Thank you. Like to call to order the May 21 meeting of the Vernon Township Board of Education. Can we get a roll call? >> Mr. Simaglia. >> Mr. Fischer >> here. >> Mr. Krauss >> here. >> Miss Nichols
>> here. >> Miss Plet >> here. >> Miss Pac >> here. >> Dr. Ross >> here. >> Miss Aarella, Mr. Zimmerman >> just >> we have a quorum. >> Thank you. It's recommended that the
board enter close session for the purposes of discussing legal personnel and student matters. All in favor? >> I got a motion a second. >> Oh, >> did I not get a motion second? Okay. Can I get
a second? Thank you. All in favor? I with the index. >> Okay. Wait, hang on. I lost my spot. >> All right, >> we're good. >> Okay. Hey everybody, if you could all take your seats, we're going to get rolling. Thank you. Um, so item four, it
is recommended that the board return to open session. Can I get a motion? >> Second. >> Second. >> Thank you. We get a roll call. Mr. Slam. >> Mr. Fischer. >> Hi. >> Mr. Krauss. >> Yes.
>> Miss Nichols. >> Yes. >> Miss Pellet. >> Yes. >> Miss Pac. >> Yes. >> Dr. Ross. >> Yes. >> Miss Echarella. >> Mr. Zimmerman. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mr. Maggalia. >> Yes,
>> we have a quorum. >> Thank you. >> And motion passes. >> And uh additional attendance. >> Uh Mr. O'Donnell >> here. >> Mr. Mendes and myself. >> Thank you. Mr. Slim, can you lead us in
the pledge, please? >> I pledge allegiance against Thank you. Item six, the reading of the meeting notice. Mr. Slam. The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Law was enacted to ensure the right of the public to advance notice of and to attend the meetings of public bodies at
which any business affecting the interest is discussed or acted upon. In accordance with the provisions of the act, Vernon Township Board of Education has caused notice this meeting to be published and adequate notice has been provided and notice this meeting has been properly posted in accordance with the New Jersey open public meeting law. Uh just a quick note, the next public
meeting will be Thursday, June 18th. >> Thank you. Uh item seven, approval of the minutes. Um, can I get a motion to approve uh items 7 A through B? >> So moved. >> Thank you. Can I get a second?
>> Second. >> Roll call, please. >> Mr. Krauss, >> yes. >> Miss Nichols, >> yes. >> Miss Pallet, >> yes. >> Miss Pac, >> yes. >> Dr. Ross,
>> yes. Abstain where noted. >> Thank you. Mr. Zimmer, >> yes. >> Mr. Simaglia, >> yes. >> Mr. Fischer, >> I. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. Okay, now that's out of the way. Good evening everybody. Thank you
for coming tonight. This is an a great night for Vern and we always enjoy this meeting um when we have to move to the big rooms. So, tonight's agenda obviously includes celebrations and some important conversations about the future of our district. First, we'll be recognizing this year's governor's
educators of the year, our educational services professionals, employees who have reached 25 years of service, and those who will be retiring this year. These recognitions reflect the incredible dedication of the people who make our school such a special place for students, and we're grateful for
everything they do for our district and for our community. Uh later this evening, we'll also hear from our district architect of record, Pete Campasano, who will present on the capital projects and infrastructure needs facing our district. We've continued to make improvements where we can, but many of our buildings are aging
and require significant investment to keep them safe, functional, and welcoming for students and staff. That presentation is an important opportunity to better understand these needs and to begin discussing how we move forward to address them. With that, I'd like to turn things over to our superintendent,
Miss Damon Dez, who will begin tonight's recognitions. I will join you. Good evening. Uh it is my distinct honor this evening to recognize our 202526
governor's educator of the year and educational services professional of the year honores. Uh these 12 educators represent the very best of what it means to serve our students and to serve our staff and our Vernon Township community.
On May 8th, I had the privilege of accompanying each of them to the county superintendent roundt at Perona Farms where they were congratulated by our executive county superintendent, Dr. Gail Carrick, alongside our Sussex County recipients, uh, for their exceptional contributions to our
schools, in our classrooms, um, and our communities. It certainly was a meaningful afternoon of recognition, but tonight we have the joy of celebrating them again with our very own Vernon Township family. So I will read this very uh deserved resolution. Uh whereas
annually the state of New Jersey and other states of our nation undertake a program to select a governor's educator of the year which is a procedure to recognize and honor all teachers and the importance of teaching and to further recognize that this is a representative
honor for the fine and outstanding qualities of the teaching profession. And whereas the Vernon Township School District has had a long distinguished record of recognizing these important attributes of its teaching staff and
further placing academic excellence as the first priority of our school district. And whereas selection for this representative representative honor signifies a very careful process in one of the largest school districts in our
county with a distinguished record of faculty achievement and recognition. And whereas throughout their tenure as teachers in the Vernon Township School District, these recipients have consistently displayed evidence of extraordinary care, competence,
compassion, and concern as a hard-working and dedicated teacher. And whereas this is evidenced by the respect and high esteem in which they are held by their peers in the Vernon Township School District, their
professional colleagues throughout the school district, the district school administrators, the students which they come in contact with on a daily b basis, board of education members, and the community at large. One more. And whereas these teachers represent
outstanding effort and achievement as classroom teachers. Be it resolved that the Vernon Township Board of Education supports the nominations of these teachers for the 2526 Governor's Educators of the Year for the Vernon Township School District and designate
them as Vernon Township School Districts Governor's Educators of the Year and further gives evidence by this resolution which is being incorporated into the minutes of this public meeting. Let's go again. So, as I call um on our honores, uh
would you please come uh to the front to receive a certificate and applaud uh for Lounsberry Hollow School, Lauren Elmo, Miss Elmo is a cornerstone of the Lounsbury Hollow School community whose dedication has profoundly impacted our
students. students and our staff for many years. As a specialist in fourth grade math and science, Miss Elmo creates a classroom rooted in mutual respect and compassion where every student feels accepted and empowered to reach their full potential. Lauren found
this calling, she wrote in an unexpected place. Um she was a mentor at a therapeutic writing center, recognized her gift with children, um and told her that she had a calling to teach. 12 years later, having once struggled with math herself, she is the ultimate
cheerleader for our students who feel the same way. She shows them they can solve the whole puzzle one piece at a time. Thank you, Miss Elmo. Do we have a camera? Are we taking pictures? Can we We got it.
Can you please? Okay. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. All right. Vernon Township High School, Douglas Miller. Mr. Miller is more than an art teacher. He is a master of all things graphic. A talented photographer, a trusted
colleague, a devoted father, and a true friend. Doug consistently gives his time, talent, and heart. Quietly making a lasting impact on everyone around him. After nearly three decades in education, wow, congratulations. He is guided by a
simple truth. When students feel seen, challenged, and supported, they grow. For Doug, the greatest honor of this profession is hearing from former students who share how their experiences shape them. A reminder that teaching is a sustained investment in the future. Years from now, countless adults will
proudly say that Doug Miller was their favorite teacher. Thank you. And the following teachers were not able to attend tonight. Is Angela Dixon here? Let me just make sure. She had her master's graduation ceremony tonight. So, master ceremony to governor teachers
of the year, right? Um, but I do want to acknowledge them. Uh, Walnut Ridge School, we have Angela Dixon. Cedar Mountain Primary School, we have Christina Meghnan. Roland Hill Rolling Hills Primary School, Jack and Fischer and Glenn Meadow Middle School, Amy
Sistol. Let's give them a round of applause. We're just going to take a picture. Very good. All right, here's another long whereas resolution, we are now celebrating our educational services professionals of the year. So whereas
annually the state of New Jersey and other states of our nation undertake a program to select an educational services professional, which is a procedure to recognize and honor all support staff. And whereas the Vernon Township School District has had a long distinguished record of recognizing
these important attributes of its support staff and further placing academic excellence as the first priority of our school district. And whereas selection for this representative honor signifies a very careful process in one of the largest school districts in the county with a
distinguished record of achievement and recognition. And whereas throughout their tenure as support professionals in the Vernon Township School District, these professionals have consistently displayed evidence of extraordinary care, competence, compassion, and concern as a hardworking and dedicated
support professional. And whereas this is evidenced by the respect, respect and high esteem in which they are held by their peers, their professional colleagues throughout the school district, the district school administrators, the students which come they come in contact with on a daily
basis, board of education members and the community at large. And whereas these professionals represent outstanding effort and achievement as educational support professionals, be it resolved that the Vernon Township Board of Education supports the nomination of
these professionals for the 2526 educational services professionals of the year and designate them as the Vernon Township School District's Educational Services Professionals of the Year and further gives evidence by this resolution resolution which is being incorporated
into the minutes of this public meeting. Yay. >> All right. Walnut Ridge Leslie Lombardi. Woo. Miss Lombardi has become a guiding light for our preschool staff. She provides the expertise curriculum support our educators need to thrive.
She creates a safe, supportive space for teachers to reflect and grow, ensuring the tools of the mind curriculum is delivered with the highest level of excellence. For Leslie, she says that this work is deeply personal. She believes there is something incredibly special about being part of a child's
very first school experience and helping build the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Thank you, Leslie. Cedar Mountain Christina Crops. Miss Crops is a dedicated reading specialist whose expertise and commitment have transformed how
struggling readers experience literacy at Cedar Mountain. She excels transformed how struggling readers experience Oh, I said it again. She excels at identifying individual learning needs and uses research-based innovative strategies to help students
build confidence and success. Christina said she believes deeply in the power of small groupoup targeted instruction where personal connect connections give students the courage to take on a subject that once felt impossible. Thank
you, Miss Cross. Rolling Hills Primary School, Barbara Shell. Michelle has been an invaluable resource and mentor for numerous educators and her collaborative nature enables her to provide support, guidance, and assistance to staff members across our
school community. As a valued member of the child's study team, she promotes inclusivity, monitor student progress closely, and leads meetings that ensure every student's needs are thoughtfully addressed. Barbara said she knew at a very young age that she wanted to make a
difference. She was inspired by her aunt Jenny, who's a devoted Spanish teacher whose stories of mentoring students left a lasting impression. Today, she carries that same purpose into her work. Thank you. Lounsberry School John gets
following a distinguished career as a high school mathematics teacher, Mr. Gett has transitioned into an outstanding instructional coach who has been instrumental in the successful roll out of our new math curriculum. He is deeply respected by his colleagues for his professionalism and his practical
understanding in the classroom. John made the move into coaching because he asked himself how he could impact as many students as possible and he felt the answer was to invest in our teachers. Thank you. Congratulations. Len Meadow School. Jessica Restami.
Miss Rastami is an exceptional literacy coach whose expertise in data analysis and literacy has strengthened the Vernon Township School District. Whether she is synthesizing assessment data to inform instruction or guiding colleagues through the Wilson reading program, her solutionsoriented approach and tireless
work ethic earn her peers respect. Jessica describes her work in her own powerful words. She's championing teachers so they can champion their students. Thank you, Jess. And the following educational services professionals were unable to attend
tonight, but we want to honor them as well. Vernon Township High School, Darren Seagull. Yeah. Thank you. All right. Service awards. We're still moving. Tonight, we have the immense privilege of celebrating a true
milestone achievement within our community. We are here to honor an extraordinary group of educators and professionals who've reached their 25 year service anniversary during and through the end of the 2526 school year.
A quarter of a century. Yes, I said it. To put that into perspective, 25 years represents thousands of early mornings, countless changes in curriculum, evolving technology. A literal generation of Vernon students who have grown up under their care and their
guidance. To achieve 25 years in public education requires far more than just longevity. It demands an unyielding passion, boundless patience, and a deep-seated commitment to the families of our community. These individuals have
spent two and a half decades serving as the steady bedrock of our schools. They've anchored our classrooms, supported our staff, and shaped the future of Vernon schools, one student at a time. So, I'd like to bring forward our 25 year service anniversary
recipients so we can recognize them. Dalma Donovan, secretary at Cedar Mountain Primary School. Kevin La Pera, custodian at Cedar Mountain Primary School. Police Shep, Vernon Township School
District Supervisor of STEM. All right. Thank you everyone. Congratulations. >> And now for our retirees. A school district is only as strong as the people who dedicate their lives to it. And tonight, we recognize 14
individuals who have given their time, talent, and passion to the mission of education. Through changing times, countless school years, these retirees have remained a steady guiding force for our students. And to our retirees, your
hard work has shaped the future of our community, one student at a time. And as you turn the page to this next welldeserved chapter, please know that your contributions will be felt here in Vernon for the years to come. Thank you for your exemplary service and I guess
welcome to the Every Day is Saturday Club, right? So here's the resolution. Uh whereas the retiree has dedicated themselves to the Vernon Township School District, displaying an unselfish commitment to our children, exemplifying
the ideals of professionalism and the standard of excellence has requested retirement. And whereas the Vernon Township Board of Education together with its citizens wish to acknowledge exemplary service that the retirees have provided to our children. And now
therefore, be it resolved that the Vernon Township Board of Education does hereby extend its appreciation and gratitude to the retirees in recognition of their exemplary service to our district. And be it further resolved that the Vernon Township Board of
Education spread this resolution in full upon the minutes. Maryanne Motto, Glen Meadow, Middle Slow. Bonnie Henry, aid at Rolling Hills. Sharon Kennerson, teacher at Lounsbury.
Judith Ventron, aid at Rolling Hills. Anarie Sweeney, aid at Rolling Hills. Terresa Sabia, teacher at Vernon Township High School. Anie Warol, aid at Rolling Hills. Congratulations.
