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The minutes of the regular meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education held on April 22, 2009 at Watchung School, 33 Mountain Avenue, North Plainfield, NJ. Mrs. Bond-Nelson called the meeting to order and made the following announcement: In accordance with NJSA 10:4-10, required advance notice of this meeting was filed with the Borough Clerk; submitted to the COURIER NEWS, STAR LEDGER, AND Comcast; posted at Watchung School, Borough Hall and the North Plainfield Public Library. Following the Pledge of Allegiance.Mrs. Bond-Nelson requested the call of the roll:
Thomas Allen Drew Elliott Smith – absent, notified
David Branan Nancy Szaroleta
Sandra Dodd Linda Bond-Nelson
Kathleen Mullen
A quorum was established
Also present were Dr. Marilyn Birnbaum, Superintendent of Schools; Donald Sternberg, Board Secretary/School Business Administrator; and Dr. Robert Rich, Assistant Superintendentand approximately 6 members of the staff and public. Nora Rivera, Student Representative, was absent.
Introduction of New Staff
There was none.
Minutes Approval
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to accept the public session minutes of April 1, 2009.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to accept the executive session minutes of April 1, 2009.
Financial Report
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the list of bills and payrolls dated in the amount of $5,413,628.57.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the monthly financial reports of the School Business Administrator/Board Secretary and the Treasurer of School Funds, for the month of February 2009 and further recommends in compliance with NJAC 6:23-2.11(B), that the Board of Education certify that to the best of their knowledge no major account or fund has been over expended and that as of this report sufficient funds are available to meet the district’s financial obligation for the remainder of this fiscal year.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Comments from the Public
Upon request of the chair for topics from the public, there were none.
Student Representative Report
There was none.
Presentation
Tammy Scott, Teacher, and Maria Araneo, Special Education Supervisor, presented the program Fast For Word to the Board.
Superintendent’s Report
Recognition/Public Relations
Staff
Coach of the Year: The Star Ledger named Dave Hooker Somerset County Boys’ Basketball Coach of the Year. Everett Merrill wrote the following in his Star Ledger article on April 2, 2009: Dave Hooker “led Group 2 North Plainfield to the Raritan Division of the Skyland Conference for the first time, going 16-8 with impressive victories over Group 4 schools North Hunterdon (51-46), Montgomery (53-47) and Watchung Hills (60-52). North Plainfield was 7-15 last season. Except for a 75-47 county tournament loss to Hillsborough, North Plainfield was competitive each night. Of its eight losses, six were by two points, including 55-53 double-overtime setback to Shore in the first round of the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group 2 tournament. North Plainfield made its first appearance in the state tournament since 2004. Hooker's squad featured the balanced scoring of sophomore Lance Rivera (11.6 ppg), Jevoy Whyte (11.5), Hanif Holloway (11.4) and Sam Bautista (11.0). Tyson Chandler (6-6, 270) was the difference-maker in the pivot.”
AP Training: Ramon Rasaq, NPHS AP Calculus teacher, is expected to attend AP training at the Middlesex County College during August, 2009.
Students
Dr. Sarah O’Donnell, AP Biology teacher, has registered a team of four AP students in the Merck State Science Day competitions on May 19, 2009: Chris Nardi, Latricia Antoine, Rossana Bertini, and Hoajie Zheng. These students are also part of the Science League competitions, where unofficial results have placed them second in two of those competition days.
Amani Taylor, an eighth grade math student in Teresa Thompson’s class, has been accepted into the The Academy at Rutgers for Girls in Engineering and Technology (TARGET) summer program. This program is designed to increase awareness in middle and high school girls about the career opportunities available in engineering. The objectives of TARGET are to familiarize girls with different engineering disciplines and destroy negative stereotypes concerning their ability to do well in math and science. Program curricula consists of exciting projects and interesting labs, such as, Roller Coaster Construction Lab, Bridge Building Activity, Designing a Room Alarm, and many other hands-on activities. Workshops are facilitated by currently enrolled engineering students who serve as program mentors throughout the duration of the program. University faculty members also volunteer their time to facilitate workshops. TARGET runs during the summer in six, one-week sessions; each session welcomes a new group (by grade-level) of students. Amani had to apply for acceptance into the program. “Ms. Thompson is very proud of Amani’s pursuit of this opportunity, her acceptance into the program, her mathematical ability and her work ethic,” commented Patty Marseglia, supervisor of math and science.
