001doesn't look like a stranger anymore. >> No, I Yes, he's recognizable now. All right. Good evening. In accordance with the provisions of the New Jersey Open Public Meeting Act of 1975, the Ottabon Board of Education transmitted notice of the meeting scheduled at 6:30 p.m. in the Ottabon Junior Senior High School Media Center to the Retrospect newspaper and the Burough Clerk and by postings on the Ottabon Public School District website and at the main and the Pine Street entrances of the junior senior high school. Roll call, please. Mrs. Ron Casease, >> Alison Lipsky, >> here. >> Mark Gaddy. Bill Wilson, Danielle D. Franchesco, >> here. >> Alison Cox, >> Andrea Robinson, late with notice. >> Amy Davis >> here. >> Steven Wilson >> here. >> Sarah Cen. >> Michelle Kennedy absent with notice. >> All right.
002Why? I can't talk. Whereas while the Senator Byron M. Bear open public meetings act requires all meetings of the Ottabbon board of education to be held in public. NJSA 10 col4-12B sets forth nine types of matters that may lawfully be discussed in executive session i.e without the public being permitted to attend and whereas the Ottabon board of education has deemed it necessary to go into close session to discuss certain matters that are exempted from the public and as are noted on the agenda. May I have a motion to go into executive session? motion. >> All in thank you. All in favor? >> Any opposed? We'll be approximately three 30 minutes. All right. May I have a motion to reconvene the meeting? >> Motion. >> All in favor? >> Any opposed? All right. Thank you. Welcome
003everyone. Um, if you would please stand for the flag salute. >> Yes. self. >> I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all, >> right? >> Yeah, >> it's a dance move now. >> We're just laughing because the flag used to be back in the corner. So now we're all a little discombobulated. Okay. Um, next we have our student representatives to the board, our 12th grade representative. So, I'm going to start with Ryan's part, which is the other schools, Havland and Mansion, and he interviewed a kindergartener named Delaney from Havland. And he she said that they had a Mother's Day celebration with muffins, and all their moms came in and sang them a
004song, which is cute. And in science, they were learning about butterflies and plants. In math, they were working with equations and time tables. And in English, they were learning different syllables and like what syllables are. And they're also doing the ABCD countdown. So for every letter in the alphabet, so there's 26 days of left of school. And when he was there, they started on their first day. So astronauts was their first day. And there's also a Philadelphia zoo trip. So yeah, pretty cool stuff. And then now for our senior high, um we have AP exams currently going on and I think that this week will conclude all the exams for that. The senior night is tonight at 700 p.m. at the turf. So if this meeting ends early if you want to come and support
005our seniors playing softball, that'd be amazing. The unified uh club is having a fundraiser, the walk of acceptance June 7th. NJSLA is currently happening for our underassmen, the seventh, eighth, and ninth graders. I believe the girls track team beat Hadenfield for the first time in a very, very long time. We tried to look back to see how long ago it was, if ever, if they've ever beaten Hatenfield, but seems like that's a really big accomplishment for them. And they also just won the Camden County tournament for the first time ever. And our band and choir concerts just happened. And tomorrow night, there is a senior showcase at 700 p.m. So, the seniors are going to sing their senior solos. Yeah, mouthful tonight, but a lot of good things going on. Thank you very much. Next,
006we have our student spotlight program. So, we will call each student up and we ask you to stand sort of right there uh next to the podium and face the audience. If you're feeling a little shy or nervous, you're absolutely welcome to bring a special grown-up with you. That's um always welcome and encouraged. And then we just ask everybody to stay until the end because we want to make sure that we get a group picture of everybody. So, we will start uh Mr. Gaddy is going to get us started up. A pre kindergarten student of the month is Bailey Story. All right, Bailey. All right, come here. stands out as a leader in the classroom. He may not always get a chance to be in charge at home, but at school, he confidently steps into
007the role with ease, likely picking up a thing or two from his big brother along the way. Bailey is often the person his classmates turn to when a snack or lunch package needs help opening, showing his willingness to help others without hesitation. He consistently models excellent behavior. He is the first to sit on the carpet, raises his hand patiently, and always waits his turn. Bailey knows how to balance being kind and gentle when the moment calls for it while also enjoying active rough and tumble play when appropriate. He is an excellent soccer player, making even the simplest kicks into highlight reel moments. He naturally takes the lead at recess with enthusiasm, determination, and plenty of energy to organize every soccer game. On top of all this, Bailey has a wonderful sense of humor and is
008quick to pick up on jokes and laughter in the classroom, often adding his own spark to brighten the day. Overall, Bailey is a respectful, helpful, and well-rounded student who leads by example and makes our classroom a better place every day. Great job, Bailey. Our kindergarten student of the month is Adeline Stokes. Adeline's teachers say Adeline fully embodies this month's attribute of leadership. Adeline leads by example every day when she gets herself unpacked and moves right into morning work. She is always ready after a transition and she encourages those who aren't ready to get the correct supplies and follow directions. Addie guides students who are unsure of a task or direction in a kind and helpful way and students listen to her and count on her for guidance and support. Addie is a great role model
009and leader in our room. Congratulations Ally. Okay. Our grade one student of the month is Arya Hato. All right. Arya's teacher writes that Arya is our first grade student of the month for April. Arya shows leadership each day by being a great role model to her classmates. She is always a student I can count on when I need someone to help another student or repeat directions if needed. She often takes it upon herself to help others without even being asked. Arya consistently shows responsibility, respect, and safety in the classroom each day. She works hard, is kind to others, and always tries her best. I am so glad Arya is in my class, and I am very proud of her and all she has accomplished. She is very deserving of being our student of the month.
