Minutes:  June 17, 2009

The minutes of the regular meeting of the North Plainfield Board of Education held on  June 17, 2009 at East End School, 170 Oneida 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 David Branan             Nancy Szaroleta Sandra Dodd                Linda Bond-Nelson Kathleen Mullen A quorum was established Also present were Dr. Marilyn Birnbaum, Superintendent of Schools; Donald Sternberg, Board Secretary/School Business Administrator; and Dr. Robert Rich, Assistant Superintendent, as well as, Norah Rivera, Student Representative and approximately 16 members of the staff and public   Introduction of New Staff There was none. Minutes Approval Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to accept the public session minutes of June 3, 2009. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to accept the executive session minutes of June 3, 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 May 31, 2009 in the amount of $4,938,040.82. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - 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 April 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            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Comments from the Public Upon request of the chair for topics from the public, A. Lindsey expressed favorable comments regarding Somerset School’s male mentoring program and thanked the Board for supporting the program. Student Representative Report Norah Rivera reported on various student activities some of which included the following: Final Exams are in progress. All levels of English will be assigned summer reading selections. The Drama Club Theater Showcase took place on June 4th. The Senior Picnic took place on June 1st. The Canuckling is now available for sale. Next year’s Class Officers have been elected. The Senior Awards Ceremony took place on June 3rd. Tunlaw’s “Who’s Who Among Seniors” 1st issue was distributed today. The High School Graduation Ceremony will take place on June 23rd at Upper Krausche Field at 6:30 pm. Presentation Mr. Ron Fisher, Technology Supervisor, provided information on transitioning to a voice over IP internet based phone system. Superintendent’s Report RECOGNITION/PUBLIC RELATIONS Karen Gordon, East End fourth grader and art student of Joanne Wendt, won a $50 cash award by placing third in a state-wide poster contest sponsored by AAA.  NPHS 2009 AWARDS ASSEMBLY Scholarships A total of $144,000 in scholarships was awarded to 83 students. Ivan Amo Memorial Scholarship This scholarship is awarded to a member of the North Plainfield High School football team who has been accepted to an accredited two or four-year college or university. Jonathan Montoya    $1000 Ball-Kirsch Post 265, American Legion of North Plainfield James Tennant Memorial Scholarship Awarded to a senior who has been accepted to an accredited college/university based on academic excellence and active involvement in extra-curricular and/or community activities. Christina Cruz    $1000 Julia Lake        $1000 Blumetti Family Scholarship One scholarship in memory of Rose, Madeline, James and Salvatore Blumetti.  This scholarship is awarded to a senior who has been accepted into a four-year college/university and is based on financial need and school and community activities. Norah Rivera        $2000 Charles Blackman “Give-Back” Scholarship This scholarship is awarded to students whose majority of courses are general and/or ESL. Ernest Morgan    $1,000 Monica Ortiz        $1,000 Career and Technical Education Scholarship Sponsored by the New Jersey Cooperative Education Association: Kevin Ortiz        $10,000 (1/2 tuition) Class of 2008 “Pay-It-Forward” Scholarship Awarded to students who have demonstrated financial need and a commitment to pay it forward during their first year in college. Rossana Bertini    $636.50    Rocio Llanos        $636.50 Geraldine Callegari    $636.50    Ramona Ross        $636.50 Christina Cruz    $636.50 Travis DiCapua Scholarship This scholarship in the amount of $500 was created in 2008 by members of the Class of 1998 and Travis’s family.  The recipient should be an outgoing and friendly senior who played a sport(s) for NPHS and plans to attend college. Julian Frazier    $500 Charisse Sobers    $500 DeVry High School Scholarship Alex Dempsey    $3,000 Demetrios Koutsoras    $1,000 per semester Bernard Dreier Community Service Award and Scholarship This award in memory of Bernard Drier, class of 1932, shall be designated for a student at the end of his/her junior year.  The student must have demonstrated continuous, significant service to the greater North Plainfield community.  The recipient shall receive this award at the end of his/her senior year, once the student has enrolled at the college of his/her choice. Ashley Dunhamn    $500 Dr. Herman Estrin Scholarship This award is in commemoration of 60 years of teaching excellence and/or achievement in writing, speaking and literature. Antoinette Burns    $500 Family Foundation Scholarship Scholarships in the amount of $2,000/yr, $1,000 per semester are awarded to graduating seniors.  The candidates must have a “C” average all three years in high school and maintain a “B” average in college.  At least one of the candidates’ parents must be an immigrant and they must demonstrate financial need. Geraldine Callegari    $8000        Rocio Llanos        $8000 Rosario Guaman    $8000        Monica Ortiz        $8000 Jayana Kenana    $8000        Michelle Talavera    $8000 Thomas J. Frescoln Scholarship Sponsored by the Thomas J. Frescoln College Fund and distributed through PNC Bank: Rossana Bertini    $8025     Judy Grady/Somerset School Scholarship Awarded to a student who has a B average and who attended grade 6 in the North Plainfield School District. Natalie Lopez        $1000 Linda Helmstetter Scholarship This award is in recognition for outstanding achievement and given to a student who has attended Stony Brook School. Max Cordova        $400 Michelle Talavera    $400            Winifred Gardner-Letso Memorial Scholarship Mrs. Letso served on the Board of Education for 27 years, which is the longest term in North Plainfield history.  This scholarship, given in her memory, is based on academic achievement, financial need and school and community involvement. Christina Cruz    $500 Hondru-Searle-Auerbach Scholarship Awarded to a senior who has shown achievement in academics as well athletics and who intends to major in the arts or sciences, engineering, business or a healthcare profession. Geraldine Callegari    $500 Jayana Kenana    $500 Daniela Velastegui    $500 Lawrence Family Trust Sponsored by the Lawrence Family Trust, in memory of William (Class of ’29) and in honor of Eleanor (Class of ’26). Zeshan Ishfaq    $500 Oscar Nunez        $500 George “Chip” Mauro Memorial Scholarship Mr. Mauro was a graduate of North Plainfield High School, Class of 1951.  This scholarship is based on academics, financial need and school and community service. Antoinette Burns    $500 National Association of University Women Kendra Clark        $1000 Marjorie and Frank Mundy Memorial Scholarship A four-year scholarship sponsored by the Marjorie and Frank Mundy Memorial Scholarship Fund.  Given to a student who has intellect, aptitude, a desire for higher education and a need for financial assistance. Daniela Velastegui    $28,000 North Plainfield Association of Educational Administrators and Supervisors This award, intended to assist in the furthering of career goals, is presented to a graduating student in consideration of the following factors: progress and achievement in classroom programs; participation in school activities; contribution to school life; student citizenship.        Randall Shelton    $300 North Plainfield Educational Philanthropic Association Scholarship Antoinette Burns    $250 Natalie Lopez        $500 North Plainfield Field Hockey Boosters Parents’ Club Scholarship Awarded to a student who has participated in NPHS field hockey for at least two years and has been accepted to an accredited college or advanced education program. Christina Cruz    $250            North Plainfield Football/Cheerleader Parents Scholarship Sponsored by the North Plainfield Football/Cheerleader Parents Association. Karielle McKinney    $400        Nicole Sartori        $400 Jonathan Montoya    $400        Jonathan Valencia    $400 North Plainfield Italian American Club - Auxiliary Scholarship Sponsored by the Italian-American Club of North Plainfield Auxiliary. Ana Maria Diaz    $750 North Plainfield Latin Coalition Scholarship Awarded to a minority student and is based on academics and financial need. Pablo Gomez        $500 Wendy Orellana    $500 North Plainfield Lion’s Club Scholarship Sponsored by the North Plainfield Lion’s Club. David George Memorial Scholarship: Branny Orak        $1,000 Francis J. Vitelli Scholarship: Christina Cruz        $1,000 North Plainfield Music Parents Association Sponsored by the North Plainfield Music Parents Association Anthony DeJesso    $500        Samantha Rebimbas    $750    Julia Lake        $600        Marcel Ringold    $750 Mary Leriche        $450        Jessica Townley    $450 Emma Reading    $500 North Plainfield Optimist Club Scholarship Sponsored by the North Plainfield Optimist Club. Karielle McKinney    $1000 North Plainfield PBA Scholarship Sponsored by the North Plainfield PBA. Gabriela Gomez    $400 Jonathan Montoya    $400 North Plainfield PTA Council Scholarship Sponsored by the North Plainfield PTA Council. Kendra Clark        $1000 Christina Cruz    $1000 Caryll Uy        $1000 North Plainfield Recreation Commission Scholarship Awarded to students who have participated in the North Plainfield Recreation Program for at least three years. Ashley Dunhamn    $500 Jonathan Valencia    $500 North Plainfield Soccer Club Scholarship Gabriela Gomez    $500 Pable Valladares    $500 North Plainfield High School Alumni Association Scholarship Sponsored by the North Plainfield High School Alumni Association. Ashley Dunhamn    $1000 Ricardo Perez        $1000 Rotary Club of Plainfield/North Plainfield Scholarships Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Plainfield/North Plainfield. Interact Scholarship Branny Orak        $1200 F. S. Mathewson Memorial Scholarship Yuleisy Almonte    $1000        Jonathan Montoya    $500 Julia Lake        $500        Branny Orak        $1000 Leo Albert Friese Memorial Scholarship Soniya Khan        $750 Daniela Velastegui    $750 Sanofi-Aventis Pharmaceuticals Chemistry Senior Achievement Award Yuleisy Almonte    $1,000 Michael Sheehy Memorial Scholarship Sponsored by the Class of ‘93 and Friends of Michael Sheehy. Yakay Cobb        $500 Jonathan Valencia    $500 Student Leadership Scholarship The award is sponsored by the Class of 2006 and is available to a senior who has been an active class officer, or an officer in the Student Council or a Student Council representative. Christina Cruz    $250 Somerset County Technical Institute This award is for a full-year tuition to the Technical Institute. Christian Angulo    Cheryl Thompson-Veazie Memorial Scholarship This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who has been accepted to an accredited four-year college or university.  