And we would just like to honor the following retirees who were unable to attend tonight. Kathy Bruning, teacher at Lounsbury. Karen Ericson, aid at Glen Meadow. Bernardet Farardi, aid at Cedar Mountain. Katherine Kaiser, teacher at Glen Meadow. Bobby Poier, aid at Cedar
Mountain. Patricia Soraniano Bunger, teacher at the high school. And Janice Vaslavic, teacher at Glen Meadow. Congratulations to our retiree. And so before we conclude the portion of our evening, I just want to extend one final resounding congratulations to all
of our incredible award winners and honores tonight. Thank you for your unwavering dedication, your passion, your commitment, everything you do and did to make our district wonderful. And we invite you to some refreshments. Thank you everybody for tonight.
motion. >> Did I get a motion for a short recess? >> So moved. >> So moved. >> Thank you. Uh all in favor? I I'm on 10, right? We're on 10. >> We are on uh Rick letter D. Capital
projects. >> Oh, capital. Yeah. Good thing. Oh, >> thank you. Thank you. Um I need a motion to return from recess, please. So moved >> in and a second. Thank you, Ray. All in
favor? I. >> Great. We are back in open session. Uh we're up to item D, capital projects. On our agenda, we have here Pete Cap Capisano of USA Architects, who's going to present on our capital projects and infrastructure needs. Welcome. Thank you
for being here. >> Thank you, Madam President. Can you hear me okay with this? Is that we're good? >> I can hear you. Can everyone hear him, Jack? >> Okay. Thank Thank you. Uh Pete Campazano with with USA Architects. With me is Miss Carrie Zagarski, uh my project
manager. And uh we've been working on your facilities and and looking at your facilities and analyzing your facilities for the better part of about 18 months now. So back in 2024,
we were hired and we were tasked to look at all six facilities and come up with an assessment, a bricks and mortar assessment. Um, at that time you were stable in terms of population. You're not pursing at the seams. We're
not looking at expansions. It was to address capital needs, roofs, doors, windows, HVAC, and the like. and we looked at that and the evidence of that was
2025 long range facility report. Great reading. I hope you all read it and enjoyed it. So from that um we provided you all with an assessment back about a year ago uh
middle of April if I recall Mr. slam um the facility report that we gave you the assessment of the district. Since that time, we then started looking at
the actual implementation of a plan and nothing more than that. What are the rationale of a plan instead of picking a project here or there? What is the holistic view on how to improve the
district? So shift it. Shift it again. I don't want to talk about summary anymore. Why was it technical difficulties? There we go. So the four criteria based on the existing
conditions. First is the building envelope. What is the building envelope? shell, which is the roofs, the doors, the windows, because if you can't keep the water out and the snow out, you don't have a school. That's, you know, and these are
not really in particular order, but you can say in a very soft way it is. I I would I would equate rules to be slightly more important than perhaps ADA uh issues, but not really because that's that's a tough call, especially if
you're a person with with facility or uh needs. So, number one would be the building envelope. Number two, uh would be life safety, and that equates to the fire alarm systems, the public address
systems, and emergency lighting. Number three would be the building performance. The performance of the building. What do I mean by that? That is the heating, the air conditioning, the ventilation, the fresh air and ventilation. Um and this has been a very
important subject I would say for the past six or seven years certainly since the pandemic of uh 2020 and um schools have really started to focus on air changes per hour, fresh air and and
ventilation. Then the fourth criteria we then looked at was the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA uh put into law in 1990. Your facilities were built before that time. So they don't necessarily comply with
the uh logistics of that law or improvements. Those were the four criteria. So, taking the first one and showing you examples of what we're talking about in terms of needs. Go
forward one. There we go. So, uh just a couple of series of your roofs. Top left I believe is Walnut Ridge. Um your roofs for the most part are ponding. They are uh in need of replacement. Some may have
a few years of warranty left. And you may ask the question, wait a second, if they have a warranty, why can't I get it replaced? Because the 18th year of a 20-year warranty where the warranty is a material defect warranty and not
necessarily what you're seeing. Uh, flip the page, Car left, where the wall itself is disintegrating and needs repairs, it doesn't really apply. All six of your buildings are in need of roof
replacement. Some worse than others. I would put Walnut Ridge at the top and perhaps Glenn metal at the bottom. But all six uh do need to be replaced with a new roofing system and related flashing
building envelope, gutters, downspouts, uh uh roof leaders and and the like. Next page. Okay. So now sticking with the envelope, the assessment. If you go back to the assessment, you could probably read in
our report, we found a lot of your doors when we tested a lot of your exterior doors to not fully close properly. So, we pushed it open, we waited, we tested it, closed about 90% what, but it was left open. It's an issue because if anybody goes out that way and they don't
necessarily pull it closed, your door is now open. A lot have half glazed uh windows which anybody could break the glass. simple piece of glass pushed away into the building. Um, we would look to
harden these doors. Uh, less glass if any glass, maybe not even have exterior uh latches on the outside. If it's an exterior only door and it's meant for egress, let's design it that way just to provide some passive hardening and
security for it. So, in terms of the doors, while I'm still on the building shell, I would equate this more to a security item than actual building uh performance. Go to the next one. Okay, these are some
of the door pictures that we took. So, again, a lot of half glass, lot of glass, lot of sidelight glass. And while that was good when I started my career in the 70s and the 80s 80s u into the 90s things have happened now in society
where we just need to take a look at um providing that term of security. So, if the doors need to be replaced, let's replace them the correct way and harden them um to provide exit only
uh doors and exits and entrances windows at Vernon Township High School. Um some were replaced, albeit they were not replaced with thermally broken windows. Thermal broken means the
element if you have a piece of metal from the inside of the building to the outside of the building and that metal is not broken whatever is outside whatever temperature it will pass through the metal because there's no break in it and transfer the energy be it the cold or whatever. A thermally
broken window means there's a silicone or some sort of wedge in between so that the window on the inside is not cold as the window on the outside. Wood is a very good non-transfer of heat or cold. Aluminum windows need that sort of uh thermal
break. Yours don't. Um they're one in or they're non-inssulated glass. The bottom left, you can't even see through that window now with with the fact that the Lexan is faded to the degree that uh it's just in very poor shape. The
hardware on all the windows is in poor shape. And you went to replace these windows, Ray, help me out. Two years ago about and we didn't go through with that process. Was that that right? >> So this was a project prior to my start
in district um which had been pursued. There were issues at that time. Uh and then it was applied for an SDA grant. However, when that SDA grant was awarded, uh it was for the high school and Glame Meadow window replacement. Uh but we didn't have the capital reserve funds to pursue both projects. Uh and
since Glen Meadow had worse windows, we moved forward with the replacement of the Glen Meno Glen Meadow windows at that time. Thanks, Rick. Thank you. Um so in a nutshell, this was the building envelope item one uh
section of of the need or the rationale. Next one. Number two is life safety, fire alarm systems, public address systems, emergency lighting. I I think it's self-explanatory. We are doing We just received bids,
successful bids. We have a contractor replacing the fire alarm systems at Rolling Hills and Walnut Ridge this summer. Uh the high school was recently replaced. We are recommending replacement of the other three uh schools within the scope of this as well
as the PA systems um that are antiquated. And again going back to security, the public address system is absolutely critical um for the occupants of the building. Number three would be building
performance. You've got old antiquated heating only units. Some are working, some are not, some are inconsistent. Uh the fresh air is not uh let's just say the the the
fresh air is inconsistent. Uh you have window units uh throughout the district. Those window units um when they cool, they create what's known as condensate water. Right? As the evaporator evaps and cools the air, that water needs to
go somewhere. Um that drips out onto the brick. That's that black uh let's call it stuff tonight. Uh that you see on the bricks and that's just causing havoc on your outside of of the uh the building
envelope. Let's go again care lit. Okay. So again more units the top left that's your uh unit ventilator. The window units themselves, while a good
idea at the time because it may have been a fairly inexpensive option to put residential units in all to provide some sort of cooling, it wasn't designed with the cooling load required for the 24 students or 25 students or 16 or 18
students plus teacher within that classroom. What do I mean by that is that you need a cooling load to not only cool but to remove humidity from that space. But there's a whole deeper dive
into controlling the uh fresh air, ventilation and cooling of the classrooms which the window units really don't perform. uh we would look to uh replace those with a heating and
cooling unit and then uh put remote condensing units up on the roof to provide proper cooling uh within the within the classrooms. And finally, some of your rooftop units, again, you see water on the roof, ponding, it causes some issues with your
rooftops, but the rooftop units are in need of replacement. They're beyond their useful life. They're breaking down. They're inconsistent and need to be reckless. Uh item number four
is the Americans with Disabilities Act uh improvement and deals primarily with your bathrooms. And while yes, um, we would upgrade your bathrooms for accessibility, we would all al also look
to upgrade them in terms of ventilation, which they they're 50 years old. Plus, they haven't been improved. And again, u you can see privacy issues, accessibility issues. Uh, bottom right, that's Walnut Ridge.
you know, our preschoolers are standing on steps because at the time the sinks were at adult height, not as tall. Uh same thing with the bottom left, uh and and the like. Uh we would design these with the preschoolers in mind, the elementary
children in mind, and we would look to improve bathrooms um within the schools. Not every bathroom. That would be astronomical. But we would look to concentrate and work with whatever principal or administration as to the bathrooms that
one get the most use and two would be used for functions similar to this at night public functions so that we would get the most use out of those bathrooms if um they are improved. So those were the four areas that we recommended. the
envelope, life safety, building performance and ADA. And based on those four items, the rationale of what we should improve, we develop seven project categories.
First one, A, and you see ABCD. It's not one, two, three again because I really, it's difficult to say one is in front of the other. That could really be your own personal choice depending on cost that we'll get into later as to what you would you would want to see in terms of priority because again this is your
project not mine and we would do what is desired of the board. So A would be a roof replacement districtwide. B would be life safety and fire alarms including adding emergency lighting so
that at the end of that project B all of your schools would be code compliant in terms of fire alarm. Similar for the public address systems. Um same thing we would do four of your schools uh with two being done right now. And uh again
all six schools would have life safety public address systems code compliant. Item D would be heating HVAC cooling and ventilation. That would occur at all six of your schools. At the lower grades, we're talking about removing those
heating unit heating only unit ventilators and the air conditioning units, putting in a heating and cooling system in every classroom. And then again, moving the condensing unit up on the roof out of the way so that whatever any condensate does come out of the the
condensing unit, it would go into the roof drain and not onto your building. In addition to that, uh we would look to some major units, rooftop units to replace uh rooftop units and and the like. Um
item E would be security, which would mostly be interior doors. Coupled with that would be interior hardware and key. Um right now your district and this happens very very commonly that
uh every district in the state of New Jersey has what's called a master key system. If you think of it like a pyramid where there's one key the superintendent holds that one key so she can get into every single room in the district. From there, there's a
secondary T that opens maybe every room within a school and then on down on down on down to the one room for the one teacher. So this this pyramid of of keen over time keys are bought, keys are
left, people leave, people don't return keys, extra keys are made, and it's a mishmash. So right now, you know, your security and master keying system really isn't what it should be. So without replacing all of the hardware, we can
actually take the core out, put a new core in, and create a new master key system that would provide security throughout the entire the entire district. Um, exterior doors, like I said, we would look to not only replace
them, but replace them and and harden um the secure the secure the exterior doors. Excuse me. Um, item F, the window replacement at uh, Vernon Township High School. We've discussed that uh, pretty much the
entire building. I I think it is pretty much the entire building would would receive new windows. And then finally, item G, every school um would have um two or four gang bathrooms, boys and girls student bathrooms uh upgraded at
every every school. And now the big one. So, um the look at this false pit the um the budget and it's an initial magnitude budget. Um, in fact, if if you um add up the left side
of A to G, you might come up with maybe 69 million. I think we did that on purpose. Um, because we're trying to tell you this is not 68,354,82. No, it's not. It's a budget that we have to project over the next several years.
Those budgets include contingencies, but the magnitude of what I'm discussing is between 70 and $75 million in terms of the scope that I've just discussed. All
right, big number. Next slide. So maybe slightly good news if there's good news about us spending $70 million. Uh the state of New Jersey recognizes
school districts as like yourselves don't get a lot of state aid facing similar issues. Um they want to partner with you to improve buildings. So in that vein,
if the projects A to G, and I'm going to read this, receive the maximum of eligible state aid and every one of the projects that I just listed is priority one, which you will receive the maximum
eligible. Um, I can guarantee you that. I know that having worked and doing this before with similar projects. um they would be willing to contribute up to 40% of the costs. Now, they're not going to
hand over 40%. It's not the lottery. They're going to give you 40% on on day one. What they do is you will bond for the full amount and the bond will say is a 20-year bond. So, in year one, you will pay 60%,
they will pay 40% or up to 40%. Historically, and this is accurate, all right, the law says 40% of eligible costs, but the state has been funding this for the last 15 years, since almost the
beginning, for the last 15 years at 85% of 40%. I want to lose you here, but it's about 34% in real dollars. So you would essentially pay 60 66% of that yearly budget principle and
interest and the state would pay 34% of the principal and interest. So when you look at the numbers the state for a $70 million project would provide grand total of $23.8 million. The local share would be 46.2
million. Conversely, if it's 75 million, it's 25.5 to 49.5. And why is it 70 to 75? Because we do have some additional considerations. Again, this is not we're buying 15 books. It's $1.95 a book and this is
what we're doing. It is a budget and we're going to work through the budget with you, but the magnitude is between 70 and 75. We've looked at the locker rooms, trainers room, and additional ADA improvements at Vernon Township High
School. Okay, this is not a must, but it's certainly a need. If you go there, you recognize that it is a need. The second thing is for your own consideration in terms of project escalation. It could be 70 million today. It could
be 74 million in three years. And what do I mean by that? I can't tell you that we may not hit an inflation period that we had in 2021 where inflation shot from 3% to 11% and construction costs balloon
by 15 or 20%. So, we don't want to get caught short or if we are, we can't go over the number that you tell the voters. If you tell the voters it's 70 million, then it's 70 million. It's not 70 million and a dollar. It's 70
million. And how do you get there? Well, we have to cut projects. So, we have to scale back things. That's how you get there. Um, so this could guard against it. And if you put a contingency in and you don't use it, you could give that
back to the taxpayers in terms of uh a lower uh borrowing of the final dollar number. You could there's a lot of things that you can do with it. It just adds that sense of extra security. Some districts do that, other districts do
not, but it's it's there. Finally, uh the state would like you to use construction management services for large projects. I don't see yours as a large project. I see yours as many, many small projects. I don't think you need a
construction manager to handle toilet renovations or roofs. If however you would like that, we've added that so that you can talk about it. I wanted to bring that up to you so that you could think about it and say, "Yeah, yeah, we should have that um as part of this
project." So if A, H, I, and J are considered as yes, we want these in, you're going to lean more to the 75 million. If we don't want to do any of them or you know something small it would probably lean more towards the the
70 million the lower number. So H andJ in closer to 75 dotting closer to to 70. So with that let me wrap up by saying we've looked at all six of your schools.