District
Mathematics
Everyday Math Training at Somerset: All fifth grade classroom and special education teachers attended a three-hour training session in best use of the Everyday Mathematics program, third edition. Experienced teachers benefitted from this update regarding the changes in the program. New teachers gained more insight into the aims and practices of the program. Terrie Newbold, Everyday Mathematics consultant, provided the training on March 20.
Everyday Math Parent Event: An evening presentation is planned for May 11 at West End School to familiarize parents in grades K-4 with the games and algorithms of the Everyday Math program. Danielle Harris-Lacasalle, West End teacher Pat Harris’ daughter, an Everyday Mathematics representative, will be the presenter. Parents who attend will receive a free Everyday Math deck and a Geometry Template. Both of these can be used to practice math skills at home. Other door prizes will be offered. We hope to plan an additional evening for Grade 5 parents.
Everyday Mathematics Summer Training: North Plainfield has been asked to serve as host for two days of professional development in the Everyday Mathematics program. By doing so, North Plainfield teachers will be invited to attend the training sessions free of charge. The sessions will vary from introductory to more advanced use of the program. The tentative dates are July 20 and 21 at Somerset School.
Arts
The 14th Annual District Arts Festival, on April 2, 2009, exemplified what such events are meant to represent...a vibrant school community. North Plainfield students displayed creativity that reflected the high standards set forth by their teachers and advisors. “Parents, relatives, friends, senior citizens, administrators and Board of Education members left the festival with uplifted spirits. From outstanding a'capella choral performances by elementary to high school singers, to the innovative ‘Living Theater,’ where NPHS drama students came alive in front of backdrops of famous paintings by Rockwell, Dali and Turner, each and every presentation by the Fine, Practical and Performing Arts were simply impressive,” commented Tom Mazur supervisor of fine, practical and performing arts.
Schools
East End, West End and Stony Brook Schools
All third graders in the district boarded the buses and traveled to New York City on April 16, 2009, for their visit to the American Museum of Natural History. The trip was chaperoned by adults and teachers, as well as Kathleen Herrmann, Principal of East End School and Catherine Kobylarz, Principal of Stony Brook School. The students were in awe of the “big city” skyscrapers and the hustle and bustle all around them as they drove through the streets of New York City. Their day at the museum began with a visit to the IMAX Theater in the Hayden Planetarium to see the show entitled, Cosmic Collision. The students looked up in wonder as they saw the universe unfold before their very eyes. The remainder of the day included having lunch together and visiting different exhibits.
“It would be impossible to put into words the fascination and excitement felt by every student. A great deal was learned which supported the third grade science and social studies curricula. The experience brought the disciplines to life as the students learned about Native Americans, mammals, ocean life, birds, and, of course, the favorite exhibit….DINOSAURS. For many, this was their first visit, and to see a child standing in front of T-Rex and gazing in wonder was priceless. Even the adults were mesmerized. The behavior of the students was outstanding and the reviews from parents, teachers, and students were all positive. Not only did it bring all of the elementary school communities together, it enabled the students to see first-hand so many wonders of the world as it was in the past, and where it is headed in the future,” exclaimed Principal Herrmann.
East End School
Gym Geography was held at East End School on March 30 and April 1, which was sponsored by the PTA. A large map of the United States was placed on the gym floor and students identified different states, regions, and bodies of water. Through the use of games and hands-on activities, the students learned a great deal about our country. This workshop supported the geography building objective.