The student should also demonstrate academic achievement, possess leadership qualities and show financial need. Kendra Clark        $1,000 Nancy Van de Vate Music Scholarship This scholarship is awarded to a senior who has applied to an accredited four-year college, university or conservatory and who plans to major in music.  The student should demonstrate academic excellence, musical talent, and a commitment to serious musical achievement. Samantha Rebimbas    $250 Michael W. Zawrotnak Memorial Scholarship Sponsored by the Michael W. Zawrotnak Scholarship fund. Ashley Dunhamn    $1,000 Lisa Lamperti    $1,000 Jonathan Valencia    $1,000     Department Awards Applied Technology Architectural Drawing and Design: Tevin Henry        Jonathan Valencia Brittanie Rollins Computer Aided Drafting: CAD I            Mary Leriche                        Alex Dempsey                    CAD Design: Imaging and Animation Edwin Castillo    Demetrios Koutsoras Ian Guapusaca Special Achievement in CAD: Alex Dempsey    Demetrios Koutsoras    Art Art Award Sponsored by the Art Department: Given for outstanding achievement in Art: Aaliyah Holman Edgar Perez Athletics All State        Tyson Chandler – 3rd Team Football Tyson Chandler named to Super 100 All State Football Team (New Jersey Coaches Association)      All Group 2 Football        Tyson Chandler – 1st Team    All Area Football        Tyson Chandler – 1st Team             Julian Frazier – 1st Team SCIAA Football        Tyson Chandler – 1st Team             Julian Frazier – 1st Team All Conference Football        Tyson Chandler – 1st Team             Julian Frazier – 1st Team             Vincent Green – 1st Team             Mario Herrera – 1st Team             Jahlil Thomas – 1st Team             Jon Valencia – 1st Team Girls Basketball    Noelle Hynes – 1st Team Boys Basketball    Sam Bautista – 1st Team             Jevoy Whyte – 1st Team Wrestling        Mario Herrera – 1st Team North Plainfield High School Scholar Athletes Skyland Conference Scholar Athlete    Pablo Gomez        Charisse Sobers NJSIAA Scholar Athlete nominee Nicole Hynes NJSIAA/ETS nominees    Christina Cruz    Jonathan Montoya SCIAA    Nicole Hynes        Branny Orak Heroes and Cool Kids        Grade 12 Oni Crowley        Jayana Kenana    Ramona Ross Christina Cruz    Natalie Lopez        Nicole Sartori Ashley Dunhamn     Karielle McKinney    Julia Szaro Pablo Gomez        Monica Ortiz        Jonathan Valencia Hanif Holloway    Gerardo Ramos    Daniela Velastequi    Noelle Hynes        Emma Reading    Jevoy Whyte        Grade 11 Brittany Allen    Jon Marmalejos Erik Estrada        Jamie Sapila Sam Flood        Jon Sanchez Josue Hernandez    Jayna Strong             Corrine Thomas Grade 10 Cassius Ross        Monique Valerio Kiana Smiling    Erin Walsh Business Accounting Award Sponsored by Bank of America: Ashley Dunhamn Berkeley Awards Sponsored by Berkeley College Given to an outstanding student in high school Business Education: Ashleigh Bennett Given for perseverance in high school Business Education subjects: Kendra Clark Drama International Thespian Society Brandon Coy            Steven Sosa Katherine Ramos        Jayna Strong Drama Service Award: Joseph Fericy            Amber Henderson Emma-Jean Gambini    Kevin Sornoza English               Dr. Marie O’Brien Excellence in Writing Award Established by the administration, faculty, and staff of North Plainfield Schools to honor Dr. Marie O’Brien on her 50th Anniversary in North Plainfield. Christian Enriques    $500 Stephany Flores    $500 Canuckling Award For significant and excellent contributions to Canuckling, the high school literary/art magazine. Kristina Sherwood Tunlaw Achievement Awards In recognition of excellence in journalism: Charisse Sobers Yearbook Achievement Awards In recognition of outstanding achievement: Khayri Rivera Family and Consumer Science Family and Consumer Science Award Awarded to a student who has participated in all Family and Consumer Science subjects. Charisse Sobers Mathematics Outstanding Mathematics Student Given to a senior who has shown initiative and achievement in mathematics sponsored by Bank of America: Rossana Bertini Outstanding Achievement in Math 9 Knowledge and Numeracy Computer Program Manuel Bermudez North Plainfield High School Mathematics League Special Achievement      Christopher Nardi               Outstanding WEB-Page Design Award Mary Leriche Music John Philip Sousa Band Award Emma Reading National School Choral Award Marcel Ringold Katherine Ramos Outstanding Choral Service Award Danielle Aponte    Antoine Porter Julia Lake        Kevin Ramirez Louise Armstrong Jazz Award Anthony DeJesso Musicianship Honors Alex Dempsey Emma Gambini Canuck Drum Major Award Pamela Maldonado National Honor Society Current Members Rossana Bertini        Soniya Khan        Emma Reading Antoinette Burns        Julia Lake        Norah Rivera Christina Cruz        Mary Leriche        Ramona Ross Ashley Dunhamn        Natalie Lopez        Charisse Sobers Noelle Hynes                    Kaerielle McKinney     Daniela Velastegui Jayana Kenana        Jermaine Miller    Maria Zabala                 Branny Orak        Haojie Zheng            New Members Samuel Fajardo        Rocio Llanos            Petra-Nwosu-Sylvester Samuel Flood            Pamela Maldonado    Sandy Shulca Theresa Huynh        Leslie Monroy    Zoesively Velasquez Christina Leriche        Christopher Nardi    James Williams Science Chief Seattle Award Sponsored by H.O.P.E. (the Environmental Club) Given to the student who has done the most for the environment: Zubah Kolubah Biology Award Perfect Score on the End of Course Biology Exam. Kervin Santamaria Chemistry Award Given to the student who has the highest achievement in the study of Chemistry: Yuleisy Almonte Science League Special achievement in: Biology I            Biology II Yamna Anwar        Latrice Antoine Zachary Dardignac        Rossana Bertini David Martinez        Christopher Nardi Richard Simbana        Haojie Zheng Jacob Watters Special achievement in: Chemistry I              Guedis Cardenas        Danielle Stewart Michelle Guarnizo        Gabriela Zapata Camilo Londono   Special achievement in Physics I: Samuel Fajardo        Brandon Taylor Stephen Guevara        Zoesively Velasquez Sandy Shulca World Languages French In recognition of superlative achievement:            French I        Matthew Reading French II        Nour Abrahim French II H        Yamna Anwar    French III H        Michelle Guarnizo, Katherine Stevens,             Danielle Stewart French IV         Eleazar Vidal French IV H        Theresa Huynh, Karielle McKinney AP French        Latrice Antoine French 8        Kaylen Chamorro, flor Ledezma             Sean Lubreski, Christian Perez French 7        Brigette Garcia, Christian Obando             Jasleen Sevilla, Cinly Tang, Shelby Waters    Outstanding high school student in French, for four years: Latrice Antoine Italian In recognition of superlative achievement: Italian II H        Didia Fajardo, Jeffrey Gugliotta Italian III H        Samuel Fajardo, John Sanchez Italian IV H        Christopher Nardi Italian V H        Daniela Velastegui        Outstanding high school student in Italian, for four years: Rosanna Bertini Spanish In recognition of superlative achievement: Spanish I    Vincess Dimayuga, Ny’RiQ King, Kelly Woeinski Spanish II    Christianna Blue, Charles Gonzalez, Josselyn Parada Spanish II H    Vanessa Castillo, Emily Garces, Zoila Garcia,         Marissa Darfati, Maximiliano Torres, Cong Zhu Spanish III    Jackeline Amador, Joselin Castro, Jessy Cunalata,         Julio Gomez, Arneshia Hobbs Spanish III H    Raichelle Arthur, Nasser Baker, Lissette Espinal,         Kimberley Leary, Christina Leriche, Sara Merendino,         Kathryn Mohamed, Eric Orellana, Milton Ramos,         Cassius Ross, Kanwal Sajjad Spanish IV H    David Chambergo, Camilo Londono, Claudia Salazar,         Kevin Sornoza, Fernando Torres, Wlixabeth Zelaya Spanish VH    Christina Cruz, Ashley Dunhman, Soniya Khan,         Rebecca Mendez, Wendy Orellana, Ramona Ross Spanish Heritage I    Gabriela Gomez Spanish Heritage II         Hugo Salguero-Barrios, Jose Salguero AP Spanish    Geraldine Callegari, Paola Garzon, Yesenia Gutierrez,         Pablo Valladares Spanish 8    Thomas Allen, Amina Bibi, Tiana Cock, Ethan Mamuric, Jermaine Michael, Olabade Omole, Michael Sani, Christopher Smith, Lorena Torre, Chloe William, Jihad Womack Spanish 7    Mary Ann Alli, Danvas Gichana, Jessica Hunter,         Lauryn O’Hara, Clifford Spencer Outstanding high school student in Spanish, for four years: Christina Cruz American Sign Language I In recognition of superlative achievement: Ashleigh Bennett, Sherice Browne American Sign Language II: In recognition of superlative achievement: Jessica Lamperti, Julieanne Jimenez American Sign Language IV In recognition of superlative achievement: Petra Nwosu-Sylvester English-As-A-Second Language Outstanding student in “ESL”  In recognition of superlative achievement: ESL I        Paula Contreras, Jackeline Garcia-Dominguez,         Medhi Ismali, Jose Slaguero, Ana Tenezaca ESL II        Christian Folleco, Zakaria Ismali, Vipan Kumar,         Sayda Perez, Karla Rosas, Juan Villacis ESL III    Edgar Bustamante, Gabriela Gomez ESL IV    Manuel Bermudez POE        Maria Andrade, Jennifer Leon-Pincay,         Jessica Medina, Milton Medina, Miguel Velasquez         World Language Honor Societies American Sign Language National Honor Society Members Amit Batra V.P.        Wendy Orellana Treas. Jessica Cardona        Shauna Samuels Co-Pres. Kaleema King        Petra Nwosu-Sylvester Co-Pres.                 Brandon Taylor Secty                 New Members JulieAnne Jimenez        Jessica Lamperti La Societe Honoraire De Francais Fleur de Lis Les Membres Latricia Antoine Pres.    Karla Menendez    Danielle Stweart Luis Diaz            Leslie Monroy    Beverly Torres Michelle Guarnizo        Branny Orak VP          Maria Tsampounieri Stephen Guevara        Jacqueline Ramirez    Zoey Velasquez Theresa Huynh        Norah Rivera        Eleazar Vidal Julia Lake            Sandy Shulca        Jamel Wilson Caroline Leriche               Charisse Sobers,Pres. Maria Zapata Treas. Kaerielle McKinney Secty.    Katherine Stephens    Gabriela Zapata                             Maria Zapata Les Nouveaux Membres Nour Abrahim                    Jocelyn Hodges Yamna Anwar                    David Martinez Kevin Cevallos                    Zonia Menendez Katherine Guarnizo                    Maria DelMar Molina Maria Guevara                    Elias Souza Societa Onoraria Italica Capitolo Stella Alpina Membri Rossana Bertini Pres.    