001He sent another one and it has the time on it because I asked the same question. It was all day. Good evening. I'd like to call the meeting to order at 7:01. Can we have a moment of silence, please? Please stand for the flag salute. I pledge allegiance 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. All right. Roll call. Mr. Kenny here. Mrs. Bllystein here. Miss Katherine Bllyestein here. Mr. Bramhol. Miss Falconero here. Miss Aone here. Mr. Mer here. Mr. Trump. Miss Fitzwater present. Statement is hereby made that adequate notice of this meeting was given by submission of said notice to the Burlington County Times, the Courier Post, the Cinnamonson Township Clerk, and the district
002website on the following dates. January 17th, 2024 and January 8th, 2025. Now moving on to section four, routine business. We have the board secretaries report for February of 2025. The treasur's report for February of 25. The receipts and appropriations adjustments for February of 25. The monthly transfer report for February of 25. The high school activities report uh for March of 25. The food service management cost performance statement for March of 25. certified bill list uh ending 49 of 2025 and the approval of minutes the regular minutes from March 18th of 25. Mr. Kenny, can I have a motion to approve section four routine business items A through H. So moved. Second. Second. Thank you, Mr. Maker. Comments or questions from the board. Hearing none, we'll take a vote. Miss Blestein. I I I I I
003I I motion approved. Moving on to routine matters. Uh section five, we have the enrollment report as of April 11th of 25, the health report for March of 25, the fire alarm report for March, the crisis drill report, and the superintendence monthly report. Mr. Capello. Thank you, Mrs. Fitzwwater. Thank you, members of the board. welcome members of the public to our regular board meeting. Like to begin my remarks with a couple points of recognition. First, we just recently celebrated on April 1st the 40th annual invention convention. Uh that 40 is a significant number as it is quite a lot of history that went into that event and this year's event was uh exceptional and we will hear a little bit more about the invention convention in a little bit. But I did want to recognize
004uh the invention convention coordinator, Lauren Coker, and her assistant, Miss Gabriella Lopez, and all of our wonderful winners on a job well done. Again, more to come on invention convention. I'd like to congratulate Miss Janine Miller, New Alby's faculty member of the month for last month. Uh the week of April 7th through the 11th is assistant principles week. So, I'd like to recognize our assistant principles in the district at New Alb School, Miss Janette Oliver at the Rush School, Miss Genie Apt at the middle school right here, Miss Nelson and Mr. Riley, of course, at the high school, Mrs. Calazad and Mr. Wilkinson, assistant principal is often an underappreciated job and uh we would not be able to run our schools without their diligent work and we certainly appreciate them. Uh speaking of principal recognition,
005I'd like to take a moment right now to offer a special congratulations to our colleague, Mr. Ryan Gorman, who was recognized by his colleagues from throughout Burlington County with the Burlington County Principles and Supervisors Visionary Leader of the Year Award. So, this is a significant award given to Mr. Gorman. I don't normally pause for applause during my remarks, but congratulations, Mr. Gorman. Looks like other members of the county are out in support of you this evening. So, job well done, Mr. Gorman. You represent us well. Uh, speaking of appreciation, uh, before we meet again, May 6th, um, or the second week of May will be teacher appreciation week. I want to thank all of the businesses in town and beyond who have been working with our uh staff recognition committee to show their appreciation to
006our fine educators and ESPs in the district uh to thank them for all that they do and of course our home and school association who rolls out the red carpet for our educators during that week. I wanted to update the public uh before our next meeting you will see an updated and revised districtwide cinnamonson.com website and all new school web pages. uh we're looking to bring uh in a new CMS provider and to provide some unified communications going into the next school year and the first step of that will be a new uh fresh website. Uh so we'll look forward to uh demonstrating that before the next board meeting. Uh also wanted to give an update to the members of the public on our prek initiative. You've heard me talk about it if you've been
007to these meetings in the past. I did want to point out this sign right here in front of me. You may have seen them around town. Uh we're trying to get the word out to every corner of town. uh if your young folks will be three and four by October 15th. We'd love to have you enter the lottery. We'd also love to get to the point where someday we maybe don't need a lot and we have a space for everyone. Uh that is a five-year ramp up and we're working really hard towards getting there. And I thank my colleagues on the board uh for making that a huge initiative and we would look forward to getting as many students enrolled uh as possible. We want to make sure that you don't miss the lottery which
008does close tomorrow night at midnight. So, if you know anybody else in town, I would appreciate you're helping to get out the message uh to let them know to sign up for the lottery, and we'll look forward to selecting the students for that lottery uh just after spring break, right before the end of the month. Uh speaking of some updates in the district, uh a couple months ago, the board appointed a referendum committee. referendum committee is looking forward to meeting on April the 30th uh to really begin the work of reviewing architectural plans and to reach out uh to the community to other board members and establishing some subcommittees uh to do a little bit more exploring into what it would look like to possibly add some square footage to our district. If you are
009a parent at New Albany or Rush, you know that uh there is no more room at the end and uh we're looking to try to alleviate some of the overcrowding uh particularly at New Albby and Rush. So, uh, lots of work ahead and we'll look forward to keeping the public updated, uh, as that initiative continues. Uh, I'd also like to mention and invite members of the public out to our public hearing which will take place on April 29th at 5:00 p.m. where we will present the fiscal year 2025 2026 budget. With that, Mrs. Fitzwater, that is the superintendent's report. Thank you, Mr. Capello. Um, Mr. Trump, can I have a motion to approve section five, routine matters, items A through E? Motion second. Second. Thank you, Miss Blstein. Uh, comments or questions from the board?
010Hearing none, we'll take a vote. Miss Falcano. I I I I I I I I motion approved. Moving on to section six, the student representative reports. First from the high school, we will hear from Gwen Shakonssky. Good evening, everyone. The Golden Apple Award winner for the month of April is Dr. Sha McGee, who was nominated by Matson Zimmerman and Allison Yodas. The students of the month for March are as follows. Class of 2025, Addison Evans. Class of 2026, Lindseay Peron. Class of 2027, Tegan Fidala. And class of 2028, Mia Hamill. For spring sports, the baseball team's current record is 4 and three after defeating Delran 2 to1. The team's captains are Noah Harvey, Anthony Allison Jron, and Charlie Kind. The softball team's current record is 3 and one after defeating Delran 7 to three yesterday.
