than other sports. Yet, they never complain. They show up, give
everything they have, and leave their hearts and souls on the mat. The program survives because of people like Ryan, coaches who give their time and energy out of sheer dedication. Removing this team's dedicated volunteer doesn't just hurt Ryan, because I know
it deeply impacts him, it hurts the kids and the coaches. These kids lose a mentor and a source of stability in a demanding sport. And the coaches lose a dedicated assistant who helps with the day-to-day tasks like communication, home match coordination, and uniform organization and
distribution so the coaches can focus on coaching. I urge the district to reconsider this decision and to afford the wrestling team the same opportunity to have volunteers on the roster as all of the other Bernard sports teams are afforded. The administration really
missed the mark with this decision, but there is still time to make it right. Please allow Ryan to be reinstated as a volunteer for the Burners wrestling team. Thank you. >> Thank you for your comment, Mr. A. [Music] A little bit taller.
Allison Labbera, 10 Steven Street. The letter that was sent home provides clear proactive communication outlining the process by which parents will be notified if classrooms Oh, I'm sorry. The court's reference to whenever one of the books
in question or any other similar book used in any way does not mandate an individualized legal notice for every instructional reference. The district's system of advanced communication through teacher notification satisfies the spirit and substance of the court's ruling.
The court requires that parents have the opportunity to opt out, not that districts issue redundant formal letters for each classroom instance. The New Jersey DOE has not yet issued formal guidance and the district's procedure demonstrates that it has taken immediate
goodfaith steps to align with the same Supreme Court's decision. Misskills, let's call this what it is. This is not a genuine concern. This is a political performance. Don't insult this community by pretending otherwise. Your repeated
badgering is not productive. It burdens our administrators and teachers who are already working tirelessly to support our students. And frankly, it's offensive to suggest that our teachers are keeping secrets from parents. This board has acted transparently and
responsibly. even going so far as to provide families with the complete list of curriculum material. Thank you for your comment, Miss Labber. [Music] Hi, I'm Sarah McShane. I'm a third grade teacher at Bedwell. I want to first start off by thanking Dr. Butler for
attending the Hispanic Heritage Celebration which was last Thursday. Um the turnout was like I think a lot better than we could have even predicted. Um as Dr. Brochial detailed earlier the night was um filled with cultural dances, crafts, face painting
and um a beautiful display of artifacts representing sorry a variety of countries. And it was great to see the community come together for this. Um, I also just wanted to shout out the students that um, maybe wouldn't necessarily be recognized for the efforts that they played in in the event
over the summer um, program. The multilingual students worked on a lot of projects that were on display at the event. They actually voted on which crafts and which treats to have um, offered. So, they really played a very meaningful role in this event. Um, and
it was great to have the students from BMS volunteering. and they got their community service hours, but they also learned a lot about Hispanic heritage and helped the event run smoothly. Um, so and of course the HSA funding the event, they always come to the rescue when it when it comes to that. So, um, I
just think that this event was a wonderful celebration of culture, community, and student voice. And it was a true reflection of the diversity and spirit of Bedwell. Um and on that note of diversity, I just want to sincerely thank the board for recognizing um the
critical importance of inclusivity uh student safety and the protection of student identities uh particularly for the LGBTQ plus students and um I appreciate your sensitivity and support to this community and as you make
important decisions. Thank you for focusing what is best for all students across the board. Um and also for recogniz as educators who are are dedicated professionals that um you trust us that we operate with
transparency that you know we you expect that we work with the best of intentions and um thank you also for considering the practical and logistical impact on teacher workloads when you know you consider and implement these procedures. Um, so that way we can maximize our time
with the students, um, which is the best part of the profession. No offense to the adults, but we the more time we get to spend with the students, the better. So, thank you for your help with that endeavor. >> Thank you for your comment, Miss McShane. Is there anybody else who would
like to speak? Start talking. >> Hi, Kelly Hunt. Uh, Valentine Road in Bernard'sville. Um, how great is she? Um, so obviously there was a lot of meaty discussion tonight. Um, and our board and
superintendent have put in a great deal of effort. What I'm what I am impressed with is the thoughtful care that a majority of this board has put into these nuanced issues for the welfare of all of our students. As Miss Santoro said, I stand with Miss Cooper's comments on both curriculum and policy so as not to have to rehash these
issues. I also wanted to mention that I was able to attend the um wonderful Hispanic Heritage event that um Hispanic Heritage Month event that Mrs. McShane was a part of planning um and along with many of Bedwell's staff and HSA leaders.
