|
The minutes of the regular meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education held on March 18, 2010 at East End School, 170 Oneida 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 – absent,notified
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, and approximately 80 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 March 3, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to accept the executive session minutes of March 3, 2010.
Financial Report
Mr. Allen moved, seconded by Mr. Branan and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the list of bills and payrolls dated February 28, 2010 in the amount of $4,899,561.61.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Allen moved, seconded by Mr. Branan and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the monthly financial reports of the School Business Administrator/Board Secretary and the Treasurer of School Funds, for the month of January 2010 and further recommends in compliance with NJAC 6:23-2.11(B), that the Board of Education certify that to the best of their knowledge no major account or fund has been over expended and that as of this report sufficient funds are available to meet the district’s financial obligation for the remainder of this fiscal year.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Comments from the Public
Upon request of the chair for topics from the public, there were none.
Student Representative Report
There was no student report.
Superintendent’s Report
RECOGNITION/PUBLIC RELATIONS
Staff
The third annual Music Faculty Scholarship Concert was presented on Thursday, March 11 in the NPHS auditorium. The audience, which consisted of students, parents, teachers, Board of Education members, administrators and support staff, was treated to a varied program that ranged from Mozart to Gershwin, Scott Joplin and popular standards. “The spontaneous standing ovation after the finale attested to the exceptional talents of our district music teachers,” stated Tom Mazur, supervisor of fine, practical and performing arts. “I am proud of the department's performance and grateful for the sharing of their talents toward the scholarship fund.” Many thanks to the following participants: Tom Mazur, Maria Oreuela and the NPHS Spanish Dance Club, Dorian Parreott, Jewel Crenshaw, Heather Fencik, Amy Six, Jonathan Scott, Ivan Izeppi, Kyle Skrivanek, Peter Austin, and Allan Reading.
Recently, the Alumni Association of the English Department at Rutgers University contacted John DeLaurentis, NPHS English teacher, noting that they wanted to include him as an “Alumni Poet” in a web promo for National Poetry Month. They also asked for up-to-date employment information, so it is possible North Plainfield High School will be included in the information provided in this web promo. Mr. DeLaurentis also let them know that one of his poems is included in Dr. Hope Blecher-Sass' (supervisor of language arts, social studies, and media) upcoming book, See It, Be It, Write It: Using Performing Arts to Improve Writing Skills and Test Scores.
Students
NPHS will be honoring the Top Ten Students of the Class of 2010, along with teachers who most influenced their lives, at a Student-Teacher Recognition Dinner on Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the high school library. The following students will be honored:
Samuel Flood Pamela Maldonado
Stephen Guevara Karla Menendez
Theresa Huynh Christopher Nardi
Darius Joshua Sandy Shulca
Christina Leriche Zoesively Velasquez
Once again, East End School students were recognized for their outstanding character traits during the Citizen of the Month Assembly. Parents, family members, and friends came to celebrate and witness the children receive their certificates. Below are the names of the honored students for February.
