Minutes of March 3, 2010

The minutes of the regular meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education held on March 3, 2010 at Watchung School, 33 Mountain Avenue, North Plainfield, NJ. Mrs. Bond-Nelson called the meeting to order and made the following announcement: In accordance with NJSA 10:4-10, required advance notice of this meeting was filed with the Borough Clerk; submitted to the COURIER NEWS, STAR LEDGER, AND Comcast; posted at Watchung School, Borough Hall and the North Plainfield Public Library. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Mrs. Bond-Nelson requested the call of the roll: Thomas Allen Drew Elliott Smith David Branan Nancy Szaroleta Sandra Dodd Linda Bond-Nelson Kathleen Mullen A quorum was established Also present were Dr. Marilyn Birnbaum, Superintendent of Schools; Donald Sternberg, Board Secretary/School Business Administrator; and Dr. Robert Rich, Assistant Superintendent, as well as, Cassius Ross, Student Representative and approximately 8 members of the staff and public Introduction of New Staff There was none. Minutes Approval Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to accept the public session minutes of February 17, 2010. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to accept the executive session minutes of February 17, 2010. Comments from the Public Upon request of the chair for topics from the public, Lisa O’Neal expressed concern regarding the handling of her son after an injury in gym class. Gene Less asked about procedures involving student injury. Student Representative Report Cassius Ross reported on various student activities some of which included the following: $5000 was raised in the “Hats for Haiti” fundraising program. The Junior Class will hold a dance on June 4th. The Sophomore Class held a bake sale as a fundraiser. Tunlaw has distributed their second edition. Superintendent’s Report RECOGNITION/PUBLIC RELATIONS Students On February 23, 2010, the third and fourth grade students at Stony Brook School gathered for the second marking period's honor roll assembly. A very important goal had been set during the first marking period's honor roll assembly when seventeen students received certificates and recognition for their academic accomplishments. "The goal was to increase the number of students receiving awards, and this time, twenty-seven students were proudly recognized," explained Cathy Kobylarz, principal. The students were invited to the multi-purpose room for an assembly in which they were awarded honor roll certificates, honor roll pencils and a free Applebee's dessert treat from the PTA. The following students received Honor Roll Recognition: Grade Three - Ryan Boland, Alex Dayton, Jennifer Mendoza-Yanez, Jacquelin Nguyen, Christopher Nice III, Oluchi Nwankwo, Ryan Narine, Mariely Vargas, Marilyn Vargas, Caterine Paredes, Diamonte Hubbard and Julian Hawthorne-Spivey. Grade Four students - Alan Bersosa, Allison Gamez, Elmer Guevara, Jared Lesaca, Sebastian Palacios, Joshua Tobar, Radha Patel, Melissa Vera, Rassha Yumiguano, Lance Evans, Francisco Corral, Naica Sanon, Alex Yumiguano, Joseph Zehetner and High Honors were received by Noran Zaher. Congratulations to all! The NPHS Winter Guard, under the direction of Shannon Shotwell and Emily Fencik, advisors, has continued its outstanding success with another first place finish at a competition at Roselle Park High School on February 27, 2010. As part of the “North Plainfield High School Students of the Month” program, the following students were nominated by their teachers and selected by a committee of teachers for their contributions to NPHS. Students receive a NPHS pride pin and a certificate. Letters are also sent to their parents thanking them for their support and congratulating them on their child’s achievement. December 2009 January 2010 Fine/Performing Arts India Hodges Eric Orellana Practical Arts Angela Ho Diego Orozco Academic Achievement, 11-12 Cliffman Ramirez Vipan Kumar Academic Achievement, 9-10 Evita Nwosu-Sylvester Carlos Gonzalez Academic Excellence grades 11-12 Theresa Huynh Academic Excellence grades 9-10 Yanwen Kang “The Canuck” Manuel Bermudez Ethan Mamuric School Spirit Nicole Bravo James Williams The Rotary Club of Plainfield-North Plainfield presented Student of the Month Awards for three months to students from North Plainfield High School at a luncheon in their honor at Giovanna's Restaurant in Plainfield. Students are recognized for the scholastic achievement and service activity, both in school and in the community. North Plainfield recipients Theresa Huynh (December), Dorien Quiles (January), and Jasmine Dimayuga (February), were recognized at the February 24 luncheon. All three recipients are members of the NPHS Interact Club, Rotary's service club for high school age youth. Interact Club adviser Alexandra Pereira introduced the students to the Club members and summarized the students' achievements and activities. “These three students are among the leaders of our Interact Club,” said Ms. Pereira. Schools Somerset School Rosa’s Ride Assembly: On February 18, Somerset students received an entertaining musical theater social studies lesson about the life, struggles and heroic actions of Rosa Parks, American icon and civil rights activist. Rosa’s Ride, an original production by Jonathan