Samuel Flood        Janet Molina    Antoinette Burns        Henry Guevara    Christopher Nardi Edwin Castillo Secty.    Mary Leriche        Emma Reading Daniel Chiquillo        Rocio Llanos Treas.    Michelle Talavera Samuel Fajardo            Pamela Maldonado    Daniela Velastegui V.P. Nuovi Membri Guedis Cardenas        AnnaMaria Koutsoras John Sanchez Raul Figueroa        Monica Ramirez    Sierra Smith Michelle Gomez        Karina Reyes        Jennifer Olivares-DelCid India Hodges            Katherine Rosales    Daniela Urquizo Linda Junco            Jamie Sapila        Steven Soza                 Nicholas Salvemini    Nicole Ulloa Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica Capitulo Juan de Parejo Miembros Yuleisy Almonte        Jackeline Garcia       Christina Leriche V.P. Raichelle Arthur Treas.    Gabriela Gomez       Camilo Londono Pres. Christianna Blue Treas.    Devaughn Gordon    Natalie Lopez Christina Cruz        Yesenia Gutierrez     Cassius Ross Secty. Jessy Cunalata Secty.    Soniya Khan        Ramona Ross Eric Fisher            Jayana Kenana Nuevos Miembros Raichelle Arthur    Arneshia Hobbs    Wendy Orellana Nasser Baker        Kimberley Leary    Milton Ramos Christianna Blue    Christina Leriche    Cassius Ross Geraldine Callegari    Camilo Londono    Kanwal Sajjad David Chambergo    Sara Merendino    Claudia Salazar Jessy Cunalata    Kathryn Mohamed    Kevin Sornoza Lissette Espinal    Eric Orellana        Fernando Torres Awards Edward J. Bloustein Distinguished Scholars Award Sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education for Academic Excellence. Rossana Bertini Ramona Ross Daniela Velastegui Comcast Leaders and Achievers Award North Plainfield High School Nominee: Branny Orak Federal Reserve Challenge Jessica Cardona         Nick Forrester Kendra Clark            Arneshia Hobbs                 Cassius Ross        Josten Award For outstanding leadership and service to the students of North Plainfield High School: Ashley Dunhamn New Jersey Consumer Bowl Jessica Cardona        Maria Guevara Kendra Clark            Josue Hernandez Adam Connor II        Arneshia Hobbs                 Letitia Wilkinson North Plainfield Optimists Club Essay Contest – “The Power of Youth” Camilo Londono – 1st Place Oratorical Contest – “For Me, Optimism is…” David Martinez – 1st Place Annie Reading – 1st Place Homer S. Pace Medal This award is given to high school seniors who have achieved academic excellence and who intend to pursue a career in accounting or other business fields. Rossana Bertini Rensselaer Medal Pamela Maldonado Paul Robeson Youth Achievement Award Sponsored by Raritan Valley Community College: Community Service    Kendra Clark Arts            Ernest Morgan Athletics        Jevoy Whyte Scholarship        James Williams Sage College of Albany Arts Award For outstanding artistic talent and academic excellence: Norah Rivera 2009 Student Sage Recognition Award Sponsored by Russell Sage College Theresa Huynh Somerset County Outstanding Student Award Sponsored by the Business and Educational Partnership of Somerset and Hunterdon Counties Donovan Lias Star-Ledger Scholar Award In recognition of outstanding academic achievement: North Plainfield High School nominee. Rossana Bertini United States Marine Corps Awards Semper Fi Band Award        Yakay Cobb    Distinguished Athlete Award    Pablo Gomez               Scholastic Excellence Award    Daniela Velastegui               United States Navy Awards For excellence in the following areas: Athletic                Jonathan Montoya    Music                    Julia Lake        Scholastic Leadership        Rossana Bertini         Science                 Jayana Kenana        University of Rochester Humanities/Social Sciences Award In recognition of achievement in the humanities and social sciences: Christina Leriche University of Rochester Bausch and Lomb Science Award Most outstanding achievement in science: Sandy Schulca University of Rochester Young Kodak Leaders Award: In recognition of leadership to the students of North Plainfield High School: Samuel Fajardo University of Rochester Xerox Award For outstanding achievement in the pursuit of innovative approaches and an appreciation for the possibilities of technology: Stephen Guevara Wellesley College Book Award Pamela Maldonado Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award Zoesively Velasquez Wofford Scholars Awarded to a junior and sponsored by Wofford College. Christina Leriche        Karla Menendez Gabrielle Dilione, fourth grader at East End School in Nicole Rossi's class, won the Somerset County Education Association's Diversity Essay Contest.  Kathleen Herrmann will present Gabrielle with the framed certificate along with a gift card from the county during the Fourth Grade Awards assembly on Monday.  Oni Crowley, grade 12, and Kristine Sherwood, grade 10, art students in Kim Dawson’s class, had their work selected for the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Student Gallery, 40 N. Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ.  A reception for the artists was held at the student gallery on June 16, 2009, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Throughout the year, NPHS students participated in the Science League.  The following notes the rankings of the NPHS team:     2009 NJ SCIENCE LEAGUE FINAL RANKINGS Division 11: NPHS-N. Plainfield High; GL-Governor Livingston High; WHR-Watchung     Hills High; SPF-Scotch Plains-Fanwood High; MSM-Mt. St. Mary’s High TEAM   TOTAL POINTS     DIV. RANK [#]                   STATE RANK [# ] Bio 1                    [5]                    [118] WHRHS      430              1                24      SPFHS      280             4                88    GLHS            87               5                      118    MSMHS      306               3                        84 NPHS          320            2                78 Bio 11                    [5]                    [118] WHRHS       578            1                  1 SPFHS       262            4                88 GLHS        No Team        5                      118    MSMHS       316            3                        79 NPHS           370            2                        57 Chem  1                [5]                      [93] WHRHS       752              1                  1 SPFHS       668            2                  11 GLHS        No Team        5                93 MSMHS       292            3                64 NPHS           272            4                68 Chem 11                [5]                      [88] WHRHS    716            1                  4 SPFHS    688            2                    9 GLHS        No Team        3                88 MSMHS    No team        3                88 NPHS        No Team        3                88 Phys 1                [5]                       [93] WHRHS       608            1                10 SPFHS       608            1                10 GLHS           344            2                47 MSMHS    No Team        4                93 NPHS           316            3                53 Dr. R. Craig Kammerer, NPHS Director The following teachers will be honored at the Teacher Recognition Program on June 17, 2009 at East End School prior to the Board meeting: Alexis Holbrook has been employed in North Plainfield since May of 1998, beginning as a paraprofessional. When she received her Bachelor’s degree from Kean University, graduating in 2003 with “suma cum laude” honors, she was hired as a special education teacher at East End School.  In addition to teaching at East End Ms. Holbrook designs, creates and updates the school’s webpage, and advises the fourth grade computer club. Ms. Holbrook believes that the key to learning is to identify a child’s learning modality and address that style when teaching the skills necessary to achieve individual success. Camille Regan teaches math at Somerset School.  She has ten years teaching experience, five of which are in North Plainfield. A graduate of Kean University, with a double major in Early Childhood Education and Mathematics, Ms. Regan is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Distance Education with a specialization in technology from the University of Maryland, University College. As a sixth grade math teacher, Ms. Regan believes in providing a safe, non-threatening environment, requesting family involvement, and assessing the child as an individual by understanding their interests, strengths, weaknesses, and life demands. Corinne Lauri received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health and Physical Education from Seton Hall University in 1999, with “cum laude” honors and was immediately hired in September 1999 as a teacher of health and physical education at NPHS/MS. She has since earned a Master’s of Arts Degree in Health Education from Montclair State University in 2006. Ms. Laurie has served as the advisor of the NPHS Student Council, coach of the JV girls soccer team, coach of the freshmen girls’ basketball team and advisor to the after school program “Girl Talk,” where juniors and seniors serve as mentors to girls in the middle school. Ms. Lauri is one of the original members of the Committee for Social Emotional Learning, a member of the Student Mentor Committee, as well as the Intervention and Referral Services Coordinator for the middle school. She has been directly involved in developing and coordinating school wide programs, such as STEP UP week, Pathways to Peace and STEP UP for the CURE. Jonathan Scott is a graduate of Westminster Choir College of Rider University.  He was a lead vocal instructor at Arts YOUniversity, a studio where kids from the ages of six to 18 learn dancing, acting, and singing in an after-school program.  In September 2005, he was employed as a teacher of music at West End School. His duties include teaching music appreciation, music history, vocal technique, and instrument recognition to every student in the school. He conducts the third and fourth grade chorus and the West End School Singers. This past year Jonathan co-directed the school’s musical production of Annie, which included Mr. Scott as Daddy Warbucks. Dana Kim Gargiule is a graduate of Syracuse University and Kean University, where she earned a B.A. in Elementary Education and an M.A. in Early Childhood Education with a Teacher of the Handicapped certification. She has been an educator for the past 31 years with 22 of those years dedicated to the children in the North Plainfield School District.  