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The minutes of the regular meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education held on April 21, 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 – 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, as well as, Cassius Ross, Student Representative and approximately 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 April 7, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to accept the executive session minutes of April 7, 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 March 31, 2010 in the amount of $5,451,666.38.
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 cal 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 February 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, Barbara Habeeb congratulated the newly elected Board Members. Monica Wolmack asked how the 1.5% teacher give back of funds would impact the budget. Jean Liss asked if there would be any public input on spending the returned monies. Tom Kasper commented on waiting for the finalization of the State budget. Harry Hooker suggested contacting US Senators and Congressmen regarding educational funding issues.
Student Representative Report
Cassius Ross reported on various student activities some of which included the following:
A student/parent advisory meeting will take place this week to test cafeteria food. A Mentor Meeting will be held Thursday or Friday morning. The Business Club participated in a Fed Competition on April 15th. The HOPE Club received a $1000 grant. Winter Guard secured the fifth straight first place finish in a competition held on April 10th. The NPHS Student Council blood drive will be held on April 23rd. High School Clubs are joining together to help the family of a student struggling with doctor bills. The Junior Prom will be held on June 4th.
Superintendent’s Report
RECOGNITION/PUBLIC RELATIONS
Staff
Reginald Sainte-Rose, principal of Somerset School, was a panelist at the New Jersey Public Policy Research Institute’s (NJPPRI) first public forum in 2010 entitled "Courageous Conversations about Education,” on Monday, April 12, 2010 at 6:00 pm in Rahway, NJ. This provided an opportunity to present policies and programs that have been successful. The audience consisted of policy analysts, practitioners, parents, community leaders, and civic organizations. The purpose of the program was not to reexamine negative stereotypes of underperformance. The program examined “best practices.” The MALES Program was featured as one of the “best practices” programs. “This is a great opportunity for us to highlight some of the work that we have been doing for the last two years in North Plainfield,” commented Mr. Sainte-Rose. The following was noted on their website:
“The crisis of black and Latino males in America can best be described as America's ‘silent epidemic.’ This public policy forum will serve as an opportunity to dissect some of the social, educational, health, and other factors that impact the lives of black and Latino males. While we are in the midst of this silent epidemic, we also have pockets of excellence. There are many examples of black and Latino males who have achieved and ascended to extreme heights despite the challenges and obstacles that confronted them. And this forum will also highlight the programs that helped those young men succeed.”
“The keynote speaker for the evening is Dr. Pedro Noguera, professor in the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University. Also participating on the distinguished panel for the evening:
• Dr. William Librera - Exec. Director Rutgers Institute to Improve Student Achievement and former New Jersey State Commissioner of Education
• Marnie McKoy - CEO, Paterson Community Charter School
• Glen Fleming - Teacher, Hamilton West High School, Hamilton NJ
• Sharon Towler - Director for DASH Tutorial Services
Antoine Green - Principal, Thomas Jefferson Middle School, Teaneck NJ
Reginald Sainte-Rose - Principal, Somerset School, North Plainfield NJ”
Students
The NPHS Winter Guard brought a State Championship to North Plainfield High School by taking First Place in the M.A.I.N Competition at South Brunswick High School this past Saturday, April 17, 2010. Their stunning show also garnered a second award for setting a new record for a high score in their class with a 94.5. Guard advisor Shannon Shotwell reports that "it was an amazing day filled with cheering and crying" and "the amount of parental support we had at the show cheering the kids on was amazing..." Tom Mazur, supervisor of fine, practical and performing arts, commented, “After five straight first place finishes in Winter Guard competitions throughout the State, and after seeing the Guard perform at the District Arts Festival, I am not surprised. I am very proud of what advisors Ms. Shotwell and Heather Fencik have accomplished. The girls in the Guard have practiced with an eye on the prize and have consistently performed their stunning show with precision and grace. Congratulations to the NPHS Winter Guard for representing NPHS in such a glorious fashion.”