Luks, owner of Flying Ship Productions, featured four actors/singers/dancers portraying the life of Rosa Parks, from childhood to age 42, when she was arrested for refusing to obey the Jim Crow laws of Alabama by refusing to give up her bus seat to a white person. The original musical score, also by Jonathan Luks, incorporated jazz, blues and gospel styles, providing a powerful theater experience, as well as a well-received music lesson for our students. “Without a doubt, the audience left with a new appreciation for the incredible amount of courage it took African Americans in the south to stand up to unfair laws and unjust legal actions. Although the play ended with Rosa Parks’ arrest, the actors took turns coming out and, in brief, epilogue format, detailed the events following this historical event and continuing throughout her life. The Flying Ship Players were true professionals. The feedback from teachers and students has been highly enthusiastic and positive,” commented Reginald Sainte-Rose, principal. Stony Brook School Bantaba: The month of February has traditionally been Black History studies month at Stony Brook School. This year Stony Brook launched a study with an exciting all school assembly featuring the African-American dance troupe, Bantaba. The name "Bantaba" is a Mandingo word that means "the center where all important events take place." This dance troupe, sponsored by Young Audiences Arts for Learning of New Jersey, featured three dancers who worked to combine traditional African and modern African-American dance while teaching about various African cultures and traditions. “The students and staff participated in call-and -response singing, dance movements and drum ensembles. The teachers were invited to dance and they were great dancers! Lessons were also taught on how the drums were made from materials taken from nature. Special thanks to the Bantaba Dance Troupe and our PTA for sponsoring such a great program, “exclaimed Cathy Kobylarz, principal. "Meeting the Force" the 4-H Way: On February 4, 2010, Rachel Bijaczyk, the Somerset County 4-H program coordinator, presented “Meet the Force” to Stony Brook second graders. The students were introduced to the world of magnetism as a preview of an upcoming science unit. Working with partners, they made predictions, did experiments, recorded results and shared observations about the powers of different kinds of magnets and the ability of magnets to attract and repel. After many hands-on activities, the students concluded that magnets are powerful and unpredictable. The students also learned about 4-H clubs and the activities that are available through them. The National 4-H Curriculum focuses on 4-H’s three primary mission mandates: science, engineering and technology; healthy living; and citizenship. Youth activity guides are filled with fun, engaging experiences that cultivate abilities youth need for everyday living as they progressively gain knowledge about subjects that interest them. East End School East End School held its Valentine’s Day classroom celebrations on February 16. The celebrations were originally planned for February 11, but due to the closing of schools for the huge snowstorm, celebrations were rescheduled. The PTO provided treats and various activities for the classes. “As always, East End School is grateful to the PTO for their continued support,” commented Kathleen Herrmann, principal. On February 17 Kathleen Herrmann read to Leslie Hansen and Alexis Holbrook’s third grade students. Ms. Herrmann engaged the students in a retelling of Charles Perrault’s Cinderella. She then read the students the Egyptian Cinderella by Shirley Climo. Before the reading, Ms. Herrmann told the students to look and listen for similarities and differences between the two stories. She also explained that there were many different Cinderella variants written by different authors and encouraged the students to look for the books in the East End School library or North Plainfield Public Library. “I was amazed at how well the students listened and named the similarities and differences in both stories,” commented Ms. Herrmann. West End School Third Grade Science Concert: Christine Birnbaum’s third grade class had a wonderful science concert with homemade instruments on February 23, 2010. This third grade class had studied the unit on sound in science and had discussed different types of instruments and how they use different things to make their sound (strings, wind, etc.) Their follow-up assignment was to create their own instrument. Each child presented his/her instrument and played it. The children made guitars and drums out of things like coffee cans and shoeboxes. One student made a triangle out of a metal hanger, and one even made a flute out of a metal pipe! They had tambourines, kazoos, and maracas too! Afterwards, refreshments were served while the class listened to classical music. “The kids, parents, and I all had a terrific time!” reported Ms. Birnbaum. Second Graders Go Back in Time: Elizabeth Cirillo’s second grade class took a trip through time to the Civil War. Kevin McGrath took this class back in history and spoke to the students about President Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War period. The children were able to touch real artifacts from the Civil War and