The minutes of the regular meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education held on April 7, 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, Dr. Robert Rich, Assistant Superintendent and Mr. Tony Sciarillo, Board Attorney, as well as 11 members of the staff and public.
Introduction of New Staff
There was none.
Minutes Approval
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mr. Branan abstaining to accept the public session and executive session minutes of March 15, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mr. Smith abstaining to accept the public session and executive session minutes of March 18, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to accept the public session and executive session minutes of March 24, 2010.
Comments from the Public
Upon request of the chair for topics from the public, Mr. Gene Liss asked about the finger printing and background check process for employees of the Board of Education.
Mark Williams asked about the Borough tax increase.
Student Representative Report
There was none.
Presentation
There was none.
Superintendent’s Report
RECOGNITION/PUBLIC RELATIONS
Staff
After two years in the making, and based upon six years of literacy coaching, See It, Be It, Write It: Using Performing Arts to Improve Writing Skills and Test Scores has just been released by Free Spirit Publishing Company. Hope Blecher-Sass, Ed.D., the district’s supervisor for language arts, social studies and media services has coauthored this book with Maryellen Moffitt, a coordinator of gifted and talented programs in Roselle Public Schools.
This book contains information for people who work with students in grades three and up and have been charged with preparing students to master the style of writing demanded by students on the state assessments. It is imbedded with teacher- friendly lesson plan templates, writing strategy charts and prompts to get people started with the joy of writing; a joy that for some has been lost as the focus has shifted to test preparation.
The active engagement promoted through this approach to the writing process appeals to a variety of students and teachers, across the grade levels and the content areas. In fact, the authors created thematic prompt cards to assist educators in planning and implementing interdisciplinary enactments that facilitate the development of the student’s literacy skills and strategies.
Dr. Blecher-Sass and Ms. Moffitt were also able to include the creative talents of Tammy Scott and John DeLaurentis, teachers in the district who contributed poems that were included as exemplars in See It, Be It, Write It. “It is through such professional collaborations that staff can explore ways to serve as role models for students and colleagues. With encouragement received from various people in the community, this project has the potential to be the beginning of good things to come to North Plainfield,” commented Dr. Blecher-Sass
Students
The following students will deliver their speeches at the annual Optimist Club Oratorical Contest: Sean Lubreski, Kyle Finnegan, Duvany Acosta, Franklin Orellana, Tiana Cock, Flor Ledezma, Evita Nwosu-Sylvester, and Ashley Ramirez. This year's topic was "Cyber Communication-Progress or Problem?" All of the ninth grade honors students wrote and delivered a speech. Rita Martins, English teacher for ninth grade honors, selected these particular students based on their writing, oral delivery, and use of speech strategies. The contest will be held on April 6, 2010 at the Vermeule Community Center at 7:00 p.m.
On March 25, 2010, the following students were inducted into the World Languages Honor Society at an afternoon ceremony in the NPHS auditorium:
American Sign Language Honor Society
New Members:
Sherice Browne Zubah Kolubah
Nataya Johnson Kris Sherwood
Advisor: Cori Goldberg
French Language Honor Society
New Members:
Kaylen Chamorro
Manuela Diaz
Flor Ledezma
Imani Lee
Daniela Lopez
Sean Lubreski Pablo Ortiz
Chritian Perez
Shyla Shulca
Juliana Villegas
Erin Walsh
Advisor: Marlene Yoskowitz
Italian Language Honor Society
New Members:
Didia Fajardo
Sam Fajardo
Delilah Figueroa
Carlos Gonzalez
Jeff Gugliotta
Stephanie Hatala
Zach Joback
Rut Junco
Diego Martin Orozco
Sal Mastrobattista
Saray Orozco Rodrigo Pacheco
Sayda Perez
Jorge Regalado
Tryce Reyes
Billy Stevens
Jon Vargas
Geolenne Velasquez
Steve Veliz
Jake Watters
Jose Zea
Advisor: Assunta Scotto
Spanish Language Honor Society
New Members:
Vanessa Castillo
Darwin Caguana
Vincess Dimayuga
Erich Fredericks
Emily Garces
Katrina Guevara
Snehashish Kar Christopher Nichols
Ed’dayshia Richardson
Marissa Sarfati
Jose Salguero
Shannon West
Shamay Wiggan
Elizabeth Zalaya
Advisor: Isabel Ledezma
CONGRATULATIONS to Claudia Salazar, grade 11, for her acceptance into the Governor's School of Engineering and Technology at Rutgers University.
