001So, that's how you zoom in and out. And and it's automatically focused. Okay. Wait, what number am I? Is that down there too? Okay. Yeah. Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the February 26th uh quarterly awards meeting of the Clifton Board of Education. Can I call the meeting to order and all please rise and salute the flag, which is over here behind the Stephanie. 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. Moment of silence. Thank you, everyone, and welcome. Roll call, please, Mr. Shawn. Mr. Brezenoff is here. Mr. Williams is here. Mrs. Harrison is here. Mr. Riker is here. Mrs. Giancola is here. Mrs. Swan Here. Vice President Santiago is here. President
002Petrozzino Vice President Here. Vice President Santiago, would you please do the mission statement? Sure, President Petrozzino. Thank you. The mission of the Clifton School District in an open and reciprocal community partnership is to provide all students with a quality education to develop the skills necessary to become literate, lifelong learners who are responsible and productive citizens contributing to a democratic society in a never-changing world. The open public meeting statement. The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Law was enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advanced notice of and to attend the meetings of public bodies at which any business affecting their interest is discussed or acted upon. In accordance with the provisions of this act, the Clifton Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be publicized by having the date, time,
003and place thereof posted at the City Clerk's Office, Clifton Public Library, Administration Building, Senior Citizen Nutrition Center, on cable TV, in the local press, on the district's website, and mailed to presidents of parent-teacher organizations. This meeting will be tape-recorded in accordance with policy 016A. Thank you, Vice President Santiago. We're going to continue with our awards tonight. I have the pleasure of reading something very special. So, just bear with me first. I I'm I'm hoping to get through this without getting upset. Tonight, we honor Lucy Danny, who was first elected to the Clifton Board of Education in 2011, May of 2011. That's 15 years ago. Lucy, I, and Danny, we call ourselves the OG, the originals. Lucy and I ran five elections together. Over those years, our relationship grew into something deeper than just colleagues. We
004weren't always in agreement. Like sisters, some days were great, some days were bad, some days we agreed, some days we disagreed. But through it all, there was always respect, honesty, and love. Lucy is many things. She's a mother, she's a grandmother, a daughter, a partner to John, a teacher, an educator, a Board of Education member, and a community member. And for 15 years, she gave her time, her heart, and her voice to the Clifton Board of Education with no pay and no benefits for 15 years, because she believed in doing what was right for the children of Clifton. During her time on the board, we set strong policy together, made hard decisions, and moved this district forward in ways we once thought was impossible. Lucy led during one of the most difficult times in education's
005history. As Board President during COVID, she helped guide this district through uncertainty, fear, and change, always putting students, staff, and families first. Under her leadership, we hired one of the best superintendents Clifton has ever seen, and we strengthened this district for the future. Lucy, you may not always see it, but you have a legacy. Your legacy is leaving this district better than you found it. Your legacy is stronger schools and support for staff and better opportunities for our children, because you showed up, because you did the work, and because you lived it. So, tonight, we honor you, we thank you, and we wish you Godspeed and continued success. With love, congratulations to Lucy, our OG, Lucy Danny. >> [applause] [applause] >> Be it resolved that the Clifton Board of Education recognizes Dr. Lucy Danny and
006expresses its her its gratitude for her dedication and service to the community and the students of Clifton. Serving as a board member from 2011 to 2026, Dr. Danny served as president, vice president, and also served on the education, special education committees, legislative, municipal alliance, policy, and residency committees, and as president, you served on multiple committees. So, it is with honor I present this to Dr. Lucy Danny in appreciation of your years of service to the children of Clifton for your leadership I can't get through this dedication and commitment to excellence as a Board of Education member from 2011 to 2026. The Clifton School District applauds you for your unselfish devotion and loyalty to the Board of Education tonight. >> [applause] [applause] >> Good evening. I just want to say, first of all, congratulations to all
007the award recipients who will go after me. Um I want to say that it has been an honor um to serve for 15 years on the Clifton Board of Education. I want to thank the voters of Clifton for putting their trust and their in me and letting me guide this district, to be part of such a wonderful team of individuals. I hold this in the highest regard. It was truly a privilege. Um sorry, it's just very emotional for me. I'm equally grateful to all the commissioners with whom that I've had the privilege of working. They're really a great group of individuals who put students first, who care about the students of this district. Um those past and present that I've worked with, every single one has cared about the students and moving the district along.