010Congratulations, And our second grade student of the month is Michael Chapman. All right. Mikey's teacher writes, "Mikey is our second grade student of the month, and I am so proud of him. He shows what it means to be a kind and caring friend every single day. Mikey leads by example in our classroom. Mikey uses gentle words and thoughtful actions to help others feel happy and included. When someone needs help, he is one of the first to offer a hand or a kind smile. Even when schoolwork feels challenging, Mikey keeps trying. Second grade can be tough sometimes, but he never gives up. He shows determination and a positive attitude which helps him learn and grow every day. One of the things that makes Mikey so special is his honesty and responsibility. If he makes a mistake,
011he apologizes right away and tries to fix it. This shows great character and maturity. Mikey understands that mistakes are a part of learning and he handles them with kindness and courage. We are so lucky to have Mikey in our class. He makes our classroom a better place with his compassion, hard work, and positive spirit. Keep up the amazing work, Mikey. Congratulations. For third grade, we have Shay Dermala. Shea's teacher writes, "Sheay Dermala consistently demonstrates strong leadership qualities in the classroom. Sheay takes initiative in her learning and shows a genuine enthusiasm for teaching others, often expressing her desire to become a teacher in the future. She especially enjoys presenting to the class, thoughtfully planning engaging activities such as mini quizzes and creative games that help her peers better understand the material. In group settings, she is
012supportive and and a reliable partner who helps guide discussions and ensures everyone is included. Her positive attitude and willingness to assist others make her a natural leader among her classmates. Outside the classroom, she is actively involved in musical theater, choir, and dance, which further highlights her confidence, creativity, and ability to collaborate with others. Congratulations, Shay. And for fourth grade, we have Braden McHugh. Is Braden here? Hello. you from your teacher. So, Braden's teacher writes, "Braden McHugh is our fourth grade student of the month for demonstrating outstanding leadership in the classroom through everyday actions that positively influence others. He consistently supports his classmates by explaining directions, offering assistance, and providing help without being asked. Braden leads by example by following classroom expectations, staying focused on his work, and showing respect to both teachers and peers. He
013also demonstrates confidence by sharing his thoughts, ideas, and strategies during whole group discussions, small group work, and peer conferencing. Braden's leadership skills have helped create a positive and supportive classroom environment. Congratulations, Braden. And the fifth grade student of the month is Kain Demedio. Congratulations. >> So Kane's teacher says Kane exhibits strong leadership qualities inside and outside of the classroom. He is the one his classmates look to for reassurance, a quick smile or laugh. He advocates for himself and classmates. Whether it be big or small, they know they can always rely on Kane. He wholeheartedly looks out for his peers and always wants what is best for them. He has the most genuine heart and is so kind to everyone. His work ethic has grown leaps and bounds this year and is absolutely contagious. He continuously
014overcomes challenges and rises to any occasion. He is committed to his learning and his education and for that we are so incredibly proud. With his voice, his wit and his drive, he is bound to do amazing things as a leader at MAS and in the future. Congratulations. For grade six, we have uh John Hawboy. It is our pleasure to recognize John Ho Hawboyce as the sixth grade student of the month. John has grown this year and shown his leadership skills in his academic classes. He has demonstrated responsibility by maintaining his supplies and assignments in an orderly fashion. He shows ownership by coming to school on time and is ready to learn. He has demonstrated achievement by turning in his assignments when they are due and with a high level of effort. Lastly, he has consistently
015shown respect for his teachers and fellow classmates in both his speech and in his actions. We are excited to hear how John continues to shine as he moves on to junior high next year. Congratulations, John. For seventh grade student of the month, we have Braden Hart. His teacher writes, "We are so proud to celebrate Braden Hart as student of the month for this month. Braden is a role model for his peers, consistently displaying excellent conduct and treating everyone with kindness and respect. He balances his character with a fantastic work ethic. Always completing assignments on time and working to his full potential in every subject. Whether in the classroom or the hallway, he approaches every task with dedication and a positive attitude, putting forth maximum effort in all areas of his school life. Congratulations. For eighth
016grade student of the month, we have Finn Davis. His teacher writes, "Congratulations to Finn Davis for this well-deserved recognition as student of the month. I attended the Mount Peace Cemetery cleanup with the AHS Environmental Club and Ottabbon Legion last weekend. Finn was the only student to show up to volunteer with four other adults. I don't know many teenagers who wake up early on the weekend, let alone to volunteer to do yard work and also at 9:00 a.m. Finn cleaned headstones, ref flagged the graves of soldiers dating back to the Civil War, rad and picked up sticks to maintain the peaceful and natural habitat of the cemetery. I'm impressed by his intrinsic motivation, good citizenship, and overall willingness to help out his community and give back through his personal time in such a busy world. Always
017eager to help, Finn does his best to be as active as possible and serve others by putting service above self, which is Interact Club's motto. Finn has been MVP of Interact Club's home room pretzel sales this year. His efforts have helped us raise money needed to make a difference in our community. Thank you to Finn for all of his efforts. Congratulations. All right. Okay. For our freshman class, we have Dan for Kodiak. You got this. All right. Join us in celebrating Daniel Foiaak as student of the month. Danny is a wonderful student in my honors biology class who consistently demonstrates both strong academic ability and admirable admirable personal qualities. He's an excellent lab partner, always willing to support and collaborate with his peers, and he approaches group work with patience and kindness. Danny's respectful and
018polite demeanor stands out, and he contributes positively to the classroom environment each day. In addition to his kindness, Dany shows a strong work ethic. He stays focused, puts in thoughtful effort, and takes pride in doing his best. I'm truly happy to have Danny in my class and appreciate the positivity and dedication he brings. Great job. Congrats. >> For sophomore class, our student of the month is Mary Fulton. Your teacher wrote, "Congratulations to Mary for being recognized for her outstanding dedication and service." Mary is often seen putting service above self, the Interact Club me Interact Club motto into action each and every day. She is very active in interact club through helping sell pretzels, participating in service projects, and always being willing to lend a hand whenever needed. Mary's kindness, positive attitude, and dedication to serving