The following students earned Scholar Athlete Awards for 2010:
Skyland Conference Scholar Athlete
Petra Nwasu-Sylvester
Sam Flood
NJSIAA Scholar Athlete Award
Sam Flood
NJSIAA – ETS Scholar Athlete Award
Chris Nardi
Somerset County Scholar Athlete*
Sam Flood
Sandy Schulca
* The Somerset County Scholar Athlete Dinner is on Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at the Double Tree Hotel, Somerset, NJ, at 6:45 pm. Tickets are $40.00 per person.
College Acceptances
Levi Adoptante Johnson & Wales University
Kayla Adorno Drexel University
Juliana Agudelo Kean University
Brittany Allen Pace University
Rider University
Fairleigh-Dickinson University
Amanda Aponte Kean University
Marvin Arias St. John’s University
William Paterson University, University of Maryland
Ludmila Artaza Fisher College - $8,000
Amit Batra Penn State University
Bloomfield College
West Virginia University
Bloomsburg University
Kean University
Patrick Brockway Pace University
Fairleigh-Dickinson University
Daniel Chiquillo DeVry University
Ashley Clarke Drexel University
Berkeley College
Jennifer DeJesso Centenary College - $10,000 scholarship
Fairleigh-Dickinson University
Luis Diaz New Jersey Institute of Technology
Vanyty Emmanuel Drew University - $15,000 scholarship
Pace University - $12,000 Merit Scholarship
Sam Fajardo Kean University
Sam Flood Penn State University
United States Naval Academy
Michelle Gomez Kean University
Alyssa Gonzalez Westminster College - Immaculate University - $11,500 scholarship Montclair State University
Marywood University - $15,000 scholarship SUNY – New Paltz
Elizabethtown College - $11,000 scholarship
Danielle Guzman Kean University
Josue Hernandez Caldwell College
Theresa Huynh Drexel University
Seton Hall University
Temple University
Rutgers University, Nursing Program
Keith Jones Rutgers University, School of Business
William Paterson University
Penn State University
Darius Joshua Rider University – $15,000/yr Provost Scholarship
Rutgers University - College of Arts & Sciences
Syracuse University
Zubah Kolubah The College of New Jersey- Biology Program
Rutgers University
Prince Kumar Lincoln Technical Institute
Christina Leriche Drew University - $21,000/yr Merit Scholarship Seton Hall University - $19,200 scholarship
St. John’s University - $17,000 scholarship
Pamela Maldonado DeVry Institute
Rutgers University
Karla Menendez New York University
Leslie Monroy Drew University - $16,000 scholarship
Iliana Moreno Bloomfield College
Christopher Nardi Kings College - $15,000/yr.
University of the Sciences - $7,000/yr
Rutgers University
Fairleigh-Dickinson University- $20,000/yr
Petra Nwosu-Sylvester Rutgers University
Howard University
Danny Perez-Martinez Kean University
Denise Perez Raritan Valley Community College
Sarah Quinones Berkeley College
Karina Reyes Penn State University
Seton Hall University - $10,000/yr scholarship
Mohammed Sameerudin Fairleigh-Dickinson University
Rupinder Singh University of Houston
Steven Sosa Rider University
Daniela Urquizo Kean University
Zoe Velasquez University of New Haven – 12,000/yr scholarship
Wells College - $18,000/yr scholarship
Seton Hall University – $10,500/yr scholarship
University of Connecticut
Michigan State University
James Williams Bloomfield College
Caldwell College
Montclair State University
Tuskegee University
Jamel Wilson Rutgers University
The College of New Jersey
Leigh University
Elizabeth Zelaya Kean University
WE Celebrate: At the March “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:
Theresa Knauer’s first grade class: Marcelo Freire-Rizzo and Justin Vargas Acosta were recognized for being excellent role models, for following classroom rules and for being hardworking students with a great attitudes.