008Also, I'd like to acknowledge the employees of the Clifton School District, whom I've come to know over the years, the administrators, teachers, support staff, and countless individuals working behind the the scenes with their unwavering dedication. I can't say enough about them. They're just truly wonderful individuals who truly care about the district and about making an impact in students' lives. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this important work. And thank you, Judy Bassford, for that wonderful speech. Thank you. Thank you, truly. And Danny, I I always called you the Bergen County Superintendent cuz I worked with so many and you just you're you're amazing. You truly are amazing. Just in your care for your employees and just how you deal with the board and you know, seeing you deal with so many board
009members, and Clifton is truly lucky to have you. >> [clears throat] >> And Mr. Shahada, I just want to say you do a great job. Keep doing the great job that you do. And Mr. McConkey, I don't know I don't know where you are. You know, you're way there. Um you're always here. Thank you. Sure you really rather be somewhere else, but thank you. You've always been here. Just making sure that we're always on TV on time. Thank you. Okay. Can the board come up so we can get a picture? Thank you. Just bear with us, folks. Thank you for bearing with us, ladies and gentlemen. Uh It's not every day that we do something like this, so I just wanted to um thank you for your time and patience. As we move on with
010the award ceremony, we are going to go to um recognitions of recognition and awards of first county all teams. Mr. Rexach, Commissioner Rexach. Mr. Rexach, before you begin, some of our coaches and athletes are also coaching tonight, so they may not be here, but for those who we're going to call, all their names, and for those who are here, please come up. Thank you. Good evening. Um we'll start out with girls cross country. Coach Is cross country here? No, okay. Um thank you. There's a personal connection because I was actually a a teammate with Alexis, so I'm going to call up first Alexis Smith. >> [applause] >> Yes, you're working, so I'm going to go with you today. Thank you. And then also uh from girls cross country, Samantha Rodriguez. >> [applause] [applause] >> So,
011next we have uh football. Coach Sink you is not here, correct? I think so. So, we have uh Aiden Romero. Is Aiden Romero here? No. We will get That's Aiden. Girls volleyball. Steven Alvarado. Is Michaela Francisco here? Okay. Girls soccer. Coach Amanda Griskenas. Elsa Schimpf. No. Boys soccer. Is Coach Lambert here? We have Michaela Datsik. Next is indoor track girls. Coach Colleen West. We have Jane Diaz, Michaela Francisco, Mallory Nickel, and Alexis Smith. >> [applause] >> Okay, so indoor track, we have uh Coach Colleen West. Uh Vladimir Klusik and Joel uh Vera. Or is that Are they here? They must be all busy tonight. Some of them are working, so let's give them a round of applause. >> [applause] >> And then finally, girls bowling. Uh Coach Alexander Beribrick. No. And the athlete is Sarah
012Zwibel. All right. Congratulations. >> [applause] [applause] >> Now, we're going to go over the recognition and awards for student of the month. I have the honor of awarding to the ninth grade December student of the month, Mustafa Ahmed. Is Mustafa here? >> [applause] >> Mustafa Ahmed is an honorable and dedicated freshman with a glowing passion in ELA, inspired by his eighth grade teacher, Mrs. Schwartz, who has helped him improve his uh writing significantly. Mustafa is deeply motivated by his parents and strives every day to make them proud. He approaches school with maturity and a quiet determination. While he is still exploring his interests, he plans to attend college and is committed to building a successful future by himself. Congratulations, Mustafa. Mark Canales. >> [applause] >> Thank you, President Bassford. Good evening, everybody. December student of
013the month for 10th grade, Hania Alora. Hania Alora is an exceptional sophomore with a deep appreciation for the complexity of mathematics. She has been greatly influenced by Mr. Henry, who has encouraged her to be her best and push herself academically. Hania is an active member of Pre-Med Club, HOSA, Allied Health Academy, CSA, Interact Club, and NSHS. Inspired by her hardworking cousin, she maintains focus and motivation even during her challenging moments. She plans to pursue a career as a nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse and is well on her way to achieving that goal. Congratulations, Hania. Are you here? >> [applause] [applause] >> Josie. All right. Next up, we have 11th grade, Christopher Galicia. Christopher Galicia is a reflective and motivated junior with a love for English, fostered by the influence of his past English teachers.