Um yes you do have concerns. Um this is not something that is is like it's a it's a very expensive proposition. Um it's also you know I would consider a generational thing that's before you and um there's other things that we could
discuss. Uh but before we discuss financing or other options and what path do we take or what's the next steps, I want to pause for a second and just see if there's any questions on the rationale or any questions on something
I may not have explained enough. >> Okay, questions. >> Uh I have a couple. Yes, sir. Ron, >> are our buildings insulated?
are buildings, your buildings, >> your roofs have minimal insulation. Um, coupled with the fact that they have a secondary roof over that original roof with spray foam that provides a little
bit more of insulation, albeit that spray foam is inconsistent, and that's why you have so many pockets of water up there. And then you have a rubber membrane. The walls are your standard, let's call it New Jersey schools
about the roof. So with the new roofs include insulation for energy. >> Yes. >> Yes. But we have to be we have to be careful on how we design it. Um, and because we've got to meet existing
systems, rising walls and the like because every rising wall, if my roof is here and I have a rising wall, a gym wall that's higher than maybe a classroom wall, this wall has got what's called wee poles in it. The wee pole is maybe about 8 in above the lower roof that needs to breathe because if any
water gets in that upper wall, it needs to weep out. If I put more insulation on the lower roof, I can't bury that. But we would add insulation where war wanted or where available or where we could do it and and everywhere would be improved
on on um what you have now. Yes. >> And the other question I had was about the key system. >> Yes. >> Master keys and all that. Is that electronic? >> No, it would be it would Well, we're looking at an actual key system.
>> A manual key system? >> Yeah. Manual key system. is electronic or efficient or safe. >> That's a great question. It's a local question. I think um I've seen them that that have worked well. I've seen them and I've installed them that have not
worked well. The teachers for whatever reason it doesn't work. This is they're they're inconsistent. It would it would need to be looked at and and told to me that that was the direction you'd like to go because that would be
considerably more money. What we're looking at is actually leaving a lot of the existing hardware and replacing just the core. Now, you do have two schools. Mr. Van Kirk, where is he? >> He's gonna he's going to help me out in a minute. Um, in terms of you've got
that already and I think they're both problematic at the time right now. Would you like to say something, Joseph? >> I think he does. >> We do have We do have uh uh two of the schools that have electronic blocks. Um
but the ones that we have um the uh manufacturer no longer supports them and I can no longer get um parts for them. >> Yes, sir. Right. >> Okay. I have a question. Could you
explain how critical our roofs are at the moment and how How how could they possibly fail within the next year or so? I know we've done a couple of repairs here and there. Are we in a position where we'd have to close a school if a roof fell?
I wish I was cresting here. I just I those are I'm drawing my age here. Your roofs are old and in some uh respects failing. Um I've seen roofs of similar
age uh especially your roofs which are rubber RS rubber roof is nothing than a 20 foot wide usually 20 foot wide sheet of rubber 60 ms maybe uh less than a quarter inch thick. It's a monolithic
roof and it's glued um at the seams. That glue is 20 plus years old and that glue can fail. And if you get certain wind events or rain events where you get the right amount of pressure differential and you get negative
pressure where there is pressure enough on that roof, it could stretch the roof enough where that seam could rip. So I've seen that happen before. Um, on top of that, I think if we went back to slide four or five and you look at the Walnut Ridge rising wall, it's
disintegrating. It's disintegrating there. There's no sugar coating that. Um, the roofs are not smooth. And what I mean by that, it's not uh your roofs are not while
they're flat and they're known as a flat roof, they're really not. There's about a quarter inch taper down to the drain um to allow any rain water to flow directly to that drain and and then out. If you have inconsistencies though in that quarter inch, hence with the foam
because the spray foam is not consistent, you're going to develop moonscape pockets of water and standing water on a roof is one of its worst enemies that would exacerbate any kind of of failure. So yeah, it's it's
problematic. I can't predict when >> I get that, >> but I I I'm trying to be honest with you as I can that they need to be replaced. >> Yes. >> So roofs are um obviously our biggest expense in this list of items. And I know that we've gone over this before,
but just for the purposes of the public um who may not have heard about this, the there's talk about warranties. And I know you referenced that ours was actually a materials warranty and not a roof warranty, but given that there's public perception that there's a warranty on our roofs, can you just
explain in a little more detail how why we can't use a warranty to replace a roof and also why we can't simply add another layer rather than replace the roof. >> Excellent. Excellent question. Um, so
warranty. So if the warranty spec well let me take a step back. So um when we first started talking about this with the administration they asked that very same question and and rightly so and Mr.
Vancirk and I took every single warranty went back to the manufacturers um and looked at the warranty. The warranty is basically a material defect warranty. Your RS are not defective.
They're old. There's a difference between being defective and being old at the end of its life cycle and need to be replaced. So, while it might be in year 18 of a 20-year warranty,
if it needs to be replaced, if the wall is failing, if the counter flashing is failing, if the roof drains are failing, that is not going to have the roof company come back and replace your roof at no cost. It's just not going to
happen. And then, um, your second question was was >> the layers. Why you lay another layer? So, um, boy, as far back as I can remember, um, the New Jersey administrative code, the building code,
um, states that any roof, residential, commercial, any roof cannot have more than two roofs on its roof. You can't put a third roof. If you put a third roof on, you're you're in violation of of the building code. And there's
reasons for that. um you keep putting layer upon layer on roof, you're putting stresses on the structure that was not intended to have that kind of weight on the roof, especially in northern New Jersey when you have compound that with snow loads up here, right? A little more
here than maybe in Cape May. So that's why you don't have um you can't simply go to a third roof. And in some cases, you already have three roofs, which is not good. So how do you have three roofs? So the first roof is the existing
roof from the 70s, right? When the building was new, that roof was done. That's your first roof. Roof number two is your spray foam insulation roof, which person with a wand sprays foam down on the roof, covers up the original
roof, and that acted as a new roof. That is considered a second roof. The third roof is then the rubber roof put on last 20 years over top of that roof. So in some places you have three which is
already a concern. We'll leave it at that. >> Yes sir. >> Thank you. >> I just wanted to add that um that warranty which is for material defects is only for the rubber portion uh of of the roof. >> Thank you. That's correct.
And then, well, oh, go ahead. >> Are any of the roofs uh prematurely in disrepair or are they all so old that they're at their end of their natural lifespan? >> They are all at the end. I would I would I if if
we're going to do two a year, right, the first year I would certainly do Walnut Ridge. The third year I would do Glenn Meadow. Glenn Meadow. Uh the other four we would we would see. So you got Walnut Ridge at the one side which is clearly probably your worst. Glenn Meadow which
is probably the best of all four of you. By by no means am I saying to you that Glenn Meadow's okay doesn't need to be done. And why is Glenn Meadow maybe better than the others? Glenn Meadow has the biggest pitch to it. You might be able to see it. If you look at it, you can almost see it's it's pitch where
most of you are like this. This Glen metal's got a significant pitch which allowed roofs, snow, and other things to really drain off it. Well, you didn't get as much ponding water, but I would replace and we're recommending that you
replace all. >> Um, surely >> for the life safety, are we out of compliance? Are are these failing these systems or and how how immediate would they have to be replaced
in your opinion? Let me go to life safety here. Number two. >> Okay. So, I don't want to scare anybody about not being in compliance and all my I'm I'm not here to scare anybody, but um in terms of uh fire alarms, we're
projecting Lounberry Hollow, Cedar Mountain, and Glenn Meadow uh middle school could be replaced. The high school was recently replaced. Rolling Hills and Walnut Ridge are getting replaced this year. Um the code has since been updated
um to more of uh we're getting rid of the bells systems that one I had when you know the big loud bells. Uh in addition to that there's more visual uh every room has a strobe in it those for hearing impaired or others. Um there
isn't that you know just just bell system. Um there's other enhancement that you could do with the fire alarm that your systems don't have um that are um required by code today. So while you have a working fire alarm, um yeah, it
but it like like the roofs it they're they're old, antiquated, they're failing. And in addition to that, we found through some spot testing and we found I think you found very much when you did the high school that you've have problems with wiring over the years.
Things were fixed over the years or whatever, wiring is inconsistent, moved or whatever, you have major problems and change orders at the high school. This would be s this would be different. In fact, I I wish that was wood, but knock on wood. Um, Rolling Hills and and
Walnut Ridge uh is planned for a completely new system. So, right now, we're reviewing the contractor shops. What he's proposing, they're going to start this summer. They're not going to touch the existing system. They're going to put in an entirely new system at both schools. Hopefully finishing by
September, but if not, they're going to work at night. Once that system is in, all new wiring, all new devices, all new places, um once that's in and accepted by us, administration, everybody, then they're going to go back and take out the old system. So, everything including
the wiring is going to be brand new to assure that we should not get hopefully the the issues that you had at the uh at the at the high school, but you'll be in full compliance then. Um, >> isn't it the case that you don't you
don't need to get to compliance if you were compliant when the building was constructed, though? I mean, we're not like in trouble. >> You're not in trouble. You're grandfathered, but you're antiquated and it's inconsistent. And it if something, God forbid, happens, people are going, "Why didn't you do this? You knew it
was." And it's it's the old adage. So, it's it's time. They're old. Every component of a building has a life cycle to it and when you're nearing the end, replace it before there's an emergency. >> Sure.
>> Um, sticking with life safety real quick, your emergency lighting um, also should be upgraded to make sure that it's it is compliant because right now it's a little iffy. Generator, battery packs, and and the like. So, we would do that as part of the firearm. Would the
you said there was two parts of the life system, right? They had the fire alarms, >> right? >> And then we also had the >> public address, >> right? Is or would it be a dual system or or they would be two separate components? >> Two separate components. Two two separate projects, two separate components.
>> Yeah. And we would look, you know, to the details and design each of those components, you know, to the district's specifications, whatever you would want to do. But it would provide better communication to the office. Uh voiceover IP phones in the classrooms as
opposed to the overall uh alarms will lose the analog clocks, which I would hate, but uh things things like that. >> Okay. Um one more. Can you also explain the next step with the state department of ed uh when and how we would apply for
that reimbursement that you referenced? So before you have to decide on the route of funding because you do have two options now um in terms of funding.
Um, you need to know definitively in writing from the state of New Jersey that yes, your project was reviewed and approved by the Department of Education and we will offer you up to 40% aid,
which equates to a specific dollar amount that will then be presented to you. You would then review it, approve it through a resolution, and tell the state department of education, "Yes, we agree with your findings." And
that would then set the aid numbers that I was talking about. Right now, it's just Pete's projections and it's, let's call it a verbal contract. We want a written contract with the state. Once you get that and you know that yes, the
local share will be X, the state share will be Y, you can then look to funding. It's a threemonth process thereabouts. So, we'll probably need about two months to put these documents together to send it to the state. Um, we're talking about
schematic drawings, detailing, a host of uh applications, uh, certifications and and the like. um and submitting it July, August there, there thereabouts. The state would then take two or three months, maybe October.
They would come back with their determination. You would know for sure that you're getting the 40%, which I promise you, you will. Uh but you have it in writing. You can then look to the funding stage. But that's step one. You got to see what the local share is, your responsibility, what the state
share is going to be, and you need to get that in writing. And what is that um estimated cost of getting that submission together >> or costs? Yes, we we have a proposal to Mr. Slam right now. >> Okay.
>> Yep. That's on the um agenda tonight and that's uh $60,000 for I think 32 applications. Um >> thank you. I just thought it should be part of the presentation. I get $60,000.
So, so let's talk about that. So, um typically um our standard our contract with you right now is architect of record um provides for uh what what we call phase 10A which is the department of education
submission which is usually hourly services separate and complete hourly services up to $5,000. And that's about a week's worth of time of a project manager and a project architect putting together the documents. It takes about a week to put
together the document. Now 5,000* 32 is $160,000. Why is it 60? We're going to do a lot of work that we're going to replicate and copy.
Um, so we're not going to spend 5,000 per project application. We're looking to spend hopefully about $2,000 per project application or or less. Um, and that's to develop the schematic drawings and again and all the applications,
upgrading the long-range facility plan, creating the major amendment and and the like. It's a lovely state process. Very ownorous. >> Thank you. Okay. Any other trouble? Yeah. So >> yes, the fresh air and all the
ventilation heating, air conditioning. So >> isn't that energy efficiency? Could we could we go use like an EIP or something to to pay for that? Because I thought we replaced a couple RFU. >> Yes.
>> We have and we are working with Honeywell right now. We had a great meeting with them. In fact, we shaved about a half a million dollars off this plan. um uh because they are taking some work. We coordinated a lot of work with Honeywell uh a few weeks ago. Um you
don't have the energy savings for $70 million. In fact, your ESUP is about $5 million. So through the energy savings that you're going to get by using more efficient equipment, you're going to take that savings and you're going to
pay back the loan. could not do that with uh with this project specifically with with with roots but with with boilers and HBAC equipment. We actually looked at what was more efficient to go the ESE route, what was more efficient
to go the funding route. And it's it's really hardressed if you think about it that trying to save energy and paying for it with energy back at 100% versus
paying 60 or 66% and the state picking up the other 34%. So they're paying for 34% of the units that we buy, which is a significant savings right off the bat in terms of of savings. and you will be more energy efficient.
That coupled with the fact Mr. Van Kirk is bringing gas to all of our facilities. So, we're going to be converting from all electric to natural gas, which should equate into substantial sha savings down the road.
And we're planning for that as well, dual fuel burners and the like. Long-term plan for that. >> Sarah, did you have Yeah. Um, so as far as the ADA improvements go, it that's another question of compliance versus
non-compliance, I know you mentioned that we are using the the step stools to accommodate for our non-compliance with the sinks, but also you mentioned the heat fins, uh, insufficient room. Is that also an issue with compliance?
>> Yeah, if we could, can you go back to those pictures? Let me show you what we're talking about. So, and and So with let's go right. Okay, that's cool. So the top left you can see how that heat fin the bottom
of the person in a wheelchair or someone that has uh movement disabilities would find it very difficult to use this. we would need to take the heat fin out, move the heat fin, maybe that's part of the HBAC project, maybe it's part of this
project, uh, and look to improve as best we can. Now, you raised a good point that I did not mention before. We're not going to start ripping walls apart and creating brand new toilet rooms. We have to work within the confines of the
existing. So the law specifically states to improve the rooms to the greatest extent possible so that you can provide to the greatest extent possible the ability for someone with a disability to use those spaces.
Um often times um again look here often time when you have four or five stalls in a row. We would take two stalls and create one stall. So that
twoft stall is actually now a five foot stall which makes it a handicap stall. We would lose one toilet. Talk with the construction official. They love it. Um and get it approved. The sinks we would lower um to a child height. We would have another one at a wheelchair height.
So those things we can do without ripping walls out and and the like. In addition, all new finishes, new flooring, new exhaust, new walls, new ceilings, new fixtures, just a complete retrofit
of of those rooms. Okay, great. Thanks. Thanks. All right. Anybody else? No. No more questions. Okay. Thank you so much, Pete. Really appreciate you guys coming and presenting such so thoroughly to us today.