Kindergarten
Alexa Lourenco, Cillaty Elias, Betsy Murillo, Michael Knight, Jaden Clarke,
Katherine Amaya
First Grade
Kristen Rybak, Abdallah Taha, Julissa Jacome, Shania Mendez, Alicia Jones, Justin Thomas, Joely Mayorga, Mateo Lopez
Second Grade
Jessica Ehling, Xavier Pena, Rachel Soto, Chelsea Cordero, Andrea Montenegro, Gustavo Caraballo, Gianmarco Acevedo, Madelyn Ramkrith
Third Grade
Rana Hosny, Sarah Ibrahim, Myles Pacla, Zamaleena Rehmatullah
Fourth Grade
Marjolyn Megaloudis, David Barriga, Adeshola Adedeji, Samantha Meredino, Karma Dhondup, Kimberly Perez
Vocal Music
Hope Kaiser/K, Aliyah Sa’id/1, Naji Campbell/2, Mariateresa Gonzalez Morales/3, Shaniyah O’Neal/4
Instrumental Music
Simpy Malhotra
Art
Kiara Forte/K, Diane Guevara/1, Selma Valjevac/2, Eshita Kar/3, Ethan Proffit/4
Kindle
Marjeastell Wilhelm/2, Chanel Holston/3, Fernanda Velastegui/4
ESL
Josselyn Maliza
Physical Education
Joseph Zalusky/K, Kiara Forte/K, Joely Mayorga/1, Julissa Jacome/1, Doris Cortorreal/2, Franklin Gaspard/2, Shelby Waddy/3, Arisbel Guaman /3, Darian Belle/4, Ben Barnhart/4
Schools
Stony Brook School
Morris Museum Visits Stony Brook School: On March 10, 2009, Morris Museum's Outreach Educator, Michele Zarcone visited Stony Brook School's first and second grades for a day of diversity and enrichment. The Morris Museum's Outreach Program is sponsored by Stony Brook's PTA and visits Stony Brook annually. The outreach programs have themes related to the arts, sciences and history, which work to support the classroom curriculum. Boxes of handling objects, working models, interpretive materials and educational games are all part of the Outreach experience. This year, the first grade students worked with Ms. Zarcone in a program entitled, "Diverse Cultures, Diverse Sounds: Musical Instruments from Around the World." Ms. Zarcone used multiple instruments from around the world to show the students that instruments are classified according to how they make their sounds. She also discussed which country each instrument is from and how the instrument is used culturally. She used drums, maracas, panpipes, and peapods just to name a few. The students were then encouraged to try the different instruments to make their own sounds.
The second grade outreach program was entitled, "American Indian Cultures." In this program, Ms. Zarcone helped the second graders understand how the Iroquois, Sioux, Hopi, and Indians of the Northwest Coast Tribes lived their lives using natural resources to make tools, clothing and other objects to survive. Each of the tribes survived and built a culture based on the geographical surroundings where they lived. The second graders also learned many different facts about natural resources and the Native American way of life. “Thank you, PTA for such a wonderful program, exclaimed Cathy Kobylarz, principal.
Read Across America Celebration: On March 2, 2010, schools across America were united in the celebration of reading and Stony Brook School was among the best. Stony Brook School’s “Read Across America Celebration” was "Seuss-tac-u-lar.” The theme book selected this year was Oh the Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss. To support the theme of the book, the teachers magically turned the multi-purpose room into “America-ville,” in order for the students to examine all the "places they can go across the United States". Four different learning labs were designed to enrich the students' understanding of the famous places they can visit in the United State of America. In the first lab, the students visited a webquest to explore famous states and landmarks. The second lab was held in the Stony Brook “theatre” with a videostreaming clip of the United States. Lab three was a read aloud lab where different guests of the day took turns reading to the students. The final lab celebrated geographical locations of famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, the Washington Monument and Lucy the Elephant to name a few. Some of the special guests that day were Dr. Marilyn Birnbaum, superintendent; Mayor Mike Giordano of North Plainfield; members of the North Plainfield Fire Department; Dr. Hope Blecher-Sass, supervisor of language arts in North Plainfield; and Stony Brook’s good friend, Andy Stout, former physical education and health teacher.
East End School
Black History Assembly: On March 1 East End School held its annual Black History Assembly. Committee members Lynnelle Thomas, Deborah Lockley Thompson, Miriam Andrews, Monica Villafuerte, and Francesca Cardono created a very unique, interesting, and educational presentation about famous African American inventors for the East End School community. Through the use of technology and creativity, the committee transformed the community room into the Jeopardy game. Students served as contestants and a PowerPoint presentation was used to create the Jeopardy board and the music. The audience remained actively engaged as they waited to see which contestant answered the question correctly. Final Jeopardy was truly a nail biter. There were even commercial breaks throughout the game which included updates on the school’s Haiti Relief Fund.
Young Orators’ Club: The 2009-2010 Young Orators Club facilitated by third grade teachers Leslie Hansen and Lynnelle Thomas is off to a great start. The after school club has approximately fifty students practicing on Thursdays after school. The students are practicing basic oratory skills. They are working on posture, voice projection and audience eye contact. For most of the students, this is their first time speaking in front of an audience. The young orators are preparing to present their oral expression at an assembly for the school community. To coincide with the East End School geography objective, each student is preparing to greet the audience with a welcome in the language of a different country and give a fact. The students are also preparing to present a slide show and give information about animals from every continent.