014He's also been inspired by his former history teacher, Mr. Sweitzer, whose guidance and advice left a lasting impact. Christopher draws strength from his family, especially his father, and uses that motivation to navigate challenges. He has grown socially and academically at CHS, turning unfamiliar situations into opportunities to build meaningful friendships. He's exploring career paths ranging from entrepreneurship to running his own bodega. Is Christopher here? Congratulations. >> [applause] [applause] >> Commissioner Powers. I have the privilege of announcing the December student of the month for the 12th grade, Daisy Zuniga. Daisy Zuniga is an extraordinary senior whose passion for literature and leadership has shaped her high school career. She credits Ms. Turk and Mr. Rogers as the most influential teachers in her life, helping her develop critical thinking, writing skills, and confidence as a student. Daisy is actively
015involved in Key Club, Model UN, National History Day, NHS, and EHS, the Teacher Assistant Program, and Global Mentorship. Inspired by her parents' courage and determination, she aspires to become an immigration lawyer to help reunite families and advocate for a better future. She looks forward to continuing her education at either William Paterson or Montclair State University. Daisy, are you here this evening? Oh, we'll make sure she gets her >> [applause] >> Congratulations. Now, we're going to move on to January students of the month. Commissioner Rexel for the ninth grade student. All right. Ninth grade student of the month, Kylie Ocasio. Kylie Ocasio, excuse me, is an energetic and dedicated freshman with a strong passion for mathematics. She credits Ms. Trobiano from Woodrow Wilson Middle School for helping her truly understand math concepts, and Mrs. Han, her
016her eighth grade language arts teacher, for making learning enjoyable and creating a classroom environment where she felt supported and confident. Kylie is inspired daily by her mother, whose perseverance as a single parent motivates her to strive for excellence. Outside the classroom, Kylie is a committed athlete on the CHS competition cheer team and a member of the New Jersey Flyer Club softball team with aspirations to play softball at the collegiate level. Congratulations to you. >> [applause] >> Commissioner Rosiak January's student of the month for 10th grade, Julia Grabowski. Julia Grabowski is an accomplished sophomore who excels in mathematics and finds fulfillment in solving challenging problems. She credits Mr. Feeley with inspiring her love for math and influencing her desire to pursue a career in a math-related field. Julia is highly motivated by her uncle Chris, whose
017dedication and perseverance have taught her the power of hard work. She's a leader in her school community as president of the Cultural Diversity Club and a member of the varsity girls' soccer team while also balancing club soccer and a part-time job. Julia plans to attend college and hopes to major in computer engineering or pursue a double major in computer science and cybersecurity. Congratulations, Julia. >> [applause] >> Congratulations, Julia. Thank you, President Bascom. Our 11th grade student of the month for January is Brian Cherlin. Brian Cherlin is a focused and driven junior with a lifelong strength in mathematics and a growing interest in engineering. He credits Mr. Henry, his AP history teacher, US history teacher, for challenging him academically and preparing him for the expectations of college and life beyond high school. Brian is inspired by
018his parents, whose care and guidance motivate him to treat others with kindness and respect. He plays JV soccer for Clifton High School and has learned to manage the demanding balance between athletics and academics. Brian plans to attend college and pursue a degree in engineering. Congratulations, Brian. Are you here? >> [applause] >> Um Commissioner Siano 12th grade, we have Thomas Bowman. Thomas Bowman is a resilient, compassionate senior who has found his voice through CAST, where he helps record the school's morning show. He credits Mr. Macchione as the most influential teacher in his life, praising his dedication, encouragement of individuality, and tireless commitment to students. Thomas draws inspiration from his older sisters, Amanda, Megan, and Stephanie, who supported him through the loss of his father and continue to guide him. A four-year member of the football team