Mr. McGrath also showed the students various pictures, letters, medals, and money from that time. He also shared his personal connection to our 16th President. He said that his great-great-great grandmother shook hands with Abraham Lincoln. The president was on a train and stopped in Newark. She was nine months pregnant but still went to see him and shook his hand. That afternoon she gave birth. The class enjoyed learning about the life of Abraham Lincoln. Mr. McGrath will be returning in May to do another presentation about Memorial Day! Celebrating Chinese New Year: It was really a special treat for the children in Nancy Lubreski’s kindergarten class when Dr. Harry Allen arrived at their door wearing his environmental protection gear! An Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) representative, Dr. Allen spoke to the children about how his work taking care of the earth providing environmental safety around the world has taken him to very far corners of the world including China, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Dr. Allen presented beautiful embroidered hats, articles of clothing, a paper maché dragon, musical instruments that replicated the sounds of nature, and items like a bamboo back scratcher, and currency. The children loved seeing, touching, and hearing these Asian artifacts. After reading a book to the class, Dr. Allen gave a presentation on the art of calligraphy. The childrenenjoyed replicating the symbols used in the bookwith water, paint brushes, and special paper. Dr. Allen also showed the students how ink and stamps are used in the calligraphy process. He demonstrated how an artist does not sign his or her name, but uses a special red stamp. The class even enjoyed an Asian snack - Chinese noodles! Gung Hay Fat Choy! Second Graders Celebrate the 100th Day of School: Second graders celebrated the 100th day of school by participating in various “100” themed activities. Children traveled with their classmates to each of the five second grade homerooms. Each homeroom had specific activities which included participating in a read aloud and bookmaking station, creating the number 100 out of 100 fruit loops, sorting and categorizing items into different groups of 100, and designing and wearing glasses made out of the number 100. Another station was engaging the children in movement activities set to the number 100 such as jumping, snapping, and 100 seconds of silence. Additionally, students had the option to create a special 100th day project. Students created posters displaying 100 of their favorite things or how to say 100 in different languages. The posters and projects created are proudly displayed in the hallway. Students enjoyed visiting the other second grade classrooms and spending time with all of the second teachers. The teachers also enjoyed spending quality time with all the children in second grade. “We all enjoyed our special day and find it hard to believe we have been in school for 100 days!” stated second grade special education teacher Wendy Szymanski. Read Across America Reading Incentive: For the month of February students at West End School had participated in a reading incentive program that lead up to our Read Across America Celebration. The literacy events committee created this reading incentive plan that assisted in building reading recognition among the West End students. Its goal was to promote reading by charting number of minutes read. A huge map of the United States was displayed in our hallway. Each grade level was assigned a region to travel through. The map was scaled by minutes converted into miles: 1,000 minutes read, equals 100 miles. Teachers kept track of the number of minutes their students read, and at the end of each week they moved their class plane across the region. As a school we reached our goal and traveled across America.Principal Beth Sobel stated, “Thanks need to be given to our Literacy Events Committee for their work and encouragement for bringing the joy of reading to our West End Students throughout the year.” Committee members include Marilyn Pinto, Christine Birnbaum, Taryn Buffolino, Elizabeth Cirillo, Alison Clark, Rosemarie Hansen, Marilyn Joseph, Theresa Knauer, Paula Lemos, Tara Matielli, Vicki Mendes, Christina Mundy, Nancy Schreck, Wendy Szymanski, and Mariluz Torres. Athletics The results of the Central Jersey Junior Basketball League (CJJBL) Finals February 18 are as follows: North Plainfield Middle School boys’ basketball team won their game against Bedminster MS, completing the season undefeated, 19-0. The team earned titles as division and over-all league champions. The North Plainfield girls’ basketball team lost a close game against Long Hill MS, completing their season at 16-3, earning 2nd place in the division, and 2nd place over-all. Congratulations to Coach Chuck Henriques and Coach Robyn Enderle and to all of the players for a wonderful season. Parents Somerset School’s PTO and the Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey are sponsoring a special program “Wrap with your kids” about learning how to talk to children about drugs and alcohol. Under the coordination of Missy Boland and Marie Kushner, active North Plainfield parents, the program is scheduled for all district parents/guardians, K-12 for March 22, 2010 in Somerset School’s community