Storytellers: After Ken Galipeau, professional storyteller and singer, visited East End School on January 20 and led an after school workshop for 14 fourth graders a new club was initiated: East End Storytellers. Give that students showed an interest in storytelling, Allison Longley, media specialist, decided to form a club that would meet regularly so they could learn more about this art. The East End Storytellers now meet once a week on Wednesdays after school to practice the stories they have chosen to “tell.” Students work in pairs to practice skills which include learning a story, performing it with expression in their voices and movement, involving the audience, and ending the story with confidence. The club is planning to perform the stories for other students in the library in April or May.
Read Across America: On March 2, 2010, East End School celebrated Read Across America throughout the day. Guest readers arrived with book in hand to enjoy a story with the students. As they entered the building, Anne Fellin of the PTO, offered refreshments to the guests. “The East End School community thanks everyone for giving up their time to share a story with the children” commented Kathleen Herrmann, principal. In the evening, Ms. Longley invited families to listen to stories that Tickle Your Funny Bone. About thirty students and parents enjoyed the evening as they listened to humorous stories. A Readers’ Theater was also performed to the story Wild Boars Cook by Meg Rosoff. Ms. Longley used this evening event to celebrate Read Across America as well as emphasize the importance and enjoyment of reading for both young and old.
Jump Rope for Heart: On March 4 and 5, the East End students participated in Jump Rope for Heart. Jump Rope for Heart is a national educational fund-raising program that is sponsored by the American Heart Association and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. Students are sponsored and then jump rope in order to raise money for the American Heart Association. The event was held during each child’s physical education period and was facilitated by physical education teachers John Malazdra and Jennifer Brand. Many parents volunteered throughout the event to assist the students. East End School has raised $1100 as of March 10.
West End School
WE Celebrate: At “WE Celebrate,” West End School's monthly assembly to celebrate and recognize students and staff for their accomplishments and demonstrations of good character, the following students were honored:
From Nicole Iannucci’s Kindergarten class: Naila Twyman for her hard work in class and demonstration of strong character traits and sportsmanship.
From Deborah Gray’s third grade class: Gloria Solorzano Cruz, Sharon Cruz, and Gabriella Torresano for always give 100% effort on everything they do and always willing to help others with their school work or if someone just simply needs a friend.
From Alison Clark’s third grade class: Jasmine Muhando for going above and beyond what is asked of her, for being a kind friend to all of her classmates, and being extremely helpful in the classroom.
From Dina Diaz’s fourth grade class: Veronika Miller for coming to school each and every day with a big smile on her face. She loves to learn new things and always puts forth her best effort. She is kind and always willing to help a teacher or a friend.
Staff Recognition was given to third grade teachers Christine Birnbaum and Alison Clark. Both teachers recently donated their hair to organizations that provide wigs free of charge. Ms. Birnbaum donated to “Locks of Love” who provide wigs for children who lose their hair from many different illnesses and treatments that cause hair loss and Miss Clark donated to “Make the Cut” that provides for women with cancer.
PTA Boxtop Winners for February: West End has collected 1,740 boxtops in February, for $174! The total since September is 10, 630 ($1,063). There was a three- way tie this month with 160 boxtops each:
Marilou Barrett's fourth grade class, Marianne Harris' third grade class, and Tara Mattielli's kindergarten class. The PTA will supply ice pops to all three classes!