The Papermill Playhouse sponsors The Rising Star Awards for high school drama productions, which are like Broadway's Tony Awards and what the Oscars are for the movies. This year two North Plainfield High School drama students received nominations for a Rising Star Award: Katie Fellin, junior, for Outstanding Performance in a Featured Role (Miss Lynch) and Delanie Burgess, sophomore, for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble member (Cha Cha DeGregorio). The Drama Club's production of Grease also received two more nominations: Outstanding Hair and Make-up and Outstanding Costumes, both for Perla Zehetner, a parent volunteer. In reviewing the remarks, Mr. Mazur reports that the evaluators were very impressed by, and gave high scores to, the entire cast for their energy and enthusiasm throughout the show.
Stony Brook School children are again participating in Somerset Patriots Baseball Club "Reading All Stars Campaign.” The program offers children from kindergarten through eighth grade who read up to twelve books within a month's time to earn vouchers to attend a Somerset Patriot's Baseball game as their reading reward. The following Stony Brook students have received vouchers and will be attending a baseball game: kindergarten: Beth Ellis and Jaime Aguilar; First Grade: Isabella Carroll, Leslie Paredes, Ashley Ordonez, Kaitlyn Sanchez, Wilney Guenero, Henry Figueroa, Jasmin Solis and Aaron Joye; Second Grade: Kenneth Bradley, Lenise Phillips, Angel Calcas, and Willie Torres; Third Grade: Rolando Sanchez, Elias Gee, Chris Nice, Alex Dayton and Oluchi Nwankwo; and Fourth Grade: Rassha Ymiguano! “Congratulations to all readers and their families and extra special thanks to the Somerset Patriots!” remarked Cathy Kobylarz, principal.
To celebrate National Poetry Month, Marilyn LaMarca, West End School media specialist, sponsored a poetry contest. Thirty-three children participated. The first place winners will read their poems at the April W.E. Celebrate Assembly. Second, third, and fourth place winners will read their poems over the morning announcements. Prize bags with a certificates, prizes, bookmarks, and pencils were provided for each child.
First Grade Second Grade
1st place Elijah Roselle 1st place Emily Calderon
2nd place Abigail Smith
3rd place Stewart Del’Romero
Third Grade Fourth Grade
1st place Kennia Pilco 1st place Nabil Twyman
2nd place Sheyla Casco 2nd place Jasmine Lattimore
3rd place Maeve Walsh 3rd place Ayah Elsais
4th place Jordan Grundy
Schools
West End School
West End School’s Smile Train Show: West End School presented its 7th annual performance of their Smile Train Show on March 25th. Under the direction of Buzzy Durkin, kindergarten teacher and mentor of the schools’ Service Club, 300 West End students, parents, and faculty participated in a musical revue “Over the Rainbow.” The show was held in the North Plainfield High School auditorium to a sold-out audience. While all staff members participated in the planning and execution of the show, six staff members took on the roles of the Oz characters. Dorothy was played by special education teacher Wendy Szymanski; the scarecrow was played by general music teacher Jon Scott; Tin Man was fourth grade teacher Michelle Tafuri; Good Witch was played by kindergarten teacher Nancy Lubreski; the lion was played by Wendy Alvarez, physical education teacher; and the Wizard was played by Chris Sepesi, physical education teacher.
The Smile Train is a non-profit organization dedicated to the health issues of cleft lip and cleft palate in needy children. The Smile Train began its journey in China with one surgery on a little girl named Wang Li. Since that time it has grown into an organization that reaches out to children all over the world. For as little as $250.00, in as little as 45 minutes, a life can be changed forever. West End started the year at 126 smiles and has donated an additional 26 smiles so far this year. A representative from Smile Train reported that West End School has done the most, world-wide, for the Smile Train Organization, being responsible for 152 “smiles”! “West End is proud to be a Smile Train school bringing smiles and a new life to children around the world!” exclaimed Beth Sobel, principal.
Girls on the Run: West End School is in the planning stage for a new club for third and fourth grade girls. Girls on the Run is a popular program that is held around the country. The goal of the program is to build students’ self-esteem and confidence. Students will be empowered with tools that will enable them to avoid peer pressures and at risk behavior in the future. This program teaches third and fourth grade girls to develop self- respect and healthy lifestyles through running. Lessons presented will address students’ physical, emotional, and social development. The program combines the lessons with training for a 3.1 mile (5K) running event that will take place on June 7 at 6:30 pm, in Colonial Park. Training will take place on Mondays and Fridays at 7:30 a.m. through June 7, 2010.