room at 7:00 p.m. DISTRICT OPERATIONS & AUXILIARY SERVICES Safety Training The safety topic for February was Vehicle Safety. Related safety training was conducted with all staff members on February 25, 2010. The safety topic for March is Right to Know Compliance/Product Labeling. Health & Safety Winter Weather Update This winter season is proving to be one of the worst we have encountered in quite some time. The past few weeks have depleted our stockpile of calcium mix and placed a heavy burden on our staff members. It should be noted that members of the department of operations, under the direction of Edward Ostroff, director, have performed admirably under these extreme conditions, and they are continuing to provide a safe working environment for our students and staff. The extreme weather conditions we are experiencing have also made it difficult to maintain our snow removal equipment. The staff has spent many hours executing repairs and performing routine maintenance on our equipment to ensure serviceability during inclement weather. Additionally, we have recently accepted delivery of an S70 Bobcat to augment our fleet of snow removal equipment. This piece of equipment was placed into service immediately following delivery and has proven to be extremely useful. H1-N1 (Pandemic Swine Flu) The North Plainfield Board of Education, in conjunction with the Somerset County Health Department, hosted a second H1-N1 Vaccination Clinic on Saturday, January 30, 2010. The clinic has successfully provided vaccine to approximately two-thousand participants. Please visit our website for additional information. District Safety Committee The reorganization meeting was held on January 27, 2010. A number of safety related topics were discussed, including a recent safety audit of the science labs. This audit was conducted by the Somerset County Health Department in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency. A sub-committee meeting was scheduled for February 25 to review the audit in its entirety and to address any deficiencies that were noted. Current Maintenance Projects Listed below are several recently completed upgrades and/or maintenance tasks: · Relocation of the department of operations to 63 Greenbrook Road. · Replacement of a second cracked boiler section at Stony Brook School · Replacement of one remaining unit-ventilator motor at NPHS · Replacement of a steam trap at East End School · Installation of one additional video monitor in NPHS Additional information regarding recently completed maintenance and capital improvement projects can be viewed on our website. Please follow the link to District Operations. Capital Projects, Status Report West End School Boiler/Heating System Replacement. Completed and closed out. Harrison Building Boiler/Heating System Replacement. Completed and closed out. A.D.A. Improvements. We are currently preparing specifications to execute A.D.A. Improvements for the Harrison Building. This project will be funded through a Stimulus Grant from the Federal Government. The improvements will include an elevator/stair tower, barrier free restrooms and the conversion of two existing restrooms to office space. The conversion of the restrooms will eliminate the need for the existing office modular. East End School Boiler/Heating System Replacement. Sealed bids were received for this project on February 11, 2010. The project has now been awarded and the first pre-construction meeting was held on February 23, 2010. District Wide Somerset County Energy Audit Grant. The North Plainfield School District received a grant offered by Somerset County to audit our energy usage. The audit has now been reviewed and we anticipate including a number of the recommendations in our next budget proposal. Additional Restroom Renovations. The district is currently reviewing the remaining capital budget to determine if sufficient funds exist to complete additional restroom renovations. Open Space Grant. The Board of Education has received and approved a proposal from LandTek, our turf field contractor, to install additional netting along Route 22. The installation of this netting should begin shortly. Capital Projects, Proposed For 2010/2011 We are currently preparing a list of capital improvement projects to be included in our next budget. The final list of projects is dependent upon state finding this year and the success of several Rod Grant Applications that were submitted on our behalf to the Department of Education and the S.D.A. (School Development Authority). Correspondence There was none. Committee and Delegate Report Board Staff – No meeting scheduled. Communications – Meeting scheduled for 3/18/10 at 6:30 pm. Curriculum – Dr. Rich reported on various topics discussed at the meeting including the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of September 11th. Finance & Facilities – Mr. Branan reviewed topics discussed at the meeting including discussion of the 2010-2011 Proposed School Budget and a review of capital projects for the current year. Policy Meeting – No meeting scheduled. Negotiations – No meeting scheduled NJSBA – Mrs. Szaroleta reviewed current issues in education. SCSBA – Mrs. Mullen reviewed current issues involving the Educational Services Commission SCESC - No report. Old Business Dr. Birnbaum discussed the proposed