Um the event was truly a beautiful celebration. Also, I was recently able to volunteer at the BMS book fair and the BMS staff appreciation event last week which made for a very festive week. Um, I have heard the middle school called the middle child many times, but
there are great things going on there. And I just also really wanted to thank Mrs. Haynes um for just support all week and the gym teachers in particular for giving up their gym space for us. They were really supportive. Um, it's been a lot of fun to be able to spend some time there. So, thank you.
>> Thank you, Miss Hunt for your comment. >> Is there anyone else who would like to speak at this time? Hi, Mora McGrael, 36 Steven Street. Every time I come to one of these meetings, I think it can't get worse, and I'm always wrong. So, I encourage
everyone here and who may be watching to please vote next month. Our students and teachers deserve better than what you saw here tonight. The majority of these board members are working tirelessly for all of our students, but we need more of that. As Dr. Butler noted, parents have been informed of the reading list since
September via Genesis and newsletter communications from the teachers. And you put a procedure in place to action as quickly as you can following the Supreme Court decision before other schools have even done that. But that still seems to not be enough for some.
Certain individuals have spent a lot of time complaining about how it is enacted. It seems nothing is ever good enough. But I'd love to know how many parents have opted out of these reading instructions since that time. We're wasting the board and public's time nitpicking the semantics when this has
already been vetted out with legal counsel and is in alignment with the Supreme Court decision and is continuing to be evaluated prior to being put into a policy. Not to mention the teachers time that is being wasted by having to compile these lists which is taking away
from other important learning opportunities from both the teachers and our children. I find a lot of these board discussions offensive whenever this topic or policy 5756 is brought up and the same thing is discussed over and
over monthly at these meetings and whenever someone who has not gone to law school and does not have a JD is given a platform to confuse the public and undermine the hard work of this board to grasp at straws to drum up votes for their own election. So, I was just
wondering if this type of behavior at board meetings is going to continue, can I and the public have a heads up whenever you will be discussing items that are ridiculous and a waste of our time? Finally, so much discussion tonight has been around following rules,
policy, and procedures. So, I'd just like to remind Miss Skills that the board norm, as stated in writing, says no active use of phones in executive sessions or at the board table. Thank you all for your hard work. Thank you for your comments, Miss McGra.
>> Good evening. Again, my name is Christopher Rudy. Um 13 Sheffield Drive, Gladstone. Um in the essence of time, I'm not going to read my prepared statement. I'm just going to echo what has been said um by um Mrs. Walsh and uh
Mr. Ike regarding the reconsideration or reinstatement of our volunteer um coach for wrestling. Mr. Abbott has dedicated tireless amounts of time um resources,
connections, and his love for the sport to all of our children with my daughter being included. Um, my daughter started off less than two years ago with a zero experience wrestling and through coach
Ryan's dedication to not only my child but many of our children, he has coached her to a state title. So before that, she was lacking direction as well as the resources and the ability to attend many
tournaments. you know, many of those have been nationally um and even in international competitions. He has without pay and to the sacrifice probably of his own family
dedicated time and countless resources to our program, elevating the level of our wrestling, correcting missteps that may have been made due to oversight on multiple levels. um as well as just being a major mentor
and support for many of our kids who have definitely grown in their love for the sport as well as just maturity. Um so I'm just here to petition the board to reconsider, you know, the decisions
that have been made. Um and hopefully you can reinstate our volunteer. Thanks. >> Thank you very much for your comment. Hello, my name is Matthew Vasquez. I am a wrestler on the wrestling team this year. I'm starting my junior year. Uh,
I've been wrestling for around 10 years. And one of the best coaches I've ever been coached by is definitely Coach Ryan. I feel like his ability to show up and like be there for you as a wrestler without as a volunteer is very valuable
and it shows his care for the sport. Um he has brought me to many tournaments. He has coached me on days that it's not very uh not a very good day to show up. He would show up on very short notice and he would be in my corner always giving me tips and pointers. Um,
I started wrestling in the summer this year and grown a lot and he has been my coach for the summer. Um, I've grown significantly because of him, uh, being there as a coach. And, um, because of him, I've improved and I want him to be
there this year. And I hope that you guys can reconsider him coaching because he's a big part of my improvement and my growth. And I feel like with the coaches we have this year, although they are very good, he is a very big part of that
growth. and I feel like with him I can improve my placement in states or regions or whatever tournament or match I go into and um I would like him to be there. Thank you. >> Thank you so much for your comments.
