The minutes of the regular meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education held on June 4, 2008 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
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, as well as, Nora Rivera, Student Representative and approximately 9 members of the staff and public
Introduction of New Staff
There was none.
Minutes Approval
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 1 with Mr. Smith voting no to accept the public session minutes of May 21, 2008.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 1 with Mr. Estevez abstaining to accept the executive session minutes of May 21, 2008.
Student Representative Report
Nora Rivera spoke on various student activities some of which include the following:
The Junior Prom took place on May 30th. The Senior Awards Assembly was held on June 3rd. The Drama Club organized the, “Theatre Showcase,” which took place on Monday, June 2nd. Elections for class officers from Grades 10-12 have begun. Cheerleader tryouts have begun.
Mrs. Mullen complimented Nora Rivera on the professionalism and excellence of the student performances from the previous evening.
Mrs. Bond-Nelson complimented the students on their tremendous achievements as evidenced by the Awards Assembly and stated that they were a remarkable group of students.
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.
Presentation
The High School Yearbook Advisor, Mrs. Rosen, and Editor, Donray Stuetly, presented the 2008 Yearbook to the Board of Education. Appreciation was expressed by all Board Members on a well done yearbook.
Mrs. Cathy Kobylarz, Stony Brook School Principal, reviewed and discussed the components of the District’s G&T Program.
Mr. Reginald Sainte-Rose, Somerset School Principal, discussed programs and developments at Somerset School including a review of his first year at the school..
Committee Delegate Reports
The following Committee meetings are scheduled:
Policy – June 9th at 5:00 pm
Finance & Facilities – June 9th at 5:30 pm
Curriculum – June 10th at 7:00 pm
Mrs. Dodd discussed the Somerset County School Boards Association’s Student Recognition Dinner in which North Plainfield had three student award winners. She offered her congratulations to all and indicated that it was a wonderful event.
In addition, Mrs. Dodd mentioned that Randall Arthur, an NPHS Senior, developed a device for Down syndrome children and won a scholarship.
Superintendent’s Report
Recognition
Amanda Finnegan, a 2004 NPHS graduate, received the 2008 Egan Award for Journalistic Excellence and was named one of the top ten collegiate journalists in the nation. The following press releases detail her accomplishments:
Radnor, Pa. (May 27, 2008) — North Plainfield resident and Cabrini College graduate Amanda Finnegan '08 has been named one of the top 100 collegiate journalists in the nation by UWIRE, an organization for college student media. More than 500 journalists at 132 colleges and universities were nominated for UWIRE's inaugural selection.
Finnegan, who earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and communication, currently serves as a staff writer for The Philadelphia Inquirer, assisting in print and online content. In 2007, she completed internships at the Inquirer and the Washington Post, and earned nine credits from the Institute on Political Journalism at Georgetown University.
As a junior, Finnegan served as editor-in-chief in 2006-07 of the Loquitur, Cabrini's award-winning, weekly student-run newspaper. Under her leadership, the Loquitur received the 2007 Associated Collegiate Press Pacemaker Award, the highest honor given to a college newspaper. She also helped the Loquitur earn second place for overall excellence in newspapers in the Society of Collegiate Journalists national competition.
Finnegan was president of Cabrini's chapter of the Society for Collegiate Journalists, a recipient of the Philadelphia Advertising Club Scholarship, and a member of the National Honor Society for Collegiate Mass Communications, the Cabrini College Honor Society, and the Catholic Relief Services Student Media Network. She also was named to the 2008 Who's Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities.
Founded in 1994, UWIRE is a community driven service devoted to the needs of student journalists, and is operated by CBS College Sports Network, a CBS Company. UWIRE identifies and promotes the brightest collegiate content creators and delivers their work to a larger audience through their syndication service, which distributes more than 2,500 news articles each week to a variety of national content partners, including CBS News, the New York Times, Billboard and U.S. News and World Report.