Caring Coins for Chile Project: West End School’s goal for this project is to collect a decorated coin from every student to be displayed together symbolizing that West End’s thoughts are with the people of Chile. All coins returned are part of a display in the front hall of the building. Along with this collection of coins is a request for monetary donations as families and staff can contribute at this time. All donations will be sent to the American Red Cross. Information about American Red Cross can be found at: http://www.redcross.org/
Dr. Seuss Day and Read Across America Day: West End School celebrated Dr. Seuss Day and Read Across America Day on March 2, 2010. Coordinated by Marilyn LaMarca, media specialist; Suzanne Fordham, fourth grade teacher; and Marilyn Pinto, student liaison, the children and staff were treated to a wonderful performance of Horton Hears a Who based on the book by Dr. Seuss. Michelle Tafuri, fourth grade teacher, starred as “Horton” and Wendy Szymanski, second grade teacher, played the part of “Kangaroo.” West End had over fifty readers sharing their love of reading with the children! Special guest readers included Mayor Mike Giordano and other employees from Borough Hall, Councilwoman Mary Forbes, Chief William Parenti and Officer Eric Fowler represented the Police Department and Meredith Hoyer, Judy Wilhelm and Sharon Franklin came from the North Plainfield Public Library. Superintendent Dr. Marilyn Birnbaum and district supervisors also visited and read to the children. Former Somerset County Superintendent David Livingston came and read to a class of fourth graders. Roberto Rivera, assistant branch manager and Gail Soltys, customer service representative, of PNC Bank in Green Brook, read in Spanish and English to the children. They donated coloring books and crayons to each kindergarten class. Each child in the school received a “gently read” book donated by Verizon. NPEA Project Pride, Stop and Shops of Watchung and Edison, and Acme of Middlesex donated refreshments for the day. The children are also “reading” their way across America earning miles for minutes read. So far they have read a total of 105,000 minutes, or 1,750 hours!
NPMS
On February 5, 2010, the North Plainfield Middle School Student Council, under the leadership of Matt Iannucci and Nicole DiTrani, attended the Somerset County annual Public Employee Career Fair. The event was held at the county administration building in Somerville, New Jersey and was presented by the 4-H Fair of Somerset County. Hillsborough, Watchung, Somerville and Bernardsville were some of the other school districts that were also attending this event.
The students had an opening ceremony in which various council members spoke and gave examples of careers that can be found in their local communities. Following the opening talks students were dispatched into their specific career area groups and debriefed on what they would being doing for the rest of the day. Once the debriefing concluded, students were bused to specific areas where they would view and participate in these career areas. Students gained insight into careers such as corrections, police work, rescue squad, engineering, culinary studies, library studies, technology and recycling. “The career fair was a wonderful event for all students who participated. The feedback was outstanding and the student council members were able to experience a wealth of knowledge that will serve as a foundation for potential career building. This is a field trip that truly offered invaluable experience and opportunities for young adults,” commented Ms. DiTrani.
Athletics
The NPMS boys’ basketball team won the March of Dimes Tournament in Dunellen on March 6, 2010. Their victory over Springfield concluded an undefeated season, 22-0, Central Jersey Junior Basketball League Divisional Champions, and overall Conference Tournament Champions. Congratulations to Coach Chuck Henriques and all of the players for an excellent season. The girls’ team placed third in the March of Dimes Tournament.
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 Monday, March 22, 2010 in Somerset School’s community room at 7:00 p.m.
DISTRICT OPERATIONS & AUXILIARY SERVICES
SAFETY TRAINING
The safety topic for March is Right To Know Compliance and Product Labeling. Related safety training will be conducted with all staff members on March 23, 2010.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Winter Weather Update
We are finally starting to see an end to the cold weather. This past winter has been difficult to say the least. Now that spring is just around the corner, please keep in mind that we may still experience some icing conditions throughout this month and early April. Please use caution when navigating our parking lots and walkways as “black ice” may be present.
The district 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)
Although the anticipated H1-N1 Pandemic was not as severe as anticipated, the threat of an outbreak still exists. Please continue to follow personal protective protocols, such as frequent and aggressive hand washing, to reduce your exposure to this virus. 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 rescheduled for March 11 to review the audit in its entirety and to address any deficiencies that were noted.
CURRENT MAINTENANCE PROJECTS
Listed below are a few of our recently completed upgrades and/or maintenance tasks:
• Replacement of a large section of return piping at the Stony Brook School
• Replacement of a third cracked boiler section at the Stony Brook School
• Rewiring of two branch circuits at NPMS
• Feed water pump repairs at East End School
• Installation of two additional video monitors 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 the district’s 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).
FLOODING
The district has been struggling with excessive groundwater penetration since this past weekend’s storm. Listed below are the locations and a brief description of actions taken thus far.
HARRISON BUILDING
On Saturday, March 13, the department began to take in excessive groundwater in the boiler room and basement office areas. On Sunday, March 14, the existing sump pump could no longer handle the rising water and Edward Ostroff, director of operations and auxiliary services, with several members of staff began pumping operations. The water at this location rose to approximately one and one half feet by noon. They were able to pump the water down to a manageable level by Sunday evening and clean up operations continued into Monday morning. The basement level staff was relocated to the first floor until they were able to return to their offices on Tuesday morning. Pumping operations continue at this location.
