Mee {Font Name} ting: July 25, 2007

The minutes of the regular meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education held on July 25, 2007 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                    Kathleen Mullen David Branan                 Drew Elliott Smith – absent, notified Sandra Dodd                    Linda Bond-Nelson Edwin Estevez – absent, notified A quorum was established Also present were Marilyn Birnbaum, Superintendent of Schools; Donald Sternberg, Board Secretary/School Business Administrator; Robert Rich, Assistant Superintendent; and Mr. Tony Sciarrillo, Board Attorney. The meeting convened to public session at 7:30 p.m. with the same members present, and approximately 4 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 June 20, 2007. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to accept the executive session minutes of June 20, 2007. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that WHEREAS, the State of New Jersey has enacted P.L. 2007, c. 53, an Act concerning School District accountability; and WHEREAS, the North Plainfield Board provided public notice 30 days prior to the renegotiation, extension, amendment, or alteration of an employment contract with the Superintendent of Schools, Assistant Superintendent of Schools and Business Administrator; and WHEREAS, Said notice was provided to the public via publication in the district’s official newspapers, Courier News and Star Ledger, on June 18, 2007 on the district’s public website on June 18, 2007; and was posted at Borough Hall, Watchung School, and the North Plainfield Public Library on June 18, 2007. WHEREAS, the Board provided notice of a public hearing 10 days prior to the renegotiation, extension, amendment, or alteration of an employment contract with the Superintendent of Schools, Assistant Superintendent of Schools and Business Administrator; and Now therefore be it RESOLVED, That the North Plainfield Board of Education hereby opens this public meeting for comment with respect to the employment contracts of Marilyn E. Birnbaum, Ed. D., Superintendent of Schools; Robert H. Rich, Ed. D., Assistant Superintendent of Schools and Donald Sternberg, Business Administrator. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Tony Sciarrillo, Board Attorney, asked the public for any comments.  Mr. Hooker commented on the need for a speedy resolution of contracts. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to adjourn to executive session at 7:50 p.m.  The meeting re-convened to public session at 8:40 p.m. with the same members present. Comments from the Public Upon request of the chair for topics from the public, there were none. Additional Board Matters Upon request of the chair for additional emergency matters to be discussed by the Board there were none. Committee Delegate Reports Mr. Branan reviewed topics discussed at the recent Finance and Facilities Committee meeting including an overview of cameras to be installed at the High School. Dr. Rich provided a review of topics discussed at the recent Curriculum Committee Meeting. Superintendent’s Report Recognition We received the following e-mail from Judy and John Finnegan: We would like to share with you some of the recent honors and activities of our daughter, Amanda Finnegan, NPHS Class of 2004. Amanda has attained the Dean’s list for the fourth consecutive semester at Cabrini College and was elected the president Pi Delta Epsilon, Cabrini's chapter of The Society for Collegiate Journalists.  This past May she completed her junior year and her term as editor in chief of The Loquitur, their weekly newspaper, which, under her leadership, earned second place in The Society for Collegiate Journalists’ national competition for overall excellence in newspapers. This summer Amanda is in Washington D.C. attending the Institute on Political Journalism at Georgetown University and is interning for The Washington Post, Newsweek Interactive. We are very proud of her accomplishments and thought that the Board of Education would be pleased with how well she represents the Borough of North Plainfield. We received the following e-mail from Valerie Wright:  The intent of this email is to make you aware of the level of excellence that I experienced in the North Plainfield school district.  I would like to address the registration process first, for it is where everything starts.   In my 23 years as a mother, I have never experienced such an organized and professional registration process as exemplified by Carol Vallone (Villani) and her staff. They always greet you with a smile, are prepared and willing to answer any questions, and make sure the registration process is seamless by alerting parents of all the requirements they need to make the process run smoothly. This example of order, professionalism and genuine concern is demonstrated at West End elementary as well.   My family and I experienced great difficulty this year due to my health. Nonetheless, Mrs. Sobel and her staff (specifically Jonathan Scott, Terry Tunkel, Taryn Buffolino, Barbara Walker and Carol Irvine) did everything they could to support my children and to help make their learning experience both enjoyable and rewarding. They learned so much and I give all the credit to this staff of professionals who strive daily for excellence. I was clearly unable to participate as I normally would and I could not believe the level of support I received.  I am eternally grateful to them!   My family is forever changed by their contributions and believe that they are a model school from which to learn!   District Operations SAFETY TRAINING The safety topic for the month of July is Bloodborne Pathogens.  