[Music] >> Hi, my name is Melissa Leonard. I'm a teacher at Bedwell and resident of 60 Liberty Road in Bernardville. Thank you to the board of ed, Dr. Brochel, Dr. Butler for your time this evening. I'm going to keep it very brief, but I've been a teacher in the district for over
20 years and a parent of two children in the district for seven years. I'm proud to work here and proud to have my children succeed here. This pride comes because I work and live in a district that emphasizes that all students feel safe, that all students feel empowered,
that all students feel valued. I want to thank the board, especially the curriculum committee, Dr. Butler, Dr. Brochel for continuing to ensure that our public education curriculum is inclusive to all students and maintains educational integrity. Thank you.
>> Thank you for your comment, Miss Leonard. Is there anybody else that would like to make a comment who hasn't spoken? >> Good evening. Uh my name is Sean Dardy. I live at 18 Liberty Road. I have two daughters in the district, both high school students, one freshman, one
junior. Uh, I'll spare you most of what I wrote tonight in the essence of time because we all spent a lot of time in this room. Um, I just want to touch on a few things regarding my older daughter's educational experience. Currently, she's a junior. She's an she's uh in an AP class and we have some concerns about
the subjective nature of the curriculum. Some points that have been brought up amongst everyone in this room have been inclusivity, students rights, value of time spent teaching, safety, empowerment, value. I feel as though my daughter is being underserved with some
of the steerage of the curriculum. An example of which would be homework, homework pointing the direction of writing an essay on Islamophobia on 911. Um, that's near and dear to me. I'm of the age where I know some people whose
name are written on walls. We've had discussions with people in the district about this. My daughter's been concerned about bringing this to the attention of the teacher out of fear of repercussions. Some of her peers have as well. We've met with this teacher. We've met with
this teacher supervisor. I've seen other homework assignments that have been in congruent with the changes she told us she was going to make. I will spare you her name. I don't know all the rules, but I know some of the rules. But I have to bring this to your attention as her father. I'm new to these meetings, but I'm not
new to speaking out. And I'm here to speak for my daughter and some of her u some of her concerns because she doesn't want to. Thank you very much. Thank you very much for your comments.
>> Is there anybody else? Hi, I'm Michelle Douly, eight old um teacher at Bedwell as and I have three kids in the district, two at middle school, one at Bedwell. Um I want to thank you the board for um supporting all kids. It means a lot. I've been
coming here for three years now speaking out for these kids. um to tell them that we as a community support them and love them and we're here for them and um I hope that we can table this as we said last meeting because every time that I'm
here my kids from my house know that I'm coming here and know that know what I'm coming to speak up about and what is is still needs to be put to rest and that we need to focus on the kids and I'm not able to focus on my own kids at home and
every month And for three years I've been coming and it's a lot of time that I could be with my own children. And I still have to get up tomorrow morning and get them ready for school and get myself to school and teach and be fun for my own students as well. So I appreciate your support. I continue to be here and um thank you for all that
you do. >> Thank you for your comments. [Applause] Megan Douly. Um she her I'm school counselor here. Have been since uh 2009. Um I will keep this super brief. I also
have been coming to these meetings for far too long because we continue to bring up a policy that puts a spotlight on again as Dr. Butler said a very tiny population of our students and these are
very real children behind these conversations. So, I will say what I have said before, and that is just to any of our trans and non-binary students who are watching, who are listening, who are paying attention to the conversations at and surrounding these
board of ed meetings, please know that you are supported, you are cared for, and I continue to know in my heart and believe that the vast majority of adults in this district, those who live here and those who work here, um, do not believe that your humanity and your
protection are topics that should be under review. Thank you. >> Thank you for your comment. >> Is there anybody else who would like to make a comment at this time who hasn't spoken yet? Sylvie Gills 189 Washington
Corner Road. I was on my phone because my mother has CO is currently hospitalized and I chose to come here tonight than be with my mother. That's why my phone was out. I hope that's okay. As to uh Allison, to say that I'm
bringing this up is incorrect for political points. We are in violation right now of a Supreme Court order. You seem okay with that. I'm not. We can lose federal funding. We can be sued until we get a policy on the books. We
are not in compliance. And I never said teachers keep secrets. Administrators keep secrets. That's too heavy of a burden to place on a teacher. I would never have said that. I was a teacher. Would never do that. Thank you.