011The team's captains are Hannah Derby, Madden Ritler, and Ellie Zarnowski. The girls lacrosse team record is currently 4-0. The team's captains are Riley Fidala, Megan Nelson, Siri, and Ava Senavage. Shout out to Megan Nelson for reaching her career 200th goal. The boys lacrosse team is currently 5- one. The team captains are Shay McDevit, Sotti Gant, Doug Nelson, and RJ Sewick. Also, special shout out to Shay McDevit for reaching his 100th career point. The track and field team participated in the Dan Danzer Invitational at Rancokas Valley Regional High School. At the relays, Shila Moore placed first in the triple jump. Kellen Kohler placed first in the 400 meter hurdles. The team of Abby Sherlock, Emmy Keeports, Elena Kieran, and Jenna Kirstston took first place in the varsity 4x8. The boys tennis team's current record is 8-0
012after a 4 to1 victory over Gateway. The team's captain is Drew Harvey. The team participated in the Burlington County Open on Monday in Veterans Park. The golf team's current record is 7-0. The team captains are Mariela de Christopharro, Tyler Harris, and Matson Zimmerman. The boys volleyball team current record is 4-6. The team captains are Timmy O' Connor and Josh Luben. The junior class is hosting this year's junior and senior prom with the theme of old Hollywood. The prom will be held Friday, May 16th at the Brooklyn Bowl in Philadelphia from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. NHS members are holding tutoring sessions every Tuesday in the library from 2:15 to 2:45. Students are able to get any academic help they need. During March, the Spanish club celebrated Women's History Month by learning about notable women of Hispanic
013culture via slideshow presentation and videos. Some of the amazing women who were discussed were Ellen Ocha, Selena, and Freda Callo. The Unifi Club rocked their socks on March 21st to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day. students worked hard to design their own special socks with fabric paint to tank home. Thank you. Thank you, Gwen. Uh, now we will hear from the middle school representative Noah Bundy. Good evening. The March students of the month are sixth grader Msa De Marlo Golding, seventh grader Brian Campbell, and eighth grader Minuan. Mrs. Rose Adams, office secretary, was the faculty member of the month for March. Congratulations. Spring sports have started. We are excited for some spring weather and sunshine. Girls softball A beat Hannesport yesterday with great efforts by all. Girls softball B also had a great win yesterday against
014Paul Robersonson Charter. With these wins, girls A softball record went to 5-1 and girls B softball went to three and three. Girls A Lax played Harrington Mount Laurel yesterday. Goals were scored by Bella Dilva, Paige Hall, Maddie Pace, Maddie Otis, and Sophia Anderson, who each scored one goal, and Zoe S, who scored three goals. Haley R had several saves, but we came up short with a score of 10 to eight with Harrington winning. Girls B has a game today. Girls A record is now 1 and three, and girls B is now 2-2. Boys A baseball played Hannesport and won 5 to zero. Logan Fidala and Joey Pla combined for a shutout while pitching. The record is now 4-2. Boys B baseball had a big win yesterday against Paul Robersonson Charter which gives them a record
015of 31 and one. The CMS drama club had a successful drama show. Congratulations to the entire cast. The Unity Club hosted Unity Night on March 19th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Unity Night is a new event for adults with disabilities in the community. The students participated in crafts, games, and various activities and eat snacks. They had a great time and the staff who helped had fun with them, too. CHS Home and School Association held a night of family fun and entertainment with the Harlem Wizards and Cinnamonson staff members. The game was held on Saturday, March 22nd at 6:30 p.m. It was definitely a memorable experience. April was Autism Acceptance Month, and this year's theme in New Jersey is celebrate differences. Kick off the month, Cinnamonson staff were encouraged to wear bright multicolored clothing on Monday,
016April 7th. Some important dates coming up are Wednesday, April 16th, report cards issued online. Thursday, April 17th, Pirate Pride Thursday. Friday, April 18th to Friday, April 25th, spring break. Wednesday and Thursday, April 30th, and May 1st, NGSLA science testing for 8th grade only. Wednesday to Friday and Monday to Tuesday, May 7th, 8th, 9th, 12th, and 13th. NJSLA math, and ELA for all grades. Thank you and I hope you all have a great night. Thank you, Noah. Thanks, Noah. And because we had such a great representative from Rush last month, we decided to do it again. Uh we will now hear from the Rush School student representative, Brooke Gallagher. Good evening. My name is Brooke Gallagher and I'm a fifth grade student in Miss A. Kelly and Miss Judge's class. The March students of the month
017are as follows. McKenzie Bobby for third grade, Isis Waters for fourth grade, Cole Boys for fifth grade, and Eva McInness, who received the specialist nomination from Mr. Angelone. These students consistently go above and beyond the US expectations and serve as role models for their classmates. The 40th annual invention convention was held on Tuesday, April 1st. The invention convention showcased students creativity and problem solving skills as they designed and presented innovative product projects. The following students will be be recognized tonight for their outstanding inventions. Isabella Mosley, Elizabeth McCoy, and Emma Capaceco. On April 2nd, the fourth grade spring concert took place. It was a lively performance featuring Disney's favorites. Rush School's next big performances include Willy Wonka Kids set to take place on May 19th and May 21st, as well as the district strings concert on
018May 22nd featuring Rush Strings students and the district band concert scheduled on May 29th. We hope to see you there. On Friday, April 11th, the winning fifth grade team from Rush School participated in the Burlington County Battle of the Books competition at St. Mary of the Lakes competing against 12 teams. The Rush team took third place. The winners are Finn Conurs, Juliana Ferrron, Arya Cutler, Elizabeth Bayer, Kylie Cologne, and John Fasinelli. There are many exciting events and field trips coming up. Fourth grade students will visit the New Jersey State House in April and May 5th. Fifth grade students are scheduled to visit historical Philadelphia on May 16th. And third grade students are excited for the trip to the Franklin Institute on May 27th. Lastly, permission slips went home for fourth and fifth graders who will
019visit Camp Aanin during the first week of June. Thank you for listening and have a wonderful evening. Thank you, Brooke. You speak better than I do. Right. And now we're going to move on to section seven uh of the agenda presentations. Uh first we're going to have a board of education recognizing some sentiments and students for their out outstanding achievement. If my colleagues, the principles would join me up here for the student recognition. I could definitely say that this is always the best part of any board meeting. We have an opportunity not just to talk about the great things that are happening, but to welcome some of our students out. I'm so glad that uh so many of you were able to make it out this evening. I know there's a million things going on.
020We're in the height of uh spring sports and uh so many activities that our students are involved in. So, I think it's important to take a second uh to recognize the students and their exceptional achievements. We have just a few awards this evening uh compared to other months where this has taken uh more significant amount of time. So, with that, I'd like to introduce Mrs. Jones, principal of the new Albany School, who will do our first set of award winners. Thank you, Mr. Capello. Thank you to the board. This evening, I'd like to recognize three students who placed in the invention convention. If those three students can come up and stand over here with us. All right. So, I did want to say thank you to Miss Coker, Mr. Perupka, as well as um Miss
021Gabby Lopez from the high school for all of their hard work in making the invention convention this year a fabulous event. Uh while I was there supervising, the kids not only got to participate in a Home Depot workshop, they also had hands-on activities with some STEM workshops as well. So, it was a fun day for all. I'd first like to recognize Stephen Kajowski who placed first with his invention of the [Applause] frozenator. Placing in second was Enzo Capacco with his invention of the silverware saver. [Applause] And then finally, we have Giannis Geianopoulos, who was third place with his dog superstar bag. Congratulations to these three students. It's [Applause] not. If I could have Isabella come join over at the side, that would be wonderful. Thank you so much. So, from the Rush School coming up
022with incredible innovations and inventions seems to be in the family business. Taking first place for Rush, we have Emma Capacco for her cushy socks. In second place for Rush, not present this evening due to an athletic event, is Miss Elizabeth McCoy with her number one pencil. Congratulations to Elizabeth. And in third place for her snacks saver, we have Miss Isabella Mosley. Congratulations. [Applause] Okay. Good evening. I am very happy to present our middle school winner for the invention convention. Aiden, would you come on up here? Mr. Aiden Arcano. Aiden won for his invention of the catastrophes codable action figures. So he found that you only really code when you are when you are in maybe computer class, tech class. And this is a great way for children to play with one another while using their