Toronto, Ontario, May 29, 2008 - The winners of the 2008 Egan Award for Journalistic Excellence competition were announced today at the Catholic Media Convention in Toronto, Ontario. This year's winners include Barbara Fraser, National Catholic Reporter; J.D. Long-García, The Catholic Sun; Marylynn G. Hewitt, SFO, The Michigan Catholic; Paul Jeffrey, Catholic News Service; Amanda Finnegan and Meghan Hurley, The Loquitur; and Chris Herlinger, National Catholic Reporter for photography. The award recognizes journalists who have written about humanitarian and social justice issues for Catholic publications in the United States.
All winners have been awarded a trophy and an all-expense paid trip to visit the Middle East to see CRS-supported programs that aid Iraqi refugees. The trip will provide the journalists with an opportunity to witness first-hand the work of CRS, to meet the people uprooted from their homes by violence in Iraq, and to write about the plight of Iraqi refugees "living in limbo."
The finalists for the Egan Award were judged by a distinguished panel of judges from the secular media, including Keith Jenkins, Multimedia Director for The Washington Post; Tamara Jones, The Washington Post; and Rachel Zoll, national religion reporter with The Associated Press.
Now in its 13th year, the award is named after Eileen Egan, CRS' first professional staff layperson, who devoted four decades of her life to assisting refugees and helping the poor in Europe, Asia and Latin America.
The following sixth graders were nominated to the National Young Leaders State Conference: Joseph Mastrobattista, Laura Paduganao, Yvonne Njoku, Brigiette Garcia, Hasani Eason, and Brett Lubreski.
Genevieve D’Amico, vice president and program chairperson of the North Plainfield Senior Citizens Club, sent the district a letter thanking the ROTC cadets for their presentation to the club on May 13, 2008. “The performance by the cadets: Amy Valez, Aurora Serrano, Emma-Jean Gambini, Cynthia Calderon, Christian Zapata, Gerardo Ramos, and Carlos Pazmino, under the direction of First Sgt. Tim Hinger, was most impressive and enjoyed and appreciated by everyone present. We look forward to inviting them back for a repeat performance.”
College Acceptances
Annielly Acosta Kean University
Tania Acosta Berkeley College
Noeman Ahmed Rutgers University
Cedric Amegnisse William Paterson University
Rutgers University
Seton Hall University
Mount St. Mary University
Jessica Argueta Berkeley College
Kean University
Randall Arthur St. John’s University
Seton Hall University
Rutgers University – Newark
Rutgers University –
New Brunswick
Angela Aviles University of Hartford
Rutgers University – Newark
Central Pennsylvania Univ.
Seton Hall University
St. Peter’s University
Rutgers University
Tyrrell Belfield Montclair State University
Monmouth University
Natalia Benson Rutgers University
St. John’s University
Christina Bulkilvish Fashion Institute of Technology
Cynthia Calderon Seton Hall University
College of St. Elizabeth
University of the Sciences –
Philadelphia
St. John’s University
Drew University
Albert Camacho William Paterson University
St. Peter’s College
Jasmine Campbell North Eastern University
Hofstra University
Georgetown University
Elsy Castillo St. John’s University
St. Peter’s University
College of St. Elizabeth
Seton Hall University
Eric Castillo Rutgers University
Drexel University
University of Rochester
Cornell University
University of Pennsylvania
Matt Clements Kutztown University
Rider University
Fairleigh-Dickinson University
Seton Hall University
Monmouth University
Yahad Cobb Wilkes University
Lorena Contreras Montclair University
Bloomfield College
Fairleigh-Dickinson University
Seton Hall University
William Paterson University
Rutgers University
St. John’s University
Guillermo Cubero DeVry University
Justin Curry Seton Hall University
West Virginia University
NJIT
Virginia Technical Institute
Michigan State University
Thomas DeFrancesco The College of New Jersey
University of Delaware
Tiffany Diggs Georgian Court University
Drew University - $47,180
Tifani Dyson Spelman College –
Honors Program
Hofstra University
Cynthia Ellis New Jersey City University
Hector Espinel Berkeley College
Stalin Fernandez Kean University
Eric Fisher Rutgers University
University of Southern Florida
Eugene Flood United States Naval Academy
Penn State University
Lafayette College
James Fredericks Post University
Rider University
Monmouth University
Jeremy Frusco Pace University
Rutgers University – School of
Arts & Sciences
The College of New Jersey –
School of Engineering –
$20,000/4 yrs.