Principal Kathleen Herrmann continued to read aloud to the students. The first grades enjoyed listening to the Chinese folktale, Two of Everything. This entertaining folktale integrated social studies and math into language arts, as students learned about counting by fives and tens, as well as the location of China. They also learned how to identify and discuss a lesson that is learned from listening to a folktale.
On April 3 and 17 the fourth grades were provided with another PTA sponsored classroom workshop entitled, Rockin’ Rainforest. Students were made aware of the importance of preserving the rainforests as they learned about animal and plant life found in the rainforest. This workshop supports the upcoming Science Fair theme “Going Green,” scheduled for April 28.
Although it was a rainy and dreary day on April 3, East End School’s Community Room was transformed into a spring garden. Traditionally called Grandparents’ Day, the event was renamed The Spring Fling. This afforded the third grade students to invite anyone who was special to them to this event. Floral decorations adorned the windows, tables, walls, and stage which made everyone forget that it was a dreary day outside. Leslie Hansen, Marilyn Joseph, Melissa Saul, and Lynnelle Thomas, East End teachers, worked collaboratively with parents and students to create this special day. First, the students sang songs to welcome everyone to the Spring Fling. Each student sat with a special invited guest and enjoyed making crafts and even playing bingo. When the activities were finished, everyone enjoyed a tremendous amount of delicious foods. Cameras flashed as memories were made that will truly last a lifetime.
The staff at East End School continues to meet weekly as they continue to study the philosophy of Lucy Calkins’ Writers’ Workshop. Teachers continue to implement strategies that are learned and discussed at the voluntary lunchtime meetings. Students are writing from experiential knowledge and have created their own “heart of ideas.” By doing this, students always have something to write about and over time, they will select a piece they choose to publish. During a writing lesson, the students are addressed as “writers and authors.”
NPHS
Canuckapalooza for the Cure: On May 15, 2009 NPHS/MS students will come together for a school-wide fund raiser, Canuckapalooza for the Cure, to benefit the Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ). “Many lives have been touched by this disease and through the efforts of the doctors, nurses, and staffs at CINJ, people continue to celebrate their lives,” commented Linda Remolino, director of student counseling services.
This event was kicked off by an assembly on April 17, 2009. Attended by grades 7-12 at different times throughout the day, students and staff listened to presentations given by doctors and staff from CINJ and cancer survivors. Through building an awareness of the disease and the research being done to develop a cure, students were encouraged to participate in events on May 15 to raise funds for the cure. Motivational speakers were also present to spark student involvement in volunteerism.
To raise funds for CINJ, students will donate $10.00 and get a wristband that will gain them admission into a variety of activities inside and outside NPHS. The indoor activities will include the following: in one area a Carnival room with three different inflatables will be set up; in a second area the students will have an opportunity to “Dance with the Canucks”; and in the third area a “Volley Cheeseball Tournament” will be arranged. On the football field, there will be “Steps for the Cure” where cancer survivors will be giving their testimonials as they cheer on the participants. There will also be a “Battle of the Bands” with North Plainfield students as the musicians and a “Taste of North Plainfield” which will showcase food from all of the community restaurants.
Moreover, to support CINJ, the junior and senior classes will be donating one third of their proceeds from the annual Powder Puff Football Game to be played on May 4, 2009. Freshmen and sophomores are conducting a penny war during lunch. The teacher/administrator whose jar contains the most donations will dress up as the “Woodsman” at the next pep rally scheduled for April 24, 2009 during ninth period. The seventh and eighth grade classes will play the faculty in a basketball game with the gate revenue being donated to the institute.
“All of this is being done through the generosity of community members, faculty, staff and students. Every event is being funded through donations. It is important that students learn the life lesson to reach beyond them and become a responsible citizen of the human race,” said Ms. Remolino.
Earlier in the school year, students participated in a series of mini-workshops presented by approximately thirty organizations and agencies called “Pathways to Peace.” This was done to encourage student involvement in volunteerism. Now, through “Canuckapalooza for the Cure,” students will be afforded the opportunity to make a difference through their charitable donations.