019both our school and community do not go unnoticed. She consistently shows what it means to be a caring and involved member of Interact Club, and her efforts are greatly appreciated by everyone around her. We are very proud of Mary and thankful for the difference she makes through her service and commitment. Congratulations. Our junior class student of the month is Emma Schlowendor. I love this one. By the way, this is written by your teacher. We are excited to announce Emma Schlowendor as our student of the month. Of all the Schlowendors I know, Emma is definitely in the top five. Her participation in weekly Socratic sessions is always on point, asking thoughtful questions that engage her colleagues. Emma's document analysis of historical documents always impresses with an attention to detail that reminds us why we choose to
020teach. Miss Loendor has boundless energy and enthusiasm when it comes to community projects, whether it's her research with Project Memorial, the sweat equity she puts into all the projects in the envi in the environmental club, both on campus and off, and her dedication to the Veterans Day 5K. If this is her at 17, we cannot wait to see what she accomplishes out in the great wide open. Keep up the good work and my congratulations. The senior class student of the month is Dylan Gallagher. Okay, I'm gonna read what his teacher said about him and then I'm going to read what my son said about him because he's been such a good friend to our family. Congratulations to Dylan for being recognized for his outstanding effort and character. Dylan is one of the most respectful students
021I've ever had. He always comes to class with a positive attitude and I can consistently count on him to participate. He is dependable, polite, and sets a great example for his classmates. It is truly a pleasure to have Dylan as a student. We also wish him the best of luck next year as he attends Widner University where he will be majoring in biology and running track. We know he will continue to do great things in this next chapter. And this is what my son said. We were safeties on the same route in fourth grade. My post was a little past his, so we would walk out together. then he would leave his post a few minutes early and stay at mine. Thanks, Dylan. Okay, next we have some um teachers and staff that we would
022like to highlight for the month. Uh for a preschool in Havlin Avenue, we have Miss Gzerick. The Havlin Avenue staff member of the month for April is Mr. Retta Guess. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize and sincerely thank you for all the for the outstanding work you do each day for our prek through second grade school community. Your dedication, reliability, and care help create a safe, clean, and welcoming environment where our students can learn and grow. Working in an ear early childhood school requires patience, flexibility, and a strong commitment to children's well-being. And you consistently demonstrate all of these qualities. Whether you are preparing classrooms, responding quickly to unexpected situations, or assisting staff members, your efforts never go unnoticed. Young children thrive in environments that they feel secure and cared for, and
023the pride you take in your work contributes greatly to the positive atmosphere in our building. Your willingness to go above and beyond to support students, staff, and families reflects the important role you play in our school's success. Detta, thank you for your hard work, professionalism, and continued commitment to our school community. We truly appreciate all that you do each and every day. Congratulations on being selected as the Havlin Avenue staff member of the month. >> For Mansion Avenue, we have Mrs. McCertie. I am honored to announce El Elizabeth McCertie as teacher of the month in recognition of her exceptional dedication and leadership. Elizabeth works tirelessly for her fourth grade students, ensuring their academic and personal growth through every lesson. Beyond the classroom, she has made a lasting impact on our school community by founding and
024maintaining a thriving gardening club and garden at Mansion. Furthermore, she has taken on the significant responsibility of securing our visiting author and coordinated comprehensive activities associated with our one school one book initiative, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to fostering the love of literacy among all of our students. Congratulations and thank you for all that you do to make our school a wonderful place. And for the Ottabon Junior Senior High School, we have Mr. McGlaughlin. >> And children, >> he doesn't want to come up. >> Congratulations. >> They got me sweating already. >> We are proud to recognize Mr. Ryan McLaclin as the Ottabon Junior Senior High School teacher of the month. Through his role as social studies teacher, Mr. Mclaclin has demonstrated a strong commitment to both his profession and his students. His attention to detail
025detail, enthusiasm in the classroom, and dedication to creating meaningful learning experiences have made an immediate impact. Students benefit from his engaging approach and clear expectations, which help foster both academic growth and a positive classroom environment. In addition to his work in the classroom, Mr. McGlaughlin serves as an assistant wrestling coach, further exemplifying his dedication to our school community. His willingness to contribute beyond the school day speaks volumes about his character and commitment to student success. In his first year at Ottabon High School, Mr. McLaclin has quickly established himself as a valued member of the AHS family. His professionalism, energy, and student centered approach have gone not gone unnoticed. Congratulations, Mr. McLaclin, on this well-deserved recognition. >> All right. At this time, we would like to ask all of our honores to head over to the
026um folding doors over there. So, the glass doors so we can take everybody's picture. Students first look at teachers next. So students over All right. Ready? Go. Good job, guys. I don't know. >> I'm sure we appreciate you doing this for Let me take your picture. She was like, "Two nights in a row. You are >> handshake. >> Good handshake. That is certain. Everybody's back. Okay. >> I don't think we have that. I think we have one. >> All right. >> To continue with our meeting, we do not have any scheduled presentations for this evening. However, I do want to note that um on our agenda, we are recognizing our um high school students for their assistance with the preschool spring festival. And would you like to uh add anything? >> Just a few quick
027things. Uh NJSLA happened here at the high school, but also at Mansion. Um due to all of the preparation and things, it went off very well. Uh we've had very good attendance. couple of little, you know, technology glitches here and there to be expected, but all in all, it's been gone very, very well. Um, since our last board meeting, we did have Take Your Child to Work Day. That was also a fabulous event. We had a lot of students, a lot of students missing in our classrooms, but a lot of parents brought their kids and it was really, really a neat experience. Um, the spring festival at the Ottabon Park School was awesome with the Interact team. the uh teacher over there came over to to tell me personally how great the kids were with