Jasmine Hassan Raritan Valley Comm. College
Michael Jackson Johnson & Wales University
Central Pennsylvania College
St. John’s University
University of Hartford
Pace University - $28,000
Incentive Scholarship
Utica College - $12,000
Alumni Grant
Kunwar Kaur Rutgers University
Penn State University
Silver Laur Rutgers University
Kristen Leary Kutztown University
Rider University
Michael Lefanto Montclair State University
The College of New Jersey
Moravian College
Tracy Mamuric Pace University - $36,000
St. Peter’s Univ. - $44,000
Lindsay Miller Bridgewater College
Carlos Mora NJIT
Bloomfield College
Lori Nieves Sheperd University
Nicholas Nieves Academy of Art University -
San Francisco
Daniel Olivo Kean University
Claudia Pacheco Pace University-$28,000
Seton Hall University-$50,000
Michael Palumbo Kean University
Daniel Parrott Penn State University
Delaware Valley College –
$42,000 scholarship
Britannie Peabody Penn State University
Gabriela Perez Bloomfield College
Ryan Petties William Paterson University
Robert Pittenger Rutgers University
James Powell Jacksonville University
College of Santa Fe
Rabail Rana Felician College St. John’s University
Diana Reinosa Rutgers University
Helenia Rivera Fairleigh-Dickinson University
Kutztown University
Ricardo Rojas Universal Technical Institute
Carolyn Romond Kutztown University
York College
Western New England College
Wilbryant Ruiz Rutgers University
Elisa Salvemini Moravian College - $11,000/yr.
Kean University
Raritan Valley Comm. College
Ramapo College
Allison Sarfati University of North Carolina –
Chapel Hill
Penn State University
Rutgers University
Clemson University
University of Delaware – Honors
$8,000/yr.
The College of New Jersey
University of Maryland –
$2,000/yr.
Bert Serrano Benedict College
Post University
Delmi Serrano William Paterson University
Rider University
Alexis Sims Kean University
Danielle Smagalla Monmouth University –
$48,000/4 yrs.
Magaly Solis NYIT - $5000/yr.
Achievement Award
Kean University
Artimus Sparrow University of Pittsburgh –
$40,000
North Carolina State University
Lavonde Spencer Temple University –
$2500 scholarship
Nadine Sylvester Rutgers University
Jacalyn Szaro Rutgers University
Drew University
Rutgers University
Natalie Szaroleta Johnson & Wales University - $3000
Albright College –
$80,000 Jacob Albright Schol.
$4,000 Albright National Honor
Society Scholarship
Drexel University - $12,500/yr.
University of Bridgeport
Berkeley College
Cristina Talucci Rutgers University –
$24,000/4 yrs.
Indiana University
Elise Thomas Point Park University
Mary Mount College
Yuri Urrutia Caldwell College – scholarship
Rowan University
Kean University
Dennis Valencia Penn State University
Fisher College
Liliana Ventura Lehigh University
Levi Wright Bloomfield College
John Wong Johnson & Wales University
Penn State University –
DuBois Campus
Temple University
Allison Zeller University of Massachusetts
Penn State University
Rutgers University
The Senior Awards Assembly was held on June 3, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Sponsored by the Guidance and Counseling Department, the program recognizes students for outstanding achievements in the areas of academics, athletics, the arts, and community service.
The following press release was released from the Red Cross:
On May 19, 2008, North Plainfield High School students and faculty participated in a blood drive hosted by the Tri-County Red Cross. From 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM, 77 people offered their blood for a student suffering from a disease that requires regular blood transfusions. 61 donors were successful.
‘The Tri-County Red Cross is honored to provide the means for local students and faculty to support this student during their time of need,’ said Nathan Rudy, CEO of the Tri-County Red Cross. ‘Our blood program is geared to making it easy to donate, whether it’s at school, work or the neighborhood….’
Though not the first blood drive on the campus, it was the first partnership between the Tri-County Red Cross and North Plainfield High School. Students and faculty were impressed with the Red Cross’ service, commitment and professionalism during this drive and expressed hope in having another blood drive with the Red Cross in the future….