>> Thank you. Thank you. Is there anything that we want to cover or no? >> Did we want to talk about um the two options that are we don't have to decide tonight, but at least >> I wasn't sure if we were talking about that. Now we're in the final. >> No, we can talk about it now. I mean, if
you if you want to discuss referendum versus improvement authority a little bit. >> Well, I just want to just as a general discussion, what are we talking about? What is this? What are we doing? So, um, historically, school districts and to this day, um,
this the law is actually fairly new. Historically, school districts in the state of New Jersey cannot bond or borrow money without asking the voters for approval. And that's different than any agency,
township, town or burrow. If the burrow needs to borrow money for the roof of Burough Hall, the township will pass an ordinance in public session and they would bond for that money. Same thing with roads and and the like. Um
the state fairly recently um has decided that a lot of projects, school projects, meaning projects um have been going down to defeat for whatever reason. That's not for
discussion tonight. Don't need it. Um but is there another avenue that we could offer school districts to bond for money? So, what they've done um is a process where the board of
education seeks funding from a county improvement authority. It could be the Sussex County Improvement Authority, if uh there even is one, which I don't think there is, or any other state approvement authority. You would ask them for the funding. They would fund
it. They would lease it back to you. There's pros and cons to both. We can have a discussion about that, but you would not need to ask the voters. Historically, that doesn't sound right. And I think you may get big backlash from people
saying, "Wait a second, we have a right to vote on this." True. They they may very well say that. Um, I would give you a couple of of observations. one, we're not talking about additions,
uh, class size or educational components. We're talking about roofs and life safety. There are two options to do it. Either option would be a good option. If the referendum went down and then you went to the approvement authority, you may be
in worse uh, situation, right? How could you go to them when we voted it down? If however u you went to the approvement authority well how can you go without asking our approval. Well if you go back 10 years or so uh there was great voter
anxiety because if school districts kept their budgets under 2% didn't have to vote and for years a couple of of years uh people were upset. People in my hometown of South Brunsw were very upset about that you're you're taking the will of the voters away. Well if you kept it
under 2% you don't have to do that anymore. that has since gone by the wayside. I I think this is a good way of funding it because it gives you the ability to plan. If we were going to do a referendum,
um that referendum would be probably in March of 27. If you're going to do the improvement authority route, it would probably be around the same time. Right? If the referendum passed, great. If the referendum did not pass, now you're back to square one and we've lost a year
rising cost. This is a a a difficult decision. I don't envy you. I'm here to help. I would recommend bringing in the bond council and the like to talk to a a deep dive about it, but there are two ways to
fund it. And um it's really up to you on how you want to proceed. I'm gonna give it back to Ray or is there anything else I missed or anything else want to chat about about with this or or the like or >> uh I think that was a pretty good
overview. There are pluses and negatives to both sides and >> I don't know if you want to wait till committee report. >> Maybe another month or so we get the other guys in by council and municipal advisor have them discuss the whole thing. >> Okay. Yep.
>> That's great. I hope I you know I'm not the expert on that. >> Oh, great man. school guy school architect but >> thank you >> thank you very much thank you everybody anything else >> thank you >> Charles >> do do we get the 40% either way from the state >> yes >> yes
>> great question I didn't I missed >> yeah that >> question of the night yes and it's 34% really it's 85% of 40% and it's >> God bless the state of New Jersey thank you very much >> thank you >> thank you
>> okay um We're on item 10, board report summary. I'm not sure who's given community relations. I know Mr. Fischer, you were not >> uh I have the notes. >> You have the notes. So, yeah, that'd be great. Thank you. >> All right. So, the uh the meeting, this
is the public community relations committee meeting was uh Monday, May 4th at 6 PM. in attendance. Stephanie Varello, Sarah Pac, Martin Peringer, Principal Lindsay, what was her last
name? >> Okay. Never sure how to pronounce it. I apologize. Uh, Dr. Van Order and Eony De Mendes. So, the committee reviewed the 2627
board committee calendar and uh this was a a problem we had where if you're on a couple of committees, you might have two or three meetings in one week and then you don't have any meetings for three or four weeks. So um the structure for
committee meetings is being changed and the uh this committee meeting will be held on Tuesdays beginning in the 26 27 year and um the technology committee
will be the same day. Uh so community relations will be every month the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 pm. I think technology is going to be immediately before that right. Um and this is uh for
the rest of the calendar year after January um we're going to have a new board so it'll be changed. Uh the committee also heard two community facing updates. The state of the district is tenatively planned for September 23rd. Uh it's
worth noting the state assessment results are not expected until early winter and will not be part of the presentation. Separately, the full circle newsletter budget edition has been distributed to both parents and staff. newsletter was designed to communicate the budget
presentation in an accessible way, highlighting outcomes and what students and families can expect in the classrooms in the year ahead. >> Thank you. Um and the technology report also. >> Okay, technology.
So, first of all, this will be my last technology report. So, uh, Jen had actually asked me because I'm I'm taking on the new ad hoc committee if maybe I had a little too much on my plate. And I told her, you know, funny you should ask
that because since Alice has been coming to the technology meetings, I recognize that Alice is probably a lot more qualified than I am uh to head that committee. So, um, Alice is going to be taking over the technology committee.
Alan as a member, but she's probably the better choice to be the chair and Alice agreed to that. Thank you, Alice. So, I do have notes from the last meeting in attendance. Okay. The meeting was May 5th, 2026.
Uh, in attendance was uh Nick Uh Finny, myself, Alice, and Charlie. Were you there? >> I was not there. >> You were not. That's right. Okay. >> So, usually read your names. >> I know this one. I miss every now and
then. >> All right. So, share 911. We have successfully transitioned to the final stages of triing the share 911 emergency communication application. All staff and students are now rostered and the app has been deployed to teacher devices. We
have also integrated their BTPD users and established a secure connection to the central station. Over the past two months, the application has been utilized during all drills to ensure operational readiness. To guarantee
seamless performance, IT staff partnered with Highpoint Solutions to survey outdoor wireless capabilities and have since mapped application connectivity across all sites. Additional staff training will be provided by share 911
at the May in service. Um consolidation and reconfiguration of digital resources through strategic planning, budget analysis and staff feedback. The district has identified opportunities to consolidate our
technology footprint. As part of this effort, we are transitioning to Google Classroom as our primary learning management system and Way Ground as our primary formative assessment platform for the 2026 27 school year. Since
notifying faculty prior to spring recess, the IT department has actively supported the migration of dig digital resources and assessments. The transaction is being facilitated
by through one-on-one consultations, targeted instructional videos, direct support during common planning time, staff meetings, and workshops. We are currently in the configuration phase to
ensure a seamless launch this fall. >> Thank you. Okay, any questions? uh about either of Mr. Fischer's committee reports? No. Okay. So, we will move on to item 11, our student liaison
report. I know there's a lot going on. >> Oh boy. Settle in. >> I'm sure you've done a great job reading the reports over the past two months. >> Actually, I delegated it and Sarah didn't. >> A Okay. >> And she did she stood them.
>> She actually did much better job than I would have. Okay. >> All right. So, first up, our spring sports, which are coming to a close. Um, very excitedly, most of HWS has happened. States are just starting. Um, so the standings for that, our girls
lacrosse team is currently 7 and 10. Our boys lacrosse team is 8 and 11. Uh, baseball is 15 and six. Softball is 10 and nine. Track and field, the girls are still undefeated. They had their last meet um a couple weeks ago. Our boys
track team is two and two. Uh we just held sectionals last week. Uh the results for that for that were uh the 4x1 relay which was Sophia Hall Monuri, Samantha Janice and Isabella Kaziki broke the uh North one group two Sussex
County and school records which they set at their last meet by the way. Um and moving on to groups. Isabella Kaziki also finished third uh second in the 400 meter. Samantha Janice finished third in long jump. And the girls 4x8 team is
moving on uh to groups because they placed six. Um girls golf is seven and seven. They made it to sectionals. I have yet to hear about the results of sectionals. Uh boys golf is 4 and 15 and boys tennis is five and nine. And I
believe they were in the first round of states but got knocked out. Um, our student council during teacher appreciation week brought a whole like cart of goodies around to all the teachers. It was very entertaining to watch. >> Um, and they had like little snacks.
They had uh like these little squish toys. It was very fun. >> Um, we had a unified prom which was so fun. Most fun I've ever had at a prom. Um, that was held by the unified club in DECA. Uh, they had a great time. with
the unified kids had a great time. It was a very, very successful night. Um, model UN. So, I don't know what model UN is really. So, I texted my friend Caitlyn Jensen who won a best position paper. I was like, what is this about?
This is what she sent me. Caitlyn Jensen won best position paper in her delegation Operation Mins as Lieutenant Commander Ronnie Reid. As far as I know, Operation Mince Me is a musical. So, I'm not really sure what that means, but
good job, Keyna. With their very successful 5K with 75 participants, they uh broke even on their fundraising, which was very, very nice. Um, and Mr. Berg was very, very excited about that. And this past Sunday, there was another 5K held in
honor of Adrienne Tobac. I was not there unfortunately but as I saw in many many photos it was very very successful. Um marching band had drum major and color guard captain auditions. So that will be announced I think this coming week. The
theater department is holding our actor showcase um June 5th at 7 p.m. It's our final performance for our students. Uh our acting four students um we do a director's project. So kids who have gone through all four years do their final project as the cast people and
they rehearse and this is where they perform at and also everyone that placed at competition this past year is also performing. Um so if you would like to see it statewide competition winners, please come. It is a $5 entry I believe.
choir is performing a solar ensemble concert I believe on uh the 15th which is I think like Monday I think >> it's the it's the next board meeting week I know that I think it's a Monday
>> um the band had a very successful spring concert and now they are on a Disney trip in Florida they had their first I think they have two parades they have one of them today um and as far as I know it went very smoothly So, we'll hear about that. Jazz at the Flats
coming up. I don't have a date for that yet. >> Um, >> Sponge. >> June 3rd. >> Oh, okay. Good. Next week. Next week. Two weeks. >> Um, the Honor Society is holding their last uh roadside cleanup on the 6th.
That's a Sunday. Um, the Honor Society helped in setting up and having a very successful art standing. If you were here, you saw it was hugely successful this year. Um, the seniors are also having a roadside cleanup on May 23rd and Verdon Football
is holding a slides promotion. So, you can get their custom Vernon slides. I think it's $35, I think. So, if you want some Verdon gear, >> Vernon what? Slides. >> Slides. So, um, you know, I'm thinking slides. You're thinking shoes. Okay.
>> Um, so if you've ever seen like a Nike slide, it's just it goes on your foot and it's very comfortable. >> Um, uh, the student of the month didn't come out yet, so I will update that next month. Um, but the juniors had a very successful junior prom. It was very,
very fun. Uh, I heard the food was delicious. I did not eat it, so I would not know. Um, our seniors, the day after junior prom, we held a celebration of decision day. So photos were taken outside to celebrate. We had like a
whole they had us stand in a in a 26 and everything. Um and we also had athletic signings for our student athletes that are moving on to collegiic sports. Um and next week we have our student breakfast and prom. And uh we have a
prompt popup shop right now uh which is in the room across from the cafeteria. It's a free store including uh jewelry, dresses, tuxes, all for the upcoming prom. Lots of people go in there. It's actually very very nice. It's uh I looked at the jewelry in there and I'm
not a big jewelry girl, but it was very very nice. Um we had an AP breakfast. So that celebrates all the hard work that our students have brought into uh this year now that AP testing is over. I believe the last day was today which was
makeup testing. Uh yes, snap for them. They deserve it. They deserve it. Um there was lots of pancakes I heard. Uh, and then we had teacher appreciation week. So, the staff sent out bingo cards and throughout the day, Miss Young sent
out emails and was like, "Which is which one is this teacher?" Um, and Mr. Berg did not win as far as I know, which is very disappointing. Um, and messages were sent out to their to students from their to teachers from their students to thank them along with the cart that was
brought from the student council. And that's all I have. >> Okay, great. Thank you so much. Does anybody know what model UN is? I have an idea, but I don't want to get it wrong. >> I do. I had a child in Model UN. >> Okay. So, you tell us what it is. >> Model UN is is pretty much exactly what
it sounds like. The kids >> learn about the UN by assuming UN roles. And >> uh it actually what's great about model UN is that it graduates too. So you have a local model UN and then you have a
county or a district, a state and then it all come accumulates uh in the summer. I think it's either a week or two weeks before the annual United Nations General Assembly. Kids from all over the world come to New York
and New York have their own general assembly at the United Nations. >> That's so cool. Yeah. >> What would be the delegation paper? So, >> so that would be like a positioning paper for your country that you're assigned. Right. >> Right. So,
>> whoever they represent her, >> her paper was on >> operation me, which is a comedic musical. >> Operation I know the name. >> Maybe it's also a military. >> I don't think Operation Minsk is military, but I think it was
>> Okay. >> Maybe this is just me being a theater. I think it's a musical that was based off of something in World War II. Oh, there you go. Yeah. Yeah. So, >> as far as I know, maybe this is >> all right. Well, we're gonna have to do that.
>> Are you googling it? >> British. >> Okay. So, there you have it. All right. >> Just wanted >> I have really bad allergies, so I'm going to cough every now and then. Hopefully not into blank. Um, okay. Thank you so much for that report. And
uh now we're on item 12, public comment. Sam is going to read our public comment notice. >> During the course of the public meeting of the Vernon Board of Education, the public is offered the opportunity to address the board on agenda items and any issues regarding the school district. The order reminds individuals take this opportunity, they must
identify themselves by name and section of town and limit their comments to agenda items and issues that directly relate to operation of the school district. Issues that are raised by members of the public may or may not be responded to by the board or administration at the time of the meeting or at any time. All comments will be considered and response be
forthcoming if and when appropriate. The board requests that members of the public keep their comments to limit to five minutes. Be courteous, respectful, and mindful of the rights of other individuals when speaking. Specifically, comments regarding students and employees of the board of education should be
thoroughly considered by the speaker and may or may not be responded to by the board of administration. be advised that students employees have rights to confidentiality and other protections under the law. Student names should never be used. The board bears no responsibility nor will be liable for any comments made by the public during the public portion of a board meeting.