028their leadership and the things that they did and what a fantastic uh opportunity that was. And mentioning Ottabon Park, I do want to give a shout out and a thank you to the Ottabon Park council and the mayor for having that meeting with us last week and being able to solidify the lease for us to take over the rest of the building and be able to expand our preschool program because that is a very exciting um thing for Ottabon as a whole to be able to expand that program. and we had a lot of details to work out and you will see that on tonight's agenda. >> Thank you very much. Next on the agenda is the approval of our board minutes. Can I have a motion to approve the minutes from April 15th executive
029session and April 15th public session? >> Motion. >> Roll call, please. Alison Cox, >> yes. >> Danielle De Franchesco, >> yes. >> Mark Addie, >> yes. >> Sarah Coen, >> yes. >> Alison Lipsky, >> yes. >> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Amy Davis, >> yes. >> Motion's passed. >> Thank you. >> All right. Next, we have our first public participation session. This will be on agenda items only. Is there anyone who wishes to make a comment on agenda items? All right, seeing that no one has stepped forward, we will continue on. We um have next governance. So, I would like to recognize Miss >> Lipsky. So we have some changes to some policies. Nothing nothing was too crazy. Uh basically we're talking about when we talk about
030board member number and term for receiving district that's we're dealing with mount with here in Ottabon and also anyone that is coming from Mount Ephraim and we always have one board member from Mount Ephraim and we also have board member election and appointment um services to non-public school students. Nothing really changed substantially. Student grievance changed. It looks much more substantial than it is, but essentially it's very similar process, just it has a more standard accepted range. So it's not it's not well during a certain period or as promptly as possible. it has specific terms, five, you know, school calendar days, 10 school calendar days or things of that nature. And so it's more consistent and it had shows it throughout. Um, if you were worried, if you went to look for a regulation for policy
0315710, there is none. And that is because the policy reads much like the regulation because it explains how to do it, which is usually what the regulation would do. But that's how it is written and that is how it shall be and emergency and crisis situations just updates that were mandatory and as needed. That was about it. We met about a month ago now. Our next meeting is next Tuesday. Uh we are still working on getting that AI plan and working with the AI task force. We are continuing also to review any updated updates that need to be done in the policies, but we are pretty since that audit, I think we are in a very good position. And so I don't believe we're going to be seeing any more. This hasn't been updated since
0322015. Okay, it's going to say, you know, we're we're going to be in the 21st century in the 20s. So something that's to be to be happy about. So that's basically where we are and I don't think we have anything more but really the big thing is the AI >> do we for the end of May I believe we have a separate I think May 30th I think 31st I think is when our next AI task force meeting is but I can pull that up. >> Listen I will spend weekends with all of you. Okay, hang on. Um, I'm just looking. >> Is that the That's the AI task force one is next Tuesday. Yes, >> that's our normal governance. But we try to what we try to do with AI task force is not
033have like a group of people um sitting there through policy right so we just focus on that so yes that is when we're having our ne next AI task forcegovernance committee meeting so we'll have everyone together all the stakeholders um and continuing to work on that >> yes and we have it at 6 pm is what Danielle is telling telling me I think we made it a little earlier just to make sure that >> is that what we did here. >> Yes. Because I can't remember what there's a concert. >> All right. So I will make sure I will make sure I email the whole task force committee so that we could all be there. Mortell. Um also I was going to tell the governance committee we did get a new alert. I did get
034a new green paper with a whole bunch of new. So although we're up to date, they're coming after me again. Um, so I will pass them along to you, Allison. Even though we may not address them next week, we can Yeah, we can at least We like when you go through them in advance and tell us if there's anything we have to worry about. >> Well, I will definitely do that. >> But I'm feeling like Prometheus right now. Wasn't that the one with the rock >> pushing up the hill? >> Yes. >> And then it would roll down and I have to push it up again. So, thank you. someone that angered the Greek gods. Look at us learning. >> So impressed right now. >> All right. Any questions, comments, discussion on non-aggenda items under
035governance. >> I would just like to note that I will be sharing a doc uh with you probably tomorrow so that we can start to sus out when our next retreat date, our summer retreat date is going to be. Yeah. Retreat. Yeah. Well, we don't go anywhere. we we come here, but >> retreat area. >> It's so sunny. >> Um yeah, so just be on the lookout for um for that doc to be shared with everybody and fill in your dates and hopefully we can come up with a good consensus. All right. Um can I get a motion on item number one under governance? >> Any questions, comments, or discussion on item number one? All right, roll call, please. >> Danielle G. Franchesco, yes. >> Mark Gaddy, >> Sarah Coen, >> Alison Lipsky, >> yes.
036>> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson. >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Alison Cox, >> yes. >> Amy Davis, >> yes. >> Motion passed. >> All right. Um, before I recognize Mr. Gaddy, I want to point out on page six of the agenda number six, it should read it is a motion to acknowledge safety drills conducted in April in the high school. And I also just wanted to note that I want to make sure I get the right number here. Number 34 under operations is a resolution that the New Jersey School Boards Association recommended that um all school boards in the state put on their agendas either in May or June and it's just you know coming out with one strong single voice asking for relief from legislators regarding um health care costs. So,
037we will be adopting that agenda and then sending it off to Trenton. And also, um, Miss Kelly Hinkle, who is the president of the Haden Township Board of Education, has shared an email with me and I will be sharing it with you as well. They're putting together um a task force to really begin a hardcore press in the fall to not only educate community members, but rally all of us together to again go up to Trenton and ask for the relief that we as local municipalities need. So I will forward that email to you. All right. Um so now I will recognize Mr. Atti. >> Okay. Uh, also item number 36, which is the uh lower schools. Uh, >> oh, is that >> Yes, that also says March, but it's April now. Okay. So, the