These activities and many more are being planned and organized by the “Step Up Committee,” comprised of staff and headed by Ann Caruso, student assistance counselor, and Stacey Davis, transition coordinator. This committee has been inspired by the “Developing Safe and Civil Schools Project” at Rutgers University directed by Dr. Maurice Elias. “They have worked tirelessly, putting in countless hours to motivate students to reach beyond their own lives and be part of making the global community a better place for all,” exclaimed Ms. Remolino.
Students at NPHS are forming a social activism club under the leadership of Cheryl Lechtanski, science teacher. The club began out of students’ concerns for environmental issues, but is expanding as students become interested in broader issues.
This year the NPHS Drama Club, under the direction of Leeanne Chiariamonte, drama teacher, is preparing their “Mystery Theater” production as a full length movie. “It is an interesting and innovative idea. The students certainly are excited by the project and it is an area better able to produce through available computer software techniques,” noted Tom Mazur, supervisor of fine, practical and performing arts. Since the plot takes place in an abandoned school, they will be using Harrison as the set. Filming should take two weeks, after regular school hours. The end result would be confined to screening at NPHS.
The Renegade Motor Cycle Club of NJ is sponsoring a fundraiser for Project Graduation on May 9, 2009. A magician/illusionist will perform two shows: 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. Approximately half the money from ticket sales will go towards Project Graduation. “This much needed infusion of funds will help offset the slow economy and the loss of the car show,” commented Jerard Stephenson, NPHS principal.
NPHS was chosen as one of the recipients of grant monies from the 2009 Environmental Awareness Contest, sponsored by the Somerset County Division of Solid Waste Management. Applied for by Dr. Sarah O’Donnell, science teacher, the $1000.00 grant will be used to enrich and educate students about environmental issues. The Somerset County Freeholders will present Dr. O’Donnell with a ceremonial check at their meeting on May 5, 2009.
NPMS
Kate Friedman's seventh grade honors English class will practice their persuasive writing skills by writing letters to Rachel Ray, a self proclaimed animal lover and advocate, in an effort to raise money for a New Jersey family's dog, Judge. Recently, their house burned down and Judge was stuck inside for nearly two hours until he was rescued, his body on fire, from the house. Judge suffered third degree burns on forty percent of his body and needs thousands of dollars of surgeries. In addition, during lunch periods, all students will be able to purchase paw prints for one dollar. Each paw print will have a student’s name written on it and will be posted on the wall in the middle school. The proceeds of this fundraiser will also benefit Judge's recovery.
The NPMS Robotics Club had a high school student, a former member, return to the middle school club as an “advisor.” That student is requesting a high school version of the club and is interested in the FIRST Robotics competition. Since there is not wide interest in a high school club, Patty Marseglia, math and science supervisor, will investigate the possibility of a joint MS/HS Robotics Club. Younger students would benefit from the older students’ experiences and would be motivated to continue in the program. Older students can serve as mentors.
DISTRICT OPERATIONS & AUXILIARY SERVICES
SAFETY TRAINING
The Safety Topic for April is Fire Safety. Related safety training will be conducted with all staff members on Wednesday, April 22, 2009.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Safety Committee
The reestablishment of our District-Wide Safety Committee is nearly complete. We have pushed back our first Safety Committee Meeting due to a number of other initiatives and pending projects. An initial meeting will be scheduled shortly.
Quality Initiative
Our newly implemented Quality Initiative is now in place and we are currently reviewing the results. This initiative was created to enhance our Custodial Program. This initiative includes additional building inspections, targeted training and the introduction of a new quality control form being completed by our Building Principals or their respective designees.
Asthma Friendly Schools
The C.D.C. (Center for Disease Control) is in the process of restructuring the curriculum for the Tools for Schools Program. A training scheduled is currently being developed and more information will be forthcoming. The Tools for Schools Program is a prerequisite to the Asthma Friendly Schools Program.
GRADUATION 2009
As previously announced, this year’s graduation exercises will be held on the Lower Krausche Field. The change of location was necessitated by the projected start date of the new Upper Krausche Field. This new field, funded by a grant from the Somerset County Freeholders, will take approximately twelve weeks to complete.