Members of the public should consider their comments in light of the legal rights affected or identifying their comments and be aware that they are personally legally responsible with potential liability for the comments that they make to the board. >> Thank you, Mr. Slam. Do we have any members of the public uh present who
would like to comment? All right. Do we have any members of the public online? >> Great. Martin, are you there? >> Yeah. Can you hear me? >> Yes, we can. >> Okay. Wonderful. Um, I want to comment
on the uh facility thing, the 70 to 75 million. Um, I just want to say and I want to make sure before I say it that I do not
uh feel it applies to anybody in this room, but it should be known by anybody in this room that this is something that is indicative
to how the board and the administration ran the school, let's say about 10 years ago, because back then I was part of a facilities committee, and we made a list
of $10 million to $11 million of what needed to be fixed. And instead, and we have there were back then two options to fix it. Either use our 2% which we decided not to do. we uh
decided to make a 0% tax increase to give it to the taxpayer mainly pushed by Mr. Higgins and co back then on the war or to make go for a referendum for $10
million which we didn't do either and we just fixed whatever was came up as on an emergency basis ever since. And now those $10 million
have grown into $75 million or thereabouts. So, I'm really interested to see what you guys going to do about. And unless I'm completely mistaken, I know for sure Mr. Slam wasn't there. I knew know for
sure Mr. Menance wasn't there. And I'm 99.9% sure none of the board of ad members that are sitting in this room today were there at this time. So you basically are going to be in charge
now of cleaning up this mess. A mess that has grown proportionally because as I already said back then we ran the schools like if you run a car without doing an oil change and buying tires when the profiles are down or replacing
the brake pads and then wonder why you're crashing it into a wall or the engine blows up. So that is where we are on that. And on a positive note, I just want to say I really enjoyed outstanding.
Uh it was a fantastically made and the uh the artworks of the kids and the music and everything was very well done. So, whoever was involved in getting that going and organizing this, consider
yourself getting a pat on the back from me. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Paringer. Do we have any other members of the public? I'm uh online. >> No. >> No. >> Okay. Thank you. Um item 13,
superintendent report. Miss Deendez. Great. So, we're pleased to announce our district's artists of the month for May. Uh the high school students artwork is being displayed at our board office and
our Cedar Mountain students artwork is at the municipal building. In addition, we have our enrollment report which is attachment S1. Uh and then we have our HIV report for April 2026, which is attachment S2. Uh in
agreement with Mr. Paringer, uh this past Friday, we had a packed house at Lounsberry Hollow for Art Standing. It was probably, I think, one of our largest festivals in Vernon, right? One of the largest events that we have in our township. Our family certainly
filled the building, the outdoors, the backyard, the front yard, right? um for interactive art stations, student performances, and certainly a vibrant celebration of our arts programs. Um the success belongs to many different hands
and many different participants. So, we want to just thank um and give a shout out to our art and music teachers who designed and led the experiences, our custodial and maintenance teams who prepped and cleaned the space with care, our administrative secretaries who kept logistics moving, our VTEA and union
leadership uh for helping secure grant funding, the arts honor society students who volunteered with positive energy all night. And I have to say, wow, can our students sing because that was amazing. they um stayed on the front lawn um
grabbed that microphone and led us um with some serious blowing. So, it was wonderful. Thank you to Mr. Eric Venueva for uh coordinating the event. Um and I just have to say seeing so many of our students choose to spend a Friday night uh fully engaged in a creative community
space was just wonderful and our families out there to support. So, congratulations to an unforgettable 11th year. uh our NJSIAA sectional track meet. Miss O'Donnell already talked about our wins and our successes. That
was also exciting to see. Mr. Gaggli Astro and I had a front seat to the winners that um afternoon as that's what they did, right? As they crossed as they crossed the uh finish line, they were running. Uh so it was wonderful. It
was a big coordinated event. I think this is our fifth year. It will probably be the last year that we're doing it. It will shift over to a new school. But we did receive a letter of thank you from the NJSIAA track and field championship director um who commended our seamless leadership, all of our events and our
coordination and um really the dedicated efforts of our staff to make sure that all of the participating schools um were able to um just be distinguished. Glenn Meadow Glen Meadow has been recognized as a school
with the promising practice of kindness ambassadors. Uh character.org recognized 103 school districts from around the world as 226 state and national schools of character.
But this year's honores represent 94 schools around the US and a record-breaking nine international schools that demonstrate a deep commitment in developing strong culture, ethical leadership, character growth in students. So the school of character
designation celebrates schools that are demonstrating strong implementation of the 11 principles and building a school culture where students learn to lead with integrity, responsibility, and respect. So Glenn Meadow was honored by Character.org as being one of those
distinguished schools that have um are demonstrating those 11 principles. So congratulations to that team. Um we had teacher and nurse appreciation day and week um for the first week of May and our district honored the
dedicated uh teachers, school nurses um and our principles in recognition of teacher appreciation day, school nurse day, principal day all in May. Um so to every teacher across Vernon Township, to our nurses, to our principles, to everybody who really pours into the
hearts of our students, thank you. Um certainly we know that this is done with care um and in honor of our students. So we're grateful for everything that they do and the steady belief they have um in our children and how they're shaping their future and who they're becoming.
Um our schools have been busy with their spring field trips. Um they're going to space farms, the Wright family farm, Turtleback Zoo, Sussex County Miners baseball stadium. heard was packed in the house right when Vernon. Um the Museum of Natural History, the Medieval
Times, and the Bronx Zoo. Uh our music department at Glen Meadow was in full swing this May. They featured a lovely chorus concert on the 6th and an impressive band concert on the 12th. We're congratulating the Lounsbury Hollow students for two wonderful spring performances, the band and orchestra
concert on May 11th and the chorus concert on the 13th. Uh, our Rolling Hill students surpassed their goal for the Kids Heart Challenge for the 2526 school year. They raised over $3,700 for research in the American Heart Association. So, kudos to our Rolling
Hills students. Um, very worthy cause and thank you to the VTeA for sponsoring Rolling Hills Literacy Night. Testing NJSLA, our favorite topic, is off to a strong start in grades through 3 through 11. Yes, Nichols. Don't we
love testing? Yes, we love testing. >> Our students are taking their time. And I think that's what we want to say about this um assessment. It's a new one. It's a reset. It's going to be a new baseline next year. Um and in this
assessment, the students are getting um two days. They have the opportunity this time to complete their assessment, then review their answers, and if they need more time, re-enter the assessment the next day. Most times students do what?
They speed through it and they don't take their time. However, our students are being observed taking their time. For example, Lounsberry Hollow, we have 400 students that tested and only 91 students closed out after the first session. the remaining 300 and plus
right took the full time to test. So that is encouraging. Um the teachers have done a phenomenal job encouraging our students to slow down to review their work. Um and I am going to give the shout out to Vernon because uh so many other districts, right, we hear of
all of the things that are happening and the snafoos and the problems and we certainly encountered our own. But um Nick Lasso, congratulations to him and the test coordinators who are really doing their best effort to make sure that um our students know exactly what
to do and are able to do their best. Um we heard earlier um from u Mr. Fiser that our results are going to look a little different this year. Uh our state let us know that we probably won't get results back until early winter. So we
said to expect them before December. So, um, that's all right because we have I Ready, we have formative assessments, we have other ways to measure our students growth. Um, and so then we're using those benchmark assessments to determine how our students are progressing towards the standards. Uh,
it's a good thing that the U district has multiple measures to assess student outcomes and growth and we can report out on those. um looking ahead to our June board meeting for the 2627 school year. Our vision and instructional
planning um is anchored in the belief that every Vernon student is safe, supported, connected, prepared, and that every Vernon classroom promotes rigor, creativity, realworld learning, experience, and excellence. That came from our vision through strategic plan.
And at the June board meeting, we're going to plan uh present our action plan. So what is our vision? What came out of those meetings? Uh what are our goals that are now refined? What are the primary objectives for the 2627 school
year? And what are major action planning um tasks that will guide our work for the year ahead? Um, our team has come together to really think about our K to5 curriculum, increasing instructional time in ELA and math, supporting all our
learners with multi-tered systems of support. We've been able to um now add academic support staff to provide explicit targeting student intervention during win, which is what I need periods. Uh, we're expanding expanding MTSS from intervention through
acceleration. Um, and we're strengthening our LRE aligned inclusive practices across our educational settings. So, if you want to hear what our action plans are, if you want to learn about how we're addressing multi-tered systems of support, how
we're thinking about intervention, how we're reframing acceleration, how we're expanding our K to5 curriculum coherence, how we're writing curriculum, how we're aiming to decrease um uh screen time and really teach our students about AI and all of the goals.
June is the date. We invite all of our families to come hear the facts. Thank you. >> Nice. Thank you. All right. Um item 14, the reports, discussions, and recommendations. We have uh Mr.
Smeagglia with the uh policy report. Policy and governance. Looking at me like I'm crazy. >> Yeah. Yeah. I don't do anything. Oh. I thought we did did we do
theformational items? Sorry, did I skip theformational items? I thought you did them in the beginning in the beginning. >> So, as it was pointed out last last meeting, we changed the format. We made it exciting this year. So, our exciting
meeting what took place on May 14th. >> Can't hear you. >> On May 14th, we had >> We want to hear the excitement. You got to get >> very very exciting meeting. So excited. And I know siding meetings, let me tell you.
So from 5 5:45 to 6:45 um this always takes place on Zoom and attend this was myself excitedly. Ebony Brian who was super I don't know why he was so excited but he was extremely excited that day. >> The point of it.
>> Um Carolyn and Alice awesome excited. So to start off the excitement we we start with uh governance and um we're talk well this is a mostly covering right now is at least Oprah's for the year we have 33 none of them have been
overdue so good job there right >> I'm excited for you um in April we had eight one which is one is still open and May we have two uh two one of one of which is open Total
for the year, we have $164.50 for attorney fees. Now, ready for this? We're doing policies now, and this is very, very exciting. So, first reading, we have uh
for tonight, we have policy 3283. Um, oh, I'm sorry. I'm going to read two policies that we didn't put on here. So we we this is was uh we looked at them, we talked about them. This policy 3283
and policy 4283, we pulled them. We wanted to have a a much more exciting discussion about it in the future. So we're not we're not they're not on the agenda tonight. However, policy 0169.02
O2 is a new policy which is >> I don't know is that right social networks. >> No. >> Oh yeah I I I hit in there. Sorry. That woman is not there. 60 60 6169 is not on
the agenda but policy 5301 use of lifeax uh devices is on the agenda. This is new. Um it's it's recommended as written. This is uh for a device for choking. It uses uh it uses the BL it's
part of the BLS protocol which was uh and was recently approved uh by the FDA. Um we removed the locations out of this policy that we're going to put in later on uh because the units have not arrived yet in the district. But and one thing
we talked about was looking at training for the uh general pop to learn how to use this device so we can protect more people. So right now we have certain people that are um trained in it. Um but we would like to expand that so we can
uh help assist anyone that but we're looking to that. So we're not sure. Uh for a second reading we have 9131 uh 1552
policy and regulation and 2361 policy and regulation. theif 1552 if gets passed tonight will then abolish the the uh 3362
policy and regulation and 4352 policy and regulation. They all have to do with uh sexual harassment and the new policy covers everything. So there's no need for the other four. Um, and we're accepted. We're as written
in the document. Um, something else I was going to say. I don't >> too excited. >> Yeah, that's it. But yeah. Oh. Oh, yes. I remember what it was. I'm sorry. If I I just want to bring everyone's attention to the policy for acceptable
use. Uh if you look at item 18A, it points out times for the students that the the Chromebooks will be shut off. Um, I didn't mention this before, but I I just hope I know the policy goes
in effect if it's voted on tonight will go in effect, but if we could just make sure the teachers and the students know that these these uh Chromebooks will shut off so that the younger grades it shut off at 9:00 goes to 10 and I think high school might be uh unrestricted.
So, but just uh that's in that's uh section 18A in and policy I got >> our assignment still due at 11:59 p.m. >> because that's going to be a problem. >> And that's why I want to make sure everyone here in knows that because the
teachers, you know, >> say, "Yeah, you have until 12:00 or 11:59 to hand it in >> and then your Chromebook shuts off." So, >> and also the my mic is so loud. But also, I have very important things to say. So, that's good. The high school is
unrestricted. So, a lot of the 1159 due dates um there is no cut off for high school. >> It's not also Glen Meadow. I don't I don't recall actually. I think >> um Glenn Meadow uh a lot of their students also like a lot of the eighth
graders at least uh have later >> 11:59, right? Yeah. >> Um maybe not in like sixth and seventh grade, but eighth grade is definitely like an 1159 kind of scenario. >> That's my recollection. >> Um especially with papers and stuff because that's when they first get into
like history papers and research and all of that and that takes time for them. A lot of them are procrastinators also. So >> mention that as a parent, I can't imagine what I'm talking about. >> So yeah, they they also have 11:59 or
they have 7 a.m. but that encourages them to either wake up at the dog and stay up at night. >> All right. So, let me actually since you said that there's a 7 a.m. maybe too. >> Yeah. >> Um, primary is 6 6 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. the
Chromebooks are be will be accessible. Middle school is 5:30 a.m. to 1000 p.m. And secondary, which would be high school only, right, is unrestricted. >> Okay. >> Good. >> All right. just need to kind of
>> massively communicate that to students then and that and maybe change those deadlines. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. It's the def apparent I asked about it years ago. It's the default deadline that Navian if you say it's due this day that's the deadline that it automatically puts. So the teacher would
have to override it to make it any other time. >> Yeah. The uh for the teachers at least with those those papers and stuff uh a lot in the high school you have to print out your paper and hand it in to them as well. That's like an alternative to if they're >> Oh, yeah.
>> writing it the night before, they also have to print it out. Um, so that encourages them to do it before 11:59 and then it's due by like 3 p.m. that day whenever they get out of school. So, they have to hand it to the teacher then instead of submitting it online at 11:59.
>> All right. Well, yeah, just something to think about. And I think I said Nian, but I meant schooly. Nvian looms large for me from that time. All right. So any uh so you have more policies for us, right? Or >> that's the most excitement I could pack into them. >> So exciting. Yeah. An exciting
conversation about your exciting policies. >> Good. Um All right. So, uh can I get We're That was it, right? That was all. Okay. So, can I get a motion to approve items 14, B1 through B3? >> So, moved.
>> You second. >> Second. >> Second. >> Thank you. Um, questions or comments? We already commented. Oops. Out of one. >> Anyone else have comments? Okay. Uh, can
I get a roll call? >> Miss Nichols? >> Yes. >> Miss Bell? >> Yes. >> Miss Pekk? >> Yes. >> Dr. Ross? >> Yes. >> Mr. Zimmerman? >> Yes. >> Mr. Smackley? >> Yes. >> Mr. Fischer?