Related safety training, including Personal Protective Equipment, will be conducted with all staff members before the end of July. MAINTENANCE             In addition to numerous summer work requests, the following tasks are currently being completed by the Maintenance Department. •    HVAC units, district-wide, are being serviced including filter changes. •    All steam and hot water boilers have been opened and thoroughly cleaned. CUSTODIAL            In addition to routine summer cleaning, the following tasks are being completed by the Custodial Department. •    Classroom and office moves, district-wide. •    Extensive cleaning of all classroom unit ventilators and filter changes. HIGH SCHOOL/MIDDLE SCHOOL •    The restroom renovation project is progressing on schedule with an anticipated completion prior to the opening of school in September. •    The second floor drop ceiling installation, including lighting improvements, is in progress and on schedule.  •    The high school gymnasium floor repairs have been completed. The floor refinishing and graphics are scheduled for completion the last week of July. •    New carpeting was installed in the computer room for safety reasons. •    A new video surveillance system has been approved and will be scheduled for installation. KRAUSCHE FIELD •    The inside of the Field House has been completely repainted.                                           EAST END SCHOOL •    Several areas, including classrooms, have now been painted. •    New carpet was installed in the main office for safety reasons. WEST END SCHOOL •    The restroom renovation project is progressing on schedule with an anticipated completion prior to the opening of school in September. •    The gymnasium floor is being refinished and will be completed shortly. HARRISON HOUSE •    The roof replacement and trim work are scheduled for start-up. These improvements will be completed before the end of the summer. •    The rear entrance steps will also be repaired this summer. HARRISON BUILDING •    Quotes were received, reviewed and awarded accordingly for the replacement of the main boiler fire box. •    Several interior office moves are currently scheduled for the end of July. SOMERSET SCHOOL •    The playground paving and stone work is scheduled to begin July 18th. •    The sink hole, recently developed in the loading zone, will be excavated to determine a cause. Repairs will be made based on these findings. STONY BROOK •    The replacement of the front entrance steps is in progress. •    The gymnasium floor has been refinished. •    New carpeting has been installed in the main office and faculty room for safety reasons. Recommendations from Superintendent of Schools Personnel Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that WHEREAS Alice C. Drewes, secretary in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on September 1, 2007, and WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately twenty-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. Drewes its thanks for the service she has given and best wishes for her future; and be if further RESOLVED that this resolution be spread upon the minutes of the public meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education on July 25, 2007, 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. Drewes. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education authorize the Superintendent of Schools to apply to the County Superintendent of Schools for approval to employ paraprofessionals in the North Plainfield School District. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the salaries of the exempt employees indicated on the attached list, effective  July 1, 2007. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to table the preceding motion to executive session. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the Board member and/or staff conference and travel expenses as per the attached list. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the summer of 2007, the Board of Education approve the following counselors to work for an additional six days; five days before the beginning school in September 2007 and one day after the last day for teachers on June 24, 2008, at their per diem rates indicated after their names:         Joelle Bruno        $228.15    Sally Reagan            $407.20         Ann Caruso        $407.20    Diane Signorelli        $222.00         Susan Mehl        $407.20    Beverly Washington        $320.63 Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the certificated staff indicated on the attached list be paid for graduate courses taken between January and May 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the resignation of Maria Hall, teacher of Spanish at NPHS, effective July 1, 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - 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 Daniel Lynch, teacher of Spanish at NPHS, for reasons of retirement, effective January 1, 2008. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - 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 Zigarelli, special education teacher at Somerset School, for reasons of retirement, effective July 1, 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - 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 Gossett, librarian at NPMS/HS, for reasons of retirement, effective November 1, 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following staff members to the co-curricular positions and stipends indicated after their names, and that supplemental contracts be issued:     Ted Amo**        Assistant Football Coach        7,300     Ted Amo        Equipment Manager            $5,725     Travis Smith        Assistant Football Coach        $7,300     Travis Smith        Assistant Girls’ Track Coach    $5,182     Travis Smith        Assist at Athletic Events        $25.01/hour     Ted Amo        Summer Football        16 hours @ $31.58/hr     ** approved district substitute teacher Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following teachers to work on curriculum projects or school-based planning activities at