Along with Marilyn Pinto, who is the student liaison coordinator, six other staff members will be serving as mentor coaches and instructors (Wendy Alvarez, Alison Clark, Lisa Cirillo, Dina Diaz, Angela Roman, Sarah Tanne). This group of dedicated classroom teachers and specialists will be doing this on a volunteer basis, which will enable West End to bring this wonderful opportunity to their students. Youth Services has offered $1,500 toward the implementation of the program.
Stony Brook School
Stony Brook School’s Students Rocked by the School House Rocks Program: On April 6, 2010, the award winning Theatre Troupe from Long Beach Island's Surflight Theatre visited Stony Brook School for an all school assembly sponsored by the Stony Brook PTA. Entitled "Schoolhouse Rock Too!" and fashioned after the Emmy Award winning Saturday cartoon series from the '70's, it featured singing and dancing puppets and live actors performing some of the Schoolhouse Rock's favorite tunes. The songs included Four Legged Zoo, The Body Machine, Fireworks and Conjunction Junction. Following the performance, the actors sat with the students to answer questions and talk about working in the theatre.
East End School
On April 7 and 8, 2010, East End School held its yearly Variety Show tryouts from 6 to 8 p.m. Students lined up to show off their talent for an act in this year’s show. Students auditioned different acts ranging from singing, dancing, gymnastics, and comedy. The East End School community is looking forward to the performance which will be held on the evening of June 11 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Sports Day was held April 14 at East End School. Students and staff wore an article of clothing which represented a favorite professional or amateur team. Various teams were represented by everyone, with Ms. Herrmann proudly wearing her Yankee jersey. “Students and staff found it quite interesting to see which teams were represented. It is always so much fun when the school comes together to show their team spirit, noted Kathy Herrmann, principal.
Once again, Ms. Herrmann read to several classes in the library. After reading The Sweetest Fig by Chris Van Allsburg, the students were amazed and surprised at the ending. Following the story, a discussion ensued which focused on writing. Ms. Herrmann shared a strategy that is used by third grade teacher, Leslie Hansen. "If you think it, you can say it. If you can say it, you can write it." The staff continues to encourage students to understand that writing is thinking on paper!
East End, West End, and Stony Brook Schools
Third graders across the district celebrated the district’s twelfth annual Grandparents’/Special Persons’ Day on April 16, 2010. A joint effort among the third grade teachers, counselors, PTA's, and elementary school principals, this year's event -- was similar to our previous successful programs and included activities, games, prizes, awards, music, and dance. For instance, at some of the schools, awards were given to the couples married the longest and traveled the farthest. Grandparents also had the opportunity to pose with their special child and take home a photo.
NPHS
Fifteen members of the NPHS Chorus entertained at the North Plainfield Senior Citizen Center on Tuesday morning, April 13, 2010. Accompanied by Amy Six, choral director, Tom Mazur, supervisor of the fine, practical and performing arts, the students had the opportunity to interact with most of the senior citizens afterwards when they were treated to beverages and cakes. “The students performed quite well and made a very good impression by their attire and adult demeanor. Many thanks to the central office for providing the transportation that made this opportunity possible.”
On Tuesday evening, April 6, 2010, instrumental music teacher Heather Fencik chaperoned twenty band students to Rutgers University for a concert that included the Princeton Brass Band, The Lakota West High School Symphonic Winds, and the Rutgers Symphony Band. The performance was free. Ms. Fencik proudly reports that the students’ behavior was praiseworthy. Remarks made after the concert included "I never heard music like this before”; "I want go home and practice right away"; and “When can we go see another concert like this again?" “Again, many thanks to the central office for providing the transportation that made this opportunity possible,” stated Mr. Mazur
District
The 15th Annual District Arts Festival, on April 8, 2010, exemplified what such events are meant to represent...a vibrant school community. North Plainfield students displayed creativity that reflected the high standards set forth by their teachers and advisors. “Due to the support of the North Plainfield Board of Education and Central Administration, the Arts continue to be an integral part of your child’s education. Every student from kindergarten through grade twelve has the opportunity to participate in a balanced, comprehensive and sequential program of studies taught by a qualified and talented staff,” stated Tom Mazur, supervisor of fine, practical and performing arts in the festival program.