DISTRICT OPERATIONS & AUXILIARY SERVICES
SAFETY TRAINING
The safety topic for June is Chemical Safety. Related safety training, including proper handling techniques and OSHA standards, will be conducted with all staff members on Wednesday, June 11, 2008. The aforementioned training has been scheduled to coincide with the start-up of summer cleaning.
OPEN and/or PENDING PROJECTS
HIGH SCHOOL/MIDDLE SCHOOL
• The installation of a drop ceiling in the gymnasium foyer: All necessary permit applications have been filed and the project will begin once the permits are received. Update. This project will be scheduled to begin immediately following the last day of school.
EAST END SCHOOL
• Structural repairs to the gymnasium: The engineering firm completed the specifications for the project and we will be going out to bid for this project early in June.
WATCHUNG BUILDING
• New entrance doors, exterior painting and other necessary repairs to the modular.
Recommendations from Superintendent of Schools
Personnel
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education acknowledge its appreciation for the efforts of volunteers throughout the school system who have served so faithfully and graciously during the past year.
It is further recommended that the Board extend its best wishes for a happy and healthy summer to the entire group of volunteers and that a notice of adoption of this resolution be posted in each school building.
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 in accordance with the adopted Schedule of Meetings Calendar for the 2008-2009 school year, when regular meetings of the Board of Education will not be scheduled during the month of August 2008, the Board authorize the Superintendent of Schools to offer employment to potential candidates during this period.
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 that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals as district residency/truant officers at the rate of $19 per hour:
Carl Gaebel Stewart Lester Anthony Pasquarello
Mrs. Dodd moved, seconded by Mr. Branan and unanimously approved to separate the preceding motion for a vote. A call for a vote on the separated motion resulted in the motion passing by a roll call vote of 6 to 0 with Mrs. Dodd abstaining.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Abstaining Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Edwin Estevez - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following staff member(s) as translator(s) in the district, at the rate of $26 per hour, to be partially funded with NCLB Title III monies:
Maria Farraye-Biggs Leah Glicksman
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 individuals indicated on the attached list to work during summer central registration and testing, August 20 – August 31, 2007, at the 2007-2008 rates indicated, to be adjusted pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement.
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 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following staff members as A-V coordinators at the schools and stipends indicated after their names:
John Malazdra 50% East End School $1247
Irene Talmo 50% East End School $1247
Wendy Alvarez West End School $2494
Jennie Dzurilla Stony Brook School $1872
James Straley Somerset School $2494
Noraima Villanueva Middle/High School $3117
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 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the following listed paraprofessionals to work during the summer of 2008, for the hours at the 2007-2008 hourly rate of $18.12, to be adjusted pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement:
Name/School Position Hours Hourly Rate
East End School
Zoraida Parra Office 15 $18.12
Catherine Sapila Office 10 $18.12
Deborah Dempsey Office 55 $18.12
West End School
Ceil Griffiths Office 36 $18.12
Karen Wilson Office 22 $18.12
Rosario Herscovici Office 22 $18.12
Stony Brook School
Karen Scapiliati Office 35 $18.12
Somerset School
Pamela Lefanto Library 21 $18.12
Regina Ringold Library 21 $18.12
Judith Ziccardi Office 42 $18.12
NPMS/HS
Linda Schultz Bookroom 40 $18.12
Linda Fagan Student Accounts 15 $18.12
Wanda Wysocki MS Office 132 $18.12
Thanya Mendez HS Office 168 $18.12
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 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following staff members as district substitute callers at the stipend of $1500:
Karen Scapiliati Elementary Substitute Caller
Virginia Feola MS/HS Substitute Caller
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 summer of 2008, Timothy Hinger, ROTC instructor, be approved to work an additional 20 days for six hours per day, at the 2007-2008 hourly rate of $43.88, to be adjusted pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement.