the school/department indicated, at the rate of $43.88 per hour, to be paid at the conclusion of the project:     Business                    Guidance     Kathleen Elia        $395            Ann Caruso        $351     Gaylee Benedict    $395            Diane Signorelli    $351     West End School                Taryn Buffolino    $351     Deborah Gray        $274            April Kelly        $351 Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the following teachers as teacher leaders at the rate of $550 each:         Janet Darvin                Nancy Lisa Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following staff members as testing facilitators at the stipend of $500 each:     Virginia Feola        NPHS        Patricia Harris    West End     Sara Spaner            NPMS        Patricia Klatt        Stony Brook     Jacqueline Spaventa        East End Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007 fall semester, the Board of Education approve the following NPHS (7-12) English as a second language student teacher placements from Rutgers University.  The students will work with the entire ESL department.         Vergell Bastien         John Romano         Doryce Wheeler Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the following teachers to teach two extra health classes at East End School as indicated after their names:     John Malazdra    6 Yr/Step 12/$80,690 + 40% of 6th class/$5,379 + $750 Long = $86,819     Kathy Senna    6 Yr/Step 12/$80,690 + 40% of 6th class/$5,379 + $750 Long = $86,819 Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Timothy Hinger as the ROTC Instructor at NPHS at the BA/Step 11 (18) annual salary rate of $68,735, effective July 1, 2007, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (1st SGT Hinger will replace Chief Cesora.)     Further, that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve Mr. Hinger to work an additional 20 days for six hours per day at the rate of $43.88 per hour. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Lauren Labott as a physical education teacher at Stony Brook School at the BA/Step 4 (4-5/5) annual salary rate of $42,930, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (Ms. Labott will replace Andrea Stout.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Colleen Strickland as a teacher of science at Somerset School at the BA/Step 1 annual salary rate of $42,630, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (Ms. Strickland will replace Barbara Goellner.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2006-2007 school year, the Board of Education adjust the guide and salary of Marilyn Pinto, elementary teacher at West End School from the BA guide to MA/Step 3 at $45,095, to be prorated effective June 1, 2007, to reflect her attainment of a Master’s degree.     Further, that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education adjust the guide and salary of Ms. Pinto to MA/Step 4 at $45,730, and that an adjusted contract be issued. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education adjust the contract for and the salary of Rufus Adams, maintenance person, from $41,318 to $41,993 which includes the stipend of $675 to reflect his attainment of a boiler license, effective July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008, and that an adjusted contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the following non-certificated staff  be paid for graduate courses taken between January and May 2007:     Name            Course                    Hrs.    Paid        Reimb     Melissa DeCos-Palma    Counseling Children & Adolescent     3    $1537.17        $1152.88     (Student Liaison/Dist)    Community Resources             3    $1537.17        $1152.87 Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the resignation of Molly Irvine, special education teacher at NPMS, effective July 1, 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the summer of 2007, the Board of Education approve the following paraprofessionals be employed as bus aides for a classified student attending Children’s Specialized Hospital at the rate of $18.12 per hour as indicated after their names:         Agustina Rodrigues        1.75 hours per day         Nina Pleasant        2.00 hours per day Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals as substitute teachers in the district in the grades/classes indicated after their names:         Daren Bronikowski        K – 12         Barbara Goellner        K – 12 Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education rescind the previously approved recommendation appointing Suzanne Fordham to the school based planning program for 6.5 hours at West End School. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Jonathan Flint as a teacher of mathematics at NPHS at the MA+30/Step 9 (15-16/15) annual salary rate of $64,125, and that a contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of John DeLaurentis as a teacher of English at NPMS/HS, at the MA/Step 6 (9-10/9) annual salary rate of $48,900, and that a contract to employ be issued.  Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Guiseppina Fiorella Bologna as a teacher of Italian at NPHS, at the MA/Step 6 (9-10/9) annual salary rate of $48,900, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (Ms. Bologna will replace Adam DiAngelo.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Christopher Eshleman as a health and physical education teacher at NPMS at the BA/Step 1 annual salary rate of $42,630, and that a contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Liliana Chouequet as a teacher of Spanish at NPMS/HS at the BA/Step 7 annual salary rate of $49,715, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (Ms. Chouequet will replace Maria Hall.