>> Hi. >> Mr. Krauss? >> Yes. >> Motion carries. C personnel um C personnel resignations, retirements, and terminations. Uh we're recommending uh the following non-certificated certificated staff
resignations and retirements in letter A. And letter B, certificated staff resignations and retirements. In letter C, um following non-certificated staff termination. Number two, appointments.
Uh in the table are certificated staff appointments. In letter B, substitute appointments at the appropriate substitute rates for the 2526 school year. In letter C, summer clinician appointments, which commences
on June 29th, 2026 through August 31st. Letter D is the appointment for the ESY uh extended school year program which runs Monday through Fridays and
commences on July 6th through the 29th for a total of 18 days. Uh number three, compensation and adjustments. These are hourly stipened adjustments. In letter B, uh the approval of sixth period
stipened positions for the 2526 school year. Letter C uh these are stipened positions for the summer of 2026. Letter D is the approval of a staff member for summer CST meetings at the
rate of $40 per meeting. Letter E is the approval of staff for summer evaluations at the rate of $400 per evaluation as per the 23 through 26 contract. Number four, leaves of absence. A leaves of
absence for certificated staff. Number five is transfer. Um these are the transfers of certificated staff and attachment P2. Letter B are transfers of non-certificated staff. And number six
is the approval of the employment contract for Raymond Slam, our school business administrator and board secretary for the 2026 27 school year with an annual salary of 1919. Number seven is the approval of the
following job descriptions in attachment P3. They are academic support teacher, teacher coach for math and teacher coach for ELA. Number eight is the contract um between uh board employee 6807
uh which authorizes the board president, business administrator, board attorney and or superintendent to take all actions and execute all documents necessary to effectuate the terms of this separation and release agreement. Can I get a motion to approve items 14
C1 through C8? >> So move. >> Second. >> Second. >> Thank you. Questions or comments? >> Seeing none. Can we get a roll call? >> Miss Plet? >> Yes. >> Miss PEC? >> Yes. >> Dr. Ross? >> Yes.
>> Mr. Zimmer? >> Yes. >> Mr. Simaglia? >> Yes. >> Mr. Fischer? >> Hi. >> Mr. Krauss. Yes, >> Miss Nichols. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Welcome back, Mr. Slam.
>> Thank you. >> You're welcome. All right. D, uh, curriculum and instruction. We have Oh, I'm sorry, Miss Pellet. >> I'm spending that. It's actually Dr. Ross. You're up with your uh board committee report for curriculum.
>> All right. The curriculum committee met on May 14th. Um, we continue to align our efforts with board goal five, focusing on advancing academic growth and inclusive learning environments through a whole child approach, ensuring that district priorities reflect a
balance of rigorous instruction and robust student support. So, we discussed curricula adoption. You'll see on tonight's agenda is the season for adopting curricula. Um and we are we
have an eye on researchbased programs and vertical alignment and cohesion across according to our strategic planning. Um attention to we also discussed attention to content expertise in instructional supervisory roles which
just means prioritizing the teacher evaluations um to be done by people who have content area expertise is ideal. um instructional use of formative assessments and alignment in our use of
these tools. So making sure that our formative benchmark assessments are ungrated. This is the kind of data that helps teachers and instructional specialists support student growth. That's the kind of formative data we're collecting all throughout the school
year as a way of adjusting instruction to best meet the needs that the data shows us the kids have. Um, okay. We had Mr. Fay with us for some special education updates. Um,
you'll see, I think, a few of our grants that we're accepting for like high impact tutoring. I think that's number 10 on the agenda tonight. Um, we were accepted into a few great cohorts, like professional cohorts. So, um, I think
both through Ruters. Um, and one of them has to do with community based instruction. Um, and the other one has to do with person- centered approach in schools and transition. Um, student- centered IEP building, strength-based. Um, it involves like attending some
statewide trainings and receiving some training from them. So, it's a great place. It's a great thing for us to be a part of. Um, for CCLC, we hit our target for level of service. We're in year five of the grant. So, we'll be applying again and
hoping to extend to grade four, which would be really exciting. Yeah. >> Be awesome. >> Yeah. Um, and then I think finally, we discussed um some recent news coverage related to districts across the country struggling with improper use of YouTube
on districts laptops. Um, this can result in students accessing inappropriate content and I think more common and pervasive just simply act as a significant distraction to student learning. Um, so our school leaders shared the tiered layers of student
protection that we currently have in place to try to avoid that kind of uh access to inappropriate material and distraction in the classroom. So these are uh just I think it's useful to kind of understand the layers of protection that we have working on our student
laptops. So we've got the Google admin console which sets account level permissions for every student. And then we have securely which adds content category channel and video controls. Um, we have device level restrictions on our
schoolisssued Chromebooks, the the device themselves. And then we have securely classroom, um, where the teacher has live monitoring and classroom specific controls on their student use of laptops. And we're we're
intentionally planning our curricula to you, you know, only use our devices in ways that are have a high impact on positive impact on student learning. So all those things hopefully working together will be good for our kids. Um, so just some common
uh things to know. Students can't see comments or suggested videos on YouTube when they access YouTube, which is good. Um, if a student searches for something dangerous on YouTube, securely flags that and alerts the district technology
team, building administration and counseling department. Um, students can't log into their personal accounts on a school Chromebook. they can only log into their school accounts. They can't access YouTube shorts. Um, securely helps the teachers
understand what their students are doing on their screens. And so for all of the concerns that the article raises about YouTube in schools, our district is on top of it and thinking about it. >> Really good. >> That's good. Very good.
>> All right. Thank you. >> Um, now my turn. Now you can go. >> Yes. I always skip you on the curriculum part. >> Yeah. Sorry. >> He's right in there. >> All right. Um for curriculum and
instruction. Number two, it's uh the approval for travel in attachment C1. Uh number three is the um HMH interreading print and digital uh for grades K
through five. I just want to say that out loud for gates grades K through five. So, this is an accomplishment of our goal. I mean, you know, at least our first step here is unifying all of our K to5 ELA um instructional program into
reading is the way we're going. Uh today we had an exceptional professional development for our curriculum writers where we're really plugging away. We have our PD coming up um on May 26. So um here is step one toward moving us in
the direction of coherence. So that is attachment C2. Number four is the discovery education for student curriculum. That's social studies and attachment C3. Number five is renaissance and fastbridge. That's social emotional learning and attach
attachment C4. Number six is accepting the funds for the focus continuation grant in the amount of $6,760. Number seven is approving the foundation foundation for educational administration agreement in the amount
of $3,800 uh which is funded by title 4 in attachment C5. Number eight is the allin for inclusive education professional services agreement for PD on May 26th in
the amount of $2,500 attachment C6. This is another board goal around our behavior and special education audit. Number nine is Jinny's house um as the district's partner in child assault prevention. Uh number 10
is the approve uh approval to accept the funds. We got the grant everybody. New Jersey Learning Acceleration Program High Impact Tutoring Grant in the amount of $160,000. Uh great job Vinnie and company. Um
yeah, snap on that one. Number 11 is the approval for the proposal um from American Book Company for our classroom libraries. Another goal that's being achieved, attachment C7. Woohoo. And number 12 is the proposal from MBT
solutions for professional development on May 26th in the amount of $900. This will be funded by title 2. Um, and this is kinesthetic learning uh attachment C8. A lot of goals here, board, >> some good stuff. All right. Can I get a
motion to approve item 14 D2 through D12? So moved. >> Thank you, Sarah. Second. >> Second with excitement. >> Yes, with excitement. >> All right. Questions or comments?
>> Uh for number two, the HM HM U HMH, it says digital and print for one year. So is this um is there is this just a bundle that we just get the digital, but we're looking towards moving towards the
>> Yes. And that's a very important point. Thank you for asking that question. Yes, it comes with digital um resources for teachers and resources for students. But as we're developing the curriculum, for example, today our team was deciding at what grade will it be appropriate for us to start assessing. So we said we're not
going to use the digital assessments in K and one. We'll start it at the end third semester of grade 1 to prep students for grade two, but we will move them toward um those areas. We're also defining uh what will be digitally used,
what will be hard copy. We ordered all of the materials that are books and classroom libraries and things in our students hands so that they're learning actively and engaging with text, right? Um so we are uh calling a very clear
focus toward decreasing um screen time. Mr. gagglestro and I started to meet with our teachers. We rotated through CPT times um to talk to them, let them know about that aim and honestly our especially I think it was
Cedar Mountain, right? And um roll rolling on board. Oh, it was a great yay, wonderful, amazing. This is what we want to do. So, I think it was just a relief for everybody that we're all in agreement that this has to happen. So, we'll define those ways. We'll write it
into the curriculum. Um, we'll meet with the staff. We'll PD around it. Uh, we'll have resources where needed. Um, but we won't depend on that. >> Thank you. >> Excited. >> Yes. Any other questions,
comments? Okay, great. Can we get a roll call? >> Miss PEC? >> Yes. >> Dr. Ross? >> Yes. >> Mr. Zimmerman? >> Yes. >> Mr. Smagia? >> Yes. Mr. Fischer,
>> yes. Abstain when noted. >> Thank you, >> Mr. Krauss. >> Yes, abstain. Uh, at number two, the same one word note. >> Thank you, Miss Nichols. Miss Bellot.
>> Yes, definitely. >> Motion carries. >> Great. Um since she >> e reports um the HIB report reviewed at the April 30th meeting is attachment R1.
Number two is the random drug testing and school safety report for April 2026 attachment R2. >> You can I get a motion to approve items 14 one through E2. Thank you Ray. Second. >> Second.
>> Thank you Sarah. Questions or comments? Seeing none, can we get a roll call? >> Dr. Ross? >> Yes. >> Mr. Zimmer? >> Yes. >> Mr. Simlia? >> Yes. >> Mr. Fischer? >> Hi. >> Mr. Krauss?
>> Yes. >> Miss Nichols? >> Yes. >> Miss Pellet? >> Yes. >> Miss Pekk? >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Item F, finance. Mr. Krauss. >> Yes. Yes. Yes. Okay. Finance buildings
and grounds met on May 11th, 2026. The meeting was conducted in person at the board office and started around 4:30 p.m. In attendance, Ray Slam, Evony Dez, Joe Vancerk, myself, Jen Pellet, Brian Fiser, Pete Campasano, Tony Salamini,
and Brian Morris. So, we were shown the same presentation that everybody saw tonight. So I have to go through a whole thing, but that we saw that and and we our bond council Tony Solomini and Brian Mars, our municipal advisor, were there to answer questions about our financing options,
which we discussed a little bit about tonight, either a referendum or the use of an improvement authority, and more details on that will be coming forthcoming. Um, number two, the health benefits update. Our last three months of utilization averaged between 60 to
70%. We are doing a market check for leverage with Horizon in an attempt to renegotiate rates with a longerterm goal to move to a July 1 renewal to try to bring the renewal more in line with our budget calendar. We are reviewing a GLP1
direct program that could realize savings of $280,000 to $300,000 a year while benefiting our employees. We then discussed a retrofit grant and if we get the retrofit grant, it's to reduce our carbon output. It could
possibly reduce the cost of a referendum or the improvement authority. Um there was a letter of engagement with Phoenix advisors. Um we're tableabling this until we get the exact numbers for the cost in buildings and grounds. We had a an update on the timeline for the solar
um PPA and the projected completion is November of 2026. They're going to be starting the week of June 19th. Putting that in this right, Joe. Great. Okay. Thanks. Um the caf the high school cafeteria wall, we received two quotes.
Lowest quote was Northeastern Interior Services LLC for $43,683.75. The two band rooms and orchestra pit flooring replacement. There's a significant need for replacement. It's $50,95.
The Walnut Ridge kitchen door replacement no longer latches. That's going to cost $6,922. There's an issue with the generator transfer switch at Glen Meadow. That means if the electricity goes out, comes back and goes out again, the transfer
fails. We're exploring next steps with that. Uh Lounbury Hollow bathroom floor replacement from water damage, $37,287. It's a lot of water damage. Uh the Rolling Hills oil tank failed something
called a tightness test. Um it's going to be replaced and we're going to be using a uh a temporary tank because we're going to have natural gas lines coming in by I think September, right? Yeah. Okay. And couple other things.
Rolling Hills burner replacement approximately $21,000 to replace one dual fuel burner. Um we're exploring the cost to replace the other existing burner with a natural gas only burn. Um district maintenance building working to obtain pricing. Metal and plland need to
be replaced on the roof. More some more roof problems. Uh rolling hills sewer treatment plant. repairs to floats and valves needed for proper operation. It's going to cost around $7,700. And last but not least, the Vernon Township High School fire alarm dispute.
Our attorney is issuing a formal letter to the contractor because they gave us some uh pricing that was beyond I forget exactly what the numbers were. If you could give me those things. So, in order for them to have a fire
alarm that was in compliance and pass inspection, they had to complete additional work um at the high school um gym, right, in terms of the to meet the proper decel uh rating. Um they've since come back to us and are trying to call
that a change order uh which we very strongly disagree with that because that work was required to actually have the system pass inspection >> when first did it. >> Yeah. So we've been working with our attorney and we we sent them a letter from our attorney letting them know that all the reasons why that's not a change
order essentially is a short version of it. >> Thank you. >> And I thought that was an exciting one too. So there you go. Thank you, Mr. Krauss. >> J, can I ask a question? >> Yes. >> What was the why was the water damage?
What it besides water, but what was the cause of it? The 37,000. >> The cause of the water damage. What is the cause of the water damage? Where get back? >> Rolling Hills, I think. Right. >> The bathroom floor replacement. What
caused the water damage? I guess. Yeah. I know the result of the water damage show. Do you have the Was it a pipe that went out in the wall? What caused the um original floor was a ceramic tile
and then um at one point a like a sticky tile floor was put over it. So just over the years of mopping the floor, you know, having you know overflowing toilets and sinks, it's got underneath
the tiles and the tiles are popping free. So, we need to take that tile and the ceramic tile out and go all the way down to the uh slab
to uh create a good seal for all the support. >> Thank you. >> We had a good answer. >> Good job. >> Thank you for being >> all right. Uh Mr. Slam number two
>> uh we have use of buildings and grounds uh attachment number one forformational items. Uh and then for recommendations we have letter A and B uh these are monthly financial reports. That's attachment F1, F2, F3, F4,
F5 and F6. Letter C, uh we have transportation for the month of May. That's attachment F7. Letter D, we have the approval of the below list of quasi entities for the district. Letter E, uh we have the approval of
Best Choice Homeare LLC to provide substitute licensed registered nurses for 2526 at a rate of 7350 per hour. Letter F, uh we have uh the proposal for Garden State uh Black Powder Association for Colonial Day at Lonsbury Hall School
attached in F8. Letter G, we have the ANSA agreement between Vernon County Board of Education and Sussex County Educational Services Commission for 2627. Uh that is on attachment F9. That also includes the rates. Uh letter H, uh we have the
approval of the um recommendation for approval of the following list of medical doctors, psychiatrists, neurologists, educational specialists, and other individuals and agencies who will utilize as needed to assist the C to assist CST uh as necessary and appropriate in 2627. That's attachment
F10. Letter I, uh, we have the recommendation for approval for the resolution for reappointments related items 2627 which begins on July 1st. That is attachment F11. Uh, so this would be policies,
regul and regulations, course of study, curricula, student activities, textbooks, student records, and personnel systems that currently exist. Letter J, uh we have approval uh to retroactively approve the change order
for panoramic window uh and door systems in the amount of $13,4843. Uh this will come at a project allowance attachment F12 and will not result in an additional cost of the project. Letter K uh recommended for
recommendation for approval of the board of education to approve the proposal from Independence Contractors for US work in the amount of $68,480. Uh this pricing is through New Jersey State co-op uh state contract 42270. That's attachment F13.