038operations subcommittee last met >> is this. Okay. Uh, we discussed the 26 27 lease agreement park burrow for the preschool building. Uh there was a meeting district and autobon representatives and the lease that they agreed on is on tonight's agenda. Uh for the 26 27th school year, the two new preschool classrooms will be at Havlin. uh work of adding two more classrooms at the Ottabon Park building will be done in house during the next school year using subcontractors where needed with the goal of having those rooms ready for two more rooms for the 2728 school year. Uh the Havlin classrooms, we got a a tour of them um are already meet most of the potty requirements of the state and only need some smaller adjustments like switching out co hooks for cubbies. The Ottabon Park
039work will involve getting the bathrooms up the code so they meet those requirements. We discussed the health benefit provider bids we've been receiving now that we are no longer tied to using the state health benefit program. We are being courted. Um which feels pretty good as a as a 50some year old. Uh we've received two and are still awaiting one more, but it looks like we will be able to reduce our cost very soon. We do need to give the state program 60 days notice once we sign with a private provider. So the hope is that we that will allow us to start a new plan on September 1st of this year. 10th >> Oh, potentially. Yes, absolutely. Uh Mr. Ron Casease presented information on the retirement contribution program that part-time employees are enrolled in
040and how it differs from the full-time employees pension program, which is something that came up during public comment at the last board meeting. uh and we discussed our professional services providers for the next school year which is the bulk of what we'll be voting on uh many of which are we are asking for in tonight's agenda. Also on tonight's operation agenda we have the usual fiscal items March's secretaries report cash reconciliation report and transfers and April's bills payable list. We have the safety drill reports for April. Um, a motion to approve authorize signitories for various accounts. A motion to approve petty cash amounts. Motions to approve the agreements we have with several neighboring districts to provide it and/or busing services. A motion to allow the superintendent and BA to close out the current school year
041budget. A motion to approve establishing a closed portion of the board meetings for the next school year to discuss any legally approved topics when needed. We are asked to approve three large donations. A generous $1,000 gener donation from Luke's Place to support the district's unified sports program. Luke's Place is a wonderful local nonprofit agency that seeks to provide resources to a much underserved community of young adults with special needs. Great people. a donation of $500 from the Mansion PTA, also great people, uh to Mansion's awardwinning, I want to say that every time, PBIS program and a donation of various merchandise valued at over $500 from Five Below Mount Laurel to that same PBIS program. Finally, we have the resolution um that the president had mentioned about uh health care cost. Um, I'll say that I
042had asked the community at the one of the budget meetings to uh contact state leaders. So, it's good that, you know, we actually do it as well. And our next operations committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2nd at the high school. >> Anything? >> I don't think I do. He was very thorough. >> Was extremely thorough. >> I can't think of anything else to add. Sorry. >> All right. Um, does anyone have any questions, comments, or discussion on non-aggenda items under operations? >> All right, then. Can I have a motion for items 1 to 35 under operations? >> We can even though the agenda It's >> a recommendation. >> Did we get a Did somebody make a motion on that? No, nobody made a motion on anything. All right, then. Can I Fine. Can
043I have a motion on items 1 to 38? >> Second. >> Roll call. Oh, questions or comments or discussion on items 1 to 38? See if my notes are any questions or comments. All right. Now, roll call, please. >> Mark Gaddy, >> yes. >> Sarah Coen, >> Alison Lipsky, >> yes. >> Andrea Robinson, >> Bill Wilson, >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Alison Cox, >> yes. >> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> yes. >> Amy Davis, >> yes. >> Motion's passed. >> Thank you. Okay, I'm just looking for red under education first. >> Okay. Um so under education on page 13 motion number seven the second field trip request uh for Havland Avenue all the way over the tripbus cost should be $95 paid for by the board of education. I think that's the only thing in
044red there. All right then I would like to recognize Miss Robinson for education. Um, our last meeting was on April 28th and we looked extensively at the pacing guides and the timeline for the pacing guides to be updated and what what they're going to look like. Um, we talked a little bit about summer work and then we talked extensively about walkthroughs and observations and who's doing what. Um, and then on tonight's agenda, there's facilities requests, conference requests, field trips requests, um, and the uh clinical practice experience requests. I think that's about it. You have anything to add? >> Yes. I just wanted to expand a little bit on the um lesson plans and the pacing guides. It was a new new procedure that was implemented at the high school and I'm happy to say that
045we had 100% compliance in it. I'm very proud of the high school staff for all of the progress that we've made with it. And I want to give a special shout out to Mr. Sylvester who created this I don't know if it's a program or a template or a I don't know spreadsheet thing a really cool program that we're using that does lesson plans pacing guides it does a backward design of the uh back tracing what standards are being hit. It's going to be an invaluable tool. We just started it this year. We were hoping that we would get buy in and we got more than we expected. I'm very excited over using the summer to be able to look at that, see where the areas are that our curriculum is not hitting everything that
046we want to and now having like real tangible information to be able to use to build and um improve our programs in the 7 to 12. It was it was a big lift and he has supported the PD all year. He's helped the teachers with it all year. So just very very proud of how that project came through. Any questions, discussion on non-aggenda items under education? Okay. Then can I have a motion for items one through nine? Any questions, comments on items one through nine? All right, roll call, please. >> Sarah Cen, >> Alison Lipsky, >> yes. >> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. Alison Cox, Danielle D. Franchesco, Mark Gaddy, Amy Davis. >> Yes. >> Motions passed. >> All right. I just want to make sure there's no
047red under multiple pages under HR. Didn't do much in HR. I have to admit I'm happy this time of year. Sorry, Mr. Steven Wilson. Oh, there we go. Page 33. Crazy to even say page 33. Um, under Roman numeral 18, the date should be five slash one2026. I think so. Okay. Now, I will recognize Mr. Steven Wilson for human resources. >> Thank you, Miss Davis. Uh the HR committee met last night. Um we started on time at 7, but we started the meeting at the Mansion A Coral concert, which was a lot of fun. And I wish all of I know. I wish all of our meetings were that fun. Um the kids were adorable. Mr. E rocked it as usual and the support staff. Um I'm glad we didn't have softball practice last night