Angela Roman and Linsday Sena’s second grade class: David Heyward and Luiggi Hernandez were recognized for consistently demonstrating characteristics of fairness and kindness as well as being trustworthy and reliable students.
Also recognized from this class: Lauren Fernandez was recognized for being an outstanding second grader. Each day Lauren has worked hard to practice her independence by taking on new tasks and responsibilities in the classroom.
Christine Birnbaum’s third grade class: Cheyenne Mutura was recognized for her hard work, determination, being respectful and kind, works well with others, and for being a good friend.
Nicole Rivlin and Christina Moscatello’s third grade class: Danielle Havrilla, Ashley Muhando, and Diana Orozco were recognized for demonstrating every pillar of character education regularly. These students are always eager to lend a helping hand, and they take the initiative to extend their learning outside of school completing extra self created assignments.
Also recognized from this class: Kala Wright was recognized for her desire to learn, giving her all, and for making outstanding progress largely in part to her own dedication and persistence.
Michelle Tafuri’s fourth grade class: Elizabeth Hernandez and Anthony Alvarez were recognized for displaying outstanding character traits on a daily basis.
Schools
East End School
PTO Fundraiser: The PTO sponsored spring picture day on March 12 as a fundraiser. All students at East End School had their pictures taken individually in the Community Room. When the pictures are sent home in April, the PTO will receive $2.00 for every picture taken regardless of family purchases. This fundraiser will bring in close to $1000.00. The PTO continues to support the school community by raising money to provide the students with assemblies that enrich the curriculum.
Rahway Dance Theatre Returns: On March 26, East End students, staff, and guests attended a very special assembly. The award winning Rahway Dance Theatre returned to the school and performed traditional ballet, hip hop, and origins from African dance. Diana Van Hise, vocal music teacher, collaborated with the PTO who once again graciously funded the assembly. The ballet was originally scheduled for February to support Black History Month, but due to inclement weather, it was postponed. Before the performance began, four members of the ballet company demonstrated various ballet positions and techniques and then invited students from the audience to come up on stage and participate. Finally, the members of the ballet performed dances for the students. The ballet company stressed the importance of keeping good grades when considering participation in dance and also talked about discipline and practice. “Once again the students were mesmerized by the performance,” remarked Kathleen Herrmann, principal.
Haiti Relief Fund: East End School is proud to announce that a total of $472.00 was collected for the American Red Cross to aid the victims of the earthquake. Anyone who donated to the Haiti Relief Fund decorated a flag which is displayed in the Community Room.
Read Aloud to Pre-K: On March 29, Anne Fellin a member of the school community and PTO, read to Sarah Cohen’s Pre-K class. She brought her own pet bunny rabbit with her which overjoyed the young students. Each child had the opportunity to pet the bunny and watch him hop around the classroom.
West End School
A Smile Train Message from Beth Sobel, principal of West End School:
What a wonderful evening it was on Thursday night when so many of our West End teachers and children performed with those joyous smiles on their faces all to give other children a chance at also having a beautiful smile.
Thank you to everyone who assisted in getting this show put together, who gave generously of their time and energy. What a memory you have given our children. They will always remember that night, and that show, and what you did for them.
Thank you to the PTA for your support, the sale of refreshments, watching the door, and selling 50-50's. Couldn't do all that we do without your assistance!
Congratulations to you all for an outstanding performance, for your dedication, your talent, and for your love of the children, and for teaching a truly valuable lesson about caring for others.
Bravo!! Thank you again!
PTA Boxtop Winners for March: There was a total of 1,120 boxtops this month ($112): 1st place was Marianne Harris' third class with 200 boxtops; 2nd place was Nicole Rivlin’s third grade class with 140 boxtops; and 3rd place--for the 1st time this year--is Nancy Lubreski’s kindergarten class--with 90 boxtops!! The PTA will supply ice pops to all three classes!