Letter L, uh we have the approval recommendation for approval for the hosting uh proposal from system 3000. An amendment of $5,892 attachment F14. We have letter M, recommendation for approval for USA architects uh to update the district's long range facility plan
uh and the creation submission of the project applications to New Jersey Department of Education in the amount of $60,000. That's attachment F15. Uh and that's related to the presentation that we saw tonight. Letter N, uh we have recommendation for approval for hand floors for flooring for the Vern
Township High School in amount of $50,95.71. Uh multiple quotes are received and hidden for represents the lowest price quote that's attached F16 and that's the band room and orchestra uh pit that we was referenced in Mr. Cross's uh committee report. Letter O uh we have
recommendation for approval for disposition of the following items. It's attachment F17. Letter P, we have recommendation uh for approval proposal for Wer Wanger Corporation for the purchase of student chairs and storage carts in the amount
of $15,959.60. 60 cents. That's through the Omnia uh cooperative which is a national cooperative uh and we have advertised uh accordingly since it's a national cooperative. Letter Q recommendation for approval uh to withdraw $68,480
uh from the maintenance reserve uh for the US work that was detailed previously. Uh letter R is recommendation to approve uh field hockey summer camp program. This program will take place June 29th, 30th, and July 1st, uh, 2026, and all proceeds
will benefit the high school field hockey activity account. Letter S, recommendation approval to accept a donation, uh, from the Lbury Hollow School SCA for the BMX assembly for grades four and five on June 11th,
amount of $1,399. Uh so as I'm going before I go through all these I just want to say thank you to our SCAS uh for their generous donations and we got a few of them that we're going to list here. Uh the next is uh also from the LHS SCA it's
contribution towards Colonial Day uh which takes place June 5th at in amount of $1,500. Uh and then our next one here also LHS SCA uh it's transportation for the fourth grade students to the field trip to Sterling Hill Mine Museum on June 5th and that's in the amount of
$2,2985. Uh then we have letter V uh which is a recommendation to approve the proposal from USA Architects uh for the high school uh cafeteria upgrades amount of $43,683.75. multiple quotes were received. Uh, and
Northeastern Interior Services LLC uh, represents the lowest price quote. So, I should actually read approve the proposal from Northeastern Interior Services. So, I'll correct that in the minutes, but I just want to read that into the minutes. Uh while we're on that
uh and then letter W uh approval uh recommended approval by the board to approve the resolution for renewal of the food services contract for 2627 from Moscia's food services. Long story short is we're renewing instead of reading all that uh we are keeping our current contract format
which is cost reimburseable um and we are renewing uh we awarded that last year. This is our first year's renewal. Um, and we were able to uh negotiate to keep our guaranteed return of $51,000. >> Uh, then letter X, uh, recommendation
for, uh, oh, this is the big this is the big one for the project. So, resolution for a school facilities project proposal capital plan for facility improvements. Uh, I'll I'll read this. Do you want to read this one through? Um I I mean we understand the gist of
it, but if you think we should read it, I guess uh yeah, go ahead. >> Okay. Whereas the Burn Township School District Board of Education, the County of Sussex, New Jersey, desires to proceed with a school facilities project generally consisting of capital improvement work at school district schools. And whereas the board now seeks
to take the initial steps in order to proceed with the pro project and comply with NGAC 6A 26 subchapter 5 and related section code. And whereas the New Jersey Department of Education reviews and approves school facilities project pursuant to section 5 of the educational educational facilities construction and
financing act public law 2000 chapter 72. Whereas part of the review of the New Jersey Department of Education determines the project's consistency with the act and district's a percentage for eligible costs pursuing to NJSA 18A 7G-7. Uh therefore be it resolved that the Vern Township School District Board of
Education approve the submission of the project that the board does hereby authorize and direct the architectural firm of USA Architects, the school superintendent and the business administrator as applicable to prepare the Department of Education schematics submission package in connection with the project. That the board amends their long-range facility plan to incorporate
this project into the plan. That the board is seeking debt service a connection with the project. that the architect school districts bond council and board of attorney as applicable are hereby authorized to undertake all related actions necessary in connection with the project be a further resolve that the burn township school district board of education authorizes submission
of the project to New Jersey Department of Education for consideration determination of aid and approval to allow the board to seek financing connection with the project. this resolution shall become effective immediately. And essentially what all that says is that we're putting the projects forward um for consideration
for NJOE so we can get the PEC which is the preliminary estimated cost letter and that's the letter that spells out this is the aid the state will pay for and this is the local portion. >> Thank you Mr. S. Can I get a motion to
approve item 14 F3A through F3s? >> So moved. I'll say Rave moved it and John seconded it. Right. All right. Questions or comments? Brian. >> Okay. So,
I I still and you know, I expressed this to you this afternoon. I I still can't get past the the Glen Meadow change order where, you know, basically we had the price of a project double,
right, because of, you know, the wiring situation, right? And I understand what you said about them looking for the the splice or whatever it was, but I still can't get past the fact that somehow someway somebody figured that a
50-year-old building had the wiring that was capable for a 2026 project. And in the end, it cost us double what the project was supposed to cost. And I just feel that when it comes to these
projects for schools, contractors feel, well, if we screw up, it's no problem. We'll just make the school pay. We'll put through a change order and we don't care. And you know, this item F13 is
something that I looked at today. And if you look at the wording of the contract, I understand Ebony, he said it's a standard contract, but I also feel that that standard contract does nothing to protect us. If you look at the wording,
it basically says, you know, any any damage to sidewalks, you know, shrubbery, this that the other thing, we're not responsible. And I sit there and I look at that and I say, "So what if they tear out 50 feet of sidewalk
that they're not supposed to?" And we tell them, "Guys, you tore out." They can go back to the contract and say, "Well, the contract says we're not responsible. It says sidewalks right there." Right? And and I wonder why we don't build into these contracts
protections for us that say, you know, if you don't do this or, you know, these actions are the result of your negligence, then you're not covered. >> So, you know, I mean, I know it's a
standard contract. Do people ever uh I mean, you know, usually you can try to modify contracts. Is that something we can try in the future? And what would happen? Would they just say, "Well, we're not going to do it then." Is that likely? >> I've tried in previous districts to modify that language. And they basically
said that's their cinder language. And that is the reason for that language, specifically regarding sidewalks and shrubbery, is because when they're taking these underground storage tanks out, it requires heavy equipment. So, they're not going to, for example, if they bring their heavy equipment over
your sidewalk or they bring their heavy equipment into your, you know, grass area, they're not going to pay to fix all that essentially, right? They're not going to replace your um your tar, right? They're, you know, the
standard language. So essentially what happens is you can try um they'll say no and you can try to find someone else but that other person generally will also still have that language in there. So you're kind of stuck between >> right >> it's it's tough because they know that
we can't remove the storage tank right so we have to go to someone and they all use the same heavy equipment so they don't want to be liable if for example you know they go over a curb and the say the curb crumbles. Sorry, my battery is
running low. Um, or if they go over your road and it, you know, goes down a little bit because it's a heavy piece of equipment. >> Or if >> No, I But at the same time, if if they go over the curb and and the curb crumples, right? Okay, fine. We did
that. But then the guy says, "Well, I'm going to go back a different route." And he crumples a second curb. Right now, we got to pay for that, too. Right? That's what I'm saying. We're not covered for for negligence. We're not covered for shoddy work. It, you know, it it's
basically the way the contract reads, it's like you guys are in the clear. You you can screw up any way you want and we're on the hook. Are these people insured? They're all insured, right? >> Yeah, they're insured. >> So, if there is negligence, if we could prove negligence, can't we go after
their insurance? So, I've had dealt with the city of New York slightly different than us as the contractor. And generally, they're put in there because when you're dealing with schools, you don't know. They're all old. They've had patchwork. You
could just roll over something, it all collapse. But if you do something negligent, just say you knock down the wall over there and all your work is over here. You're paying for it. They just hold your money. They force you to pay for it. You don't get away with it.
Whether it's insurance or negligent, it's more to protect the contract or the normal source of business. I can give you an example. I did a school in the Bronx. They had a tile wall. I took the steel underneath. The wall fell down. There was no wall behind it. The tile
was just basically with glue standing up at a pool. >> So, I didn't have to pay for that. But other times, my workers destroyed a fence apparently. I still don't know why I had to pay to get the fence put back because it wasn't in my scope near my
scope of work. It was like over there we were working over before. >> We never paid before. Always after. >> So, have we ever withheld payment like Ray's talking about >> for the high school fire alarm? I think
we still owe them like $155,000 because they didn't give us compliance system. We've been holding that money for over a year. Well, yeah. >> With the Glen Meadow thing, you know, the the consensus was, well,
the work needs to be finished. >> So, the bill >> So, with that one, there's really two sides of it. So, it's a little different because it's a change order. So, that one, someone spliced the wires behind.
>> No, I've heard it. >> Yeah. So essentially if either way we needed new wiring, right, if we were putting that system in. So the only thing that would have changed in that situation was we could have said, "Well, it's $400,000. We're just not going to do the project." But eventually we'd
have to do the project, right? Um, still sounds like a bait and switch to me. >> But how are you saying that they should have known? Like how are they supposed to There's no way for them. Well, I the reason I say a bait and switch is because I mean Ray's saying, "Okay, the work needed to get done anyhow. We would
have had to pay eventually, right?" But they're coming in and saying, what were the numbers? 185,000. >> It was a little over 200,000 was the original cost. I don't have it off the top of my head, but it was over 200,000.
>> We'll do a $400,000 job for 200,000. They start the job and they go, "Oh, wait a minute. You got to change the wire right now. you need to give us another 200,000. >> So my I don't know my understanding was though that they gave a quote for something then when they got in there
they found something that they didn't expect and they can't and as somebody who renovated my home I could tell you that happens they go you know and then oh gee Jen you're you know this foundation is whatever and then we have to spend. So that's kind of normal when
you go into an old building. I mean I mean if you're saying that I guess what you're saying is somehow they should have known that that >> that's exactly what I'm saying. I think that's just that's their job to know that a 50 to 60 building isn't going to handle.
>> You're basically saying they should have quoted on the high side in case something was messed up that they >> I'm saying they should have done a better job estimating. >> Right. So, >> so what happened was they were asked to quote the replacement of all the devices but not the replacement of the wiring
because it appeared the wiring that was visible would be compliant with what we needed. >> What do you I'm not sure what you mean by one spot. >> Well, the explanation that there was a splice that made it look like they had the right wiring, right? So, I'm assuming they checked one spot or were
there splices all over the building? They didn't go behind the walls because the wiring would be up at the ceilings and and the walls. Um, but essentially thought the wiring would be okay for this building because we had other
buildings that were just as old that had the wiring that worked with a new system, right? So, it wasn't there was a history of the wiring working for the new system that already existed, right? We reward that. So there was another building that had wiring
that was of similar age that was then utilized with a new system and it worked. So while seeing that wiring to physically be able to see it, we thought that wiring would also work. So they quoted for a project to replace devices but then when the wiring had to be replaced the wiring for the entire
building can be replaced. Most of that cost was labor related because you have to then rewire the entire building. >> Right. So did multiple bids for this project like >> so this was through a cooperative um so
they competed with multiple vendors to win the cooperative contract >> originally but then once they're in the cooperative we just >> so essentially >> we don't have to put out an RFP we can just use the co-op >> yeah so once there's a cooperative that means they've already gone through a full bid process um I forget which
cooperative this was may have been Hunton County Ed services but essentially they did a full bid process. They went through and they worded to this contractor since that full bid process. >> I mean, the only real question would be if they were putting in a fake bid to get the to get the work. They were bidding against other companies and they
were going on the low side and then they knew they were going to have a correction. That could be something you could argue, but I don't know. It sounds to me like it would cost I mean, you're basically saying they should take the hit for something they didn't know about. I >> so >> I think that's >> so the difference would be if we had
said hey quot us for >> a full rewire and full system and then they turned around and said we miss we underestimate how much wiring you needed. Well I'd say well that that quote right there says full rewire so you're on the hook. >> But it wasn't that. It was
>> a quote for replacement of devices using existing wiring because the indications were that the existing wiring would work. But then once they got in and they looked at it closer, it looked like somewhere previously someone had spliced and put the wire the old wiring to a
newer wiring for the current system. So that's kind of where the issue came up. But there are things when you're looking at these projects that are going to come up and that it's not going to fall on the vendor to fix something additional because that problem is there one way or
the other. would fall in the district either through that vendor, another vendor, or through our staff if we're able to fix it ourselves to fix that because they're not going to take on, you know, an additional cost just because they see something new that they weren't aware of. Um, if they did that,
they would not stay in business very long, right? They're not going to take on that risk. >> Okay. In any case, I think we can move on from this. I mean, you're obviously against it, but you know, >> I just want one more thing about it. I know going forward we're not going to ever have this problem again. I brought this up in finance with with Mr.
Capasano when he talked about the PA systems going in in in the referendum and I said the same thing. Are we going to run into these change orders? And he said no because they're going to do from soup to nuts to begin. So I don't think we're going to have the problem going forward. >> I'm saying in general
>> I get you I I think we need to do more to protect ourselves. >> I understand your point but I think that we're just going in circles now. So, can we do you agree we can move on or is there anything new we have to Charlie? >> Done. Okay.