048because half of my 12U Ottabbon DB seals, they're playing tonight. Half of them were in the Carl concert last night. Um so we did the concert and then we had our meeting um our next excuse me um we spoke on the openings for next year uh 26 27 two preschool one is on the agenda right now uh sixth grade ELA high school special ed the two part-time music teachers for um the high school and the middle school uh LDTC which Miss Allen you're going to have to remind me what that acronym learning disability teacher consultant. I'm not in education and there's so many acronyms that I still don't know them all. I've been doing this now four years. Uh our paras and our custodians. Um we reviewed administrative contracts for the coming year. Um we
049had discussion about the music program. Um Miss Ronase was very firm in her assertion that there was no money for full-time at this point. Um, we're hoping that we will find some money throughout the year. Um, the good news is we had 21 applicants for the two part-time positions, which I think is a pretty robust pool to choose from. Uh, we still have two more days to collect, so that number might have changed since yesterday. Um, part of that process is going to be, you know, asking if they're open to full-time positions, if we can grow the the program. Um, ultimately it the program doesn't justify the two full-time positions, which is what Miss Allen discussed last meeting. Um, I do want to again appreciate express my appreciation to the public that did come out
050in support of the music program. Um, we really took that to heart. We discussed it. We want to see that program grow and we're hoping uh to get two solid part-time people in this year and then see that program grow again the numbers that it once was. Uh, all right. And then the agenda tonight, it is the bulk of this packet. So, are we ready? We have motions to uh accept some letters of reg resignation and uh retirements. We are motioning to approve a tenure track preschool teacher. Miss Cassidy, is she here? Oh, she left our she was here earlier. She was a former member of the board. Um so we're thrilled to see her um teaching full-time, although we do miss her on the board. Uh motion to approve Keys employees um transfers and
051changes FMLA and the fun reappoint of everybody. So I will kind of go through this. I'm not going to go through everyone. We have we have all the staff and we are very grateful for the staff. We appreciate you. We're happy to reauthorize your contracts for next year. Um if you are feeling sleepy tonight and can't get to bed, go ahead and read all of these names numbers. It is pretty extensive. Um reauthorized appointment of the maintenance ground staffs, the custodial staff, the administrative staffs, the part-time staffs, non-tenured aids, um tenure contracts for part-time aids, part-time tenure aids, all of our various administrative assistants, accounts payable clerks, payroll, etc. Um, don't think that I don't appreciate all the work everyone's doing by not going through each line item, but as you said, we were on
052page 33 for changes, so not going to do that. um the administrators, the principles, assistant principles, um our directors of facility maintenance, um approving the ESY program, the staff members on those, the learning disabilities teacher consultant. Thank you for that acronym. um part-time general ed pair professionals. Motion to approve collective summer hours for the child study team members, anti-bullying specialists, the various There's just a lot here. I see why you don't envy this position anymore, Miss Davis. Um approve Miss Wrong case. I know she's like loving this. Um, the school counseling team, the high school guidance counselors, the administrative staff members, title nine, Mr. Burke, uh, for various positions, uh, Mr. Miller, Miss Smeltzer, Miss Augenstein, Mr. Kley. Motion to approve Miss Allen's new salary. And then we get into the coaching. So we have
053paid fall coaching positions, ticket takers, uh football personnel, unpaid coaching positions, bus drivers, graduation portfolios, staff members to attend the building thinking classrooms, which sounds kind of cool. Um, buyback vacation days for administrators. Uh, approve the senior trip to Disney. Congratulations, seniors. Um, color guard clinic. And I think that's it. Ryan, put that uh put that in your calendar. It's going to be official in a in a minute. Yes, that's true. I shouldn't presume. We could vote that down. Um, again, I want to thank the whole staff. Obviously, we couldn't do it without you. Um, you all play an important role in the development of our children in the district, and we're deeply appreciative of all the hard work that you do, truly. Um, so I'm happy and proud to approve you for another year,
054and uh, I hope my colleagues up here agree. >> Well done, Mr. Wilson. All right. Any questions, comments, or discussion on non-aggenda items under HR? Okay. Then can I have a motion for items one through I want to make sure I have it correct. 76. Any questions, comments, or discussion on items one through 76? If you really want to, I will. >> Okay. >> All right. Roll call, please. >> Alison Lipsky, >> yes. >> Andrea Robinson, >> yes. >> Bill Wilson, >> yes. >> Steven Wilson, >> yes. >> Alison Cox, >> yes. >> Danielle D. Franchesco, >> Mark Gaddy, >> Sarah Cen, >> Amy Davis, >> yes. >> Motion's passed. Thank you very much. All right. Um, next on the agenda, you can see our reports. There are no HIP reports uh on the agenda
055for the month of April. And we have our student enrollment report. And then we have our special program representatives. So, Mr. Steven Wilson, anything for ED services? >> Uh, they had a meeting May 6th. uh went over routine financial and business approvals, shared services continue um continued approval of transportation quotes uh and major route contract transfers. Um extended paving and related services, um some staffing stuff, approved the calendars for the programs next year. Uh they also had a huge annual reappoint of staff uh and deferred on expanding non-public services into Burlington County. So that's something they're discussing but have not decided on yet. Uh as usual, not much applicable to Ottabon, but keep an eye on it. Thank you. >> For Camden County School Boards, Miss Robinson. Um, I went to the spring meeting on
056May 7th, which was the Camden and Gloucester County joint awards. They had a very inspiring presentation by the Gloucester Teacher of the Year and the Camden County Teacher of the Year. Um they went over some of the details of uh Camden County School Boards and Gloucester County School Boards. Um then there were a bunch of recognitions that I was particularly excited about, but that the person I wanted to see recognized wasn't there. So not everyone was there for their recognitions. But there was one woman who sat across from me and she got her 30, no her 40 years of service. Yeah, I was trying to do the math on that one. Um, and yeah, it was loved it. Yeah, >> thank you very much. All right, Ed Foundation, Miss >> Thank you, Mrs. Davis AEF
057met this past Monday for a sort of wrapup for the year. We discussed um the success of the festival of lights as well as the night of the races. Um thank you to all those who came out for night of the races. It was a great fundraiser. Um it was at a different location this year so there was some question about whether it would draw a good crowd or not. My understanding is the crowd was a little bit smaller but still filled up quite a bit of the space and made the event successful. There is hope to bring it back to Ottabon Park next year. Um supposedly the roof of that building is under construction now. They're saying maybe it'll be ready by the summer. We think that's maybe ambitious, but um by the next