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 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 for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education adjust the previously approved recommendation granting Nicole Rossi, elementary teacher at East End School, an unpaid leave of absence as follows:
From:
5/24/08 – 6/18/08 Unpaid Leave of Absence/Disability Period
6/19/08 – 6/30/08 Unpaid Leave of Absence/Federal Family Leave Act
To:
5/29/08 – 6/17/08 Unpaid Leave of Absence/Disability Period
6/18/08 – 6/30/08 Unpaid Leave of Absence/Federal Family Leave Act
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 Frank A. Berardi as a probationary school van driver, effective June 23, 2008 through June 30, 2008, at the hourly rate of $26.71.
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 2008 and May 2008.
Name Course Hrs. Paid Reimb.
Cheryl Lechtanski Bioethics 3 $1097.00 $822.75
(Science/HS) Bio Research 2 $ 731.32 $548.49
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 recommendation approving Alice Firgau as a pianist for the adult high school graduation.
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 Siu Yue Fung as pianist for the 2008 adult school graduation at the stipend of $350.
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 approved by roll call vote of 4 to 3 with Mr. Allen, Mr. Branan and Mrs. Dodd abstaining that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the paraprofessionals indicated on the attached list at the 2007-2008 hourly rates indicated, to be adjusted pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement, and that Letters of Intent be issued.
Further, that the individuals indicated on the attached list be appointed as district substitute paraprofessionals for the 2008-2009 school year.
Thomas Allen - Abstain Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Abstain Drew Elliott Smith - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Abstain Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Edwin Estevez - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the summer of 2008, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals to do maintenance work in the district schools for eight hours per day, five days per week for up to nine weeks, at the hourly rate of $11.25, effective June 30, 2008:
Roger T. Blake James Thorpey
Joseph Dezuzio Antonio Lella
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 summer of 2008, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals to do custodial work in the district schools for eight hours per day, five days per week for up to nine weeks, at the hourly rate of $8.00, effective June 30, 2008:
Michael Lefanto Alex Dempsey
Rafael Burgos Marcus Perry
Substitute Custodial Helper
Andrew Pleasant
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 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the following teachers to work the breakfast program at Somerset School at the rate of $15 per day:
Timothy Mentone James Straley
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 summer 2008, the Board of Education approve the certificated staff members indicated on the attached list to work in the NCLB Summer Academy for a total of 25 days with 5 days at the 2007-2008 hourly rate of $46.09, and 20 days at the 2008-2009 hourly rate to be determined upon settlement of the negotiated Agreement, to be funded through the No Child Left Behind Program Grant (NCLB) FY’08, and local summer school funds FY’09.
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 following certificated staff members be employed to work in the NCLB Summer Academy Early Childhood Transition Program for a total of 30 days with 5 days at the 2007-2008 hourly rate of $46.09 and 25 days at the 2008-2009 hourly rate to be determined pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement, funded through Early Childhood Program Aid and local funds.
Early Childhood Program Aid (ECPA) (20-211-100-101-14-00)
Michelle Onofri 3 hours/day
Sarah Cohen 3 hours/day
General Fund District (13-422-100-101-00-00)
Kim Faszczewski 3 hours/day
Sharon Egan 3 hours/day
Nancy Schreck 2.5 hours/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 the following paraprofessionals be employed to work in the NCLB Summer Academy Early Childhood Transition Program for a total of 30 days with 5 days at the 2007-2008 hourly rate of $18.12 and 25 days at the 2008-2009 hourly rate to be determined pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement, funded through Early Childhood Program Aid and local funds:
Early Childhood Program Aid (ECPA) (20-211-200-105-14-00)
Up To:
Pilar Zelaya 3.5 hours/day
Elizabeth Silvas 3.5 hours/day
Patricia Chwailkowski 3.5 hours/day
Delia Perez 3.5 hours/day
Maritza Barreto 2.5 hours/day
General Fund District (13-422-100-101-00-00)
Up To:
Agustina Rodrigues 3.5 hours/day
Nina Pleasant 3.5 hours/day
Maureen Wyzkowski 2.0 hours/day
Yajairo Soto 2.0 hours/day
Substitutes – As Needed
Monica Juarbe Senaida Hall
Melissa Oliver Toni Liccone
Irene Kakas Pamela Lefanto
Marilyn Gonzalez Nancy Lasluisa
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 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the transfer of Marilyn Pinto, elementary teacher at West End School, to student liaison coordinator at West End School, at the 2007-2008, MA/Step 4 annual salary rate of $45,730, to be adjusted pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement.