023coding skills. So congrats to Aiden. [Applause] And next up, I have two young ladies who both placed in the All South Jersey Honors Orchestra. If Isabella Ceruo and I don't believe Nessa is here, but Nissa Kabuk both placed in our honors orchestra. Isabella for playing the viola and Nissa for the violin. Congratulations to them both. [Applause] And next up we have Mr. Ryan Gorman from the high school. I'm always impressed by the quality of the inventions at the invention conventions. I think they all really have real world capabilities and and so often I wish they were in in real manufacturing existence right now. This year was no exception. Uh, in first place at the high school, we had Charlotte Zoo and Katherine Smith with their lower limb prosthetic innovation. [Applause] Oh, we're doing okay. In
024second place, we had Tamaya Pottinger with her Aqualum selfwatering LED pot. [Applause] And in third place, we had Michael Ginhardt with the Sleeps Smart app. [Applause] Uh, I have one more award I want to present real quickly. Uh, not real quickly, with all due adoration. Uh, it's a it's an award that's near and dear to Mike's heart. Uh, senior at CHS. Uh, Ben Tionoff achieved the rank of Eagle Scout last month, uh, at his, uh, board of event. [Applause] Congratulations again, Ben. Eagle Scout is the highest honor for the Boy Scouts. And uh I don't know if you're all aware of this, but you were just presented that by a fellow Eagle Scout, Mr. Gorman. So, lots of accolade for Mr. Gorman this evening. Uh one more piece of recognition real quick, and I'm going
025to hand it over to the board president, Mr. Laura Fitzwwater. As I mentioned earlier this evening, this was the 40th year that the Cinnamonson Invention Convention has run. And if you think about that and some of us are barely alive long enough to know 40 years of anything. Um it's it's extraordinary and it is a treasure in this district and I hope it is around for another 40 more. So with that I'd like to introduce Mrs. Fitzwater who is going to I'll let you tell what you're So I'm going to read a resolution of the Cinnamonson Township Board of Education honoring Mrs. Elaine Mendelo and the Cinnamonson invention with and Cinnamon invention. Mr. Mendle, do you mind joining us both? [Applause] Oops. This is very official. So, uh, whereas the Cinnamon Township Board of Education
026recognizes the profound importance of fostering creativity, problem solving skills, and an innovative spirit among its students. And whereas 40 years ago, Mrs. Elaine Mendelo demonstrated extraordinary vision and unwavering dedication by conceiving and establishing the invention convention program which has provided countless students with a unique platform to explore their ingenuity and develop essential skills for future success. And whereas through the invention convention, students and sentiments in township and beyond have been empowered to identify real world problems, brainstorm creative solutions, design and build prototypes, and effectively communicate their ideas. And whereas the invention convention has not only enriched the academic experience of participating students but has also fostered a deeper appreciation for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics principles. And whereas Mrs. Zane Mendelo's commitment to the invention convention has involved countless hours of volunteer work, collaboration
027with educators and community members, and a steadfast belief in the potential of young minds, leaving an indelible mark on the Cinnamonson School District. Therefore, be it resolved that the Cinnamonson Township Board of Education hereby expresses its deepest gratitude and sincere appreciation to Mrs. Elaine Mendelo for her visionary leadership and enduring commitment to the students of our community through the establishment and nurturing of the invention convention and be further resolved that this board recognizes the significant and lasting positive impact of the invention convention on the intellectual growth, creativity and problem solving abilities of our students. Though be it resolved that the Cinnamonson Township Board of Education hereby honors Elaine Mendelo for her forward-thinking teaching techniques, commitment to innovation, and stalwart advocacy for problemsbased inquiry. resolved that this resolution be read into the record at the regular
028board meeting of the board of education of Cinnamonson Township today, Tuesday, April 15, 2025, and that henceforth the Cinnamonson invention convention shall be in perpetuity known as the Elaine Mendelo Invention Convention. [Applause] I just want to say that there was a big surprise last two weeks ago, right? And uh it is really a joyous thing for me to be here and to hear all of this nice stuff because it has been my joy to work with Cinnamon all these years and to come back even after I retired. Um I I worked with the district for many many years and then um when we got new people working I mentored our current uh person and I made a good choice and I think that that will perpetuate things for a long while too. So I I
029brought an invention with me. one of the students actually um created the invention and the parents went and had it manufactured and it's here the executive putt golf putter if somebody would I have it right there I just wanted to say that even when I moved that came with me so I talked to the parents this was Amy's Biden years ago and Amy, did we make any money? Amy's did they make any money? He's asking. They said that they made enough money on the sale of this indention for Amy's college education. Wow. Of course, college education wasn't today, but it was actually uh the real putt, a golf putter. And they asked Amy, "Why did you invent this?" She said, "Because my father was always saying, Amy, get the ball. Amy, get the ball." So,
030this reels it out and brings it back. So, it's pretty interesting. And I've kept in touch with a lot of these students and their parents and uh many of them are even grandparents. And we have one right here. Kim is one of the uh early students of mine and now her son is the winner of the invention convention. So the uh last week um we had a Passover seder and people were working and the girl came up to me and said, "Mrs. Mendelo, you know that my invention is I see it in the stores now. It's a toothbrush with the toothpaste that comes right out of the toothbrush. And she was going on and on about it. So excited even from, you know, today from longer long ago when she created it. So I think
031this is it has an impact for sure and I'm so glad that the district is taking advantage of it. Thank you very much. like a copy of that. Oh, yes. I'm freezing. Thank [Applause] you and congratulations to all of our student winners on your achievements. Really job well done. Uh we are going to move on in just a second to the second presentation. I just need my technical assistance to switch over. Of course, everyone is invited to stay for our student safety data system reports. So for my second presentation or second presentation this evening, uh we have a requirement as a school district in the state of New Jersey to report on on our SSDS report which stands for the student safety data system. And the purpose of the SSDS is to collect data on
032various incidents to provide a comprehensive view of school safety and climate within the school district. And this information is used and reported to the state uh and also to the federal government as well to inform about policy decisions to support local efforts in creating safer school districts. And so what is reported as part of the SSDS, I realize that what is displayed on the screen up there is uh very challenging to read. A copy of this is available online if any folks would like to uh to follow along. Uh but we report in all incidents of violence, vandalism, substance use, uh offenses that involve weapons, incidents of HIV or harassment, intimidation, and bullying. um anytime that restraint or seclusion is utilized on the students and then we also report on other incidents that lead to
033removal or you know more commonly referred to in school districts as suspensions and also we report on hip trainings and programs that are conducted by both the school and the district. So again I mentioned every school district uh in the state of New Jersey even charter schools are required to report this data and then the state offers um an aggregate data as well. We report these twice a year. the reporting period from the first half of the school year and then the reporting period from the second half of the school year. This evening I'll be reporting on our results from the first half of the school year. Uh this information is publicly available like I mentioned on the board of education board docs uh document for this evening. So um I will point out a
034couple of highlights from the report. Uh it is colorcoded. I don't know how well that is coming across this evening. Um but essentially any area um that is green up there is representing a box that is juxtaposed against the reporting period one from the 2023 2024 school year. Uh green typically means that there are less incident not typically green does represent that there are less incidents in that particular box uh than the prior year. Also as a point of comparison uh I've included the report period 2 from the previous school year. So holistically you have a view of the entirety of the 2324 school year from report period 1 and report period 2 and then the juxosition of the green and the red there show areas of increase and decrease. Um just taking a snapshot
035approach to this um which I don't think really informs anyone too terribly well but just at a glance you'll see that there is more green than red. Uh obviously that doesn't you know give us any pause to pat ourselves on the back. any incident of violence, vandalism, substance use, weapons are too many in our schools. Uh, one thing that I do uh, wear as a point of pride is Cinnamonson is not a district that under reportports. We wear our data. There are certainly ways that you can make decisions in reporting this data that some things could otherwise not be reported. But if an incident happens, we own our data because owning our data helps to inform preventative measures and also how well we respond uh, to these incidents as well. uh the areas that are