058time the Night of the Races comes around. Hopefully that will be in place for that. Um there's some discussion about timing for night at the races. Um, historically it had been in the fall, but because of the Festival of Lights fundraiser, it felt a little close, especially for soliciting um, donations and sponsorships and things like that. So, potentially having that um, early early winter next year, early early into 2027. Um, but those dates aren't finalized yet or anything. This was the last meeting of the year, so AEF will be meeting again come September. Um, this is D. Franchesco for community outreach. Yes, thank you um to everybody that's been um coming out to a lot of these um awesome uh events that we've had the past month. Uh we still have quite a bit more
059to go through the rest of May. Um I'm looking at like 15 just right here. Um, so if you haven't had the chance to look at them yet, I am now sending a message once a week to remind everyone. Um, and I just realized that the art show wasn't on there. Um, which is on the 28th at Freedom Hope Church at 7. Awesome. Uh, thanks guys. And so, um, I just was adding that on there because there are some things that aren't on the calendar. So, I'm trying to kind of find out what I can find out. Um, but if you know of anything, please take a look at the calendar because I might be missing something. Um, and the band concert was awesome last week. Uh, and that's all I had. I just I
060wanted to bring a sample product from Ottabon Day. This is what we had uh as our craft at the board table. The kiddos really enjoyed making pin wheels. A lot of them didn't know what a pin wheel was. So we and it was a windy day, so it was it was >> it just would fly. Yeah, it was great. So um we had a lot of kids that came over to the table and it was it was a really good day. It was the right call. The weather held off. I think it didn't start to rain. Thank you very much to the uh committee in charge of that. Didn't start to rain, I think, until we cleaned up. So um it was a good day. It was a lot of fun. Okay, next. Wait, can
061I just make one one pitch? Um, >> Haden Township Pride is coming up the beginning of June. Already getting some cool stuff to throw and anyone is invited to join us to walk. So, if you're a student, a teacher, a kid, um a parent, a grandparent, a special person, and you would like to walk in the parade with the board of education, we are happy to have you. We always have fun things to throw and it's a good time and it's a short flat walk the way God intended parades to be. A short flat walk that might be coming from a person with bad knees, but it would be it's a great time. So if you can't walk with us, if you want to hang out, everyone just is very happy, appreciative, and just it's
062a day of support. >> I feel like it would also be great to advertise like to all the students if I tell all the clubs and things like that because we have a lot of clubs that are very supportive especially and just advertise to the whole school because it's really fun to go and be in pride. It's Thursday, June 4th at 6 PM in Haden Township. Uh we just got our confirmation of registration. Uh parade lineup and arrival information will be sent to us by the 27th. But usually they have us getting set up at Westmont station in the parking lot there. So I don't think it's going to change because that's where everything starts. >> It says park at the Collingswood or Hadenfield Packco stations and ride one stop to the West Westmont Paco
063station for checkin. Um, where am I? Orientation committee. No, wait. Ad hoc committee. Sorry, Mr. Wilson. Skipped over you. >> Um, so we met with uh I met with Mr. Representative Greenwood from Mount um we met to watch one of the one of the terrible Sixers losses and that was fine. But then we uh we discussed some things for the upcoming agenda. Um some items that we wanted to talk about uh for the end of the year and beginning of the year moving forward. Um we have our date for our next meeting coming up. Um but he also mentioned to me and I wasn't able to go last night there was a great uh eighth grade game night joint mount from right here in this room. He was planning on attending. He did. He told
064me, I just want to quote, that it went really well and by the end the kids were really interacting together. It was great time and he felt really encouraged about it. So, I I really like that. So, we're doing some things to really bring the kids together a little earlier and um and and we're looking to just encourage more of these partnerships. So, um that's the focus of our next meeting primarily. >> Yeah. Yes, that was great. was like um you know like a a relaxed interaction. >> Yeah. >> Not anything that >> Mario Kart was booked. You couldn't get It was It was >> said it was awesome. >> That's great. I love that. >> I peakedked my head in last night and they looked like they were having fun. >> I also added
065to the calendar the uh Kershaw art and music concert. I just thought if we have a couple of things that are happening at Kershaw coming up that might be a good thing way for us to kind of let our students know and our town know that's happening on the 21st six o'clock. Now, Miss Lipsky for board member orientation really have any new folks, but so what I've decided is that this is part of orientation and everything was kind of crazy as we were all trying to figure out different roles, positions, da da da da da da. So, as part of board member orientation committee, I'm going to be reaching out to my fellow chairpeople so that we could have the chairpeople meeting that we had had in the past that all of us felt was
066very helpful to kind of see where all the committees were and where they would like to kind of see us move forward in the future. Um, Miss Cox and Miss Davis, we'll have to thumb wrestle as to which one of you will attend. You both can't go. you know how upset you are that she got there first, >> but so I will >> I will be reaching out and we'll put some dates for the evening or also during the day, but I'll kind of throw that out and see what works best for everyone and then hopefully we can do that. Um, it probably would also be good if we did that before the summer retreat because that would help us kind of know where we want to kind of go with the summer retreat. So,
067um, just kind of put that in your brain as something that's going to be coming, but I'll probably be coming in a day or two. So, that's about all board member comments. >> I got something. I got something. Hold on. I got something. Oh. Um, Havlin PTA last night did a uh an event that I couldn't go to because I had to be at my job, but my wife and kids went, had a great time. It was book bingo. And they did a great job. And they're um they're really trying to organize events and and they're they're trying to get their footing. They have on PTA. And so they're really looking for um people to help out as much as possible. And they have They're setting their focus now on the next event which is
068the black top bash and they really want to try to get some volunteers out. So they said there will be a volunteer communication for volunteers to sign up in the next week. Uh Denise who runs the PTA there said that she's going to put that out next week and she really is looking for as much help as she can get. Uh they um they are trying to do some fundraisers. So there's local businesses that want to do baskets for raffles and stuff like that. they're they're really interested in trying to get as much as they can uh because they're trying to get some fundraising going and and get that group really u firing on all cylinders. So, um so look out for that communication and if you can help, please do. also attended the spring