>> Thank you for your comment. Is there anyone else who would like to make a comment at this time? I'm just going to finish my comments regarding policy 5756. I disagree with what people have said here this evening because we're bringing
up this topic goes to the very heart of the parent teacher relationship and to say that it's settled law is incorrect. The heaps deci the appellet division's decision in Plankton vers Hanover
Township outlawed blanket notification. That's it. It did not order anything else but forbid blanket notification. It did not permit tailor it permitted tailored notification. It permitted
review of all other aspects of policy 5756 and that occurred only eight months ago. Right now, the third circuit is debating whether or not a federal law is required. So to say any of this is
settled law is inaccurate and wholly inappropriate. You're entitled to your opinions, but you're not entitled to your facts. If the district's dis policy goes beyond
what the appellet division says is mandated under LA, you are keeping secrets from parents. you are going further than the appellet
division who interpreted the law against discrimination allows. And that's why this is far from settled. You're entitled to your opinion. I respect your vote tonight. But to suggest that this is settled and
not worthy or appropriate to bring up when the law is in flux, just today the Supreme Court granted Cersiari on a case involving transgender in uh participation in
sports. The law is evolving. The board must evolve with the law. It cannot rely on old guidance which is only guidance and even the
court in plankton said that's just guidance. The boards are free to adopt a policy so long as they don't require blanket notification. You can't you can make a policy to say a
seven-year-old won't be treated in the same way as a 17-year-old. That's totally permissible. But according to this board, a sevenyear-old and a 17year-old should be treated in
the same way. That is unfathomable to me. Thank you. >> Thank you for your comment. If you are concerned about not knowing something about your child, I suggest that you work on your relationship with
your child so your child feels comfortable coming and having these conversations with you. Imagine the money this district could save if we didn't have to pay for an attorney to come and babysit one board member. >> Thank you for your comment. That's a
personal attack. I know my children very well. I speak openly with my children. And anybody on this board who knows me will know that that was unholy inappropriate. You don't know me. You don't know my children. I know them. And
if there was anything going on that I didn't want I didn't know yet, I would want to know. And you would want to know, too. >> Thank you for your comment. Is there anybody else who has anything to say for public comment? No. Okay. Um, can I get a motion to
close public comments? Mr. Baker and Miss Gills. Um I don't often give um make clarifications because I I don't feel the need to but since there was issue regarding well
settled law um we are presently in compliance with the prevailing law which is the New Jersey law against discrimination. That is what we will continue to comply with. There are always things moving through the court.
There is always litigation and if any litigation should change New Jersey law against discrimination being the prevailing law in this state and or some federal law or ruling supersedes that then that would be well settled and we
would have to evaluate our policy. But at this moment in time, the New Jersey law against discrimination, not guidance, but the New Jersey law against discrimination, which the guidance is based on, is the prevailing law in New Jersey, and that is what we abide by. So, I just wanted to make that
clarification. Um, and >> Sam, someone just walked in. I don't know if they want to speak, if he wants to speak. >> Well, I know >> we close public comment. >> I'm sorry. >> Close public comment. >> Um, so, um,
At this time, if I could get a motion to adjurnn. >> I'll make a motion to adjurnn. >> Mr. Baker and Mur and all in favor. >> All right. Have a good night, everyone. Thank you for hanging with us.