Fourth Grade Class Compares and Contrasts: On March 12, Michelle Tafuri’s fourth grade class saw the 3D movie version of Alice in Wonderland. Prior to this trip, the class read aloud the story version written by Lewis Carroll. Throughout the read-aloud, the students were encouraged to use the strategies that good readers use, such as predicting, inferring, making connections and visualizing as found in the NJCCCS. The students inferred specific word meanings by using context clues. They discussed the literary elements and some literary devices. Most importantly, the students actively listened for pure enjoyment! To prepare the students for the NJASK, they were assigned open ended tasks to show understanding of the text. The students were able to practice using details, examples and reasons to support their open ended responses. After the movie, the students compared and contrasted the book version to the movie version by using a Venn Diagram.
NPHS
On Sunday, March 28, 2010, the NPHS Interact Club sponsored an Easter Egg Hunt at Stony Brook Elementary with the help of Ann Bonner, media specialist, and Cathy Kobylarz, principal. Interact donated 500 Easter eggs filled with jellybeans and chocolate. They also donated sidewalk chalk for the children to use. Around 150 children participated in the event. “The children were very happy and the parents were excited. Many parents approached me and said it was their first time participating in an Egg Hunt. The Interact club was very pleased to see the results of the Easter Egg Hunt. Next year we plan to make the event bigger and contribute with one thousand eggs and more children,” remarked Alexandra Pereira, Spanish teacher and Interact advisor.
Somerset
Update on MALES Program
October: Understanding Our Strengths and Weaknesses in Life & In Business. The tool used for the exercise included the introduction of a SWOT which stands for Strength Weakness Opportunity and Threats analysis, which allowed the mentees to lay out their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in their personal lives. Then they discussed how setting SMART Goals was a great method for addressing their weaknesses, opportunities and threats. From October's lesson the mentees were shown how the SWOT analysis and SMART Goals will also have applications in their business plans they'll be writing over the coming months.
November: One of the things that confront many adults today is a lack of experience with how stock markets work or which stocks to invest in. In a number of cases this can be attributed to not being exposed to the stock market and equity investing at an early age. The mentors gave the MALES mentees $100,000 in play money and had them buy stocks from their favorite companies at Investopedia (http://www.investopedia.com/). Favorite stock picks include: Apple, Nike and BP.
December: This month the mentees learned about personal hygiene and male grooming. The hygiene portion of the discussion included how to prevent body odor, good oral health, dealing with skin care issues, such as razor bumps and acne. Male grooming topics covered included how teens should dress for success when interviewing for internships and summer jobs. Mentees were also shown how to properly tie a tie and then participated in a contest to see who could tie a tie the best for prizes.
January: “Present Yourself – Dress for Success”: In this session the young men were shown how to introduce themselves to a lady and escort her to a table. The students really enjoyed this session and tried to “one-up” each other by showing how smooth and debonair they could be. The students practiced with one of the mentor’s sisters and were evaluated by mentors, their peers, and the honorable lady of the hour. Next, the mentors spoke to the young men about how to dress for success. Mentors asked the students how they thought one should dress when going to a job site to ask for an application and for the interview. There was general agreement that a candidate should come to the job site dressed professionally. This includes a white buttoned down shirt, nice pants, and presentable shoes. Baggy jeans, sagging jeans, and backward hats were considered unacceptable. Lennox Small, a mentor, suggested that all students keep a nice shirt, pants and shoes clean and ready just in case a job interview opportunity comes up. The main advice from this was that “If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready.”
February: The MALES mentoring program focused on the critical life issues that impact young males and provided a unique open forum where participants were encouraged to speak their minds on issues about them. A recent roundtable topic involving a group of young MALES made for spirited discussion in its focus on the criminal justice system and how males are falling into this trap. The discussion included strategies on avoiding negative confrontations with law enforcement and thereby the pitfalls of jail and/or prison by merely changing their lifestyle and life outlook. A younger group of boys participated in a discussion on respect for elders, learning to be more responsible and setting goals to achieving success in life.
District
Arts Festival
The North Plainfield School District is coordinating the 15th Annual Arts Festival on Thursday, April 8, 2010 at NPHS, 6:30-9:00 p.m. The festival will include many creative student performances in music, drama, and dance, along with a museum-like display in the cafeteria of K-12 art work.