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 Elizabeth McIntosh, teacher of English at Somerset School, effective July 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 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Dina Vital as a teacher of English at Somerset School at the BA/Step 1, 2007-2008 annual salary rate of $42,630, to be adjusted pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement. (Ms. Vital will replace Elizabeth McIntosh.)
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 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the transfer of Sammantha Petrullo, teacher of Spanish at NPHS, to student liaison coordinator at NPHS, at the 2007-2008, MA/Step 5 annual salary rate of $47,200, to be adjusted pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement.
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 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the transfer of Roseann Caruso, elementary teacher at West End School, to elementary computer teacher for grades 3 and 4 at East End, West End and Stony Brook Schools, at the 2007-2008, MA/Step 4 annual salary rate of $45,730, to be adjusted pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement.
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 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Neal Dalton as a school psychologist in the district at the 2007-2008, MA+30/Step 6 (9-10/10) annual salary rate of $51,700, to be adjusted pending settlement of the negotiated Agreement. (Mr. Dalton will replace James Porter.)
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 grant Melissa Garatino, secretary in the adult high school, an unpaid leave of absence under the Federal Family Leave Act, effective June 6, 2008 through July 3, 2008.
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 the Board of Education approve home instruction for the following non-classified students to be provided by district and/or Educational Services Commission staff for no more than five hours per week, at the effective dates indicated:
HI-46-07-08 June 2, 2008
HI-47-07-08 June 2, 2008
HI-48-07-08 May 29, 2008
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve home instruction for identified student HI-49-07-08, to be provided by district and/or Educational Services Commission staff for no more than ten hours per week pending evaluation by the child study team, effective June 4, 2008.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve home instruction for classified student HI-50-07-08, to be provided by district and/or Educational Services Commission staff for no more than ten hours per week, effective April 28, 2008 through June 20, 2008.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve payment for the following evaluations provided to classified student TTTT-07-08 as indicated:
Psychiatric Evaluation/Dr. Elisa Dulay, MD $700
Occupational Therapy Evaluation/Pediatric Advantage $300
Physical Therapy Evaluation/Pediatric Advantage $300
Child Study Team Evaluations/Union County Ed Svs.
Social History, Educational Evaluation, Psychological
@ $290/eval $870
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve payment for an Assistive Technology Evaluation provided by Cerebral Palsy of New Jersey for classified student UUUUU-07-08 at the cost of $1100.
Further, that the Board of Education approve home instruction be provided for this student during the summer of 2008 for up to ten hours per week effective July 7, 2008 through August 15, 2008, to be provided by Union County Educational Services staff.
Finance, Purchasing, Facilities and Agreements
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that in accordance with the adopted Schedule of Meetings Calendar for the 2008-2009 school year, when regular meetings of the Board of Education are not scheduled during the month of August 2008, the Board of Education authorize the School Business Administrator/Board Secretary to pay bills and payrolls during this period after a list of bills has been presented to the Board of Education and the Superintendent of Schools for their review.
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 effective September 1, 2008, the Board of Education adjust the hourly rate paid to substitute teachers as follows:
01 to 45 days $80 per day
45 to 90 days $85 per day (retroactive to day one)
91 days + $90 per day (retroactive to day one)
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 payments from the Cafeteria Account and the Adult School Account in accordance with the attached list dated June 4, 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 the Board of Education approve for the 2008-2009 school year, the bid for Food Service Management to the following :
Bids were received by May 29, 2008 as follows:
Vendor Proposed Mang. Fee Guaranteed Profit
Sodexho School Services Declined
Nu-Way Concessionaires Declined
Maschio’s Food Service $21,500.00 $92,000.00
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education award the 2008-2009 Food Service Bid to Maschio’s Food Service, Inc. located at 191 Route 206 North, Flanders, NJ 07836, based on specifications prepared by the School Business Administrator/Board Secretary and Maschio’s proposal dated May 29, 2008 with the following provisions:
Management Fee – The management/administrative fee for the 2008-2009 school year shall be $21,500.00 per year payable at $2,150.00 per month prorated over a ten month period.
