Minutes:  September 19, 2007

The minutes of the regular meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education held on September 19, 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 - arrived 8:30 pm Kathleen Mullen David Branan Drew Elliott Smith – arrived 8:00 pm Sandra Dodd Linda Bond-Nelson Edwin Estevez A quorum was established Also present were Marilyn Birnbaum, Superintendent of Schools; Donald Sternberg, Board Secretary/School Business Administrator; and Robert Rich, Assistant Superintendent. The meeting convened to public session at 7:30 pm with the same members present, as well as Anthony Sciarrillo, Board Attorney, and approximately 40 members of the staff and public Introduction of New Staff There was none. Minutes Approval Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mrs. Mullen and unanimously approved to accept the public session minutes of September 5, 2007. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mrs. Mullen and unanimously approved to accept the executive session minutes of September 5, 2007. Comments from the Public Upon request of the chair for topics from the public, H. Jackson asked about a pedestrian crossing sign being placed at Somerset School. S. Caprio questioned the cost of holding a girls’ traveling softball team practice at East End School. E. Ford asked about a link to core curriculum content standards to which Mr. Fisher, Technology Supervisor, provided an explanation of access. B. Smith expressed concern about the legality and process of salary recommendations on the agenda to which Mr. Sciarrillo, Board Attorney, replied with confirmation that prior notices had been complete and further confirmed the resolution process. Additional Board Matters Upon request of the chair for additional emergency matters to be discussed by the Board there were none. Presentation Dr. Birnbaum commended the NPHS Cheerleaders and their advisor, Mr. Pulcaro, for their participation in the 911 ceremonies. Mr. Pulcaro discussed their trip and awards. At this time, the Cheerleaders presented a flag to the Board President and Superintendent. Dr. Robert Rich, Assistant Superintendent, presented the Annual Testing Report a copy of which is attached. An update on the language arts and math initiatives was provided by Kathy Herrmann, Language Arts Supervisor and Patti Marseglia, Math/Science Supervisor a copy of which is attached. Superintendent’s Report District Operations SAFETY TRAINING The safety topic for September concerns equipment operation. Related safety training, including personal protective equipment, will be conducted with all staff members. Additionally, chemical safety awareness will be the secondary training topic. CUSTODIAL A new chemical dispensing system has now been installed throughout the district. The proper operation and maintenance of this new system will be discussed during the monthly training session. MAINTENANCE In addition to completing some of the remaining summer work requests and numerous new requests, the following tasks were completed by the Maintenance Department: • Installed air conditioning unit at West End School. • Reconfigured sump pump drain line at West End School. • Reinstalled football goals on the upper field at NPHS. • Completed circuit wiring for the new gym curtain at NPHS. COMPLETED PROJECTS • The new gymnasium curtain is fully operational at NPHS. • Installed new floor in the NPHS chorus room. OPEN/PENDING PROJECTS (BY SCHOOL) HARRISON BUILDING • Replaced one office air conditioning unit. HARRISON HOUSE • Completed remaining exterior trim. HIGH SCHOOL/MIDDLE SCHOOL • Restroom Renovations: NPMS Boys’ and Girls’ Rooms (1st floor). We anticipate substantial completion on or about September 15. • Completed landscaping project (Target Grant). • Installed surveillance system and associated wiring. ATHLETIC COMPLEX • Installed additional lighting fixtures in the field house. • Upgraded existing heating system in the field house. • Installed new sign on the back of the press box. • Reinstalled one sign on the west side of the field house. EAST END SCHOOL • Replaced four exterior light fixtures. WEST END SCHOOL • Restroom Renovations: Boys’ and Girls’ Rooms (1st Floor). We have reached substantial completion with only a few punch list items open. • Installed two new restroom entrance doors that were not part of the original project. • Installed two air conditioning units for the computer room. SOMERSET SCHOOL • There are currently no open projects at this location. STONY BROOK SCHOOL • There are currently no open projects at this location. Recommendations from Superintendent of Schools Personnel Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen 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 August 3, 2007; on the district’s public website on August 3, 2007; and was posted at Borough Hall, Watchung School, and the North Plainfield Public Library on August 3, 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 said public hearing was held on July 25, 2007; and NOW THEREFORE, be it known the North Plainfield Board of Education hereby approves the salary for the 2007-2008 school year per the attached list for the following: Marilyn Birnbaum, Ed.D, Superintendent of Schools; Robert H. Rich, Ed.D, Assistant Superintendent of Schools; and Donald Sternberg, Business Administrator/Board Secretary. Further, that the Board of Education approve the addendum to the employment contract of the Superintendent of Schools, dated August 10, 2007. Mr. Estevez moved, seconded by Mr. Branan and defeated by a vote of 1 to 3 with Mrs. Mullen, Mr. Smith, and Mrs. Bond-Nelson voting no and with Mr. Allen, Mr. Branan, and Mrs. Dodd abstaining to remove the Superintendent’s Salary from the previous recommendation. Mrs. Dodd moved, seconded by Mrs. Mullen and unanimously approved to separate the salary recommendation for the Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent and the School Business Administrator. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and defeated by a roll call vote of 3 to 1 with Mr. Smith voting no and Mr. Allen, Mr. Branan, and Mrs. Dodd abstaining 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, WHEREAS, Said notice was provided to the public via publication in the district’s official newspapers, Courier News and Star Ledger, on August 3, 2007; on the district’s public website on August 3, 2007; and was posted at Borough Hall, Watchung School, and the North Plainfield Public Library on August 3, 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, and said public hearing was held on July 25, 2007; and NOW THEREFORE, be it known the North Plainfield Board of Education hereby approves the salary for the 2007-2008 school year per the attached list for the following: Marilyn Birnbaum, Ed.D, Superintendent of Schools. Further, that the Board of Education approve the addendum to the employment contract of the Superintendent of Schools, dated August 10, 2007. Thomas Allen - Abstain Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Abstain Drew Elliott Smith - No Sandra Dodd- Abstain Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and defeated by a roll call vote of 3 to 1 with Mr. Smith voting no and Mr. Allen, Mr. Branan, and Mrs. Dodd abstaining 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 Assistant Superintendent of Schools, WHEREAS, Said notice was provided to the public via publication in the district’s official newspapers, Courier News and Star Ledger, on August 3, 2007; on the district’s public website on August 3, 2007; and was posted at Borough Hall, Watchung School, and the North Plainfield Public Library on August 3, 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 Assistant Superintendent of Schools said public hearing was held on July 25, 2007; and NOW THEREFORE, be it known the North Plainfield Board of Education hereby approves the salary for the 2007-2008 school year per the attached list for the following: Robert H. Rich, Ed.D, Assistant Superintendent of Schools. Thomas Allen - Abstain Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Abstain Drew Elliott Smith - No Sandra Dodd- Abstain Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a roll call vote of 6 to 1 with Mr. Smith voting no 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 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 August 3, 2007; on the district’s public website on August 3, 2007; and was posted at Borough Hall, Watchung School, and the North Plainfield Public Library on August 3, 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 Business Administrator and said public hearing was held on July 25, 2007; and NOW THEREFORE, be it known the North Plainfield Board of Education hereby approves the salary for the 2007-2008 school year per the attached list for the following: Donald Sternberg, Business Administrator/Board Secretary. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - No Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Board member and/or staff conference and travel expenses as per the attached list. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the following certificated staff be paid for graduate courses taken between January and September 2007: Name Course Hrs. Paid Reimb Cheryl Lechtanski Directed Readings 1 $ 341.00 $ 255.75 (Science/HS) Biological Perspectives 3 $1023.00 $ 767.25 Dorian Parreott, II Foundations of Curric. & Inst. 3 $1455.00 $1091.25 (Inst.Music/HS) Human Rel. & Org. Behavior 3 $1455.00 $1091.25 in Education F. Petrucci-Cardona Field Internship I 3 $1625.00 $1154.25 (ESL/EE) Leadership Dev. Inst. 3 $1625.00 $1154.25 Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education rescind the previously approved recommendations to appoint the following staff members as co-curricular advisors: John Tarnofsky Intramural Middle School Football. Amy Six Senior Class Advisor Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 as advisors/coaches as indicated after their names and that supplemental contracts be issued. It should be noted that teachers do not accrue tenure in this positions. Greg Kilmer Intramural Middle School Football $1900 (Mr. Kilmer will replace Mr. Tarnofsky) Sara Spaner World Language Club $ 800 Amy Six Band Front Advisor $4725 Ellen Brain Senior Class Advisor $2875 (Ms. Brain will replace Ms. Six) Jennifer Brand Freshman Class Advisor $1530 Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education terminate the employment of Shaista Qazi, paraprofessional, due to failure to report for work, effective September 5, 2007. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education terminate the employment of Bibi Baijnath, paraprofessional, due to failure to report for work, effective September 5, 2007. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 food service workers by Maschio’s Food Service: Mirna Juarea Richard Polischak Rebecca Mazariegos Judy Quarles Maria C. Guzman Rosa Rivera Iris Mata Martha Campuzano Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 to appoint Damian Pappa to teach a sixth class of World History/ESL at NPHS. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 salary of John Stavick, custodian/courier, to include a stipend of $675 to reflect his attainment of a boiler license, to be prorated effective August 17, 2007. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Hickey as a maintenance worker at the Maintenance/Step 3 annual salary rate of $40,718, effective September 29, 2007 through June 30, 2008. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 previously approved recommendation to employ Gerard Friedman as district athletic trainer on the BA Guide/Step 1 annual rate of $42,630 to employ Mr. Friedman as a professional rescuer “First Aider” at the rate of $140 per diem, effective August 20, 2007, pending receipt of his athletic trainer certification. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 employ the staff members indicated on the attached list to teach in extended day mentoring programs at a rate of $30 per hour, to be funded with federal, state and local monies. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 date of hire for the following previously approved new staff members: New Staff Member Position/School From To CDR William James Dooley ROTC.NPHS 11/1/07 9/24/07 Kim Fasczewski Special Educ/WE 10/2/07 9/24/07 Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education appoint Melissa Oliver, substitute paraprofessional, from September 20, 2007 to October 15, 2007 for up to 36 hours at the paraprofessional rate of $18.12 per hour to assist in the Board Office with the centralization of the Free and Reduced Lunch Application eligibility process. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Kathleen Fry, art teacher at Somerset School, to teach a sixth class of art at the MA/Step 5 annual salary rate of $47,200 plus $7,867 for the sixth class, for a total of $55,067, and that an adjusted contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Leeanne Chiaramonte, drama teacher at NPHS, to teach a sixth class of drama at the BA/Step 4 annual salary rate of $42,930 plus $7,155 for the sixth class, for a total of $50,085, and that an adjusted contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Adrian Escriba, CAD instructor at NPHS, to teach a sixth class of CAD (computer assisted drawing) at the BA/Step 10 annual salary rate of $63,480 plus $10,580 for the sixth class, for a total of $74,060, and that an adjusted contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Pearl Albrecht, speech therapist, for reasons of retirement, effective January 1, 2008. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 appoint the following teachers to serve as computer facilitator(s) with an annual stipend of $1,000, to be funded with NCLB Title IIA FY’08 funds: Kerry Thomson NPMS/HS Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 employ the following individual(s) to serve as school webmasters to be funded partially with NCLB Title V FY’08 monies and the balance with local funds at the stipends indicated: Anthony Della Rosa NPMS $1200 Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Nancy Maldony, special education teacher at NPHS, from the BA Guide to the MA Guide at the Step 4 annual salary rate of $45,600, 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. Maldony to MA/Step 5 at the annual salary rate of $47,200 and that an adjusted contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 guide and salary of William Saccardi, teacher of English at NPMS, from the BA Guide to the Masters + 30 Guide at the Step 4 annual salary rate of $48,530, to reflect his attainment of a Master’s degree plus 30 credits, and that an adjusted contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Ascenza Montalbano as a temporary teacher of drama at NPHS at the special substitute rate of $140 per diem, pending receipt of certification, effective October 1, 2007 through December 19, 2007. (Ms. Montalbano will temporarily replace Leeane Chiaramonte.) Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Matthew Mergen as a teacher of French at NPHS, at the MA/Step 5 (6-8/8) annual salary rate of $47,200, effective September 24, 2007. (Mr. Mergen will replace Lori Castiglione.) Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 adjustments to the hours of district paraprofessionals as indicated after their names, effective September 24, 2007, and that adjusted contracts be issued: Name School From To Patricia Chwailkowski EE/PK 3.75 hrs 4.50 hrs/day Paola Flores EE/PK 3.50 hrs 3.75 hrs/day Kim Holzer HS/Bridge 3.00 hrs 3.75 hrs/day Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 adjustments to the positions of district paraprofessionals as indicated after their names, effective September 19, 2007: From TO Hang Kwan Yuen NPHS/Greeter EE/PK Student Gloria Cernuto EE/PK Student NPHS/Bridge Greeter Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Brenda Pickard, paraprofessional, for reasons of retirement, effective October 2, 2007. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the resignation of Naideileen Ramos, teacher of health and physical education at NPHS, effective September 20, 2007. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Meghan Drewes as a school psychologist at the MA+30/Step 4 (4-5/5) annual salary rate of $48,530, effective September 24, 2007. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 Amy Colon as a teacher of health and physical education at NPHS, BA/Step 1 annual salary rate of $42,630, effective September 24, 2007. (Ms. Colon will replace Naideileen Ramos.) Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Curriculum, Instruction, and Pupil Services Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education approve payment of tuition of $1,000 each for nine NPHS students to attend the Somerset County Vo-Tech Health and Medical Academy on a shared-time basis as follows: HMA-1-07-08 HMA-6-07-08 HMA-2-07-08 HMA-7-07-08 HMA-3-07-08 HMA-8-07-08 HMA-4-07-08 HMA-9-07-08 HMA-5-07-08 Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve tuition payment for educational services for classified student CCC-07-08 at KidsPeace in Orefield, Pennsylvania at the cost of $34,484, effective September 1, 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 Dynamic Therapeutic Services to provide mandated speech services at the cost of $107 per hour on an as-needed basis. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education authorize student GYM-01-07-08 to compete in State sanctioned NJSIAA gymnastics events representing the North Plainfield School District, for a total of 10 events. Further, the Board of Education approve costs associated with the requirements for participation, at a total cost not to exceed $5,000. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve home instruction for non-classified student HI-02-07-08, to be provided by district and/or Education Services Commission staff for not more than five hours per week, effective September 9, 2007. Finance, Purchasing, Facilities and Agreements Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve payments from the Cafeteria Account and the Adult School Account in Accordance with the attached list dated September 19, 2007. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 July 31, 2007. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that Whereas, the Department of Education requires New Jersey School Districts to submit three-year maintenance plans documenting “required” maintenance activities for each of its public school facilities, and Whereas, the required maintenance activities as listed in the attached document for the various school facilities of North Plainfield School District are consistent with these requirements, and Whereas, all past and planned activities are reasonable to keep school facilities open and safe for use or in their original condition and to keep their system warranties valid, Now therefore be it resolved, that the North Plainfield School District hereby authorizes the School Business Administrator to submit the attached Comprehensive Maintenance Plan for the North Plainfield School District in compliance with Department of Education requirements. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the Target Early Childhood Reading Grant in the amount of $1000 as submitted by Allison Longley, East End School Librarian. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - 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 enter into an agreement with ACCSES NJ CNA Services for the purpose of providing temporary contracted services as identified by state set-aside contracts, for fees in accordance with State Contract #TO4109, to provide supplemental security support services for a variety of security needs throughout the District, at a rate of $25 per hour, not to exceed the amount of $3,924.80. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the following special education transportation jointure with the Union County Educational Services Commission for the extended school year beginning July 1, 2007 through August 31, 2007. Contractor Route Destination Student Cost B&T Transport Coastal Lng Ctr, Morganville 1 $2095.60* K& S Transp. Deron School, Montclair 1 $2514.41 SIJZ Transport Childrens Ctr, Neptune 1 $6824.48* UCESC Deron, Union 6 $7486.20* UCESC Westlake, Westfield 1 $1342.50* *Includes Aide Total $20,263.19 Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the following application under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part B, for fiscal year 2008: IDEA – B Basic Application (ages 5-21) $776,243.00 IDEA – B Preschool (ages 3-5) $ 19,327.00 Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Committee Delegate Reports Mr. Branan discussed the Policy Committee Meeting of September 24, 2007 indicating policies had been reviewed and revised as suggested by the consultants of Kille & Petracco. A Curriculum Committee Meeting will be held on September 27, 2007 at 7:00 pm. Mr. Estevez, legislative representative, reviewed recent legislative changes. Mrs. Mullen, SCESC representative, discussed the recent SCESC meeting and the interim staff that has been appointed. Correspondence Letters were received as follows from: M/M Romeo regarding Certificater of Appropriateness Financial Report Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and nanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the list of bills and payrolls dated August 31, 2007 in the amount of $3,121,459.19. Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and nanimously 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 July 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 Drew Elliott Smith - Aye Sandra Dodd- Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Edwin Estevez - Aye Old Business Dr. Birnbaum reviewed the current status of preparations for the upcoming NJQSAC monitoring. New Business Mr. Sternberg reviewed and discussed the Board’s process and limitations regarding travel expenses related to the NJSBA Workshop to be held from October 23 to 26, 2007 in Atlantic City. Current Events in Education There were none. Comments from the Public H. Hooker expressed disappointment of the vote on salaries for the Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent and the Business Administrator who all do a wonderful job. M. Wolmac asked if homeroom parents can assist with computer usage. D. Salvemini thanked the Board for their support of his daughter’s gymnastics program. J. Parada expressed appreciation to parents and looks forward to focusing on other important issues. Future Agenda Items Service Milestone Awards – 10/3/07 at East End School Introduction of New Staff – 10/3/07 at East End School Adjournment Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to hold and executive session on at 7:00 pm on October 3, 2007 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. Respectfully submitted, APPROVED: Donald Sternberg