DISTRICT OPERATIONS & AUXILIARY SERVICES
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 on April 20, 2010.
HEALTH & SAFETY
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
Our Safety Committee is preparing to hold our second District Safety Committee Meeting. Listed below are just a few of the topics that will be discussed during our April Meeting.
• Accident and Incident Review
• Future Trauma Awareness Training for selected staff members
• Upcoming Crisis Drills
• East End Traffic Concerns
• Implementation of the WeTip Program
The district has begun to roll out the WeTip Program at all of our schools. This program, provided at no cost to the district by our Joint Insurance Fund, provides an anonymous hot line to report suspicious or criminal activity. Please visit our website for additional information regarding the addition of this latest “tool” to our Safe Schools Toolbox.
CURRENT MAINTENANCE & GROUNDS PROJECTS
Listed below are just a few of our current Maintenance and Grounds assignments.
• Replacement of additional return piping at the Stony Brook School
• Preparation of the Operations Modular for removal
• Opening and grooming of all fields for Spring Sports
• Refurbishment of two sets of fields stands on Upper Krausche Field
• Installation of a new set of field stands on the Upper Krausche Field
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
HARRISON BUILDING
Specifications to execute A.D.A. Improvements for the Harrison Building have been completed and we are currently preparing to go out to bid. This project is being 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 and it will be removed once the project has been completed. In addition to the A.D.A. Improvements, we are awaiting a determination on a Rod Grant Application to construct four new classrooms to further upgrade this facility. If our application is approved, the total cost of this project will be funded through grant monies at no cost to the district.
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. The project is moving forward on schedule and we anticipate the start-up of this project towards the end of June. Substantial completion is expected prior to the start of the new school year.
DISTRICT WIDE
Somerset County Energy Audit Grant. The audit is now being utilized as a basis to apply for two additional energy grants to reduce our energy consumption. The first grant will provide upgrades to our gymnasium lighting systems and the installation of lighting sensors in all of our buildings. The second grant will provide rooftop solar energy panels on a number of our buildings.
Additional Restroom Renovations. The district is currently preparing to go out to bid for some additional restroom renovations at North Plainfield High School and West End School. The number of restrooms to be renovated is dependent upon the success of yet another Rod Grant submitted on our behalf.
Open Space Grant. The additional netting along Route 22 has now been completed and only a few minor punch list items remain open for this project.
CAPITAL PROJECTS (PROPOSED for 2010/2011)
Due to budgetary constraints, all of our proposed Capital Improvement Projects, other than those detailed above, have been cut from our proposed budget
Correspondence
Letters were received as follows from:
Plainfield High School student.
Committee and Delegate Report
Board Staff – There was no report.
Communications – There was no report.
Curriculum – There was no report.
Finance & Facilities – Mr. Branan requested a meeting on May 6, 2010 at 7:00 pm.
Policy Meeting – There was no report.
Negotiations – There was no report.
NJSBA – There were no issues.
SCSBA – A meeting is scheduled for May 18, 2010.
SCESC – There was no meeting.
Old Business
Mr. Sternberg gave an overview of the status of solicitations for proposals for a transportation cost analysis study.
Mr. Ostroff discussed the options for High School graduation and the utilization of Upper Krausche Field.
New Business
Recommendations from Superintendent of Schools
Personnel
1. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that
WHEREAS Marilyn Mastroianni, secretary in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on July 1, 2010, and
WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately thirty-four 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. Mastroianni its thanks for the service she has given and best wishes for her future; and be it further
RESOLVED that this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the public meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education on April 21, 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. Mastroianni.
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
WHEREAS Patricia Psillos, secretary in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on July 1, 2010, and
WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately thirty-three 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. Psillos its thanks for the service she has given and best wishes for her future; and be it further
RESOLVED that this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the public meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education on April 21, 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. Psillos.
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
WHEREAS Joanne Santonastaso, confidential secretary in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on July 1, 2010, and
WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately thirty-two 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. Santonastaso its thanks for the service she has given and best wishes for her future; and be it further
RESOLVED that this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the public meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education on April 21, 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. Santonastaso.