resolution from the NJSBA regarding dates for the upcoming vote on the budget. Also reviewed were the dates and timeframe for the public hearing on the budget. In addition, the State’s current financial status and its implications to the 2010-2011 Budget were discussed. At the conclusion of this discussion the following resolution was passed: RESOLUTION Suspension of 2010 School Budget Elections WHEREAS, on February 11, 2010, Governor Christopher Christie issued Executive Order 14, which froze current-year state aid payments in more than 500 local school districts, including North Plainfield School District; and WHEREAS, Executive Order 14 sets out a process whereby affected school districts would use their excess surplus and portions of reserve accounts to make up for the loss of current-year aid, a strategy that will have an uncertain impact on next year’s (2010-2011) school budgets; and WHEREAS, local school districts have been advised of four possible scenarios concerning their 2010-2011 state aid allocations, adding to the uncertainty over future school finances; and WHEREAS, the Governor’s annual budget message, through which official state school aid amounts for 2010-2011 will be released, has been postponed until March 16; and WHEREAS, local school boards must finalize proposed budgets for placement on the election ballot by April 3, a span of less than three weeks; and WHEREAS, the lack of complete information about state school funding and the compressed budget timelines will pose a burden to local school districts in developing intelligent, responsible budgets; and WHEREAS, the scheduling of the school budget referendums on April 20 precludes the allotment of additional time needed for budget development; and WHEREAS, proposed school budgets are controlled by a tax-levy cap and undergo thorough review by the state’s Executive County Superintendents, thereby ensuring efficient and responsible use of taxpayer funds; now therefore be it RESOLVED, that the North Plainfield Board of Education urges Governor Christopher Christie and the state Legislature to take necessary action to suspend the 2010 school budget elections; and be it further RESOLVED, that the North Plainfield Board of Education also urges state lawmakers to permit certification of school tax levies based on the budgets approved by local boards of education following the public hearings required pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A: 22-10 et seq.; and be it further RESOLVED, that the North Plainfield Board of Education also urges state lawmakers to adjust the school budget calendar to extend timelines for the budget development, hearing and adoption process, thereby enabling school districts to develop responsible budgets necessary to meet state and local education goals; and be it further RESOLVED, that this resolution be sent to Governor Christopher Christie, Acting Commissioner of Education Bret Schundler, Senate President Stephen Sweeney, Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver, State Senator Nicholas P. Scutari and Assembly Representatives Jerry Green and Linda Stender; and be it further RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the New Jersey School Boards Association. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye New Business Recommendations from Superintendent of Schools Personnel Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that WHEREAS Sandra Barreto, teacher in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on April 1, 2010, and WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately twelve years with dedication to the highest standards of education, now therefore, be it RESOLVED that the Board of Education of North Plainfield extend to Ms. Barreto its thanks for the service she has given and best wishes for her future; and be if further RESOLVED that this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the public meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education on March 3, 2010, and be it further RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution, signed by the President of the Board of Education and Board Secretary/School Business Administrator, be sent to Ms. Barreto. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2090-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the Board member and/or staff conference and travel expenses as per the attached list. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the certificated staff indicated on the attached list be reimbursed for graduate courses taken between August and December 2009. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education adjust the salary of Patricia Pridgen, Custodian/Step 10, from $44,297 to $44,972 to include a stipend of $675 to reflect her attainment of a boiler license, effective January 8, 2010. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the employment of Julia Becerra as a food service worker by Maschio’s Food Service, Inc. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education adjust the unpaid leave of absence under the Federal Family Leave Act granted to Todd Vanderputten, physical education teacher at West End and Stony Brook Schools, from February 1, 2010 through February 26, 2010 to February 1, 2010 through March 12, 2010. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education grant Madelaine Colas, secretary at West End School, an unpaid leave of absence effective March 1, 2010 through March 26, 2010. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the temporary extension of additional hours previously approved for the following West End School paraprofessionals from effective December 2, 2009 through March 5, 2010 to December 2, 2009 through April 9, 2010: Rosario Herscovici 3.75 hrs/day to 6.75 hrs/day Ceil Griffiths 4.50 hrs/day to 6.75 hrs/day Karen Wilson 4.50 hrs/day to 6.75 hrs/day Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the temporary extension of additional hours previously approved for the following East End School paraprofessionals from effective November 17, 2009 through March 5, 2010 to November 17, 2009 through March 19, 2010: Debra Dempsey 4.50 hrs/day to 7.50 hrs/day Catherine Sapila 4.50 hrs/day to 5.50 hrs/day Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals as K-12 substitute teachers in the district: Pilar Garcia Grant Gianneschi Narmadha Nagala-Sudarsanam Mariam Sherzad Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education adjust the previously approved leave granted to Taryn Buffolino, counselor at West End School, as follows: 30-Day Disability Period after Birth From: 2/19/10 - 3/17/10 To: 2/14/10 - 3/15/10 Unpaid Leave of Absence Under the Federal Family Leave Act From: 3/18/10 - 6/10/10 To: 3/16/10 - 6/08/10 Unpaid Leave of Absence From: 6/11/10 - 6/30/10 To: 6/09/10 - 6/30/10 Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Curriculum, Instruction, and Pupil Services Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve an out-of-district placement for classified student DDDDDD-09-10 at Piscataway Regional Day School (Middlesex County Ed Services Commission) at the cost of $43,200 per year to be pro-rated effective March 4, 2010. Transportation will be required. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve an out-of-district placement for classified student EEEEEE-09-10 at Green Brook Academy at the cost of $55,744 per year to be pro-rated effective March 4, 2010. Transportation will be required. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the following classified students receive psychiatric evaluations to be provided by Dr. Richard Kleinmann at the cost of $850 each: PSY-04-09-10 PSY-05-09-10 PSY-06-09-10 Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve classified student NEU-06-09-10 receive a neurological evaluation to be provided by Dr. Kavita Sinha at the cost of $325. Finance, Purchasing, Facilities and Agreements Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve payments from the Cafeteria Account and the Adult School Account in accordance with the attached list dated March 3, 2010. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education dispose of the following obsolete and/or irreparable AV equipment from East End School: Boombox: Sony 99309 CFD-ZW700 0038562 Sony 99308 CFS-W338 0305145 Sony 01337 CFS-W339 0363423 MPC 07302 MPC 6060 A2005032270 Portable Cassette Tape Player: Panasonic 03327 RQ 2101 WH3FD005804 Audio Communicator 02322 C681 Schoolmate 01327 MPC 785 161300827 Schoolmate 03127 MPC 785 161300828 Schoolmate 01324 MPC 785 161300640 GE 94308 3-5025SA GE 93514 Panasonic 89077 RQ2104 9CBPF1195 Panasonic 86083 Panasonic 86082 Panasonic 86050 Jackbox Wireless Mic 803189 Telex 99312 MPC 01343 MPC 01344 Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the following field trips: School Date Location Cost Transportation Middle School 3/20/10 Bridgewater-Raritan -0- District Bus Robotics Competition High School 4/6/10 Rutgers -0- District Bus (2) Collegiate Band Performance Nicholas Music Ctr High School/Elem 3/19/10 Raritan Valley CC -0- District Bus (2) American Repertory Ballet Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen – Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that AMENDMENT TO GRANT AND RESTRICTIVE COVENANT AGREEMENT THIS AGREEMENT made this third day of March 2010, by and between COUNTY OF SOMERSET, a corporate body politic of the State of New Jersey, having its principal offices at Somerset County Administration Building, Post Office Box 3000, Somerville, New Jersey 08876 (hereinafter referred to as "Grantor") and NORTH PLAINFIELD BOARD OF EDUCATION, having its principal offices at 33 Mountain Avenue, North Plainfield, New Jersey 07060 (hereinafter referred to as "Grantee") WITNESSETH: WHEREAS, the parties have previously entered into a Grant and Restrictive Covenant Agreement dated August 25, 2009 which provided, in part, that the North Plainfield Board of Education agreed to post the sum of $20,000.00 to be used towards its obligation as described in that Agreement for the installation of a synthetic turf field on the Upper Krausche Field adjacent to the North Plainfield High School; and WHEREAS, the parties hereto have agreed to amend that Agreement so that the North Plainfield Board of Education can exercise certain options that were provided for in the bid specifications prepared and issued by Somerset County and responded and granted to the lowest responsible bidder, The LandTek Group, Inc., specifically for the installation of certain poles and safety netting along Route 22 and other incidental improvements, the total additional cost to be borne by the North Plainfield Board