Guarantee – Maschio’s Food Services, Inc. guarantees that the profit on the operational financial report for the 2008-2009 school year will be a profit of $92,000.00. If the profit is below this amount, Maschio’s Food Services, Inc. will subsidize the profit for any amount less than the guarantee. This guarantee is contingent on the following conditions:
A. The proposal pricing structure is approved.
B. Proposed staffing schedule is approved with no alterations.
C. USDA commodity offerings will be equal to or greater than those of school year 2007-2008.
D. The School District will have no less than 170 days for lunch service.
E. State and Federal reimbursement rates will be no less than those of the 2007- 2008 school year.
F. Enrollment and average daily attendance will be no less than those of the 2007-2008 school year.
G. There will be no cessation of labor within the school district that would adversely affect sales.
H. Equipment repairs and purchases will be paid by the school district.
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 2008-2009 school year, the North Plainfield Board of Education approve a contract with D'Onofrio & Sons Landscaping, for district-wide lawn services in the amount of $43,776.00.
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 2008-2009 school year, the North Plainfield Board of Education approve a contract with Kohler Waste Services, for district-wide trash removal in the amount of $37,982.00.
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 resolution authorizing proposals to solicit the services of an energy services consultant:
Whereas, N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-4.3(a) requires each district board of education to adopt a formal resolution authorizing competitive contracting whenever goods or services enumerated at N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-4.1 are to be contracted; and
Whereas, the North Plainfield Board of Education (the Board) wishes to contract services performed by an energy services company, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-4.1(c); and
Therefore, be it resolved, that the Board hereby authorize the initiation of the competitive contracting process pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-4.3(a).
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 for the 2008-2009 school year, the bid for repair and reconditioning of athletic equipment to Schutt Reconditioning based on the specifications prepared by Educational Data Services, Inc. and based on their renewal proposal dated March 31, 2008 in the estimated amount of $37,255.00.
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 North Plainfield Board of Education in conjunction with the Borough of North Plainfield desires to improve the overall safety and security of our students and staff in the school environment, and;
Whereas, the North Plainfield Board of Education and Borough of North Plainfield desire to improve the level of communication, cooperation, and effectiveness between the Community Police Department and the School System, and;
Whereas, the US Department of Justice is providing an opportunity to apply for funding for the Borough and the School District to make improvements in the level of security in and around the schools through the “Community Oriented Policing Services” known as the COPS Grant, and;
Whereas, the total cost being submitted for consideration is $117,348.00. The grant is funding 50% or $58,674.00. The local share is $58,674.00, which has been committed in the 2008-2009 school budget;
Therefore, be it resolved, that the Board hereby approves and authorizes the Business Administrator and the Chief of Police to submit all necessary applications for the successful funding of this program.
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 grant award from the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame, Inc. “Play it Smart” Grant, in the amount of $13,000.00 for the development and coordination of a comprehensive support program for North Plainfield Foot Ball Players, that includes academic, career, and personal counseling.
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 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the bid for the Door Replacement Project to the following based on the specifications prepared by Donald Sternberg, School Business Administrator/Board Secretary, and based on their low bid proposal as follows:
Base Alt #1 Total
MacKenzie Group 48,595 6,999 $55,594
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Drew Elliott Smith - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Edwin Estevez - Aye
Correspondence
Letters were received as follows from:
Mr. H. Awad
Old Business
Dr. Birnbaum suggested that the North Plainfield Teacher Recognition Program be held at the June 18th meeting of the Board from 6:30 to 8:00 pm with the public portion of the meeting beginning at 8:00 pm followed by executive session. It was further suggested that the meeting be moved to West End School.
New Business
There was none.
Current Events in Education
There were none.
Comments from the Public
There were none.
Future Agenda Items
Discussion and explanation of monthly financial statements – September
2008-09 Presentation Schedule – Dr. Birnbaum asked for suggested topics from Board Members for a new schedule to begin in September.
Adjournment
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to move the Board Meeting of June 18, 2008 to West End School at 8:00 pm with executive session to follow if necessary.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to adjourn at 9:40 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
APPROVED: Donald Sternberg