069book fair at Mansion Avenue which is they have an they have like one evening night so I was able to go and in the spring it's buy one get one free oh yeah this economy so it was a lot of fun and now my one little cousin is getting a lot of stuff and I'm going to have to go and pay full price because the other one's much younger and there was nothing for her there so that's okay but they're going to be very happy. It was really awesome. It's always done very well. So, and I believe the PTA is the one that sponsors that. Always really well done. >> Steve Francesca, are you putting in um all the end of school activities that are going on as you get them? I apologize for not
070looking at that, but like I remember last year I missed the Memorial Day Havlin concert because we didn't have a date for it. So, there's like all these fun things that are coming up. It's on there. All right. Very cool. >> Engrave Memorial Show. >> Yeah. >> Yes, it's on there. 22nd. >> I was really disappointed I missed it last year because it's so cute. >> I am scouring >> all the PTA websites. >> There's so much going on. So, I appreciate the athletics. I haven't barely even touched. And then what's going on in the community um Ottabbon Park, Mount Ephraim, there's a lot going on which is awesome. But yes, I am trying. >> Great job. No, you are doing a great job. I might not know about a lot of those things and
071I'll find it. >> Yeah, because I know we all have very busy calendars, but if we have heads up, we can if there's a gap in the calendar, we can fit it in there. >> Yes, definitely. >> Because we do want to make sure we're showing our support for the various clubs and activities. >> Yes. And we had the CPAC meeting tomorrow night which is virtual and as long as the link actually does appear before 7 o'clock or 6:30, I plan on attending because it didn't appear last time. >> Yeah. And I just wanted to Thank you for sending out the weekly reminders of that because it it just it really does like put it back front and center. >> No problem. I think about it on Monday and then usually by Wednesday I actually
072send it. >> No, that's that's been great. That's been great to have. It really has. All right. Any other board member comments? >> Mr. Robinson, will the preschool students who are attending Havland be able to use the keys program? No, I can't remember what the reason is, but no. But we are exploring um I actually had a meeting today at Havlin with Miss Ledger um and Mr. Burke and Miss Costl and that was one of the topics that came up. There's five districts around us that have a before and after care. They all have she's got a chart. I don't have it in front of me. They all have a different thing that they do. um she's been in contact with some of the one of the one of the five neighboring districts said we
073use blah blah blah and I wouldn't recommend doing that. So that one came off. Uh one of them is doing it themselves an internal thing kind of like our keys and then there was three other that had agencies that they use. So she's working on getting all of the information for us about to see how what fiscal responsibility would be. Some of them are rather expensive obviously that's on the parents and whatever but we're worried about a space. For example, at Ottabon Park, there's no like cafeteria or gymnasium or multi-purpose room and things like that. So, we're really trying to figure out how to make some of those things work in the space that we have. So, we are exploring them. I don't see us having something for September. I am hopeful that we can
074have a lot better picture as we go through the school year next year and maybe for the following year be able to have a plan. >> That just jarred my memory. probably should have bought this stuff in operations. How's the the keys the new keys payment program working? >> It's not >> that is non-existent right now. We had to switch >> uh from what we had uh it was not as they looked into it I for I even forget the name of it at this point. Jack Rabbit. >> Jack Rabbit. Yeah. >> It was not conducive to our payment schedule um and how we have so much flexibility. It was more of you pay this for this month whether you come or don't come and that's not how our program runs. >> So we did
075just sign up with a new um company and we are in the process of testing it out. Um it's just the information you have to put into it first. It's called >> regge pack. So >> again it wasn't sort of a flop for this school year. Um, but we're we do have some we are going another alternative. >> You guys have me pretty hyped up about that. But I'm not even I don't even care. I'm so excited about what you just said about the Keys after care or the the afterare program at the preschool potential and exploring options that great. That's awesome. And I'm really excited about that. Uh because I think a lot of families would love it. Uh and I know sometimes it cost more, but you know, it's it's worth it for
076some families to get that. And I'm really glad to hear that. So, thanks. >> That was that was actually another topic of discussion was we need to find out exactly how many families it would benefit. So, that's kind of a hard thing to do. So, through the year next year, we're going to survey the people that are in preschool, how many of you would have, what kind of rates would you be willing to pay to help us determine, but it's forecasting, which is always very difficult, but we don't know. Is it 20 people that needs it? Is it five people that need it? Is it 100 people that need it? Like it's hard to plan when we don't have that data. >> Part of the trick is some people end up not pursuing our program
077because they can't >> and so then you can't even survey them. That that gets tricky. I'm going to open up the second public participation session. And this would be um on anything. It does not have to be an agenda item. We just ask that you come up, state your name and your address. Trisha Martell, president of AEA. I just wanted to piggyback on your comment about the book bingo last evening. Um, the Ottbon Education Association has made efforts to use grant funds we have access to through the as members as part of the NJA to sponsor a variety of activities throughout the district. Uh, we were a sponsor of an AEF um, help me festival of lights. What do we call them? Stations. >> Light display. Thank you. Um, and if we'd been planning ahead
078sufficiently, we would have also sponsored a horse for Night at the Races, but we did not have that on our calendar next year goal. I wrote it down. Um, but I want I would be remiss if I didn't point out the fact that part of book bingo is as a result of Miss Phillips writing a grant and then um provide providing some of the books for for last all all of the books sorry all of the books for last evening's book bingo. So we look for opportunities to partner with community organizations especially the PTAs. Thank you. Anyone else? All right. Um, we are going to need to go into a brief second executive session. No action will be taken. But before I ask for a motion on that, I just want to note that our
079next meeting again is on a a different Wednesday due to graduation. The next meeting will be Wednesday, June 10th at 7 PM and we will be here in the Junior Senior High School Media Center. So, having said that, can I have a motion?