019and a dedicated track athlete specializing in javelin under the guidance of Coach Brown. Thomas channels his challenges into motivation and growth. He plans to attend Montclair State University, majoring in communications with a minor in business, with the goal of becoming a sports analyst. Is Thomas here? >> [applause] >> And the February student of the month, Commissioner Suarez. Thank you, President Bascom. Uh I would love to honor Bosco Djurdic. Bosco is a motivated freshman who enjoys math because of the confidence and ease he finds in the subject. He credits Mr. Lembrick as one of the most influential teachers in his life, sharing that he motivates him in sports and always offers meaningful advice. Bosco also appreciates the guidance of his middle school teacher, Mr. Labriola, who who prepared him for high school by offering encouragement and
020practical advice. A member of the CHS soccer program, Bosco stays motivated through his faith in God and the support of his family. He plans to attend college and aspires to build successful and fulfilling life. Bosco, are you here tonight? All right, please clap for him. >> [applause] >> I have the pleasure of reading from the 10th grade, Retej Elsayed is thoughtful and driven sophomore with a strong interest in social studies and understanding how history shapes the world today. She credits Mr. Ashworth and Ms. Figueroa for as influential teachers who encouraged her to believe in her ability to grow with confidence. Retej also appreciates the guidance of Ms. Breaker, Woodrow Wilson Middle School, and Mr. Oxenbridge, whose class helped prepare her for the expectations of high school. Through resilience and determination, Retej has learned to balance
021responsibilities and remain focused on her goals. She plans on attending college and pursue a career that allows her to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Is Retej here? >> [applause] >> Commissioner Harris >> [applause] >> Okay, I'm presenting the 11th grade award to Caitlyn Garrity. Caitlyn Garrity is a dedicated and accomplished junior who has made a tremendous impact in Clifton High School's visual and performing arts program. A leader in both orchestra and band, she serves as concert master and overall band manager while participating in multiple ensembles. Caitlyn credits Mr. Stebeleski along with Mr. Louie, and Mrs. Babiak, and Ms. Ebell for inspiring her growth as both a musician and a leader. She plans to pursue a degree in music education with the goal of sharing her passion for music with future generations.
022Caitlyn, are you here? >> [applause] >> Next, we have Commissioner Conover with the 12th grade. All right. Next up for 12th grade, we have Nicholas Dang. Nicholas Dang is an accomplished and reflective senior with a passion for English and writing. He credits Mr. Ms. Ondek, his senior year English teacher, as the most influential influential educator in his high school journey. Sharing that her class fostered both joy and growth as a writer and a critical thinker. He also appreciates Mrs. Budamine, whose computer science class helped solidify his interest in cybersecurity and made a complex coding concepts accessible and engaging. As treasurer, secretary, and head of social media for the coding club, Nicholas has demonstrated leadership while combining his love for technology with photography and videography. Inspired by his mother's strength and resilience, Nicholas plans to pursue
023a degree in cybersecurity and follow in follow in his father's footsteps as an information security analyst. Is Nicholas here? >> [applause] >> Thank you, Commissioner Canova. We're going to move on to recognition and awards presentation of employee of the month. I have the honor to read the November distinguished employee of the month for the district, Patricia Litchfield. >> [applause] >> Congratulations, Patricia, for being for being recognized as the district employee of the month. She embodies exceptional dedication, reliability, and institutional knowledge. As the quiet safeguard to our district's payroll, she works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that every employee is paid accurately and on time, often stepping in during moments of chaos and resolving issues before most even know they exist. Her deep understanding of the district's processes consistently turn potential problems into quick solutions,
024saving time for multiple departments. Most importantly, Patricia approaches her work with a genuine care for people. Knowing that payroll impacts lives, her steady presence and unwavering work ethic make her outstanding in every sense. Congratulations, Patricia. >> [applause] [applause] >> November distinguished employee of the month for elementary is Gary Reed. Congratulations to Mr. Gary Reed for being recognized as elementary employee of the month. He consistently goes above and beyond to support our students, staff, and school community. His organization and attention to detail ensure that school 17 is always clean, safe, welcoming, and his positive attitude sets the tone for a warm, supportive environment. Gary has an incredibly incredible ability to anticipate needs before they arise, quietly stepping in to make sure events, classrooms, and daily routines run smoothly. Students and staff trust him because he treats