Fourth Grade Trip
North Plainfield's Fourth Graders from East End, Stony Brook and West End Visit the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, PA: On March 19, 2010, six buses of fourth grade students from Stony Brook, East End and West End Schools left North Plainfield and traveled to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for their field trip to the Franklin Institute Science Museum. The day was filled with a high level of activity as the groups attempted to see as much as possible on that very special day. The Franklin Institute Science Museum was selected because of the variety of science exhibits open to the students. Science is one of the areas the fourth graders face on the NJ ASK test. Featured throughout the museum are the works and discoveries of Benjamin Franklin, which the students and teachers were free to visit. The Exhibit Tour consisted of three floors of current exhibits such as the "Giant Heart Experience," the "Train Factory," "Space Command," the "Sports Challenge," the "Franklin Air Show," a visit to the Fels Planetarium for the annual space adventure, lunch and souvenir shopping at the Sci-Store. "This is such an educational and inspiring trip for the fourth graders," stated Cathy Kobylarz, principal of Stony Brook School.
Gifted & Talented
Inspiration Students are Inspired During Their Theatre Visit & Library Programs: The Gifted and Talented Inspiration students in grades 2, 3 & 4 had an exciting day on March 15, 2010, when they attended a multi-sensory production at The Theatre at Raritan Valley Community College. The Man Who Planted Trees presented students with Jean Giono’s engaging tale of a shepherd who decides to turn a barren wasteland into a lush and plentiful forest. Told by master puppeteers from the world renowned Puppet State Theatre, the parable captivated the audience with humor and history. Following the performance where students felt the rain, smelled the lavender and woodlands, and experienced birds flying overhead, everyone walked across campus to the college cafeteria to share lunch together. Students met new friends, reconnected with familiar ones and had an opportunity to exchange ideas about the show and compare interpretations. Upon leaving the theatre, the group was given three white pine tree seedlings to present to their elementary principals for planting and remembering the passion of one solitary shepherd. Students hope that these “trees of inspiration” will help everyone to remember that anyone can make a difference!
Next, the Inspiration students and their parents were invited to participate in an after school program sponsored by the Bridgewater Library on March 22, 2010 from 4:30 to 5:30. Explore and More: Patterns exposed students to the magnificent world of patterns surrounding us! The librarian read a delightful story to participants: Patterns in Peru: An Adventure in Patterning by Cindy Neuschwander, the tale of Matt and Bibi, a brother and sister who unravel a pattern to discover a lost city. Following the story, students engaged in a patterning craft. The activity allowed students of varying ages and skill levels to create a beautiful woven mat as a rectangle, square or circle. "The after-school programs sponsored by the Somerset County Library continue to provide an exciting opportunity for the Inspiration students and their parents to engage with their teacher in an alternate learning environment! Past programs attended by the G & T students include A Bridge Too Far and Art Exploration and the Architecture of Julia Morgan," stated Janet Darvin, Inspiration Teacher.
DISTRICT OPERATIONS & AUXILIARY SERVICES
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Safety Training
The safety topic for April is Fire Safety. Related safety training, including the proper use of fire extinguishers, will be conducted with all staff members before the end of the month.
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 Safety Committee has been busy these past few weeks reviewing a number of accident and incident reports. Additionally, they have begun to roll out the We-Tip Program at all of the schools. This new program provides a toll free hotline for students and staff to anonymously report suspicious activity or to provide additional information regarding a previous incident. This program is being provided at no cost to the district through our Joint Insurance Fund.
CURRENT MAINTENANCE PROJECTS
Listed below are several recently completed upgrades and/or maintenance tasks.
• Replacement of a second large section of return piping at Stony Brook School
• Rewiring of two classrooms at NPMS
• Sump Pump repairs at East End and Harrison Schools
• Installation of one additional video monitor in NPMS
It should also be noted that the maintenance and custodial staff have been working many long hours, and in some cases through the night, to pump out and monitor ground water levels in East End and Harrison School boiler rooms. (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 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 several of the recommendations may be implemented if finances permit.