Having started as a preschool teacher, she is currently a special education teacher at Stony Brook School. Ms. Gargiule has training in many alternative programs that offer different strategies for student success, such as Project Read, Phonology and Linguistics, Framing Your Thoughts, Touch Math and the Wilson Reading program. Amy Six graduated from North Plainfield High School in 1997. She continued her studies at Indiana University, earning a Bachelor of Music Education degree in 2002 and began her teaching career at the Constable School in South Brunswick, New Jersey. Ms. Six ultimately returned to NPHS in 2004 as the Director of Choral Music. She has recently obtained a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the College of Saint Elizabeth.  In addition to conducting several choruses at NPHS, Ms. Six is the school’s Interact Advisor and Musical Director of the spring musicals.  She is also known for organizing an annual field trip to the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City, to further enrich the aesthetic experiences of her students. East End/West End/Stony Brook Schools At the end of May, fourth grade students and their teachers were invited to Somerset School for an orientation and to see firsthand where they will attend fifth and sixth grade. Each school had its own special day.  A great deal of information was shared that day with the students so that the transition in September will be smooth and comfortable.   As a follow up activity, all district fourth graders visited Green Acres Park on June 3, where they were given the opportunity to come together, interact, eat lunch and enjoy a beautiful day. “This first-time event was a huge success and East End School is very grateful to Mr. Sainte-Rose, Somerset School principal, and his team for making this day possible,” noted Kathleen Herrmann, East End School principal. The Fourth Grade Field Trip:  On June 9, 2009, six buses of fourth grade students from Stony Brook, East End and West End Schools traveled to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for their field trip to the Franklin Institute Science Museum.   An action packed day, the trip included the Exhibit Tour, a "Cosmic Collision" of a space adventure at the Franklin Institute's Fels Planetarium, lunch and shopping at the Sci-Store.  The Exhibit Tour consisted of three floors of current exhibits such as the "Giant Heart Experience," the "Train Factory," "Space Command," the "Sports Challenge," the "Franklin Air Show," and many exhibits explaining the amazing works of Benjamin Franklin.  "It was an educational day that we hope the students will remember for years and years to come," stated Cathy Kobylarz, principal of Stony Brook School. North Plainfield held its annual Kindergarten Experience at West End School on June 4 at 7:00 p.m.  Families of students who will be attending district kindergartens in the fall of 2009 were invited to come and learn about the expectations for Kindergarten.  A presentation was provided and each elementary principal from the district addressed the audience. Later, the families were grouped where they visited classrooms to find out more about what to expect in kindergarten.  Some of the new kindergarten students remained in the Community Room with Catherine Kobylarz, principal of Stony Brook School, Beth Sobel, principal of West End School, and Kathleen Herrmann, principal of East End School, where they led the youngsters in a sing-a-long and watched part of Charlotte’s Web. “Many thanks to Keren Fonseca, Debbie Lendach, Nancy Lubreski, and Marilyn Pinto for presenting at the Kindergarten Experience and providing such a wonderful and informative evening!” exclaimed Beth Sobel, West End School principal.     East End School The staff of East End School held its annual PTA Appreciation Dinner on June 2, 2009 in the community room.  This event is hosted by the staff to thank the parents/guardians who work relentlessly for the school community. Music played in the background as everyone chatted and munched on hors d’oeuvres.  Later, everyone feasted at a huge buffet of foods prepared by the staff or catered from Russo’s Restaurant. “East End School appreciates the PTA and thanks them for all that they do for the school,” stated Principal Herrmann. On the evening of June 8, Lynnelle Thomas and Leslie Hansen, East End teachers, presented the Young Orators’ Assembly to the East End School Community.  Young Orators is an after-school-club that provides students with the opportunity to become confident public speakers.  As the students took the stage to perform, their confidence and outstanding public speaking voices filled the community room with pride.  The students participated in poetry reading as well as Readers’ Theater, a debate, and Wonders of the World.  On June 15, East End School is planning a celebration which supports the building’s geography objective. The day will begin with a Flag Day celebration on the front lawn which will include a ceremony honoring the American Flag and the singing of patriotic songs.  Next, students will be given flags which represent their countries of study for the year.  Students and staff will listen to the song, It’s a Small World, as they march around the school waving their flags.  Throughout the day, the classes will visit the gymnasium where displays from each country will be viewed by all. Parents and friends are invited to celebrate the year-long geography theme as they witness how much the students have learned about the different countries of the world. This year, East End truly went “global.” West End School Miss Merrie and Miss Judy from the North Plainfield Public Library visited West End and performed a skit with school librarian Marilyn LaMarca about the wonders of the library.  They showed that by taking an ordinary box, children can use their imaginations and creativity to turn it into a spacecraft, a boat, a car and other exciting things.  They invited the children to sign up for the North Plainfield Public Library programs this summer.  Student Liaison Coordinator Marilyn Pinto provided a presentation about other places where children can receive incentive prizes for reading this summer, such as the Courier News, Barnes and Noble, TD Banks, and the WEST END WILDCATS SUMMER READING Program.   Ms. LaMarca collected over 900 gently used books that were distributed to the children to start their summer reading. West End's Fourth Annual Vocabulary Challenge was held June 10 to celebrate the school's year-long vocabulary development program. The program is coordinated by Buzzy Durkin, kindergarten teacher, and is implemented in all grades by all homeroom teachers. At the end of the school year, a Vocabulary Bee is held in each homeroom. Each homeroom winner receives a medal and certificate, generously donated by the PTA, and a chance to participate in the end of the year challenge. This year's challenge took on a new twist. Physical education teacher, Wendy Alvarez, developed an Obstacle Course-Vocabulary Challenge that combined physical and academic components that delighted the contestants, parents, and screaming fans alike. Each contestant had three minutes to complete the obstacle course, define words at the end of each obstacle, and climb the rock wall to retrieve the correct word. At the end of the program, second grade teacher, Jason Lilly, and music teacher, Jonathan Scott, delighted the crowd with a “Fourth Graders v. The Gladiators” competition. The Fourth Graders easily defeated The Gladiators and will hold the title until the next Vocabulary Challenge in 2010! Special thanks to the judges, timers, and lifeline: Taryn Buffolino, Mindy Durkin, Marianne Harris, Carol Irvine, Nancy Lubreski, Marilyn Pinto, and Patty Russell. On May 19, 2009, Stony Brook School celebrated its fourth annual Family Fitness Day.  The physical education department led the students, teachers and many families through a dynamic day of opening and closing ceremonies, dances, games, exercises and fun.  Some of the activities included beach volleyball, jump rope, rock wall climbing, hula hoop activities, the limbo, parachute games, roller ball and twister.  “We shared an all-school picnic lunch on the playground and our families supplied the blankets, chairs and all the fun. It was a great day filled with many memories,” noted Cathy Kobylarz, principal. Every year the young writers of Stony Brook School showcase their work in a spring festival, titled "Writers in Bloom." As classical music played in the background, the gym was magically converted into a museum of children's writings and illustrations.  Organized by Paula Boyar, Kim Gargiule and Kathy Reilly, Stony Brook School teachers, this annual event has become a favorite springtime event at Stony Brook School.  Classes selected a theme and decorated a table which displayed the students’ work. Each class was then invited to view their work, along with the work of classmates.  The students also reminisce as they walk past displays of younger students' work and marvel at projects to come in the older grades.  Parents attend as well and take delight in viewing their children's writing.   NPHS North Plainfield High School/Middle School presented Mrs. Walker of the Cancer Institute of New Jersey with a check in the amount of $16,000, during an assembly in the NPHS gymnasium on June 12, 2009.  Members of the Concert Choir and the NJROTC made it a special event as did Luis Rincon, mathematics teacher, who engaged the student body with his gymnastic ability.  Bouquets were presented to Dr. Stacy Davies, transition coordinator, and Anne Caruso, counselor, for coordinating the Canuckapalooza and their dedication and commitment to NPHS/MS. To show their appreciation of the NPHS staff, the Gillen family catered lunch for the entire NPHS faculty and staff.  Their daughter, Katelyn, is an 11th grader at the high school.  “This is the second year in a row that the Gillens have catered a lunch.  Today’s menu included chicken marsala, shrimp vodka over pasta, sausage and peppers, lasagna, eggplant rolatini, broccoli and cavatelli, garden salad, bread, beverages, and an array of delicious desserts,” expressed Jerard Stephenson, principal. “They just want to thank the teachers for their dedication to the children of North Plainfield High School,” he continued.     NPMS On May 29, 137 NPMS students and 14 adults participated in the Music in the Parks festival at Kutztown University/Dorney Park.  The mixed chorus, under the direction of Ivan Izeppi, performed and received a rating of "good.” Both the 7th and 8th grade bands, under the direction of Heather Fencik, received ratings of "excellent." After students performed at Kutztown University, they were taken to Dorney Park and enjoyed an afternoon of food, rides, and fun.  “The behavior of the students was exceptional and we are looking forward to participating in the Music in the Parks festival again next year,” noted Ms. Fencik.  DISTRICT OPERATIONS & AUXILIARY SERVICES SAFETY TRAINING The safety topic for June is Chemical Safety. Related safety training will be conducted with all staff members on Thursday, June 18, 2009.                                                     