025everyone with kindness and genuine care. His humility, reliability, and upbeat spirit make Gary not only an exceptional head custodian, but an an invaluable part of our school every single day. Congratulations, Gary. >> [applause] [applause] >> Now, we're going to move on to Commissioner Canova. All right. Next up for elementary, we have Tiffany Hughes. Congratulations to Ms. Tiffany Hughes for being recognized as an elementary employee of the month. She embodies dedication, compassion, and professional growth in every aspect of her work. As a kindergarten teacher in our LLDN class, she creates a classroom where everyone every student feels safe, supported, and excited to learn. Her patience, kindness, and ability to build students' confidence make a noticeable impact each day. She collaborates closely with colleagues to address behavioral challenges, always prioritizing her students' well-being, and she actively seeks
026professional development to deepen her instructional skills, including her work with foundations including work with foundations. Ms. Ms. Hughes' unwavering commitment to her students and her school makes her an outstanding choice for employee of the month. Is Ms. Hughes here today? >> [applause] >> I know she's here. So, we'll Middle School employee of the month, JILLIAN WATTERS DORO. >> [applause] >> CONGRATULATIONS FOR BEING recognized as Middle School employee of the month. She demonstrates exceptional dedication, kindness, and a positive impact on our school community. She greets everyone with warmth, sets the tone each morning by organizing coverage and plans, and ensures the day runs smoothly. Her initiative and resourcefulness, like resolving a summer parking issue through issue through community connections, show her commitment goes above and beyond. Jillian's support of students, PBSAS initiatives, and school events, combined
027with her thoughtfulness towards colleagues, makes her an invaluable member of our team and a truly deserving recipient of this honor. Congratulations. >> [applause] [applause] >> Vice President Santiago. Thank you, President Vasquez. So, uh Our next November distinguished employee of the month from the high school is Erin Jaeger. Erin demonstrates unwavering dedication, support, and positive impact on colleagues and the entire Clifton community. She consistently goes above and beyond, always ready to assist with questions, provide coverage in emergencies, or lend a hand, no matter how busy her own schedule is. Erin fosters growth in her department, mentoring colleagues, and supporting professional development, including helping plan and lead sessions that strengthen teaching across the school. Her generosity, advocacy, and commitment to others make her an outstanding educator and a truly deserving recipient of this honor. Congratulations, Erin Jaeger.
028>> [applause] >> SO, WE WILL MOVE ON TO OUR December distinguished employees of the month. And we're going to start, I believe she is here, with our district employee, Maria Fusoni. >> [applause] >> Maria truly embodies the spirit of our district. As a dedicated and hard-working bookkeeper in the administration building, she plays a vital role in ensuring staff are paid accurately and on time. Beyond her essential work, Maria brings positivity, kindness, warmth to everyone she encounters. Her empathy, humor, and upbeat presence lifts the spirits of those around her. You always know when Maria is nearby as it feels like a parade. Whether supporting colleagues or singing karaoke with a microphone in hand, apparently, there's talk of a pink microphone. You got it? ALL RIGHT! SO, MARIA CREATES A A JOYFUL workplace and is well deserving
029of this recognition. Congratulations, Maria. >> [applause] >> Our next we have Commissioner Brzeziak. Elementary employee, Eric Bergen. Congratulations to Mr. Eric Bergen for being recognized >> [applause] >> for being recognized as elementary employee [applause] of the month. Eric is an essential employee of the school for our community. He works tirelessly each day to keep the building running smoothly, clean, and safe. Often an unsung hero, Eric is constantly on the move, responding to classroom, bathroom, and cafeteria needs, setting up and breaking down spaces, maintaining the grounds, and ensuring every classroom is cleaned daily. His work is critical to the success of School 4, yet he consistently carries it out with humility, care, and a friendly smile for everyone he meets. Eric's dedication and commitment make a meaningful difference every day, and the district is proud to