036showing up in red uh are certainly areas that we'd look at and cause for further discussion amongst the board and amongst the administration and the staff as well. Uh but overall as I look at the total from report period one this year I'm in that second column there incident total all the way at the bottom and we are reporting uh 36 incidents total in the district that is from all five school locations because we report Memorial School now as well. Uh juaposed against the total from the report period one last year of 47. Uh it's approximately a 20% decrease in the total number of events. Again, that that information is only so useful um because incidents of violence can certainly vary and incidents um a severity of HIP can certainly vary as well. Uh my
037point in saying this is that any incident that is reported um we take very seriously as a school district and again we use this information to help inform uh some of our responses and also preventative measures as well. So um at this point I'd like to ask any members of the board if you have any questions about the data that I am uh reporting this evening. No. So, this is report period one. Uh, report period two probably in the August board meeting, we'll be reporting from report period 2. Hopefully, it continues to to trend more positively. Um, and with that, this is our SSDS report for report period 1. Thank you very much. You don't have All right, moving on to section eight, correspondence to the board. Uh, I did receive a couple of I
038said three emails from uh parents this month. Anyone else have anything else about correspondence received? I did. Um, I received a few uh emails and messages. I received a message um from a parent regarding safety concerns um regarding an incident in school. Um, which was referred to the superintendent and he handled that. Um, a few emails. I've had about five emails from people requesting that we amend policy 2431 to allow homeschooling students. I had two pro and two against, I'm sorry, five pro and two against. Okay. Anyone else? Okay, moving on to uh committee reports. We had two committee meetings this month, the finance and personnel and the facilities and transportation. We'll uh hear from uh Kate Blestein for the finance committee, please. The finance personnel committee met via Google Meet on Wednesday, April 9th
039at 5:00 p.m. Mrs. Wilkkey began the meeting and and gave an update on the preliminary budget submission. The transm transmitt of the preliminary budget was approved at the March 18th board of education meeting. Since then, the preliminary projections of the township assessed value has increased, which results in a lower tax impact for community members. Originally, it was projected that the annual tax increase for the average assessed home value would be $179.79 79 per year, $14.98 per month. Using the new assessment, the increase decreases to $152.31 per year, $1269 per month. Mrs. Wilki explained to the committee that there is a tax levy incentive aid that NJ school districts are able to apply for to address budget shortfalls. In order to apply for this aid, the district would have to use all adjustments and bankked cap,
040which would raise the tax levy by 12.15%. The district would then be eligible to apply for the tax levy incentive aid which would be an additional tax levy increase and the state would provide 5% in additional funds to the district. Cinnamonson is not eligible for this aid because the 2025 2026 tax levy increase is only 3.7%. Mr. Capello gave the committee an update regarding preschool facilities and potential space for the upcoming school year. The district is currently in negotiations with the local providers for classroom usage. Mr. Cabelloo began the personnel portion of the committee meeting. He discussed confidential personnel matters and discussed personnel needs for the upcoming school year. Mr. Capello also provided an update on the hiring process and schedule. The next meeting of the finance and personnel committee has not been scheduled at
041this time. Thank you. Thank you, Miss Bstein. Uh, now we'll hear from the facilities and transportation chair, Mr. Zakone. Yes. Good evening everyone. The facilities transportation committee met via Google Meet on Monday, April 14th at 3:30 p.m. Mrs. Wilkey began the meeting and gave an update on the preliminary budget submission. She also informed the committee that the district will not be eligible to apply for the tax levy incentive aid. Mr. Capello gave the committee an update regarding preschool facilities and potential space for the upcoming school year. Mrs. Wilkkey provided a list of operations and maintenance summer projects. The department will be renovating several classrooms in the Eleanor Rush School as well as a new preschool room at the Memorial School. The department will also be constructing canopies for the new learning cottages at the new
042Albany school and the Elellaner Rush School. Mr. Mr. Capello presented the township emergency operations plan to the committee for review. Mr. Capello reviewed field usage by non-district parties. He then spoke about the current facility fees and the need for updates and future review. Mrs. Wilkey discussed the possibility of adding a GPS system to the district's fleet of school buses. She will follow up with an update and possible demo at the next committee meeting. Mr. Capello ended the meeting with an update on the number of bus aids in the district. The next meeting of the finance personnel committee has not been scheduled at this time. Thank you. Thank you, Miss Saiakone. Miss Falcano, can I have a motion to approve section 9 committee reports item A? So moved. Second. Second. Thank you, Mr. Trump. Any comments
043or questions for the board? Hearing none, we'll take a vote. Miss Eileen Bllestein. I I I I I I I I I motion approved. Uh moving on to uh section 10, public comment. Uh members of the public are reminded that comment should be limited to items appearing on this meeting's agenda. There will be another opportunity during this meeting to comment on non-aggend agenda items. All members of the public wishing to speak on an agenda item should raise their hand to indicate their wish to speak. When called upon, participants should state their first and last name and address clearly for the record. In accordance with sentiments and board of education by law 0164.6, comments will be limited to a maximum of four minutes per person. The comment period will be limited to 30 minutes in duration.
044With that, do we have anyone who wishes to speak on any of the agenda items tonight? A point of order question. If correspondence to the board is part of our agenda and it was referenced that policy 2431 was mentioned that was mentioned as part of communication to the board. Does that make an agenda item public comment on that? Sir, it does not appear on the agenda. So I would hold public comment on that for the next portion of public comment. Okay. Anything else? Okay. Moving on to section 11, personnel certified and non-certified. Mr. Fellow. Thank you again, Mrs. Fitzwwater. We are under section 11, letter A, appointments and reappointments, seeking the board to approve the following items. There's a list of certificated staff items A through E and a certifificed name under letter A. Under
045letter B, transfer, seeking the board's approval on item number one as listed in the agenda. Under letter C, resignations and retirement, seeking the board to approve items 1 through five as listed in the agenda. Under letter D, leaves of absences, uh, seeking the board's approval on items 1 through 4. They are listed uh, by ID number in the agenda. Under teaching overload, seeking the board to approve item one listed in the agenda. Nothing under letter F under letter G, extra duty appointment, seeking the board to approve items 1 through 15 as listed in the agenda. Nothing under letter H. Under letter I, student teachers, there are six for consideration by the board listed in the agenda. Items 1 through six. Under letter J, seeking the board to approve numbers one and two. Under letter K,
046tutor, seeking the board to approve item one. And under job description, seeking the board to approve the three job descriptions that are listed in the agenda, items number one, two, and three. Thank you, Mrs. Fitzwater. Thank you, Mr. Capello. Sakone, can I have a motion to approve section 11 personnel certified non-certified items A through L? So moved. Second. Second. Thank you, Mr. Maker. Comments or questions from the board. Hearing none, we'll take a vote. Miss Duckero. I I I I but I abstain from letter A number one certificated A and J number one J. I I I I motion approved. Moving on to section 12 curriculum and instruction. Dr. Goldberg. Mr. Capell, did you want to have some very briefly? Thank you, Dr. Goldburn. Thank you. Uh we will see uh Mrs. Llewellyn, I believe
047you have someone you'd like to introduce the board to. Thank you. Good evening everyone. I'd like to take a moment to introduce and welcome to Cinem School District, Miss Courtourtney Nut. Uh Miss Courtney is joining us as uh the the newest school social worker on the child study team. Uh she comes to us with three years of experience and a graduate of Mammoth University. Welcome Courtney. [Applause] And uh actually right back to you Dr. Goldber for our next introduction. I I'll begin by uh saying last month we accepted the uh resignation of our mathematics supervisor who's pos getting ready to take a picture, Miss Anna Marie Barrett who is retiring. We wish her well for her leadership over the years. and in her place just a moment ago, pleased to introduce Miss Nikki Arbles, who's
048been a math teacher at Mason High School uh for the past 10 years. Uh and we look forward to the leadership that she'll be providing to our district in mathematics instruction for many years to come. So, congrats, Nikki. Congratulations. [Applause] Uh number 12, letter A, uh requesting board approval of the professional development requests that are attached. Under letter B, the field trip requests that are attached. Nothing under letter C or D this month. Under letter E, requesting approval of the monthly HIB report. Letter F, the monthly suspension report. And under letter G, the conducting of a needs assessment for the comprehensive equity plan. Requesting approval of those items, please. Thank you, Dr. Goldburn. Uh, Miss Kate Blstein, can I have a motion to approve section 12 curriculum and instruction items A through G? So moved.