of Education in a total amount of $33,324.19; and WHEREAS, the parties hereto have agreed to amend that Agreement so that Somerset County can authorize and advise the responsible low bidder, The LandTek Group, Inc., that it will exercise certain options for LandTek to proceed with the installation of certain poles and safety netting for an additional cost of $33,324.19, which amount shall be reimbursed by North Plainfield Board of Education to Somerset County. NOW, THEREFORE, the Grantor and Grantee do mutually agree that the Grant and Restrictive Covenant Agreement dated August 25, 2009 shall be amended as follows: 1. Paragraph 2 of the Grant and Restrictive Covenant Agreement shall be modified to provide that the North Plainfield Board of Education, as Grantee, agrees to post an additional $33,324.19 (in addition to the $20,000.00 referred to in paragraph 2 of the Agreement), for a total payment by the North Plainfield Board of Education to Somerset County of $53,324.19 towards its obligation for the installation of the synthetic turf field and other amenities for the Upper Krausche Field in North Plainfield Borough. 2. Somerset County agrees that upon execution of this Agreement it shall instruct the contractor on the turf field project to install the poles and safety netting along with other materials and labor incident thereto for a total cost of $33,324.19, which amount shall be immediately reimbursed by North Plainfield Board of Education to Somerset County. 3. All other terms and conditions of the Grant and Restrictive Covenant Agreement dated August 25, 2009 shall remain in full force and effect. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Grantor and Grantee have caused these presents to be executed by its proper corporate officers, and their respective seals to be affixed hereto and their respective clerks to acknowledge the execution and the respective seals to be impressed hereto, all as of the day and year first above written. ATTEST: NORTH PLAINFIELD BOARD OF EDUCATION BY: Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve change order number CO-002 increasing the total amount paid to Pro Media for the installation of a district wide phone system in the amount of Three Thousand Five Hundred and Seventy Eight Dollars ($3,578.00), for changes to the original configuration of equipment including 12 additional phones with licenses and 2 wall mount kits. Cost of the project will now be as follows: Original Installation cost…….. ……… ……. ..$278,475.00 Change Order………………………………….. $ 3,578.00 Adjusted Total Installation Cost…… ……. $282,053.00 Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education authorize Sarah O’Donnell, teacher of biology at NPHS, to apply for the 2010 Somerset County Environmental Grant for the purpose of enhancements to the gardens at North Plainfield High School. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the use of Performance and Physical Therapy and Sports Conditioning to provide athletic training services on an as-needed basis at athletic contests and practices at the rate of $63.75 per hour. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education authorize the Business Administrator to submit all necessary applications for consideration by the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders for the Renewable Energy Program. The grant provides for the installation of rooftop solar panels throughout the district to be completely funded by Somerset County. Thomas Allen - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Items moved from future Agenda – There were none. New items requested to be placed on the Agenda – There were none. The Board discussed the following additions and changes to their meeting schedule for March, 2010: March 15, 2010 – Special Meeting - 6:30 pm Executive Session for student matters. March 17, 2010 – Meeting to be re-scheduled to: March 18, 2010 – 7:00 pm Executive Session; 7:30 pm Regular Public Meeting. March 31, 2010 – Public Hearing on the Budget - 7:00 pm - North Plainfield High School Auditorium Communications Committee Meeting – March 18, 2010 – 6:30 pm. Current Events in Education There were none. Comments from the Public Tracey Peters commented on the tremendous effort being made in the planning for the 911 Ceremonies. In addition Ms. Peters commented on the adult school. Jean Liss suggested the Governor’s speech be viewed by the public. Mary Forbes commented on the Governor’s authority to reduce school budgets. Future Agenda Items 2010-2011 Budget Presentation Adjournment Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to hold an executive session on March 18, 2010 at 7:00 pm for confidential matters relating to students, personnel, contract negotiations, litigation, and/or any other matter considered confidential by federal or state law. Mr. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Branan and unanimously approved to adjourn to executive session for confidential matters relating to students, personnel, contract negotiations, litigation, and/or any other matter considered confidential by federal or state law at 9:50 pm. The meeting re-convened to public session at 11:00 pm and immediately adjourned upon recommendation of Mr. Branan, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved. Respectfully submitted, APPROVED: Donald Sternberg