In an effort to make this year’s graduation a success, the following improvements are planned for the Lower Krausche Field:
Over seed and core-aerate the field to stimulate turf growth.
Repave the lower entrance area including the driveway.
Paint and trim work on both storage buildings.
Rehabilitate existing spectator bleachers. In Progress.
Provide general clean-up and other improvements as necessary. In Progress.
Seal coat the asphalt pad located on the south end of the field.
Repair fencing repairs and install top cap as needed.
Remove the entrance turnstile at the south end of the field.
Remove stumps and debris from the lower field bank.
Paint exterior doors and trim on the rear of NPHS.
Paint exterior doors and trim on the maintenance shop.
Rent twelve hundred chairs for increased spectator seating.
Rent the stage unit from Somerset County Parks Commission.
Rent a sound system as per quotation.
Indicates the item has been completed.
DISTRICT OPERATIONS
The following maintenance work and or contracted projects were completed over the spring break, April 6-9, 2009:
HARRISON BUILDING
Disposal of surplus equipment and debris from the basement storage room.
Removal and packing of records from the basement storage room.
General clean up and evaluation of the basement storage room for conversion to a secure file storage room.
HIGH SCHOOL
Extensive cleaning of lower gym office area duct work and grills.
A/C unit installations in two home economics rooms.
Removal of all restroom tile and sheet rock from the car port.
Replacement of a fan motor in the metal shop ceiling mounted cabinet heater.
Installation of a new zone valve in Room 121.
LOWER KRAUSCHE FIELD
Miscellaneous work orders in preparation of Graduation 2009.
WATCHUNG
Work orders as requested.
DISTRICT
Completion of miscellaneous work orders.
Continued PM service and filter changes to HVAC equipment.
CONTRACTED PROJECTS
EAST END SCHOOL
Installation of eleven (11) new windows.
HIGH SCHOOL
Repaving of the entranceway to the Lower Krausche Field.
Seal coating of the high jump area.
Core-aerating and over seeding of the Lower Krausche Field.
HARRISON BUILDING
Architectural survey for pending heating project.
WEST END SCHOOL
Architectural survey for pending heating project.
PROJECT GRANTS
The following project grants have recently been approved for the North Plainfield School District. Please visit our website and click on the link to Operations for more information.
Somerset County Freeholders – Open Space Grant
The Somerset County Freeholders have approved the North Plainfield School District for a $1,000,000 Open Space Grant.
S.D.A./D.O.E. Construction Grant
The New Jersey School Development Authority and the New Jersey Department of Education have approved two grants totaling more than $1,200,000 for the replacement of boilers and heating system components at West End School and Harrison Building.
Somerset County Energy Audit Grant
The North Plainfield School District has received a grant offered by Somerset County to audit our energy usage.
2009-2010 CAPITAL PROJECTS (PROPOSED)
The following projects have been selected for inclusion in the budget.
District – Exterior Doors, as needed.
District – Windows, as needed.
East End School – Boiler and heating system(s) replacement
West End School – **Gymnasium structural repairs
District – Energy Monitoring and Lighting Upgrades
H.S. Auditorium Stage Lighting Upgrades
**This project is dependent upon the actual cost of bids received for the West End Boiler and Heating System Replacement Project. If sufficient funds remain, we will move forward with this project.
STATUS REPORT (Other Projects)
HIGH SCHOOL/MIDDLE SCHOOL
Auditorium Stage Lighting Upgrades. Specifications are pending.
WEST END SCHOOL
Boiler/Heating System Replacement. Preparing to bid.
HARRISON BUILDING
Boiler/Heating System Replacement. Preparing to bid.
2008-2009 MAINTENANCE PROJECTS (STATUS REPORT)
HIGH SCHOOL/MIDDLE SCHOOL
Repairs to several windows in the High School and Middle School. Completed.
Installation of new air conditioners in Home Economics Rooms. Completed.