HEALTH & SAFETY H1-N1 (Pandemic Swine Flu) In an effort to address the recent outbreak of N1-H1 (Swine Flu), the following directives were issued by the Operations Office. *See note below. 1.    Routine cleaning that is normally completed using a multi-purpose cleaner will now be performed using an antibacterial disinfectant cleaner. 2.    All staff members have been given a Swine Flu Fact Sheet that contains a number of safety precautions to prevent the spread of this virus. *The C.D.C. (Center for Disease Control) and the W.H.O., (World Health Organization) both recommend the continued use of contact precautions until such time as the outbreak has been effectively neutralized. We will continue to monitor this outbreak and provide the latest information as it becomes available. Please visit our website for additional information. GRADUATION 2009 Due to a delay in the construction of the upper field, graduation will once again be held on the upper field. The planned improvements to the lower field area are in progress and should be completed shortly.  The installation of the new upper field, funded by a grant from the Somerset County Freeholders, should begin in early July and will take approximately twelve weeks to complete. The following improvements are in progress on the Lower Krausche Field. •    Over seeding and core-aerating of the field to stimulate turf growth. •    Repaving of the lower entrance area including the driveway. •    Paint and trim work on both storage buildings. In Progress. •    Rehabilitation of the existing spectator bleachers. In Progress. •    General clean-up and other improvements as necessary. In Progress. •    Seal coating of the asphalt pad located on the south end of the field. •    Fencing repairs and the installation of a top cap as needed. •    Removal of the entrance turnstile at the south end of the field. •    The removal of stumps and debris from the lower field bank. •    Planting of new shrubs and foliage on the inner hill areas. •    Painting of exterior doors and trim on the rear of the High School. •    Painting of exterior doors and trim on the Maintenance Shop. •    The rental of twelve hundred chairs for increased spectator seating. •    The rental of the stage unit from Somerset County Parks Commission. •    A rental of a sound system as per quotation. •    Running Track repairs and re-striping. Scheduled. •    Indicates the item has been completed. SUMMER MAINTENANCE PROJECTS A complete listing of all of our Summer Maintenance Projects is currently being compiled. More information to follow. 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 Operation’s 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. A second round of Sealed Bids for this project has now been received by the Somerset County Freeholders. We are awaiting the results or their review. The projected start up of this project has been pushed back to about July 6, 2009. The project includes a base bid that will provide a new turf football field, lined for soccer and field hockey, and a new softball and baseball field. In addition, the base bid will also include other improvements such as drainage and site work, dugouts and perimeter fencing. Alternates to the base bid will include a center logo, sideline netting, a water line to the north east corner of the field area and other upgrades as deemed appropriate. These improvements will provide many years of expanded use and we anticipate many other improvements in the future orchestrated by the NP Education Foundation and their fundraising efforts. We now anticipate completion of these improvements by early October. 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 The following Capital Improvement Projects are slated for completion during the 2009/2010 School Year. •    District – Exterior Doors, as needed. •    District – Windows, as needed. •    East End School – Boiler and heating system(s) replacement, summer 2010. •    West End School – Gymnasium structural repairs •    District – **Energy Monitoring and Lighting Upgrades •    H.S. Auditorium Stage Lighting Upgrades **The completion of this project is dependent upon the cost of bids received for the West End and Harrison Building Boiler and Heating System Replacement Projects. 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 being prepared and we anticipate advertising for bids on June 19.  WEST END SCHOOL Boiler/Heating System Replacement. The equipment for this project was successfully bid and awarded. The mechanical portion of this project is currently out to bid and we anticipate an award of contract on June 17. HARRISON BUILDING Boiler/Heating System Replacement. The equipment for this project was successfully bid and awarded. The mechanical portion of this project is currently out to bid and we anticipate an award of contract on June 17.   DISTRICT WIDE Door Replacements. This project is currently out to bid and we anticipate an award of contract on July 8. *WEST END SCHOOL Gymnasium Structural Repairs. This project is currently out to bid and we anticipate an award of contract on July 8. *EAST END SCHOOL Boiler/Heating System Replacement. Specifications for this project are currently being prepared and we anticipate going out to bid next May. The project will be scheduled for completion over the course of next summer. *These two improvement projects are being partially funded by S.D.A. (School Development Authority) Grants that were recently awarded to the North Plainfield School District. 2008-2009 MAINTENANCE PROJECTS STATUS REPORT HIGH SCHOOL/MIDDLE SCHOOL Installation of additional exterior cameras around the building. In Progress. HARRISON BUILDING Creation of a file storage room in the basement. In progress. WATCHUNG BUILDING The creation of a secure file storage area adjacent to the Board meeting room. DISTRICT WIDE INITIATIVES District-Wide Energy Savings Project. Specifications are pending. Quality Control Assessment. Implementation of corrective action(s). Correspondence Letters were received as follows from: Kathy Senna re:  Thank you Committee and Delegate Report Board/Staff – No meeting Communications – No meeting Finance and Facilities – No meeting Policy – Mr. Branan mentioned policy changes on the agenda for a second reading. Negotiations – Mrs. Bond-Nelson mentioned meeting with the NPEA to finalize the contract. NJSBA – No new items to report. SCSBA – No new items to report. SCESC – No new items to report. Old Business Phone system upgrades were discussed during Ron Fisher’s presentation. Dr. Birnbaum stated that the AESOP system will go into effect on August 1, 2009. In regard to Adult High School funding, Dr. Birnbaum discussed that the funding is being restored by the legislature. The following policies are presented for a second reading for text based changes due to new/revised statutes and Administrative Code Changes: 2130.1        Compensation and Related Benefits 3100        Budget Planning, Preparation and Adoption 4133/4233    Travel Reimbursement 6142.12    Career Education 9250        Board Member Expenses Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote to approve the recommendations as read. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye New Business The Board of Education  will hold  a special meeting of July 13, 2009 at 7:00 pm.  Executive Session will be determined. Recommendations from Superintendent of Schools Personnel Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the teachers indicated on the attached list to work on curriculum projects or school-based planning activities for the school/department indicated at the rate of $47.83 per hour, to be paid at the conclusion of the project. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the staff members indicated on the attached list to work during summer central registration and testing, August 17 through August 28, 2009, at the rates indicated. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following staff members as testing facilitators in their respective buildings at the stipend of $500 each:     Virginia Feola        NPHS        Victoria Mendes    West End School     Roger Graubard    NPMS        Patricia Klatt        Stony Brook School     Jacquelyn Spaventa    East End    Chemayne Doyen    Somerset School Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following counselors to coordinate the opening and closing of school for six additional days (8/31, 9/1, 2, 3, 4, 2009 and 6/28/10), at their per diem rate indicated after their names:     Joelle Bruno        $257.95    Susan Mehl        $418.20     Nancy Reyes        $296.70    Sally Reagan        $418.20     Diane Signorelli    $255.55    Beverly Washington    $349.50 Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - 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 guide and salary of Heather Fencik, instrumental music teacher at NPMS, from the Bachelor’s Guide to the Master’s Guide/Step 4 at the annual salary rate of $48,190, prorated effective June 1, 2009, to reflect her attainment of a Master’s degree.     Further, that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education adjust Ms. Fencik’s salary from the Bachelor’s Guide to the Master’s Guide/Step 5 at the annual salary rate of $51,590, and that an adjusted contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - 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 guide and salary of Lauren Paich, teacher of Spanish at NPHS, from the Bachelor’s Guide to the Master’s Guide/Step 1-2(2) at the annual salary rate of $46,990, prorated effective June 1, 2009, to reflect her attainment of a Master’s degree.     Further, that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education adjust Ms. Paich’s salary from the Bachelor’s Guide to the Master’s Guide/Step 2-3(3) at the annual salary rate of $50,390, and that an adjusted contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the individuals indicated on the attached list to work as mentor trainers and/or induction trainers in the summer mentoring program at the hourly rate of $47.83, to be funded with NCLB Title I FY’09 funds. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the individuals indicated on the attached list receive a stipend of $60 per full day of mentor training, not to exceed three days or $180, to be paid upon completion of training, to be funded with NCLB Title I FY’09 funds. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the non-certificated staff indicated below be paid for undergraduate courses taken between January 2009 and May 2009:         Name        Class                  Crd        Paid        Reimb.     Zoraida Cruz      LA/Rdg. In K-12 Subj Area Tchg     3        $920.10            $690.08     (Sec/HS)      Translation (Spanish-English)        3        $920.10            $690.08 Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the individuals indicated on the attached list to teach in the adult high school at the rate of $29.00 per hour, effective July 1, 2009. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals as coordinator(s) in the adult high school at the rate of $35.00 per hour, effective July 1, 2009:                             Est. Hours         Susan DeAppolonio            150         Deborah Przybylowski        150         Denise Van Horn            125         Monica Villafuerte              50 Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals as HSPA proctors for the adult high school at the rate of $29.00 per hour, effective September 9, 2009:         Suzanne Dahlinger            Patricia Lukacs         Kathleen Elia                Isabel Ledezma         Renee Heller                Andrew Risoli Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals as supervisors/substitute supervisors for the adult high school at the rate of $39.00 per hour, effective July 1, 2009:                                                                                      Est. Hours         Nicholas DeCorte            Supervisor/Substitute    100         John Tarnofsky            Supervisor/Substitute    425         Francesca Petrucci-Cardona        Supervisor/Substitute    150         Ana Posada-Washington        Supervisor/Substitute    150         Ellen Wilezol                Supervisor/Substitute    300                     Substitute Supervisors                     Roger Graubard                     Ruth Barotta                     Patricia Mason                     Neil Thompson Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals as substitute paraprofessionals for the adult high school, at the rate of $18.50 per hour, effective July 1, 2009:         Dina Aquino                Nina Pleasant         Pam Hughes                Diana Posada         Angelina Lowder            Maryann Thorpey         Toni Liccone Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals as evening paraprofessionals for the adult high school at the rate of $18.50 an hour for up to sixteen hours per week, for an additional 50 hours as needed during peak periods:         Donna Adams                Dina Aquino Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the following individuals as adjunct mentors for alternate route teachers for the adult high school at the rate of $29.00 per hour:         Rose Brinker        Joel Dimond Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the summer of 2009, the Board of Education approve the following student teacher placement from Fairleigh Dickinson University:     Student Teacher    Summer Class            Cooperating Teacher     Sabina Orsi         Elementary        Francesca Cardona-Petrucci Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the Fall 2009 semester, the Board of Education approve the following student teacher placement from the College of Saint Elizabeth:     Student Teacher    Class            School        Cooperating Teacher     Maureen Mahlstadt   Elementary    Stony Brook School    Marina Heller Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - 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 years, the Board of Education approve the Board member and/or staff conference and travel expenses as per the attached list. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of the individuals indicated on the attached list as K-12 district substitute teachers. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the certificated staff be indicated on the attached list paid for graduate courses taken between January 2009 and May 2009. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the summer of 2009, the Board of Education approve the employment of Maureen Wyzykowski as a bus aide for up to 4 hours per day at the rate of $19.80 per hour, beginning July 1, 2009 through August 7, 2009. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the establishment of a new co-curricular club, the Science League, at NPHS. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the staff indicated on the attached list to the co-curricular positions indicated, at the 2007-2008 stipend noted after their names, to be adjusted pending settlement of the co-curricular stipend rates. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education grant Marie Annette Bicksler, teacher of science at NPHS, an unpaid leave of absence under the Federal Family Leave Act, effective October 16, 2009 through October 31, 2009. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Mary Krause as a teacher of mathematics at NPHS, at the BA/Step 13 annual salary rate of $72,560, and that a contract to employ be issued.     Further, it should be noted that the re-employment of Ms. Krause will result in her being eligible for tenure during the 2009-2010 school year. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education grant Janeann Dickersen secretary in the adult high school, a five-day unpaid leave of absence effective July 20 through July 24, 2009. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education appoint the following teachers to serve as computer facilitators in their buildings, at the annual stipend of $1,000, to be partially funded with NCLB Title IID FY’10 funds:     Karen Lewis            East End School     *Anne Bonner        Stony Brook School (9/1/09-1/31/10)     *Carla Percevault-Basile    Stony Brook School (2/1/10 – 6/30/10)     Roseann Caruso        West End School     Kerry Thomson        NPMS/NPHS     Anthony Della Rosa        NPMS/NPHS     *Prorated Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education appoint the following individuals to serve as school webmasters at the stipend of $1200 each:         Sharon Beim            Board of Education         Carol Villani            District         Janeann Dickerson        Adult High/Community School         Kerry Thomson        NPHS         Anthony Della Rosa        NPMS         Sharon Beim            Somerset School         Alexis Holbrook        East End School         Carla Percevault-Basile    Stony Brook School         Nicole Rivlin            West End School Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - 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 guide and salary of John Ferguson, student liaison coordinator at NPMS, from the Bachelor’s Guide to the Master’s Guide/Step 13 at the annual salary rate of $78,890 (plus $750 longevity), prorated effective June 1, 2009, to reflect his attainment of a Master’s degree.     Further, that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education adjust Mr. Ferguson’s salary from the Bachelor’s Guide to the Master’s Guide/Step 14 at the annual salary rate of $79,990, plus $750 longevity for a total of $80,740, and that an adjusted contract to employ be issued. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the summer 2009, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the child study team members indicated on the attached list to conduct evaluations as indicated. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the summer of 2009, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following child study team members to provide case management as the rate of $47.83 per hour for up to the number of hours indicated below:                                     Hours         Dorothy Kahaner    LDTC                 30         Janet Jones        LDTC                 30         Mary Thomsen    LDTC                 30         Neal Dalton        Psychologist             30         Patricia Nemeckay    Speech Correctionist        100         Anastasia Davis    Transition Coordinator    120 Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the summer of 2009, the Board of Education approve the appointment of the following teachers to participate, as needed, in mandated child study team meetings at the rate of $47.83 per hour for up to 30 hours each:         Sara Cohen                Roger Graubard         Susan D’Appolonia            Emily Thompson         Keren Fonseca         Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mr. Allen abstaining that  for the summer of 2009, the Board of Education approve the following individuals to work as paraprofessional in the counseling office at NPHS at the rate of $18.90 per hour for the hours indicated after their names:         Catherina Allen        25 hours         Deanne D’Armiento        45 hours         Dana Smith            25 hours Thomas Allen     - Abstain            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the employment of Katherine Shuster as a temporary replacement teacher of Kindergarten at East End School, at the BA/Step 2-3 (3) annual salary rate of $47,490, to be prorated effective October 1, 2009 through December 23, 2009.  (Ms. Shuster will temporarily replace Marlo Matthews.)     Further, that the Board of Education approve Ms. Shuster as a district substitute teacher for the 2009-2010 school year. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - 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 employ Melissa Garatino as a secretary in the adult high school for the 2009-2010 school year. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Curriculum, Instruction and Pupil Services Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mrs. Dodd abstaining that  for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the attached revised handbook for the adult high school. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mrs. Dodd abstaining that  the Board of Education approve home instruction for non-classified student HI-33-08-09, to be provided by Education, Inc. for up to five hours per week, effective June 3, 2009. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mrs. Dodd abstaining that  the Board of Education approve home instruction for classified student HI-34-08-09 for up to ten hours per week, effective June 8, 2009 through the end of the school year. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mrs. Dodd abstaining that  the Board of Education approve home instruction for classified student HI-35-08-09 for up to ten hours per week, effective June 11, 2009 through the end of the school year. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mrs. Dodd abstaining that  for the summer of 2009, the Board of Education approve the payment of tuition for the extended year classified students indicated on the attached list enrolled in out-of-district placements.  Transportation will be required. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mrs. Dodd abstaining that  the Board of Education approve extended school year nursing services for classified student RN-01-09-10 to be provided by Loving Care Agency, Inc. at the rate of $60 per hour for a registered nurse for 7.5 hours per day (which includes transportation) at a total cost of approximately $15,300. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mrs. Dodd abstaining that  for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve contracts with the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired to provide Level I services to the following classified students:         CB-01-09-10        CB-02-09-10        CB-03-09-10 Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mrs. Dodd abstaining that  for the 2009-2010 school year, the Board of Education approve the following individuals to conduct bilingual child study team evaluations on an as-needed basis:         Roman Perez        LDTC                $450/evaluation         Gladys Portacio    School Psychologist        $450/evaluation         Silvia DeLeon        Speech Lang. Specialist    $450/evaluation Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and approved by a vote of 6 to 0 with Mrs. Dodd abstaining that  the Board of Education approve classified student PSY-7B-08-09 receive a psychiatric evaluation to be done by Dr. Nancy Durant at the cost of $140 an hour for approximately five hours. Finance, Purchasing and Agreements Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve payments from the Cafeteria Account and the Adult School Account in accordance with the attached list dated June 17, 2009. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - 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 May 31, 2009. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education acknowledge that emergency exit fire drills were conducted on all pupil transportation vehicles during the month of June, 2009 in accordance with NJSA 6:21-11:4. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) grant funding through the New Jersey Department of Agriculture for food service equipment in the amount of $39,638.21 for Stony Brook, West End, Somerset, and North Plainfield High School. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education authorize payment of a retirement allowance to those staff members who have retired during the 2008-2009 school year based on accumulated sick and personal days as follows: Name            Date of Retirement    No./Days    Retirement Allowance Payment Date:   July 2009 Patricia Harris            7/1/08        130.5        12,373.30 Kathleen Gossweiller        7/1/08        124.5        11,192.80 Irene Talmo            1/1/09         36.0          1,096.20 Pearl Albrecht            1/1/09         25.5          2,258.59 Marianne Salkowski        1/10/09         58.0          3,885.28 Kathy Senna            7/1/09        211.5        15,000.00 Patricia Mason            7/1/09        241.0        15,000.00 Diane L. Perry            7/1/09        191.0        15,000.00 Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve reimbursement to the following administrators for unused vacation days earned during the 2008-09 school year in accordance with the associated negotiated Agreements: Name                Days        Amount Maria Araneo            5          2,021.35 Dr. Marilyn E. Birnbaum    9        7,548.21 Jane Delaney            5        2,648.75 Kathleen Herrmann        5        2,305.05 Catherine Kobylarz        4          2,006.84 Patricia Marseglia        5        2,100.20 Thomas Mazur            2           784.78 Edward Ostroff            5        1,788.85 Linda Remolino        5        2,230.15 Reginald Sainte-Rose        5        2,430.00 Steven Schlosser        5        1,306.40 Diana Sefchik            5        2,553.90 Dr. Debra Sheard        5        2,529.60 Ralph Sorrentino        5        2,579.80 Jerard Stephenson        5        2,589.35 Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the grant for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, for Stony Brook School from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, School Nutrition Programs in the amount of $14,680.12 to increase children’s consumption of healthy fresh fruits and vegetables. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the submission of a grant entitled, Target Fine Art Grant, by Nancy Rodino, Somerset School librarian, in the amount of $1,700.00 for the purpose of exposing elementary school children to a musical theater production on the life of Rosa Parks. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve the submission of a grant entitled, Walmart Community Grant, by Nancy Rodino, Somerset School librarian, in the amount of $3,500.00 for the purpose of exposing elementary school children to a presentation by a contemporary author who will discuss his inspiration for his story. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approve  the alternate method of compliance in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:26-6.3 (h) 4ii and iii by providing toilet rooms adjacent to or outside the classroom in lieu of individual toilet rooms in Stony Brook School classroom 8 and East End School classroom 9. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the budget year 2009-2010, the North Plainfield Board of Education approve the second year of the two-year renewal period of the current contract with D'Onofrio & Sons Landscaping, for district-wide lawn services, in the amount of $39,300.00. Contract is for Base Year with two, one-year renewals.  Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that for the budget year 2009-2010, the North Plainfield Board of Education approve the second year of two-year renewal of the current contract with Kohler Waste Services, for district-wide trash removal, in the amount of $39,996.00. Contract is for Base Year with two, one-year renewals.  Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Resolution for the West End School HVAC Replacement Project Accept Bid: Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education is awarding the following bid for the purpose of replacing the HVAC system at West End School:     Whereas, on June 11, 2009, the North Plainfield Board of Education (“Board”) conducted a public bid opening for the award of the project for  HVAC Modifications at  West End  School (“Project”); and     Whereas, two vendors submitted a bid for consideration at the bid opening; and     Whereas, the Board and the Board’s architect, HACBM, has evaluated the bids received and the Board has determined to award the contract for the Project; and     Whereas,  in accordance with the provisions of the Public School Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-1 et seq., the Board has determined that Central Pack Engineering, Inc. having offices at 359 Green Pond Road, Hibernia, NJ  07842, is the lowest responsible and responsive Bidder for the Project, with a Lump Sum Base Bid of $873,000.00 (eight hundred seventy-three thousand dollars) and an Alternate Bid (GC-2) of $50,000 (fifty thousand dollars); both bids combined total $923,000 (nine hundred twenty-three thousand dollars).     Now, Therefore, Be it Resolved that the Board make the following award of contract:     Central Pack Engineering, Inc. is hereby awarded the contract for the Project, for the total contract sum of $923,000 (nine hundred twenty-three thousand dollars), which includes Base Bid plus Alternate GC-2.     Be it Further Resolved, that this award is subject to Central Pack Engineering, Inc. executing the Owner/Contractor Agreement for the Project, and providing Performance/Payment Bonds and an Insurance Certificate(s) evidencing coverages in accordance with the Project Specifications (“Contract Documents”); and     Be it Further Resolved, that the Board’s Counsel is authorized to prepare and transmit for signature the Owner/Contractor Agreement applicable to this award, as well as to secure from Central Pack Engineering, Inc. such other documentation as required by the Project Specifications and this Resolution. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Resolution for the East End School HVAC Replacement Project Authorize Payment-Architect: Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education hereby appoints HACBM to provide architectural and engineering services for the East End School HVAC replacement projects. Contracted amount for all services provided shall not exceed $158,715.00. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Resolution for the East End School HVAC Replacement Project Accept Grant: Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that      Whereas, the North Plainfield Board of Education (“Board”) has obtained approval of the preliminary eligible costs for certain financing from the New Jersey Department of Education, Department for School Facilities Projects, pursuant to the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act, (the “Act”), N.J.S.A. 18A:7G-1, et seq. and the regulations promulgated there under N.J.A.C. 6:23-1.1, et seq. (now codified at N.J.A.C. 6A:26-1.1, et seq.), (the “Regulations”); and     Whereas, upon the Board’s submission, the NJ DOE has granted the Board’s application pursuant to the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act Section 15 Grant Agreement (“Grant Agreement”) for the School Facilities Project at the East End School  (the “School Project”), State Project No. 3670-060-09-1003-G2B; and     Whereas, the Grant Agreement provides for an anticipated grant amount of One Million Six Hundred Seventy Four Thousand Three Hundred Dollars ($1,674,300.00), and an initial local share of Six Hundred Sixty Four Thousand Three Hundred Sixty Six Dollars ($664,366.00); and     Whereas, in connection with the funds issued pursuant to the Grant Agreement, the Board passed its Annual Budget on April 15, 2008 which budget authorized the use of public funds from the Board’s Capital Outlay for the purposes of replacement of existing steam heating system to hot water system, to include boilers, flue, and all associated piping and controls at East End School; and     Whereas, the Board has authorized the transfer of funds into Capital Reserve for purposes of funding the Local Share of the Project; and     Whereas, the Board intends to execute, deliver and implement the Grant Agreement with the New Jersey School Development Authority, in substantially the form submitted at this meeting, with such changes approved by the Board’s counsel.     Now, Therefore, Be it Resolved by the Board that the Board is hereby authorized to execute, deliver and implement the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act Section 15 Grant Agreement with the New Jersey School Development Authority; and     Be it Further Resolved that the Board President, the School District Superintendent or the Business Administrator/Board Secretary are hereby authorized to make the necessary application required by the New Jersey School Development Authority and to execute and to deliver the Grant Agreement on behalf of the Board, in substantially the form submitted at this meeting; and     BE it Further Resolved that the Board President, the School District Superintendent or the Business Administrator/Board Secretary shall have the authority to supervise the Project; and     Be it Further Resolved that the Board President, the School District Superintendent or the Business Administrator/Board Secretary, and such other appropriate representatives of the Board as may be requested by the aforesaid officer or officers, are hereby authorized to take all actions necessary for implementation of the Grant Agreement and the School Project; and     Be it Further Resolved that this resolution shall take effect immediately. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Resolutions for the West End School Gym Project Accept Grant: Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that     Whereas, the North Plainfield Board of Education (“Board”) has obtained approval of the preliminary eligible costs for certain financing from the New Jersey Department of Education, Department for School Facilities Projects, pursuant to the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act, (the “Act”), N.J.S.A. 18A:7G-1, et seq. and the regulations promulgated there under N.J.A.C. 6:23-1.1, et seq. (now codified at N.J.A.C. 6A:26-1.1, et seq.), (the “Regulations”); and     Whereas, upon the Board’s submission, the NJ DOE has granted the Board’s application pursuant to the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act Section 15 Grant Agreement (“Grant Agreement”) for the School Facilities Project at the West End School  (the “School Project”), State Project No. 3670-110-09-1004     Whereas, the Grant Agreement provides for an anticipated grant amount of Three Hundred Ninety Two Thousand Seventy Dollars ($392,070.00), and an initial local share of One Hundred Fifty Four Thousand Five Hundred Seventy Four Dollars ($155,574.00.00); and                             Whereas, in connection with the funds issued pursuant to the Grant Agreement, the Board passed its Annual Budget on April 15, 2008 which budget authorized the use of public funds from the Board’s Capital Outlay for the purposes of structural repairs to the West End School gym; and     Whereas, the Board has authorized the transfer of funds into Capital Reserve for purposes of funding the Local Share of the Project; and     Whereas, the Board intends to execute, deliver and implement the Grant Agreement with the New Jersey School Development Authority, in substantially the form submitted at this meeting, with such changes approved by the Board’s counsel.     Now, Therefore, Be it Resolved by the Board that the Board is hereby authorized to execute, deliver and implement the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act Section 15 Grant Agreement with the New Jersey School Development Authority; and     Be it Further Resolved that the Board President, the School District Superintendent or the Business Administrator/Board Secretary are hereby authorized to make the necessary application required by the New Jersey School Development Authority and to execute and to deliver the Grant Agreement on behalf of the Board, in substantially the form submitted at this meeting; and     Be it Further Resolved that the Board President, the School District Superintendent or the Business Administrator/Board Secretary shall have the authority to supervise the Project; and     Be it Further Resolved that the Board President, the School District Superintendent or the Business Administrator/Board Secretary, and such other appropriate representatives of the Board as may be requested by the aforesaid officer or officers, are hereby authorized to take all actions necessary for implementation of the Grant Agreement and the School Project; and     Be if Further Resolved that this resolution shall take effect immediately Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education hereby appoints HACBM to provide architectural and engineering services for the West End School Gym Structural Repair project.   Contracted amount for all services provided shall not exceed $37,000.00. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Authorize Bid: Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education authorizes Donald Sternberg, business administrator/board secretary, to prepare all documents, advertise and accept bid proposals for the West End School Gym Structural Repair project.  The specifications for this equipment will be provided by HACBM, Architects, Engineers & Planners, LLC - the firm assigned to this project. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Resolutions for the High School Auditorium Lighting Project Authorize Payment-Engineer: Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education hereby appoints Edwards Engineering to provide engineering services for the North Plainfield High School Auditorium Lighting project.  Contracted amount for all services provided shall not exceed $17,700. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Authorize/Award Bids: Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education authorize Donald Sternberg, business administrator/board secretary, to prepare all documents, advertise and accept bid proposals for the North Plainfield High School Auditorium Lighting Project.  The specifications for this project will be provided by Edwards Engineering - the firm assigned to this project. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education authorize Donald Sternberg, business administrator/board secretary, to proceed with development of all necessary specifications, applications, contracts and permits required for public bidding of exterior door replacements and further authorize the Business Administrator to advertise and solicit said bids for the project in accordance with public contracts bidding laws. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education award the 2009-2010 Athletic Transportation bid to First Student, Inc. based on the specifications prepared by the School Business Administrator/Board Secretary and their low bid proposal of  $355/first four hours and $62 for each additional hour, dated June 16, 2009. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education authorize and approve Dumor Contracting to repair and replace the baseball field at West End School for a total cost not to exceed $21,800.00. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education approves the purchase of two scoreboards for Upper Krausche Field to replace existing scoreboard, and award contract for purchase and installation to Corby’s, based on State of NJ contract pricing not to exceed $39,500.00. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye The Board is authorizing our district’s membership in a banking consortium. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that     Whereas, the State of New Jersey has requested that school districts explore shared services to improve governmental efficiency and reduce property taxes; and         Whereas, Middlesex County Boards of Education have historically pioneered innovative shared services and are recognized statewide for their spirit of inter-district collaboration and cooperative ventures; and     Whereas, Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:17-34 and 18A:20-37, school districts are permitted to designate a bank for deposit of public funds and/or are permitted to temporarily invest money not required for immediate expenditures as provided for therein; and     Whereas, over six (6) Middlesex County school districts had expressed interest in forming a consortium, known as the Northern Middlesex Alliance Banking Consortium “NMABC,” and formally reviewed proposals for banking services on May 14, 2008 with the goal of maximizing interest earnings on their investments, increasing efficiency of fiscal management; and     Whereas, the Alliance has determined that TD Bank (Commerce Bank) would provide the consortium members the highest return on funds deposited in their bank along with the most efficient and effective ancillary banking services, and     Whereas, each school district will maintain its own separate bank accounts with separate bank agreements between each school district and the selected banking institutions, and     Whereas, any school district that is a member of NMABC may at any time withdraw from the consortium, with no bank or consortium imposed penalty and with no liability,     Now, Therefore, be it Resolved that the North Plainfield Board of Education approve  membership in the Northern Middlesex Alliance and the Northern Middlesex Alliance Banking Consortium and authorize the School Business Administrator and all other appropriate officials to process the required documents with Commerce Bank to establish the necessary amounts. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that the Board of Education accept the donation of scientific equipment, as per district specifications, from the Pittsburgh Science of Learning Center at Carnegie Mellon University in the amount of $1100, as a result of the participation in the Online Stoichiometry Learning Website by the honors chemistry sections this year. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved by roll call vote that Resolved, that the North Plainfield Board of Education, after a review of the bid proposals submitted for Harrison School HVAC Replacement Project, opened at the public bid opening on June 11, 2009, shall reject all bids due to the lowest responsible bidder being substantially in excess of the maximum allowable budget for the Project. Be it Further Resolved, that a rebid of the Harrison School HVAC Project shall be properly advertised and a bid opening scheduled in accordance with state law. Thomas Allen     - Aye            Drew Elliott Smith - Aye David Branan  - Aye            Nancy Szaroleta - Aye Sandra Dodd - Aye            Linda Bond-Nelson - Aye Kathleen Mullen - Aye Items moved from future Agenda – There were none. New items requested to be placed on the Agenda – There were none. Current Events in Education There were none. Comments from the Public There were none. Future Agenda Items Mr. Smith asked for a discussion on coaching staff qualifications. Adjournment Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to hold an executive session on July 13, 2009 for confidential matters relating to students, personnel, contract negotiations, litigation, and/or any other matter considered confidential by federal or state law (if needed). Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to adjourn to executive session for confidential matters relating to students, personnel, contract negotiations, litigation, and/or any other matter considered confidential by federal or state law. The meeting convened to public session at 9:50 pm.  Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve suspension of employee #40809 for three consecutive days without pay, dates to be determined. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved that the Board of Education approve suspension of employee #50809 for three consecutive days without pay, dates to be determined. Mr. Branan moved, seconded by Mr. Allen and unanimously approved to adjourn at 10:25 pm.                 Respectfully submitted, APPROVED:            Donald Sternberg