HARRISON HOUSE
On Sunday, March 14, the existing sump pump could no longer handle the rising water and a second pump was set up in the basement. Unfortunately, the water continued to rise and reached a level of approximately one foot. This caused some damage to the heating system and hot water heater. They were finally able to pump the water down to a manageable level by Sunday evening and clean up operations, along with an assessment of the damage, was completed by Monday morning. The heating system and hot water heater were repaired on Monday, and heat was restored at this location by Monday afternoon. They continue to pump out this location.
EAST END SCHOOL
On Sunday, March 14, the existing sump pump was struggling to maintain an acceptable level of water in the boiler room and basement storage areas. Unfortunately, the water continued to rise and a large volume pump was set up at this location during the early morning hours on Monday. Unfortunately, they were not able to sustain an acceptable level and the water rose to approximately three feet. This caused damage to both boilers and the loss of approximately fifty cases of paper. They continued pumping operations until they were able to access the boiler room and assess the extent of damage. The staff was able to repair Boiler #2 by late afternoon and heat was restored to the building at that time. Unfortunately, Boiler #1 sustained significant damage to the controls and has been placed out of service indefinitely. The district will not be executing repairs on this boiler as it is scheduled for demolition this summer as part of the heating system replacement project. At this time, pumping operations continue around the clock in three shifts to sustain an acceptable level of groundwater penetration. It should be noted that they are currently operating three pumps at this location and the groundwater continues to infiltrate the foundation. They will continue pumping operations until such time as the water table in this area begins to subside.
WEST END/SOMERSET/HIGH SCHOOL/STONY BROOK
All of these locations had manageable leaks with only minor damage. The staff removed any ceiling tiles that were wet and mopped up any residual water. Mr. Ostroff has noted the areas that leaked and will address these concerns as time permits.
“I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge my team for their outstanding performance during these events. When assistance was requested by this office, there was no hesitation and they have worked tirelessly to ensure our facilities were able to be occupied without a significant disruption to the educational process. As noted above, we continue to schedule staff members around the clock at the East End School and my team continues to meet this challenge. If not for their unwavering dedication, we would have sustained a much greater amount of damage and would have found it necessary to close some of our facilities,” remarked Mr. Ostroff.
Correspondence
There was none.
Committee and Delegate Report
Board Staff – No meeting scheduled.
Communications – No meeting scheduled.
Curriculum – No meeting scheduled.
Finance & Facilities – No meeting scheduled.
Policy Meeting – No meeting scheduled.
Negotiations – No meeting scheduled.
NJSBA – Many issues were discussed regarding proposed legislative changes.
SCSBA - No meeting scheduled.
SCESC – No Meeting scheduled.
Old Business
Dr. Birnbaum discussed the proposed 2010-2011 school budget. The Board asked a variety of questions regarding the specific impact of the reduction to the budget. At this time the meeting was open for public comment as follows:
Harry Hooker asked if the legislature would not approve or change the Governor’s budget. Jack Fowler asked how the Dare Program is funded. Matthew Miller asked about privatizing of the custodial staff, charging for the night school program, and commented on administrative salaries. Allison Longley asked about cutting staff in the libraries and the Pre-K programs. Elizabeth Havrilla commented on the elimination of kindergarten paraprofessionals. Maria Kushner asked about the budget total and a salary freeze as a potential savings to the total budet. Alvita Lindsey asked about solar energy savings and textbook and curriculum sharing. Shelley Moore commented on enticing new teachers and communicating with the Borough Council. Mark Williams commented on how budget limits will limit technology advancements. Frank D’Amore asked about reducing administrators vs. reducing teaching staff. Barbara Ahles asked about a comparison of administrative costs to like districts.