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
WHEREAS Margaret M. Dinsmore, teacher in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on July 1, 2010, and
WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately twenty 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. Dinsmore its thanks for the service she has given and best wishes for her future; and be it further
RESOLVED that this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the public meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education on April 21, 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. Dinsmore.
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
WHEREAS Peter S. Austin, teacher in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that he wishes to retire on July 1, 2010, and
WHEREAS he has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately twenty years with dedication to the highest standards of education, now therefore, be it
RESOLVED that the Board of Education of North Plainfield extend to Mr. Austin its thanks for the service he has given and best wishes for his future; and be it further
RESOLVED that this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the public meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education on April 21, 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 Mr. Austin.
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
WHEREAS Ruth G. Siegel, teacher in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on July 1, 2010, and
WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately seventeen 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. Siegel its thanks for the service she has given and best wishes for her future; and be it further
RESOLVED that this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the public meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education on April 21, 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. Siegel.
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 the Board of Education accept with regret the resignation of Carol Irvine, elementary teacher at West End School, for the purpose of retirement, effective July 1, 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 that the Board of Education accept with regret the resignation of Sandra C. Importico, secretary at NPHS, for the purpose of retirement, effective July 1, 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 that the Board of Education accept with regret the resignation of Linda MacVicar, special education teacher at NPHS, for the purpose of retirement, effective July 1, 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 that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education employ the following teachers to work on school-based planning activities at the school/department indicated, at the rate of $47.83 per hour, to be paid at the conclusion of the project:
NPMS
Heather Fencik $813
Roger Graubard $813
Emily Thompson $813
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 for the 2010-2011 school year, the Board of Education grant Roseann Caruso, elementary computer teacher in the district, an unpaid leave of absence under the Federal Family Leave Act, effective September 1, 2010 through October 19, 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 that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Donald Schreck, substitute paraprofessional, as a paraprofessional working at the Harrison Bridge Program for 3 hours per day, five days per week at the rate of $19.80 per hour, effective April 22, 2010. (Mr. Schreck will replace Mildres Hartmann.)
Further, that the Board of Education approve up to a total of three hours for training purposes.
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 for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Luis Rincon as a teacher of mathematics in the adult high school at the rate of $29 per hour, effective April 13, 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 that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of John Viola as a substitute custodian, at the hourly rate of $17.07, effective April 26, 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 that the Board of Education suspend employee #S1-09-10 for one day without pay.
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 for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the transfer of Evelia Avendano Vergara, paraprofessional working with a classified student, from West End School to East End School, effective April 19, 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 that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education appoint the following teacher(s) to work on curriculum projects or school-based planning activities at the rate of $47.83 per hour, to be paid at the conclusions of the project to be funded with ARRA, Title I Part A funds:
Mary Castro Mathematics $957
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
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-36-09-10 effective April 15, 2010 through April 22, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve classified student OT/PT-06-09-10 receive an occupational therapy evaluation to include a sensory profile and VMI, to be provided by Trinitas at the cost of $78 per hour.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve classified student PSY-11-09-10 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 for the 2009 – 2010 school year, the Board of Education approve classified student GGGGGG-09-10 continue to attend Somerset Academy pending results of newly recommended evaluations, at the cost of $38,790, to be prorated effective April 6, 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 for up to ten hours per week to be provided by district staff, effective April 21, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve home instruction for non-classified student HI-37-09-10 for up to five hours per week to be provided by Educere, Inc., effective April 21, 2010.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve classified student NEU-08-09-10 undergo a neuropsychological evaluation to be provided by Dr. Barbara Couvadelli (JFK Medical Center), at the cost of $2,464.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the use of Trinitas Children’s Therapy Services for occupational therapy/physical therapy and/or OT/PT evaluations, at the cost of $78 per hour.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that be it resolved, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, the Board of Education hereby suspends student EX-2 through the end of the 2009-2010 school year.
Finance, Purchasing 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 April 21, 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 that the Board of Education approve line item transfers in accordance with the attached list dated February 28, 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 that the Board of Education accept a $1000 grant from the Somerset County Division of Waste Management awarded to the NPHS Hope Club, Sarah O’Donnell, advisor, for replanting the gardens.