Installation of additional exterior cameras around the building. Scheduled.
Upgrades to the Energy Management System. Pending.
EAST END SCHOOL
Window Replacement (11). Completed.
HARRISON BUILDING
Creation of a file storage room in the basement. In progress.
STONY BROOK SCHOOL
Boiler section replacement on one boiler. Pending.
WATCHUNG BUILDING
The creation of a secure file storage area adjacent to the Board Meeting Room.
DISTRICT WIDE IMPROVEMENTS
Upgrades to the Energy Management System.
Correction of Safety Deficiencies as noted in our Safety Audit. In progress.
DISTRICT WIDE INITIATIVES
District-Wide Energy Savings Project. Planning Stage.
Correspondence
Letters were received as follows from:
Somerset County Department of Public Works re: Winning 2009 Environmental Awareness Contest.
Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders re: Award of the Somerset County 2009 Energy Audit Program
Committee and Delegate Report
Board/Staff – No issues to discuss.
Communications – None
Curriculum- Dr. Rich discussed science textbooks.
Finance & Facilities – None
Policy- Mr. Branan discussed updates required on Special Education Policy 6171.4
Negotiations- A meeting of 5/14/09 is being considered to discuss concerns
NJSBA – Nothing to report
SCSBA - Nothing to report
SCESC- Nothing to report
Old Business
The Board Retreat will be held at Watchung School on April 23rd beginning at
6:00 pm.
Upon the second reading of Special Education Policy 6171.4 the following recommendation was made:
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve revised Special Education Policy 6171.4 as read.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
New Business
Recommendations from the Superintendent
Personnel
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that
WHEREAS Kathy Senna, teacher of health and physical education in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on July 1, 2009, and
WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately thirty-five 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. Senna 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 April 22, 2009, 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. Senna.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that
WHEREAS Patricia Mason, teacher of English and Reading in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on July 1, 2009, and
WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately twenty-nine 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. Mason 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 April 22, 2009, 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. Mason.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that
WHEREAS Diane L. Perry, teacher in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on July 1, 2009, and
WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately twenty-two years with dedication to the highest standards of education, now therefore, be it
RESOLVED that the Board of Education of North Plainfield extend to Ms. Perry 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 April 22, 2009, 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. Perry.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that
WHEREAS Theresa A. Moroney, teacher in the North Plainfield School District, has indicated that she wishes to retire on July 1, 2009, and
WHEREAS she has served the District and children of North Plainfield for approximately seventeen years with dedication to the highest standards of education, now therefore, be it
RESOLVED that the Board of Education of North Plainfield extend to Ms. Moroney 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 April 22, 2009, 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. Moroney.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 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 Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the resignation of Karen Pisani, paraprofessional working with a classified student at East End School, effective April 16, 2009.
Further, that the Board of Education continue the employment of Ms. Pisani as a district substitute paraprofessional for the 2008-2009 school year.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 and the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education grant Taneesa Peters an unpaid leave of absence under the Federal Family Leave Act, on an intermittent basis, effective May 1, 2009 through April 30, 2010.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education appoint Patricia Lukacs and Jennifer Riolo to teach in the extended day algebra mentoring program in the middle school at the rate of $35 per hour for up to sixty hours each.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Kathryn McCartney as a temporary school counselor at Somerset School, at the MA/Step 4 annual salary rate of $48,190, to be prorated effective April 23, 2009 through May 31, 2009. (Ms. McCartney will temporarily replace Benjamin Keiser.)
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals as food service workers for Maschio’s Food Service:
Ana Gomez Diane Melendez Maria Mazariegos
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the certificated staff members indicated below be paid for graduate courses taken between November 2008 and March 2009:
Name Course Hrs Reimb. Paid
Marilyn Pinto ADHD-Type Behavior in Class 3 $1095.00 $821.25
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Nadirah Davis as a paraprofessional working with a classified student at East End School for 3.75 hours per day at the rate of $19 per hour, effective April 27, 2009. (Ms. Davis will replace Karen Pisani.)