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Sarah Cohen as a special education teacher at East End School at the BA/Step 2 annual salary rate of $42,830, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (Ms. Cohen will replace Abbe Lustgarten.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the summer of 2007, the Board of Education accept the resignation of Marilyn Gonzalez as a paraprofessional for a classified student in the summer preschool program, effective July 21, 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the summer of 2007, the Board of Education approve the employment of Agustina Rodrigues as a paraprofessional for a classified student in the summer preschool program at the rate of $18.12 per hour for 2.5 hours per day, effective July 23 through August 6, 2007. (Ms. Rodrigues will replace Ms. Gonzalez.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the resignation of Stephanie Conde Tedeschi, elementary teacher at West End School, effective July 17, 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the individuals indicated on the attached list to teach in the Fall 2007 Community Adult School Program at the salaries indicated after their names.  It is understood that the classes require supporting enrollment or cancellation will occur. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals to teach in the adult high school in the subject areas and at the hourly rate indicated after their names, effective August 1, 2007.         Name            Subject Area            Rate        Est Hrs     Martha Barrett        Health Instructor        $27.00         60                     Substitute Teacher     Nicole DiTrani            English Teacher        $27.00        250                     Substitute     Fern Wilson            Science Teacher        $27.00        170                     Substitute Teacher     Roberta Alves            Substitute Teacher        $27.00             as needed     Ana Posada Washington    Substitute Coordinator        $43.88        100 Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Agata Gawlik as a custodian, at the Custodian/Step 1 annual salary rate of $32,932, effective August 28, 2007 through June 30, 2008, and that a contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve Keith Getz as a volunteer football coach. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Dennis Fimbel as a district computer technician at the annual salary rate of $35,000, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (Mr. Fimbel will replace Darrell Taylor.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the transfer of Benjamin Keiser, student assistance counselor, from NPHS to Somerset School as the student assistance counselor (K-6) and Somerset School social worker, effective September 1, 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the transfer of Ann Caruso, guidance counselor at NPHS to guidance counselor/student assistance counselor (grades 7-12), effective September 1, 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the resignation of Joyce Weiss, paraprofessional, effective July 25, 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Gladys Pazmino as a secretary in the high school at the Secretary II/Step 13 annual salary rate of $37,280, effective August 27, 2007, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (Ms. Pazmino will replace Alice Drewes.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Thomas Mazur as supervisor of fine, practical and performing arts at the annual salary rate of $96,092, effective August 13, 2007, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (Mr. Mazur will replace Robert Pispecky.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Anabela Oliveira as a special education teacher at NPMS, at the MA/Step 9 (15-16/16) annual salary rate of $61,325, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (Ms. Oliveira will replace Molly Irvine.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Melissa Garatino as a secretary in the adult high school/adult community school at the Secretary II/Step 6 annual salary rate of $29,880, effective August 20, 2007, and that a contract to employ be issued.  (Ms. Garatino will replace Maryann Thorpey.) Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by roll call vote of 4 to 0 with Mr. Branan abstaining that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the transfer of the following special education teachers as indicated after their names:                     Teacher          From                 To                   Miriam Andrews        West End        East End         Christine Moscatello        East End        West End         Dianne Dwyer        East End        Somerset         Rachel Padian        Somerset        East End         Laurie Pfundheller        West End        Somerset         Kathleen Borden        Somerset        NPMS         Emily Thompson        NPMS            Somerset Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Abstain             Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the resignation of Lawrence Cohen, teacher of computer science/social studies at NPMS, effective September 25, 2007, or sooner should an appropriate replacement be employed. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - 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 Jerry Barnett, custodian, for the purpose of retirement, effective June 30, 2007. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Curriculum, Instruction, and Pupil Services Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve the use of the textbooks and/or trade books in the district as per the attached list. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the contracts with the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired to provide Level I services to the following classified students:         CB-01-07-08            CB-04-07-08         CB-02-07-08            CB-05-07-08         CB-03-07-08            Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve the purchase of an FM audio system for classified student ST-06-06-07 at the cost of $1,884.09 as follows:         EduLinks S Multi Channel Receiver with the Campus Multi Channel         Transmitter to be purchased from Phonak (includes shipping) Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve the use and implementation of the Creative Curriculum for Pre-School. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve tuition payment for the following classified students to attend extended school year programs for the summer of 2007:     Student ID    School/Program            Duration    Tuition     QQ-07-08    Summit Speech/New Providence    7/5/07-8/15/07    $7,500.00     RR-07-08    Somerset Academy            7/2-8/15/07    $4,700.00     SS-07-08    Children’s Specialized Hospital    7/2-8/17/07    $8,644.50 Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve tuition payment for the classified students indicated on the attached list to attend out-of-district programs as indicated.  Transportation is required. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve home instruction for classified student HI-01-07-08 to be provided by Children’s Specialized Hospital staff at the rate of $49 per hour for up to ten hours per week, effective September 10, 2007. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the use of Roman Perez, LDTC, and Gladys Portacio, school psychologist, to perform bilingual child study team evaluations on an as-needed basis at the rate of $400 each per evaluation. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the use of occupational and physical therapy services to be provided by the agencies indicated for the classified students identified on the attached list at the rates indicated. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the use of Invo Health Care Associates to provide speech therapy services at the rate of $95 per hour for up to 550 hours, effective July 1, 2007. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2006-2007 school year, the Board of Education reimburse Youth Consultation Service for home instruction services they provided to classified student HI-16-06-07 at the rate of $50 per hour for 44 hours in May 2007, for a total cost of $2200. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2006-2007 school year, the Board of Education reimburse Dr. Kristin Sharma for a neuropsychological evaluation for classified student NPE-01-06-07 at the cost of $1815. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve funds necessary to allow Natural Settings in Therapeutic Management (NSTM0 to provide Applied Behavior Analysis strategies to classified student APA-01-07-08 at the cost of $120 per hour for 32 hours (4 hours per week for eight weeks during the summer of 2007) for a total cost of $3,840. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that     WHEREAS,  residency hearings were convened on July 23, 24, 25, 2007, upon the request of the Superintendent with respect to student(s) noted on the attached list; and     WHEREAS, notices of the residency hearing were served upon the students’ parents/guardians; and     WHEREAS, the students’ parents/guardians were extended the opportunity to appear at the hearing and to offer evidence and testimony as to the residency of the students; and     WHEREAS, the Board of Education has considered the testimony and evidence offered by the students’ parents/guardians as well as the Superintendent and her designees, and/or the parents/guardians failed to appear at the hearing;     NOW, THEREFORE:  Be in Resolved that the Board of Education finds:     1.    That the students indicated on the attached list are not domiciled in North Plainfield for the purpose of being entitled to free public education in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:38-1, and the other statutes covering such issues; and     2.    That the parents/guardians of these students immediately withdraw them from the North Plainfield Schools; and     3.    That the parents/guardians of these students be advised that should they appeal the decision of the Board of Education with respect to this issue, they must  do so within twenty-one (21) days of the date of this Resolution; and     4.    During the appeal, if any, the students shall remain in the North Plainfield Public Schools.  However, if the Commissioner of Education determines that they are not domiciled in North Plainfield, tuition may be assessed for the period of time that the students were determined not to be domiciled in North Plainfield. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Finance, Purchasing, Facilities and Agreements Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2006-2007 school year, the Board of Education authorize the Superintendent of Schools to accept the following funding in conjunction with the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Local Education Agency (LEA) Consolidated Application FY’07:         Title I Part A Basic/Concentration        $337,546         Title I School Improvement            $    9,634         Title II Part A                $119,563         Title II Part D                $    1,495         Title III                    $  67,321         Title IV                    $  11,706         Title V                        $    7,953 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 July 25, 2007. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve line item transfers in accordance with the attached list dated May 31, 2007. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education adjust the previously approved recommendation to pay a retirement allowance to Marguerite M. Schweickert from $1,301.75 to $13,301.75. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education authorize payment of a retirement allowance to the following staff member who retired during the 2006-2007 school year based on accumulated sick and personal days:     Payment Date:  July 2007     Frank Yetnick            10/1/06        $  5,886.68 Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education authorize payment of accumulated vacation pay for the 2006-2007 school year to the following staff member: Name            Days             Amount Marianne DeRose    20            $3,521.60 Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve the following transportation jointure with Somerset County Educational Services for summer transportation services as indicated: Contractor    Route    Destination        Pupils      Cost/diem    Total Kensington    2052    Midland        7      273.00    $8,190.00 Vogel        2058    Piscataway Reg. Day    5      128.55     3,856.50 Dapper        3029    Lakeview        1      156.94     4,707.60* Dapper        4003    Bright Beginnings    3      275.91     8,277.30* Barker        6006    Child. Ctr Monmouth    2      102.28     3,068.40 Sijz        7063    Summit Speech    1      192.15     5,764.50* Kensington    7071    Ctr. Ed. Advancement    1      151.50     4,545.00 School Tyme    7077    Reg. Day Morris    1      229.95     6,898.50 SCESC        SC4-2    Somerset Sec. Acad.    3      216.00     6,480.00     Total                                        $51,787.80 *Aide required Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve and accept the Target Community Day of Caring Project Grant in the amount of $3000.00 as submitted by Edward Ostroff, Director of Operations, for the purpose of a landscaping project for the front of North Plainfield High School. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve for the 2007-2008 school year Maschio’s Food Service, Inc. as the vendor to operate and manage the food service for the district.  The management/administrative fee for the 2007-2008 school year shall be $21,500 per year payable at $2,150 per month prorated over a ten-month period at an increase of 3.5%.  Maschio’s guarantees a return to the Local Education Agency in the amount of $92,346.00.  In the event the actual bottom line of the operational report (total revenue from all sources less program costs, including the management fee) is below this amount, Maschio’s shall be responsible for any shortfall. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve the following change order to E. R. Teshkoyan & Company in the amount of $4,200.00 for the Middle/High School and West End Toilet Renovation Project as follows:     Original Contract    $338,332     Change Order          4,200     Current Contract    $342,532 Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year the Board of Education approve Annette Wells to provide accounting services at a rate of $30 per hour, not to exceed $500. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve the funds necessary to continue through the second year of a two-year maintenance contract with Computer Consulting Group for Project Special/Project IEP.  The cost of the contract is $3,770 for the period from July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen that the Board of Education approve the attached Recreation Agreement between the North Plainfield Board of Education and the Borough of North Plainfield, effective July 15, 2007 through June 30, 2008. Mr. Allen moved, seconded by Mr. Branan and unanimously approved to separate the preceding motion from the page.  A vote on the separated motion had the motion pass by a vote of 4 to 0 with Mr. Allen abstaining. Correspondence There was none. 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 in the amount of $3,791,675.22. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - 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 May 2007 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 mee the district’s financial obligation for the remainder of this fiscal year. Thomas Allen     - Aye                Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye                 Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye                Old Business The Board reviewed and discussed the following policies which remain unchanged: 6153 – Field Trips 6172 – Alternative Education Programs 6178 – Early Childhood Education/Pre-School Policies to be reviewed at the next meeting are: 1140 – Distribution of Materials by Pupils and Staff 3541.1-Transportation Services 4123 – Classroom Aides (Paraprofessionals) New Business Mr. Allen discussed correspondence received regarding tutoring services. Mrs. Bond-Nelson commented that the Alumni Association’s Walk of Fame brick  additions are approved for installation. Superintendent’s Objectives will be an agenda item for the meeting of September 5th. Current Events in Education Mrs. Mullen complimented Dr. Birnbaum on the contributions to the Community Newsletter. Comments from the Public There were none. Future Agenda Items Superintendent’s Objectives – 9/5/07 Board Goals Annual Testing Review of Co-Curricular and Coaching Activities Adjournment Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to hold an executive session on September 5, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. for confidential matters relating to students, personnel, negotiations and litigation. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to adjourn to executive session for confidential matters relating to students, personnel, negotiations and litigation at 10:50 p.m. The meeting re-convened to public session at 11:30 p.m. with the same members present. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to take from the table the motion concerning exempt staff salaries. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve the salaries of the exempt employees indicated on the attached list, effective  July 1, 2007. Mrs. Dodd moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to adjourn at 11:45 p.m.                 Respectfully submitted, APPROVED:            Donald Sternberg