New Business
Recommendations from Superintendent of Schools
Personnel
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved 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.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education grant Susan Garatino, academic support teacher at Stony Brook School, an intermittent unpaid leave of absence under the Federal Family Leave Act, effective March 18, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the following individuals as K-12 substitute teachers in the district:
John Bower Kelli Dunston Ashley Ralston
Samone Dudley Wendy Duva Megan Sweeney
Lisa McGinn Raya Tufaro
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve Maschio’s Food Service, Inc. employ Piera Salerno as a food service worker.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve a change in guide and salary for Monica Villafuerte, elementary Spanish teacher in the district, from the Master’s guide to the MA plus 30 guide/Step 7 (8-10/9) at $56,910, to reflect her attainment of 30 credits beyond a Master’s degree, effective November 1, 2009.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved 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 19, 2010 to November 17, 2009 through April 7, 2010:
Debra Dempsey 4.50 hrs/day to 7.50 hrs/day
Catherine Sapila 4.50 hrs/day to 5.50 hrs/day
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education employ the following teachers to work on curriculum projects or school-based planning activities at the school/department as indicated at the 2009-2010 negotiated rate of $47.83 per hour, to be paid at the conclusion of the project funded with ARRA, Title I Part A funds:
Social Studies
Theresa Zimmerman $ 957 Roger Graubard $1196
Danielle Palmieri $ 957 Susan Feibush $1196
Shona Wright-Hodge $ 478 Andrew Risoli $ 717
Robert Lake $1196 Rita Martins $ 717
Gregory Ammon $1196
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education adjust the employment date of Lenore Fornabio, temporary special education teacher at West End School,
from December 7, 2009 through March 31, 2010 to December 7, 2009 through March 18, 2010. (Ms. Fornabio is temporarily replacing Michelle Onofri.)
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Christine Brunner as a teacher of mathematics at NPMS/HS at the Doctorate/Step 8 (11-12/11) annual salary rate of $61,610, to be prorated effective April 5, 2010. (Ms. Brunner will replace Sandra Barreto.)
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the following substitute paraprofessionals be paid for the hours worked during the dates indicated at the rate of $19.80 per hour:
Donald Schreck 3.50 hrs/day 2/16/10 – 3/19/10
Amnet Ramos 4.50 hrs/day 2/16/10 – 3/19/10
Michelle Robertson 4.25 hrs/day 2/16/10 – 3/18/10
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the following paraprofessional transfers, effective March 22, 2010:
FROM TO
Zoraida Para 4.50 hrs/day East End PreK Stony Brook SC
Denis Cruz 4.50 hrs/day Stony Brook SC East End PreK
Cynthia Woodall 3.50 hrs/day Stony Brook SC East End PreK
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the transfer and change in hours for the following paraprofessional:
FROM TO
Kathryn Greeves 3.50 hrs/day at Stony Brook SC 4.25 hrs/day West End
Autistic Class
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education grant CDR William J. Dooley, ROTC instructor, an unpaid leave of absence under the Federal Family Leave Act effective March 23, 2010 through March 28, 2010.
Curriculum, Instruction, and Pupil Services
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve home instruction for non-classified student HI-32-09-10 to be provided by district staff and/or Educere, Inc. for not more than five hours per week effective March 2, 2010 through March 17, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve classified student PSY-07-09-10 receive a psychiatric evaluation to be provided by Dr. Richard Kleinmann at the cost of $850.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approved identified student PSY-08-09-10 receive a psychiatric evaluation to be provided by Dr. Richard Kleinmann at the cost of $850.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve payment to Dr. Nancy Durant in the amount of $350 for providing a psychiatric evaluation to identified student PSY-09-09-10.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve classified student ATE-06-09-10 undergo an assistive technology evaluation to be provided by Bergen County Special Services at the cost of $540 for up to four hours of training plus $150 travel costs.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve home instruction for non-classified student HI-33-09-10 to be provided by district staff and/or Educere, Inc. for not more than five hours per week effective March 18, 2010 through March 25, 2010.
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 18, 2010.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote the Board of Education approve line item transfers in accordance with the attached list dated January 31, 2010.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Authorization of the sale at public auction of the District’s personal property not needed for public use:
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote
WHEREAS, the purchasing agent has presented the following listing of personal property which is no longer needed for public use by the North Plainfield Board of Education;
Sale of One (1) Modular Office Trailer
Description of Unit: The Modular Office Trailer T2 is a TCU Temporary Classroom Unit that was modified for office space. It is approximately fourteen feet (14’) x sixty (60’) feet.