049Second. Second. Thank comments or questions from the board? One. hearing. None. We'll take a vote. Mrs. Eileen Bllestein. I I I I I I I motion approved. Moving on to section 13, Special Education. This is the Wellen. Thank you, Mrs. Fitzwater. Under letter A, contracts seeking the board to approve an agreement with Educational Services Unit of Burlington County to provide the following uh attach following services during the 25 202526 school year at the attached fee schedule rates as listed in the agenda. Under letter B, students placements, there are none. Under letter C, consultant agreement, there is none. And that is it for this evening. Okay. Thank you, Mrs. Llewellyn. Mr. Maker, can I have a motion to approve section 13 special ed item A? So moved. Second. Second. Thank you, Miss Blestein. [Laughter] Comments or
050questions from the board? Hearing none, we'll take a vote. Miss Banero. I I I I I I I I motion approved. Uh moving on to section 14 uh policy and regulations, Mr. Capello. Thank you, Mrs. Fitzwater. There are four policies for consideration of the board under second reading and adoption this evening. They are listed in the agenda. Thank you. Um Miss Cape uh Eileen Bllestein, can I have a motion to approve section 14 uh policy item A? So moved. Second. Second. Thank you, Mr. Trump. Comments or questions from the board? Hearing none, we'll take a vote. Miss Falcano. I I I I I I I I motion approved. Moving on to business and finance. Mrs. Wilkey. Thank you, Mrs. Fitzwwater. Under section A grants, we have no items this evening. Under section B, finance, item
051one, that the board approves the staff mileage reimbursements as outlined below. Item number item letter C operations that the board approves the 2526 calendar for all maintenance grounds custodial and transportation department staff as attached and item two that the board approves the Cinnamonson Township emergency plan for 2025 as attached under section D contracts. Item number one that the board approves the receiving revised and initial tuition agreements between Cinnamonson board of education and various LEAs as attached. Item number two, that the board approves the renewal addendum with Sedexo Management for the 2526 school year. Item number three, that the board approves the application for the renewal for the 2526 school year with a school alliance insurance fund. And item number four, that the board approves the renewal agreement with Phoenix Adviserss for the 2526 school year
052as attached. Thank you, Mrs. Fitzwwater. Thank you, Mrs. Wilkkey. Uh, Mr. Kenny, can I have a motion to approve section 15, business and finance items A through D? So moved. Second. Second. Thank you, Mr. Maker. Comments or questions from the board? Hearing none, we'll take a vote. Miss Falcono. I I I I I I I um abstain from B1 and I for all the rest. I motion approved. U moving on. We have nothing under other business. Um, I would actually, um, if the board would would indulge me, I would like to, um, see if we could move the resolution that you read earlier under other business so that it can live under other business in perpetuity and ask the board to take a vote on it as well. Okay. So, this would be a motion
053um, if supported by the board to add the resolution officially naming the invention conventure convention after Lane Mendeloo in perpetuity and that will be moved under other business so it can live there. Okay. So item A. So item A under other business uh is the resolution that I read what he said. Uh Mr. Trump. Hey, can I have a motion to approve? Motion. Second. Second. Thank you, Mr. Maker. Comments or questions from the board? Hearing? None. We'll take a vote. Miss Eileen Blner. I I I I I I I motion approved. Thank you to the board. Thank you. All right, moving on to I'm sorry. I'd like to make a motion. Um I'd like to make a motion to amend policy 155. Second. You said we have discussion. What was the motion number? Uh to
054amend policy 155 0155. I'm sorry. Can you hear me? It's a board committees. Excuse me. It's board committees. Um, second on that. Second. She have a second. All right. Um, I'm sorry. Just to clarify, the motion would be to refer that policy to committee to the policy committee. No, it would just be amend the policy or do we have to refer it? I'd like to amend just a word in there. Do I have to refer it to the policy committee? Uh the bylaw does say that polic Okay. So then I'd like to make a motion to uh refer to the policy committee to look at um just to change a word a timely fashion for um minute meeting minutes and uh so we can change that possibly talk about that. I agree. I think we
055need more time in between when the agenda is released and when we're voting on stuff during meetings. Um so I would also like to update that. I also agree. I also agree on just just to clarify this is this is for board committee reports not for when the agenda is released correctly. Yes. Okay. The agenda is released on the Friday before the Tuesday. Yes. This is about board committees. Yeah. Just for committee minutes. We're looking for committee minutes to come sooner. And I would just clarify and ask um perhaps with the clarifying words wherever possible. For instance, there was a committee meeting yesterday. Right. That's to put any kind of hours expectation. Right. That's going to be as reasonable as possible. So I think Mrs. Woki had those minutes out uh that evening or by
056the next morning. So uh so just to clarify, the motion is to refer policy 0155 back to the policy committee for consideration at the next policy committee meeting to update the language or consider the language related to releasing the committee minutes in a timely fashion. Did I summarize? Yeah, just Yeah, that's the motion. Okay. So, we're the motion is to refer it back to committee for clarification of wording. Okay. Um, so just more specific wording. Yes. Right. Um, so we'll take a vote on referring it back to committee. Okay. Malcanero. Yes. I I No. I I I I motion passed. Um, I would also like to make a motion to amend policy or I guess send back policy 2431 to include homeschool students in athletics. Second for one year. Second. So, we're going to make
057a motion on whether or not to revisit the homeschool policy again. Yes. Yeah. Okay. Uh, so the motion is are we going to send it back to committee? Okay. Well, I mean, if I could amend it here, but I was just told that we can't do that. So, if we could send it back to policy committee so we could talk about it again, that would be great. Okay. So, that's the motion that was being made. Yes. To send it back to committee. Yep. Okay. All right. So, uh, Miss Falcano, I point of order. Are we? Yeah. Could we have a discussion about it? I just have a few things written out that I'd like to discuss about it about before we make the motion on sending it back to the committee. Yes. Motion second. Can
058you make a discussion about it? Excuse me, sir. We're We're Excuse me, sir. The Sorry. The board Sir, let the board do their business, please. I appreciate it. Thank you, sir. Um, if there will there will be a chance for discussion. So, um, you made the motion. So, just like anything else, we would take a vote on an opportunity to discuss. So, when Mrs. Fitzwwater ask for discussion an opportunity to share. Sure. All right. I just wanted to make sure that it was right now that I did. So, I wrote something out, but um, I was on the Wait a minute. So, let's do the the vote first and then discuss. We would do comments or questions. Comments. This will be the comment. Okay. Perfect. All good. All right. So, I was on the policy
059committee last year when we discussed policy 2431. I don't think that there was enough thorough research, not enough to make an informed decision. We have received more research from a member of the public than I feel we did as a board last year. I would like to see this policy amended. Last year, there was no reference to NJSIA rules, no reference to speaking with local schools that allow it, no discussions with coaches or athletic directors, and no consideration for the email requests from our community. Last year, I received seven emails in favor of including homeschool students and one against it. I asked for and was given permission to read one of the emails I received last year. They wrote, "I am writing to you as a Cinnamonson resident who is in support of allowing homeschoolers
060to participate in extracurricular activities, specifically sports teams. I understand you are researching an amendment to policy 2431, and I am in favor of allowing homeschoolers to participate in extracurricular activities, including but not limited to sports, dances, and clubs. This issue at its core is not about politics or parental choices. It's about the kids. These are children who live in our town, whose families pay taxes, who cheer for our teams, and who want to be a part of their community in a meaningful way. At the end of the day, we should let the kids play. Many of the homeschooled students in our town have grown up playing on cineon youth sports teams, wearing the same uniforms, building relationships with their peers, respecting their coaches, and representing this community with pride. Once they reach high school, however,
061they are suddenly shut out from continuing those opportunities simply because of their educational path. This cut off not only disrupts their athletic growth, but also their sense of belonging and connection to the town they've been a part of their entire lives. Let's remove the barriers that prevent students from building friendships, developing teamwork skills, and contributing to the spirit of Cinnamon. This is a chance to show what it truly means to be building our future together. Thank you. [Applause] I agree with Kate. Um I think it's very hypocritical that our mission statement says in partnership with family and community when we're excluding part of our community members just because they decided homeschooling was the best fit for their family. I also think it's extremely disappointing that we preach inclusivity. Yet, we've made this motion three times
062now and there hasn't been any progress towards a resolution. Thank you. And I would just want to say that as a parent of a homeschooled child that I just feel that it would make Cinnamonson more inclusive with our mission statement including the community and their thoughts. [Applause] I'm just really glad that we're actually having a discussion. I welcome input from people who are going to vote against this. It's the only way we're going to ever come to some kind of agreement is to discuss it and this is the best way to do it right here. I know there's a lot of issues that were brought up. Safety is one of them. I've never understood that. NJSIA allows um students to participate so I don't understand the safety issue. We have a lot of towns close