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
WHEREAS, the North Plainfield Board of Education lacks the necessary facilities for the provision of a suitable program for the 2010-2011 school year for certain classified students as provided for in the New Jersey Administrative Code Title 6 and Title 18A of the New Jersey Statutes, and;
WHEREAS, the Union County Educational Services Commission has established suitable classes which provide an educational program for students classified as such and has maintained the necessary facilities to engage in such an educational program, herein contained, it is agreed by the parties hereto that:
The Union County Educational Services Commission shall provide a suitable educational program in accordance with procedure and regulations established by the New Jersey Commissioner of Education and the New Jersey State Board of Education, for those classified students who shall be referred to them by the North Plainfield Board of Education;
The North Plainfield Board of Education as consideration for such an educational program shall pay a tuition of:
Westlake School: Without therapy $43,254
With therapy 51,707
Autistic (2:1) 55,491
Crossroads School: 62,192
Lamberts Mill Academy 46,280
Lamberts Mill Academy at New Pointe -Educational Component 46,280
Personal Aides – All Schools 33,500
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 the Board of Education enter into an agreement with the Somerset County Educational Services Commission to administer the district’s Nonpublic School Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act funds; pursuant to the requirements of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act and Grant application, on behalf of the Board. The services shall be limited to those permitted under the grant application and pertinent regulations.
The terms of this Agreement shall be in effect from the date of adoption by the Board until June 30, 2011.
The Board agrees to pay the Commission the full amount of the Nonpublic School IDEIA proportionate share grant funding in support of the Nonpublic School Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act. The following payment schedule is hereby agreed to: 100% of State Aid including the 5% surcharge by no later than October 30 of each fiscal year, or by the date that the Nonpublic School Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act aid is received. No other funding is due the Commission in order to operate this program.
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
WHEREAS, 18A:58-37-1 et seq., as amended by Chapter 121, Laws of 1984, requires that the state and local community purchase and loan textbooks upon individual request to all students enrolled in grades kindergarten through twelve in nonpublic schools located within the local school district; and
WHEREAS, no Board of Education is required to expend funds for the purchase and loan of textbooks in excess of the amounts provided in state aid; and
WHEREAS, the Somerset County Educational Services Commission (SCESC) has agreed to administer the purchasing and processing of nonpublic school textbooks for local public school districts for the purpose of greater cost effectiveness through joint purchasing and centralized administration;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the North Plainfield Board of Education enters into an agreement with the SCESC, whereby the SCESC will administer a nonpublic textbook program for those eligible students attending nonpublic schools located within the county for the 2010-2011 school year, in accordance with 18A: 58-37-1 et seq.,
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the North Plainfield Board of Education agrees to pay the total amount allocated by the State of New Jersey Nonpublic School Textbook Program to the SCESC on or before July 31, 2010. Any unexpended funds will be refunded to the local school district.
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 the Board of Education gratefully accept the donation of a Bechstein Grand Piano (pending the inspection of Vienna Pianos). The piano, including delivery costs, is being donated to the North Plainfield School District by Ms. Anne Marie Kenney of Long Valley, NJ.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Items moved from future Agenda – There were none.
New items requested to be placed on the Agenda
New Business
Nancy Szaroleta asked about the scheduling of staff to supervise events.
There will be a special meeting of the Board on April 26, 2010
Discussion of the 2010-2011 calendar resulted in a question from Nancy Szaroleta regarding the number of days scheduled for 4-hour sessions.
Upon reading of the revised Policy 5131, Conduct/Discipline the following recommendation was made:
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to adopt revised policy 5131, Conduct/Discipline.
Current Events in Education
There were none.
Comments from the Public
Gerard Caprio asked about the “Race to the Top” Grant. He also asked about the elementary physical education program. Monica Wolmack commented on the success of the East End School ScienceFair.
Future Agenda Items
Meeting of May 19 moved to May 18, 2010
Winter Guard – May 18, 2010 – Recognition of achievement.
Adjournment
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to hold an executive session on April 26, 2010 at 7:16 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 9:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
APPROVED: Donald Sternberg
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