>> I just want to say I mean I I definitely see Brian's side with the wiring because that's part of the system when I put in network equipment. >> If it's Cat 5 in there, I know I have to replace it. I can't just say it works. But you you have to, you know, it's part I don't know. But that anyway I just want
to know are we when we get these done um are we named on the insurance for like this uh for the US work? >> Yes. So, we would be named on the insurance, but the other language on there related to
liability and change orders is because when they pull Yeah. when they pull that tank out of the ground, if that tank they pull out of the ground and they drop the bottom of the tank falls out and so they're not going to be responsible that that's going to be on us for the cleanup. >> Yeah. No, no, I got that. I just want to make sure uh because somebody bring up
the insurance one. But my my my real question is uh or the question I really wanted to start with was uh on Q right so you're pulling this out of the maintenance reserve this for the same topic the US us uh US work so you take this out of maintenance reserve that's a
that's a restricted account right so we take money out of there how much do you know how much off hand we will have left after this >> um if I recall correctly That's off the top of my head. I think I
think we'll have about $110,000 left. I can double check though. >> So, so like one emergency project that we never thought of took a third of our reserve that's supposed to protect us. >> And so this is also the maintenance reserve. So we have maintenance reserve
and capital reserve. I'm going to scroll up to the board secretary report real quick and I'll be able to tell you the the exact amount. Um so the difference I'll talk while I'm while I'm looking difference between maintenance reserve and capital reserve. Uh capital reserve would be for capital projects. It would also be utilized in
any instance where um say something breaks and we're replacing it not in kind. We're upgrading whatever we're replacing that would have to be a capital project and be capital reserve in this situation. um because it's maintaining operations uh
or temporarily replacing in kind then that is maintenance reserve. So a good example of this would be the tank itself, the removal of the old tank. It's a temporary tank, the removal of the old tank and um the cleanup related to that, that's
maintenance reserve. the dual fuel fuel burner that we're going to purchase to switch over to natural gas that will be either uh capital reserve or out of our budget, right? Because that's an upgrade that's not inind,
>> but this is this is still one school and we're taken out of two funds. This is this is a serious thing, right? Because have this happen at >> so that's why it's important, >> right? And they're underground, most of them. >> They're all underground. um you're no longer allowed to put those tanks underground. Um based off of uh I think
it's the I'm going to not name it correctly. It's the Highlands Protection Act or something like don't know the exact terminology, but essentially the for environmental reasons, you're no longer allowed to put the tanks underground. Um so part of the reason that we're doing it this way, we're using that temporary tank is because we
know natural gas is coming. Uh, so it's cheaper to have a temporary tank, pull this tank out of the ground, hook up to the natural gas, and then eventually as we're able to do that with the other school buildings, we'll no longer have to pay for an operator to
maintain our tanks. Um, and it'll also should decrease our insurance because it's expensive to insure these tanks. And additionally, since these tanks at this point, I think 20 or 30 years old, 30. said, they're about 30 years old. We're getting to the point where our insurance broker, our liability
insurance broker, um, is concerned that we will be non-renewed on insurance for these tanks because they won't want to take on the risk of insuring 30-y old tanks. So, it's another reason why it's important to move in that direction. So, longterm, there'll be savings, uh, but also decrease liability for the district
of needing to pay for some kind of environmental cleanup. >> Yeah. And and right, I I I think you guys did a great job with the solution you came up with. I think that's on track to trying to save the district money. I'm just really concerned like that's that's a huge amount of money. We don't we don't have and we're, you know,
we're bringing it down and and we have another tank five we have five other possibilities that could happen again. If two of those we have nothing, right? Yeah. So, right right now we have um Sorry, I got to I'm very loud. Sorry. Uh I think I got too close to the mic. So,
it's about 177K in there right now. Um, and then we'd be taking about 68 out. So, it was pretty close. Uh, so about 110. Um, that's why it's important to maintain our maintenance and capital reserves. And the only way to add money to our maintenance and capital reserves
is to end the school year with a balance that's high enough to meet our excess surplus needs for the creation of the next budget, but also have money in addition to that. because that money that's in addition to that excess surplus need is the money that will go into the maintenance reserve or the capital reserve once we're have our
audit completed. Um, and that's also a reason why it's important that year-over-year, uh, we've been decreasing the amount of excess surplus we need because, you know, the less excess surplus we need, the more likely that we'll finish with a balance that's higher than the excess surplus need, which means the more likely that we'll
be able to put money into our maintenance and capital reserves and the more likely that we'll be able to put maybe larger dollar amounts in those maintenance and capital reserves for when these things break because that's not something you can really foresee. I mean, we know that the tanks are old, but we didn't know that, you know, we're
going to fail a tank tightness test and have to either replace the full tank uh or go the route we're going, which is meant to save money and be efficient. We just happen to have pestered Elizabeth Town Natural Gas for probably about a year and a half now. I think he started
pester and then when I when I started in 23 or it took about a year and a half to get a commitment from them and it's been about another year. We're waiting for them to start working. But um we happen to have that time up where we can save some money and also make progress in the direction that will help us in the
future both in terms of energy costs but also in terms of uh liabil decreasing liability um and decreasing our liability insurance costs and operating cost. >> I think this is a very important conversation. I think this is the slide
that um Mr. slam presented in our budget presentation when the question was asked about surplus and why it has to exist and why we have to um place monies in these lines for times such as this. I think this is almost a case in point of something that we don't know what's
going to come up, but because we're being fiscally responsible and we're making sure that there is at least um you know a decent amount, a safe amount, if you will, of um dollars in that account, then when things happen, we can
fund them without putting us in the red or in a deficit. >> Yes. and we've been in the situation where we've been trying as you see through the updates through the finance and moving grounds committee um for the you know the time that I've been here u me and Mr. Vanc Kirk, we've been trying
to pursue as many projects as we can, but we're trying to balance that um in terms of how much money we're pulling out, how much money is going back in um while still trying to balance that because of the concern of the unforeseen issues that happen. If you recall, I
don't think it was last month, but perhaps the board meeting before that, uh we had a withdrawal out of capital reserve for the replacement of a boiler in actually in the in this building. So, these these things happen. uh they're hard to time when they're going to happen, but it's very important to have
the funds available in maintenance and capital reserve so when they do happen, you can address them. >> All right. Any questions or comments? All right. Can we move to a roll call? >> Mr. Zimmerman? >> Yes.
>> Mr. Smagle? >> Yes. >> Mr. Fischer? >> Nay. Mr. Krauss. >> Yes. >> Miss Nichols. >> Yes. >> Miss Pallet. >> Yes. I just should we just clarify nay
on everything or just >> Okay. Just checking. >> Miss PEC. >> Yes. >> Dr. Ross. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. Uh for special services.
Yep, I can read that one too. Uh, recommendation of the superintendent of schools approval by the board of education of the following out of district placements for 2526 and 2627 school year that is attachment SS-1. >> And I get a motion to approve item 14 F4A.
>> So move second. >> Second. >> Sarah Q. Questions or comments? Seeing none, can we move to a roll call vote? Mr. Zimmerman. >> Yes. >> Mr. Simaglia, >> yes.
>> Mr. Fischer, >> hi. >> Mr. Krauss, >> yes. >> Miss Nichols, >> Miss Bella, >> yes. >> Miss Pekk, >> yes. >> Dr. Ross, >> yes. >> Motion carries.
>> Item 15, public comment. Um, prior public statements apply to all public comments. Does anyone in the public or online want to comment? I don't think we have anybody online, do we? Nobody online. All right, then. Uh, item 16,
open board member forum. All right, guys. Okay, who should I pick? I'm gonna go with Carrie because you just spoke a lot. Oh, >> good. I just wanted to say that I was at the we're talking about some of our more dilapidated facilities, but I went to the track um sectionals on Saturday and
I was with my sister-in-law and she was like, "These facilities are amazing." And we were really enjoying the track and the fields and the the tennis courts and just thinking we're so lucky to have such great facilities there at the high school and it was such a huge coordination effort. I was like it was
my first track sectionals that I had ever attended and it was a big deal. Um, Artstanding was so amazing. I every year I think it's unbelievable. Um, the spring concert. Uh, so just some really great stuff this month. And then I just
wanted to say about the NJSLA that seeing test administration happen in person, it's so striking the impact of how seriously the students take it or don't take it. And we we really as a community look at these
scores when they come out and you watch the kids take it and you know I'm with high schoolers so the the drive to take these tests has decreased over time. You know my fourth grader is very invested in performing well on the test. And I do think so much of that comes down to the
students and the administrators really helping them understand why they should try their best and show what they know. Um, but I just want to always reiterate that I think these tests are just one measure of our students success. And when you sit in these rooms and you see the kids take it, there are just a
number of kids who, you know, don't take it. They they click through. And so you're always it's always going to be a skewed data piece of data. So I just was struck by that again this May. And it was hot too these testing days.
>> Thank you for sharing that. Um, Mr. Fisher. >> Um, all right. So, I I just wanted to uh talk about the ad hoc committee if I could for a second. So, I did have a a
meeting today with the um council president, Bill Higgins. Uh he did confirm for me that call is the official liaison. Uh and he said he spoke to Call about that. We spoke to Call about that.
So, I guess that's official now. Uh, I've had conversations with three of the five council members regarding my proposal and, uh, pretty much positive comments from everybody. Uh, I still have two out of the the five that I need
to speak to. Uh I think the next step that we need to take uh would be for us to meet with our liaison to figure out the language that they're going to put before the council so I guess they can
vote on whether they want to be part of the task force. But uh so far I haven't had a negative conversation with anybody about what I'm talking about. And to that end, I just want to stress again, we are not
suing the state. All right? What what I'm saying is we need to explore the avenues to change the funding formula here in New Jersey. And one of those avenues is the possibility of a federal
lawsuit. This would not be Vernon suing New Jersey. This would be us trying to form a coalition with other communities that together would look to take action against the state. One of the things
that, you know, we talked about tonight, a potential $70 million project, right, where the state would give us basically a third of the money we need for that construction.
In this year's budget, the state allocated $1.6 billion for schools construction. 94% of that went to the Abbott districts. All right,
that means the Abbott districts get 100% of their school construction funded by the state. Hoboken is an Abbott district. Jersey City is an Abbott district. Somebody needs to explain to me why Jersey City,
I mean, if you've been down to the waterfront lately with all those luxury condos and everything else down there is show me the poor section of Hoboken, right? Why they should get 100% funding
when Vernon is only going to get 34%. Right? And and the thing that I hate hearing, and I see it in comments, and I've had people say it to me, that's the that's the state funding formula. There's nothing you can do about it. And
to me, that that's a ludicrous statement. I'm flabbergasted to hear it. All right? Because unless somebody at some point stands up and starts the fight, it's just going to keep getting worse. It's it's going to get worse every year.
And this year more than any is is when you know you sit back and you say, "What if that was the attitude 250 years ago, right? If if the the
uh founding fathers had had said, well, you know, it's just taxation without representation. You know, that's the way it is. Nobody can do anything about it, right? But let's drill down on George Washington paying 23 shillings for a
painter, you know, depicting him crossing the Delaware. That's where the real problem is, right? It doesn't make sense, right? We get screwed royally, right? If you take that $1.6 6 billion
and distribute it fairly. We should pay like five million to 7 billion, not 46. Okay. Well, I I I personally agree that something should be done about the uh state funding formula and I think it's a
great idea to um explore avenues. Um I think that the Highlands situation is another way to go with that. Um, I'm excited to hear what happens with your committee. Um, I would urge you to press Mr. Higgins to give you more than one
member from his council because when that person goes back to the council and tries to sell them on whatever the >> Well, we only asked for one. >> I I did not ask for members. So, when I wrote him, >> I I can ask Pat. I I would >> but I would I I would yeah I would I
would if I if I were chairing it I would look to have more because that person has to go back that whoever's on that committee from their side has to go back to that group and if you just have one that's one voice you want more voices you want to have and and you can this
isn't ad hoc right it's not a it's not a liaison where you have a committee and you're asking for a liazison to my mind it was a you know a couple people from each side right So, so I would try to >> You want me to ask Pat? >> Yes, I would do that if I were you.
>> I had a very informal conversation with Pat on Friday and we agreed to go out to lunch and talk about things. So, I'll >> I think that would be great. I think the more uh more people we bring on board with this effort, the better, right? So,
um does anyone else have any comments about the ad hoc or any >> I have other comments for? >> Yeah. I just wanted to say um congratulations to everyone from the awards tonight and um >> True. Yes. >> And um the HOSA for that awesome run. We
had some uh guests guests there who who made it all the way to the finish line and it was fun. We had a good time and and I and I know the one at Maple Range I think I heard that was the most successful that the PAL has ever done. So it was a good support by the community
>> uh for for one of our students uh family. Um and and then I was because of student appreciation month or it was or day or whatever. I I missed it but um we talked about it and I was just thinking how like um it's weird. I have this one there's one
you know I I do have a lot of favorite English teachers even though ELA is not my favorite. Definitely my math and science are I have definitely have a lot of those. Um, but one one person in particular I had in middle school and then in high school and it's funny it it
never dawned on me at the time like how much of an impact that one teacher had. Um, she taught me how to sew. She taught me how to take my time and do embroidering with those little pillows we used to make. We used to make these hamburger pillows and uh or any kind of
food. I don't know why but it was food but uh pillows we used to make in class. And then later on she taught me, you know, she went to the high school and Mrs. Carver, she went uh to the high school and she taught me more uh food and uh and I don't know, it's that has
had such a impact because my kids, especially my girls, the boys don't really care. They just want to eat. But that's our time together. I work we work I work a lot and now they're all going away. if we have time and that we get to so much time we get to spend together.
So, it's just weird how like a little bit of how to make Chinese, you know, um fried rice, you know, putting eggs and fried rice, how that changed my whole life and and how my looked. So, I just wanted to give a shout out to a teacher that I had. >> Okay. And for a guy who doesn't like
ELA, you're awfully good at Wordle. Just saying. >> All right. And I'm just going to comment really quick. I know everyone wants to go home, but Art Standing, which I couldn't attend this year because I had a prior commitment, but you know, it wasn't so long ago that that almost went away and that's, you know, it's really
great that we still have Art Standing. There was a year that we were talking about not having it and so Vernon has come, you know, a long way and, you know, we're rebuilding and we're making progress and it's really great to to know that we were able to have to keep that tradition and keep it going and
grow it. So, um, I'm just really happy about that. So, on that note, uh, can I get a motion to adjurnn? >> So, moved. >> Okay. Can I get a second? >> Second. >> Thank you, Sarah. And all in favor? >> I.
>> Thank you. You're closed. Oh, shoot. less stealing things I was supposed