063to us. Delran, Hadenfield, Maple Shade, Westert goes on. during um the research that was done, there was no research reaching out to schools that actually have the policy and getting their input. So um we we do have I do have some of that here also with our board goals for this year. It's this is what we should be doing because the board goals say sorry if I can read it. continue the systematic review of existing policies, regulations, and board of education bylaws. In doing so, the board shall periodically meet as a committee to identify policies ripe for review, engage the support of the community where appropriate for input on board policies and regulations. So, I think that in line with the mission statement, I think if we could just I'm looking for amending the policy,
064just put it in for one year. let's give it a try. Um, put a end date on it. If it doesn't work out, we can say we tried, you know, we tried to include the community and if we like the results, then we can remove that one year and then let the homeschool children play. So, I think it's great that we send it back. I think we should send it back and actually do some real research on this topic. Thank you. In the spirit of fairness, I will uh share an email I received this evening. Uh I wanted to take a moment to share my perspective on why I believe amending or overturning this policy would not be in the best interest of the community. Why homeschooled children should not be allowed to participate in
065daytime activities. From both a policy and legal standpoint, there are several reasons to argue that homeschooled children should not be allowed to participate in daytime extracurricular activities, especially those governed by this policy. Policy 2431 often outlines standards and eligibility requirements for participation in intercolastic activities such as maintaining academic performance, attendance, and behavioral expectations within a school system. Homeschooled students are not held to the same daily attendance requirements, disciplinary systems, or grading standards as their public school peers. Allowing homeschooled students to participate in daytime activities under this policy may create an uneven playing field and undermine the policy's intent to ensure fairness and uniform accountability. Legal concerns. From a legal perspective, daytime extracurriculars typically occur during a regular school during regular school hours and utilize public school facilities, staff, and funding. Allowing non-enrolled students to access
066these resources raises questions about use of taxpayer dollars. Homeschooled students are not officially part of the school enrollment and thus not not entitled to public school benefits that enrolled students receive. Liability and oversight. Schools are responsible for student safety during activities. Supervising students who are not officially part of the institution can create legal and insurance complications, especially if an incident occurs. Alternative opportunities exist. Homeschool students already have access to private extracurricular programs, co-op groups, and community leagues. Their exclusion from public school daytime activities does not deny them access to enrichment. It simply preserves the integrity of public education systems that rely on structure, oversight, and equitable access. I along with many other parents I have spoken with firmly believe that the school board's final decision was made with the best interest of the students in
067mind, prioritizing both their safety and ensuring fairness across the Cinnamonson School District. Um, I'd like Thank you. Okay. I would like to just possibly discuss what you just mentioned. You said daytime activities. I would say if we're the first school ever to do this that that would make sense, but we have a host of schools that already throughout the state have this program and they have Delran and Maple Shade and Hadenfield have been in contact and I could read what they uh wrote if I can find it. Um board docs. This could go on ad nauseium, but just for uh percentages, 23% of Burlington County schools and 18% of Gloucester County schools allow homeschooling. All right. So, the vast majority in both districts that are closest to us don't allow homeschooling. All right. Does that
068mean we shouldn't? That doesn't No, that means that we took a great look at it last year and made a decision. The committee made a decision and hence the board took that decision and decided that that was in the best interest of our students in the Cinnamonson school district. So I would just like to say we looked at the research that was done and stakeholders were not reached out to. Stakeholders are they where the kids wait the stakeholders are the students the athletes that participate. Excuse me ma'am. The board's having a discussion. Could you please be respectful in that? Yeah. So, I'm sorry, ma'am. Please, so we didn't reach out to a um coaches. We didn't reach out to athletic directors and we did not reach out to athletes that would be affected. We should
069reach out to the stakeholders. It's just really important that we do that. I believe one of our policies about um about committees says that we should be reaching out to the people who are affected by those policies. We did not do that research and I'm just asking let's send it back and review it and then if we can't come up for a one-year program then we'll rest. But I think we should at least go to consideration. Last year the discussion was not discussed completely by the bo board. Um they were sent an email and asked to give their input but there was never a discussion by the complete board on this topic. So I guess one of the things you know when you make reference about reaching out to stakeholders um as elected officials of
070the board of education the board members are ones that are reviewing policies and regulations. That's one of the primary responsibilities of a board is to review policies and regulations um for the school district that they serve. And so that that has been done. So, it it seems to me and and maybe I'm I'm inaccurate here that this will be continually brought up every meeting until you get the answer that you want. No, not necessarily. Just asking that we can actually do more research. This is a new board. Every year there's a new board. We're not bound by the previous board. So, I'm asking that you I completely understand you're asking that and I totally respect that. I I truly do respect that. But this is either the third I think or fourth meeting I'm not
071sure. So this has been asked to the current board and it's we've we have given you our answer asked but there was no discussion on it. Okay. So that's my point. Can we have a discussion in a committee meeting and let's get the full input from the board? So when you say in a committee meeting when you're saying full board that's not right here right here. Let's have a discussion right here. Isn't that how we I think we just did that. I think we just did that. Okay. Well, we didn't reach out to stakeholders and I think that's important. This is obviously different to members of our community. They're continually they're reaching out. They're sending us emails. Obviously, it's important to them. We owe it to them to do the research, do the hard work,
072send it back to the policy committee, and make another decision there. Okay, that's the end of it. I think we're ready for a vote. Mhm. So, so we're voting yes to send it back to committee and no to not send it back to committee. Okay. Falconero. Yes. Yes. No. No. Yes. No. Yes. No. Because we have a tie. It does not go back to committee this month. [Applause] But I appreciated the discussion. Me too. I do too. Actually welcome it. I think it's great that we're talking. All right. We are moving on to uh public comment. All right. So, members of the public are reminded that comment should be uh No, we'll skip that. All members of the public wishing to speak on agenda items only or non-aggenda items. Anything you want to talk about,
073oh yeah, should raise your hand to indicate your wish to speak. When called upon, participants should state their first and last name and address clearly for the record in accordance with the sentiments and board of education bylaw 0164.6. Comments will be limited to a maximum of four minutes per person. The comment period will be limited to 30 minutes in duration. Pursuant to the Oakland public open public meetings act, the board will not publicly discuss or comment on matters involving personnel, litigation, negotiations, or attorney client privilege, the board may choose not to respond to comments made by members of the public during this portion of the meeting. However, all comments will be giving appropriate consideration. Matters requiring follow-up will be referred to the superintendent for resolution. Please be aware that all board employees retain the right
074of privacy and shall retain all rights against defamation and slander according to the laws of New Jersey. The board shall not be held liable for comments made by members of the public. And with that said, uh if you do wish to speak, uh the podium is there. Go for it, Mr. Cell. Douglas Cell, 104 Cuthbert Road. As you all know, I and others in the community have been advocating for an amendment to policy 2431 in order to allow homeschoolers in Cinnamonson to participate in athletic competition. As part of this process, I've shared my research with all of you on the board. I've shared the results of my discussions with athletic directors in local school districts like Hadenfield, Maple Shade, Delran, and others. Something that the policy previous policy chair and the previous policy committee did
075not do last year. I have passed along research and information from the NJSIA, the governing body for school athletics and competition. research that was not looked at or considered by last year's policy chair or the policy committee. I have suggested a temporary policy change similar to what was done in Maple Shade a few years ago in order to proof out if some of the concerns identified by members of the board and the public have any validity. Many months when I come up to this podium, I don't know whether to curse the board or thank the board. This process of advocating with other stakeholders has been both wildly rewarding and utterly disappointing. I have seen some members of this board go the extra mile and do their own independent research when it came to policy 2431.