Additional Restroom Renovations. The district is currently reviewing our remaining capital budget to determine if sufficient funds exist to complete additional restroom renovations at NPHS.
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 be completed by April 5, 2010.
CAPITAL PROJECTS, PROPOSED for 2010/2011
Due to budgetary constraints, the majority of our proposed capital improvement projects have been put on hold for the upcoming year. The final list of projects, if any, will depend upon state funding and the success of several Rod Grant Applications that were submitted to the Department of Education and the S.D.A. (School Development Authority). Additional information to follow as it becomes available.
Correspondence
Letters were received as follows from:
Senator Scutari, Assemblyman Green, Assemblywoman Stender re: 2010 Census
Somerset County Business Partnership re: training opportunities for elected officials.
Committee and Delegate Report
Board Staff – There was no meeting or report.
Communications – There was no meeting or report.
Curriculum – There was no meeting or report.
Finance & Facilities – There was no meeting or report.
Policy Meeting – There was no meeting or report.
Negotiations – There was no meeting or report.
NJSBA – Mrs. Szaroleta mentioned recent new legislation.
SCSBA – There was no meeting or report.
SCESC – Mrs. Mullen reported on budgetary issues of the Ed Services Commission.
Old Business
Dr. Birnbaum and Mr. Sternberg discussed and reviewed the Comparative Spending Guides for like-size districts.
New Business
Recommendations from Superintendent of Schools
Personnel
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education authorize the Superintendent of Schools to submit the 2010-2011 District Professional Development Plan.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2010-2011 school year, the Board of Education grant Taryn Buffolino, counselor at West End School, an unpaid leave of absence for child care purposes, effective September 1, 2010 through January 31, 2011.
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 substitute paraprofessional Karen Pisani as an instructional paraprofessional working with a classified student at West End School for 2.50 hours/day at the rate of $19.80 per hour, effective March 22, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2010-2011 school year, the Board of Education approve the following fall student teacher placements:
Student Teacher Class School Cooperating Teacher(s)
Rutgers Graduate School of Education
Leanne Borbely Elementary Inclusion SB Kim Garguile/Rachel Nadler
Rachel Hopkins Grade 3 SB Megan Hendrickson
Ridhima Bajaj Grade 3 SB Michele Motichka
Kean University
Alyssa Robak Elementary EE Ginamarie Stripto
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following teachers to teach after-school professional development courses at the rate of $30 per hour to be funded with NCLB FY’10 and/or local funds, to be paid at the conclusion of each course:
Marcella Eldekki Conversational Spanish I 10 hrs
Marcella Eldekki Conversational Spanish II 10 hrs
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education accept the resignation of Carlos Comayagua, custodian, effective April 1, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education accept the resignation of Mildres Raquel Hartmann, paraprofessional at NPMS, effective March 30, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve up to a total of four hours each for training purposes, for the following paraprofessionals working with a classified student:
Julvia Figueroa Lorena Santos
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education appoint the following teachers to work on curriculum projects or school-based planning activities at the school/department as indicated at the rate of $47.83 per hour, to be paid at the conclusion of the project, to be funded with ARRA, Title I Part A:
Mathematics Science
Michele Motichka $ 957 Maria Annette Bicksler $957
Megan Hendrickson $1913 Sarah O’Donnell $957
Suzanne Dahlinger $ 957
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 January and March 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2010-2011 school year, the Board of Education grant Rheanna Andersen, elementary teacher at West End School, an unpaid leave of absence for child care purposes effective September 1, 2010 through January 31, 2011.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education extend the unpaid leave of absence granted to Madelaine Colas from March 1, 2010 through March 26, 2010 to March 1, 2010 through May 31, 2010.