Further, that the Board of Education approve Ms. Davis as a district substitute paraprofessional for the 2008-2009 school year.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Irma Casalino as a district substitute paraprofessional to be called on an as-needed basis pending completion of the pre-employment documents.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education grant Kathleen Dolan, elementary teacher at West End School, an unpaid leave of absence effective June 7, 2009 through June 30, 2009.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education adjust the employment of Lindsay Sena, temporary elementary teacher at West End School, from effective December 12, 2008 through May 10, 2009, to effective December 12, 2008 through June 24, 2009. (Ms. Sena is temporarily replacing Kathleen Dolan.)
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve the following transfers, effective April 20, 2009:
Teacher Teacher of From To
Martha Barrett Health/Physical Education NPHS Somerset School
Christine DelliPaoli Health/Physical Education Somerset School NPHS
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education approve Denise Laffer be employed as a district substitute paraprofessional at the rate of $19 per hour.
Thomas Allen - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye
David Branan - Aye Nancy Szaroleta - Aye
Sandra Dodd - Aye Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye
Curriculum, Instruction and Pupil Services
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve Draft #2 of the 2009-2010 school district calendar as per attached.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve home instruction for classified student HI-06-08-09 to be provided by district and/or Somerset County Education Commission staff for up to ten hours per week, effective April 14, 2009.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve home instruction for non-classified student HI-26-08-09 to be provided by the staff of The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey for not more than five hours per week effective April 16, 2009.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that for the 2008-2009 school year, the Board of Education adjust the payment of tuition for classified student NNN-08-09 from $55,570 to $61,325 to attend Regional Day School of Morris.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve classified student PSY-05-08-09 undergo a psychiatric evaluation to be done by Dr. Richard Kleinman, Board approved provider, at the cost of $850.
Finance, Purchasing and Agreements
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve payments from the Cafeteria Account and the Adult School Account in accordance with the attached list dated April 22, 2009.
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 February 28, 2009.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve a field trip for NJROTC students to participate in the Memorial Day ceremony for the North Plainfield Senior Citizens at the North Plainfield Community Center. Students will be transported on a district bus.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education accept the Somerset County 2009 Energy Audit Grant as proposed by the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders for the energy audit of the following facilities:
West End School East End School
Harrison School North Plainfield High School
Stony Brook School
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education authorize Donald Sternberg, business administrator/board secretary, to prepare all documents, advertise and accept bid proposals for HVAC equipment related to the West End School and Harrison School boiler and heating system replacement project. The specifications for this equipment will be provided by HACBM, Architects, Engineers & Planners, LLC - the firm assigned to this project.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education accept the Environmental Awareness Grant in the amount of $1,000, awarded by the Somerset County Department of Public Works, for the purpose of increasing awareness of environmental issues by students.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve a field trip to Commerce Bank Ball Park in Bridgewater on Thursday, April 30, 2009, for approximately 40 members of the high school concert choir who will be singing the National Anthem at the Patriot’s ball game. The cost of $7.00 per student for admission is being paid by the District. The students will be transported on district vans.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve a field trip for members of the Interact Service Club to attend the 12th Annual Rotary District 7 Beach Sweep at Sandy Hook, NJ on Saturday, April 25, 2009, from 9 am to 12:30 pm. Approximately 15 students accompanied by Interact Club’s advisor, Amy Six, will be transported on a district bus.
Items moved from future Agenda – None at this time
New items requested to be placed on the Agenda – None at this time
There was discussion on the North Plainfield Education Association’s Retirement Dinner of May 5, 2009 and the Scholar Athlete Dinner.
Current Events in Education
There were none.
Comments from the Public
There were none.
Future Agenda Items
There were none.
Adjournment
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to hold an executive session on April 27, 2009 at 7:15 pm for confidential matters relating to students, personnel, contract negotiations, litigation, and/or any other matter considered confidential by federal or state law.
Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to adjourn at 9:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
APPROVED: Donald Sternberg
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