Chassis: # 54-9272
Unit: # 05023789
Manufacturer: Miller, Inc.
Date: 8/1999
WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-45, “Sale of personal property,” the governing body may authorize the public sale of Board of Education owned property no longer needed for public use; and
WHEREAS, the North Plainfield Board of Education as a member of the County of Somerset Cooperative Purchasing, wishes to participate in a sealed bid auction to be held on Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at 9:00 A.M. at the Somerset County Freeholders Chamber; and
WHEREAS, the auction will be conducted by a Somerset County Purchasing Agent, who shall coordinate the auction with the North Plainfield Board of Education Purchasing Agent, Donald Sternberg.
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Resolution (or Notice of the date, time and place of the auction, with a description of the items to be sold) shall be published in an official newspaper not more that 14 days prior to the date of the auction, as is required by N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-45(b).
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the North Plainfield Board of Education does hereby declare the personal property listed above is surplus and no longer needed for Board of Education use; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the North Plainfield Board of Education does hereby authorize a sealed bid auction of the surplus property indentified, to be held on Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at 9:00 A.M. at the Somerset County Freeholders Chamber.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that be it
RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Borough of North Plainfield hereby adopt the following school district budget for the 2010-2011 school year:
General Fund $51,596,224.00
Special Revenue Fund $ 2,317,409.00
Debt Service Fund $ 1,371,660.00
Total Base Budget $55,285,293.00
And be it further resolved, that the following amounts be raised from taxes:
General Fund $26,847,204.00
Debt Service $ 1,366,174.00
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson – Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote the Board of Education authorize the School Business Administrator/Board Secretary to advertise for bids and solicit quotations where necessary for the 2010-2011 school year for the following services, supplies and equipment:
1. Janitorial Supplies 16. Calculators
2. Lumber Supplies 17. Classroom Furniture
3. Paint Supplies 18. Food Service Management
4. Adult School Brochure 19. Photocopier Equipment
5. Trash Removal 20. Boiler & Burner Services
6. Electrical Supplies 21. Door & Frame Replacements
7. Athletic Supplies & Equipment 22. District Painting
8. Athletic Cleaning & Reconditioning 23. District Printing
9. Athletic Transportation 24. Musical Instruments
10. Phys. Ed Supplies & Equipment 25. General, Art & Office Supplies
11. Vo-Tech Transportation 26. Fire & Intrusion Alarm Svc.
12. Ind. Arts Supplies & Equipment 27. A/V Supplies & Equipment
13. Library Periodicals & Books 28. Science Supplies & Equipment
14. Library Supplies 29. Lawn Service
15. Maintenance and/or Const.Projects 30. Integrated Pest Management
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson – Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote the Board of Education approve the following field trips:
School Date Location Cost Transportation
High School 5/19/10 Liberty Science Ctr -0- RVCC Provides Bus
Live from Surgery Program Jersey City
Middle School 4/13/10 Raritan Valley CC $1500 Contracted Bus
Program on the Holocaust
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote the Board of Education authorize the disposal of the following obsolete and/or irreparable AV equipment from North Plainfield High School:
Item Serial No. Model No.
TV: Toshiba BAB360054339 MW27H62
Overhead Projectors:
EIKI S#7350121
Elmo S#537514
Elmo S#510779
Elmo S#536844
Elmo S#984904
Elmo S#984916
Elmo S#984892
Bell & Howell S#9324008
Bell & Howell S#7237126
Bell & Howell S#4221097
AV #420
AV #33
VCR:
Goldstar #S20210687T
Quasar #S71631507 #9712
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Items moved from future Agenda – none.
New items requested to be placed on the Agenda
Mr. Branan asked about appointing a representative to a Borough Council Committee entitled, Sustainable NJ.
Current Events in Education
There were none.
Comments from the Public
There were none.
Future Agenda Items
2010-2011 Proposed Budget
Adjournment
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to hold an executive session on March 24, 2010 at 6:30 pm for confidential matters relating to students, personnel, contract negotiations, litigation, and/or any other matter considered confidential by federal or state law.
Mr. Branan moved,seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to adjourn at 10:15 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
APPROVED: Donald Sternberg
|