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 West End School paraprofessionals from December 2, 2009 through April 9, 2009 to December 2, 2009 through June 4, 2010:
Rosario Herscovici from 3.75 hrs/day to 6.75 hrs/day
Ceil Griffiths from 4.50 hrs/day to 6.75 hrs/day
Karen Wilson from 4.50 hrs/day to 6.75 hrs/day
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 November 17, 2009 through March 19, 2010 to November 17, 2009 through June 4, 2010:
Debra Dempsey from 4.50 hrs/day to 7.50 hrs/day
Catherine Sapila from 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 staff members to teach in the extended day program in Algebra I at the adult high school at the rate of $29 per hour:
Patricia Lukacs 18 hours
Teresa Thompson 18 hours
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the transfer of Elaine Viola, paraprofessional working with a classified student, from West End School to East End School, effective April 5, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve an increase in hours for Agustina Rodrigues, paraprofessional in the AM Preschool class at East End School, from 4.00 hours per day to 4.25 hours per day, at the rate of $19.80 per hour, effective February 1, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve a decrease in hours for Judy Veglatte, instructional/kindergarten paraprofessional working with a classified student at Stony Brook School, from 4.25 hours per day to 3.75 hours per day, effective April 8, 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-34-09-10 to be provided by district staff and/or Educere, Inc. for not more than five hours per week effective March 22, 2010 through March 29, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve home instruction for classified student HI-35-09-10 to be provided by Educere, Inc. for not more than ten hours per week, effective approximately April 8, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the continued attendance of classified student FFFFFF-09-10 at Somerset Academy at the rate of $38,790, to be prorated effective March 22, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve classified student ABC-01-09-10 receive in-home behavior consulting service to be provided by Applied Behavior Consultant. LLC, May Braeburn, at the cost of $120/hour for Direct Services (services delivered in home) and $60/hour for Indirect Services (report writing/family meetings).
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve classified student NEU-07-09-10 receive a neurological evaluation to be provided by Dr. Kavita Sinha at the cost of $325.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve classified student PSY-10-09-10 receive a psychiatric evaluation to be provided by Dr. Richard Kleinmann at the cost of $850.
Moved: Seconded:
Finance, Purchasing, Facilities and Agreements
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2010-2011 school year, the Board of Education authorize the Superintendent of Schools to submit annual Statements of Assurance of Comprehensive Equity Plan implementation.
Thomas Allen Drew Elliott Smith
David Branan Nancy Szaroleta
Sandra Dodd Linda Bond-Nelson
Kathleen Mullen
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve payments from the Cafeteria Account and the Adult School Account in accordance with the attached list dated April 7, 2010.
Thomas Allen Drew Elliott Smith
David Branan Nancy Szaroleta
Sandra Dodd Linda Bond-Nelson
Kathleen Mullen
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve a Master Special Education Tuition Contract with Middlesex Regional Educational Services Commission for the period of July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2015.
Thomas Allen Drew Elliott Smith
David Branan Nancy Szaroleta
Sandra Dodd Linda Bond-Nelson
Kathleen Mullen
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that WHEREAS, the North Plainfield Board of Education has been invited by the Somerset County Freeholders Open Space Advisory Committee to submit an application for an Open Space Grant in the amount of $1,000,000.00.
WHEREAS, the Board has determined that the Lower Krausche Field and surrounding running track is in need of repair and replacement and fits the parameters contained within the grant application; and
WHEREAS, the Board has determined that the requirements for acceptance of the funds are consistent with the needs of the District, and therefore;
BE IT RESOLVED, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board hereby authorizes the submission of an Open Space Grant Application to the Somerset County Freeholders Open Space Advisory Committee seeking a grant in the amount of $1,000,000.00 for the purpose of replacement/renovation of the Lower Krausche Field.
Thomas Allen Drew Elliott Smith
David Branan Nancy Szaroleta
Sandra Dodd Linda Bond-Nelson
Kathleen Mullen
Items moved from future Agenda – There were none.
New items requested to be placed on the Agenda – There were none.
Current Events in Education
There were none.
Comments from the Public
Barbara Ahles commented on comparing our District to others on the comparative spending guide.
Future Agenda Items
Transportation Study
NPHS Graduation
Adjournment
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to hold an executive session on April 21, 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. Allen 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 be federal or state law at 8:45 pm.
Mr. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to adjourn at 9:31 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
APPROVED: Donald Sternberg