076I have seen them engage the community and ask questions in order to inform themselves. Conversely, I've seen other board members dig their heels in based on their own ideology and prejudices, refusing to have any intelligent discussion or do any independent research. To these board members that vote no to amending or having even having a discussion relating to policy 2431, when you vote no, you are telling the your community you do not believe in equal access to public resources. You do not believe in integration with the community. You do not believe in civic engagement and positive community outcomes. You do not believe in enhancing team diversity and talent. And you do not believe in the president set by neighboring communities that have been successfully allowing homeschoolers to access athletic competition, some of which have been doing
077it for over two decades. to the to the members that voted no tonight. If you believe in equal access to public resources, if you believe in integration, if you believe in positive community outcomes for all, if you believe in enhancing enhancing team diversity and talent, you must be willing to at least have a transparent and inquisitive discussion relating to policy 2431. And if you engage in the process, you will be left with one reasonable conclusion. amend policy 2431 and allow homeschoolers to participate in athletic competition. You can applause. I have one last thing I'd like to say and it's not related to policy 2431. It's related to policy 0167. Um this also deals with uh not just the policy but the quorum. Last month, a member of the community, rather than address the board, as
078is the policy uh of this body under policy 0167, this member of the public began addressing me directly in the crowd. As policy 0167 states, quote, "All statements, questions, and inquiries shall be directed to the presiding officer. irregardless that this person is a former board member and was lying at the podium to our community. That lack of decorum was unacceptable. Thank you, Mr. Cell. That's four minutes. Thank you, Mr. Cell. Uh, Dutch cell. Uh, I have a couple things to say. Uh first thing over the last 5 days I've started a petition and in those 5 days I've received almost 400 signatures from students and adults from Cinnamonson and surrounding communities. One of the signatures that stood out was the son of one of our school board members who was against amending the policy. also
079many of his son's friends signed. Um, you've had me and my dad and many other people come up. It's okay. Take your time. Read what you wrote. Can I finish reading what he wrote? Yes. My dad has come to many schoolboard meetings, has engaged with many emails, has had many meetings with many different schoolboard members. He's even done his own research, and contacted many other school districts that allow homeschoolers to participate in extracurricular activities. Every athletic director spoke positively of allowing homeschoolers and increased engagement with the community in the community over the last Oh, you talked about that last thing he has on here. Please amend policy 2431 and allow homeschoolers to participate in extracurricular activities. Thank you, Dutch. you've uh you've had many people come up in favor of amending it and it seems
080like a big deal for them and I get me and my dad get asked all the time why they get pulled out and uh it I mean at first I didn't want to but it was because I didn't I didn't want to miss my friends and I didn't want them to leave me out cuz like we used to talk all the time at lunch and uh I met all my friend like most of my friends during lacrosse and sports and flag football and you guys aren't giving the chance to me or my sister or any other homeschooled kids in the future. But um it's a big deal for us and it seems like a big deal for people who don't want to uh don't want the policy to be amended. Why don't we see them
081up here yelling at you guys and saying don't amend it. I'm scared for my child's safety. Like I don't get it. You see us. It's a big deal for us. Sports. I love playing sports. I'm active. Um but it's a big deal. And I've been up here two times now. My dad's been up here numerous amount of times emailing, talking. I went door to door and I asked the members of the community and nobody I asked. I'm not lying. Nobody said no, don't amend it. I don't feel safe. I don't nothing. But if it was such a big deal for everybody who's sending the emails to other board members saying don't amend it, why don't they come up here and say it to your guys' face? Don't hide behind a computer screen. Come on. [Applause]
082uh Sean Rinkitz and uh I think that uh homeschool kids just play sports because uh it provides them with a valuable opportunity to socialize and build friendships with peers. It uh participating in team sports fosters essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, and discipline which are crucial for personal development. Additionally, being part of a sports team can boost their confidence and help them stay physically active, promoting a healthy lifestyle. Engaging in school sports also allows homeschooled students to experience the excitement of competition and school spirit. And I am a sports player and I know homeschooled kids that are pretty good at sports, but their talent is getting held back because they're not being able to play more and be more active by playing school sports. So, that's all I have to say, but thank you.
083Thank you. Thank you. Good evening. My name is Joanne Bailey, Overlook. I consider myself a Cinnamonson lifer. I was born and raised in Cinnamonson. I was a member of the cheerleading squad, lacrosse team, and graduated in 1987. I left Cinnamonson only to attend college at Bucknell University where I played division one lacrosse followed by optometry school in Boston. Upon graduation in 1995, I moved home, met my husband, bought my childhood, my childhood home from my parents, then raised my children, our children here in Cinnamonson who attended public school. They graduated now 2019 and 2022, but both played volleyball and lacrosse while attending honors classes. During their pre high school years, our daughters played for SEALs. Valuing the camaraderie and life lessons that sports teach our youth, I decided to volunteer to coach. In fact, I
084coached various ages from kindergarten through 8th grade for eight years and became the Cinnamonson girls lack girls lacrosse representative to help make CAX an even better program for our community members. Caroline, our oldest, continued to play college lacrosse while Ally left her glory days on the field in high school. Both my girls say that sports changed their lives for the better. In fact, Caroline got the job she has today because she played sports. That's what the the her boss said. So why am I standing here right now and why do I need to tell you all of this? The answer is it shows my role as a taxpaying resident, a community member, a former Cinnamonson athlete, a parent and a coach for my wonderful hometown of Cinnamonson. I am Cinnamonson proud. That being said, I
085am extremely disappointed and I'm here today to follow up on an email that I sent to you all personally last year about policy 2431 and its explicit exclusion of homeschooled students from middle school and high school sports. In fact, it's double spaced if you look at the policy clearly explicitly denying them the access to homeschool sports. homeschoolers. The policy states, the board of education recognizes the value athlet of athletic competition as an integral part of the school experience. Sports and other athletic activities provide opportunities to learn the values of competition and good sportsmanship. That is your policy. Quote, "Homesooled children should also have the opportunity to participate in school spa school-based sports because extracurricular activities such as athletics are a vital part of a well-rounded education and should be accessible to all students in Cinnamonson,
086regardless of how they receive their academic instruction. Denying homeschooled students the chance to join school sports is not only unfair but also counterproductive to the values of inclusivity, community engagement, and equal opportunity. As board members, I ask you to recall your own mission statement that quote in partnership with the family and community, we will foster achievement, model excellence, and responsible behavior. Denying qualified athletic students who choose homeschooling from participating stifles excellence, inhibits achievement, and teaches them that exclusion is tolerated. Certainly not a responsible behavior. One strong argument in favor of allowing homesooled students to participate is that their parents and families contribute equally to the public education system by way of taxes. Public school sports programs are funded by local, state, and federal taxes. Homeschoolers pay into these monies just as traditional students. Excluding homeschool
087students from participating and benefiting from programs that they help pay for creat. Thank you. Okay, we're right here. Benefiting programs. All right. I'm not as well spoken as her. So, um, Britney Sonincent, how y'all doing? I missed you guys. Benefiting from programs that they help pay for creates a double standard for families that choose an alternative educational path. As I alluded to previously, participation in school sports provides many benefits. In addition to physical fitness, sports help teach valuable life skills, including discipline, teamwork, time management, stress management, and leadership. Students have opportunities to make new friends, to develop social skills, experience personal growth, and even earn college scholarships. Homeschools homeschoolers deserve equal access to these opportunities. If there are concerns about academic performance and eligibility, the students can be held to the same high standards by
088require There's not high standards here by requiring um proof. Most associations most associations have policies about test scores and standardized test scores. These policies will help maintain the high integrity of cinem athletes while allowing broader access to members of our Cinnamonson community. While on the topic of community inclusiveness, sports teams are more than just school activities. Sports brings students and their families together. They bring them stepping across educational, economic, and cultural lines. Sports are facilitated. Sports sports can facilitate mutual understanding and respect. To summarize, it is my opinion and the opinion of my family that homeschooled children should not be excluded from participation in school-based sports because of their educational choices. With fair and thoughtful policies, homeschoolers should be included for the benefit of both traditional and homeschooled students, the schools, and our community. Education,
089whether in the classroom or on the field, should be about opening doors, not closing them. Yes. Thank you, Mr. Rous. I'm not done. Um, so my turn now. So, um, I just like it's crazy like when this kid talked you nose, you guys couldn't even look at him. You couldn't even look over here, man. It It's crazy. Then when you clapped like a crazy person. I hope you guys watch these meetings back on YouTube so you can really really see like absolutely the president representing our community. Crazy. Um so we want to talk about safety. So I haven't gotten to say this on the record, but you want to talk about safety. All right. Because my kid was assaulted in the middle school in an area where he didn't even belong in during a study
090hall where there were what do we say less than 40 less than 40 kids, two teachers. Then after that happened, of course, there was a video, which I'm thankful for the video. I'm all for cell phones up in these schools. Okay, let me tell you about the downside of the video. The downside of the video um I see was uh that oh my bad sorry um my the downside of the video was uh um kids decided to make uh edits of the video and uh they kids are board members man like crazy and then when you try to call this person that's why I don't expect anything from certain people up And then when you try to call this person and uh they're basically they're they they sum up the conversation which it's all recorded
091if any would like to hear too. Um summed up the conversation with uh my biggest issue is that my the video was edited cuz he was looking at it. He saw it on his phone. He's looking at it, right? Kendrick Lamar looking at it. Um the issue was that it was son Thiago. Give me your four minutes. Come here, ma'am. Ma'am, it doesn't work like that. No, it does work like that. Ma'am, after four minutes, I would appreciate if you would respond. So, to edit the video, I called him at this time. I was so concerned that um not that my son was beat up. Beat up. Physically assaulted. This is my kid right here. Guess how many repercussions he had? Zero. Cuz he did the right thing. Can you turn at the end? I
092can. All right. So, we want to talk about safety. These kids are already in safety. Can we take a recess? Can we take a recess? We're not going to do this. We're going to take a recess. Thank you. At this at this time, the board of education is on a recess. We will regroup shortly. Thank you. Absences. Let's be real here. Okay. You want to talk about the schools that are placed out of get a without it. Okay. All right. Mr. Sakone, can I have a motion to res uh come reconvene the public meeting, please? So moved. Second. Second. Thank you, Mrs. Trump. All in favor? I oppose. And we're back in public session. Uh we do have six minutes left in public comment if anyone else would like to uh comment. Seeing none. Okay.
093Can I finish my comment from earlier? Uh you were timed out, sir. Yeah. Um I think if you read the policy if everyone spoken and there's still a del uh that is not what our policy says. What's the policy? The policy is we actually give more than uh is um the policy says three most policies our policy actually says three minutes. Uh we've expanded that to four minutes per person because I think that it you can get a a better sense of what someone is saying with that extra minute. Um but it does not give we don't share the extra time with those who have already spoken. policy either 66 or 67. Uh we're once everyone spoken. If everyone if everyone who wanted to speak uh has spoken, we're going to move on. Thank you.
094Okay. Thank you, Mr. All right. We're going to actually uh back up a little bit to other business. Mr. Capello. Uh so under section 16, I'm seeking the board's approval on item B that has been added to the agenda. Um uh Kate Blstein, can I have a motion to uh approve? So moved. Second. Second. Second. Thank you, Mrs. Trump. Um comments or questions? Take a vote. Mrs. Falconero. I I I I I I I I I motion approved. Uh moving on to uh board comments. Mr. Kenny. Thank you, Mrs. Fitzwwater. Um congratulations to Mr. Gorman on his well-deserved visionary leader of the year award. Also, congratulations to Mrs. Ela Mendelo. Thank you for all you've done for our students over the past 40 years. And congratulations to all of our young inventors. It is amazing
095to see your passion and your creative ideas come to fruition. Uh congratulations to Ben Tino for making Eagle Scout and to our most skilled and hardworking musicians for making all South Jersey Honors Orchestra and showcasing immense talent of Cinnamonson students. Congratulations to Mrs. Arbles and a thank you to Mrs. Barren on her way out. Uh thank you to our student representatives for their monthly reports and everyone who spoke at meeting tonight. The public hearing on the budget is scheduled for April 29th right here at 5:00 and the next regularly scheduled meeting is on May 13th right here at 7:00 with more information found on the district website. And Miss Eileen Bllestein would like to say a few words. Thank you. Um I would just preface um this. I have the policy in front of me.
096That's not what I wanted to speak about, but I do have it. It says no participant may speak more than once on the same topic until all others who wish to speak on that topic have been heard. So I believe if there's remaining time the person can go back. That's how I read it. Anyway, that's not what I wanted to say. I wanted to say um thank you to Miss Fitzwater for agreeing to move the tables so that we could see everybody. I really appreciate it. It's nice to see everyone's face. It's nice to be able to have a conversation during the board and discussion. So I really appreciate that. I wanted to say thank you to Mrs. Wilkkey for your presentations on the budget because you really did a good job explaining that. Um,
097you know, I'm always I not for raising taxes ever, but you made such a great case and I and I you explained it well how the cut um from state aid. So, I appreciate that. I do wish we did have several presentations this meeting and the last meeting. I wish we would actually do it before the meeting and executive or next meeting. It's at 5:00. a lot of people can't come to that at 5:00. So I I would love it if in the future maybe we could do it have a presentation and then have a presentation again for those who can attend. So just more buyin from the people let them know you did a great job. So I just wanted to those are my comments. Okay. And just remember that we do record the
098meeting so that they can see it even if they can't see it live but we vote that day. So my point was so people could you know reach out and say I like this or I don't like that. we could have more input from the public. So, I think that would be beneficial. Okay. All right. Thank you. And with that, uh, we no longer, uh, need an executive session. So, uh, Mr. Mer, can I have a motion to adjurnn? So moved. Second. Second. Thank you, Mr. Kenny. All in favor? I opposed. Meeting is adjourned. Thank you.