030recognize him for his outstanding service. Congratulations. >> [applause] >> Commissioner Brzeziak. December employee of the month, School 14 represent rolling deep tonight. Elementary School NURSE, LINDA MCGRATH. >> [applause] >> CONGRATULATIONS TO MS. Linda McGrath for being recognized as the elementary employee of the month. Linda is an invaluable member of the School 14 community. While she excels in her clinical responsibilities, her impact extends far beyond the nurse's office. Linda is a constant source of comfort and support for students and staff, always stepping in to help. Whether de-escalating behaviors in the hallway, assisting in the lunch room, or responding to emergencies with calm expertise. Her genuine care for every member of the School 14 family and her unwavering dedication make her a most deserving recipient of the elementary employee of the month award. Congratulations, Nurse Linda. >>
031[applause] [applause] >> Commissioner Katz. For the December Distinguished Employee of the Month in middle school, Mr. Timothy Hayward. Congratulations to Mr. Timothy Hayward on being recognized as middle school employee of the month. Timothy has a meaningful and lasting impact on students and the CCMS community. He creates a welcoming and supportive music program where students feel encouraged, challenged, and excited to participate, leading to continued growth in band and jazz ensemble involvement. He works tirelessly to prepare students for concerts that showcase their progress and dedication, and plays a key role in the school musical as the pit orchestra director, providing students with an authentic, collaborative performance experience. He's also an awesome saxophone player. Through his consistent commitment beyond the school day, passion for music, and unwavering belief in his students, Mr. Hayward is a valued educator and
032positive presence at CCMS, and truly deserving of this recognition. Is Mr. Hayward here this evening? >> [applause] >> Um Commissioner Okay, so Mr. Hayward is not here because he's prepping for his school play tomorrow. So, we have another round of applause for Mr. Hayward. >> [applause] >> Commissioner Brotz. Thank you. Employee of the Month for our high school, Lynn Swartzo. >> [applause] >> Congratulations to Miss Lynn Swartzo for being recognized as high school employee of the month. Lynn Swartzo is a vital member of Clifton High School and a tireless advocate for students with special needs. As transition coordinator, Swartzo closely with students, families, staff, and community partners to provide individualized planning that prepares students for life after high school, whether college, trade school, or employment. Lynn has built strong connections with local businesses and agencies,
033creating meaningful work experiences for students in the IMPACT program. Her expertise, dedication, and mentorship benefit students, parents, and colleagues alike, ensuring students leave high school ready to succeed and thrive in their communities. She is truly deserving and truly deserving recipient of the high school employee of the month award. Congratulations, Lynn. >> [applause] [applause] >> Um Commissioner Suarez. This award goes out to the district January's Distinguished Employee of the Month, Rosemary Melly. >> [applause] >> Congratulations to Miss Rosemary Melly for being recognized as District Employee of the Month. Rosemary is an exceptional district employee who consistently goes above and beyond in her role. She approaches every interaction with kindness, respect, and genuine care, always willing to assist anyone who walked into the HR office. Rose manages critical responsibilities for the entire district, including FMLA paperwork, the
034mentoring program, new hires, and employment contracts, while expertly juggling multiple tasks with professionalism and a positive attitude. Dedicated and hardworking, she perseveres through challenges with a smile and unwavering concern for others. Her generosity, willingness to share knowledge, and steady support have made a lasting professional and personal impact on those around her, truly embodying the spirit of Employee of the Month. >> [applause] [applause] >> Commissioner Penna. All right, next we have for elementary, Marissa Amelio. >> [cheering] [applause] >> CONGRATULATIONS TO MISS MARISSA AMELIO FOR BEING recognized as an elementary employee of the month. Marissa, a CHS alumni, is a dedicated and highly respected fifth grade teacher who consistently goes above and beyond for her students in the School 9 community. She plays an active role in the fifth grade committee, contributing her time and leadership to
035the yearbook, fundraising efforts, and serving as a safety patrol advisor. Marissa builds a strong, meaningful relationships with her students and relates to them in a way that supports both engagement and success, while also maintaining excellent classroom management. She works works collectively with parents and is actively involved in summer curriculum work that has a positive impact across the district. Loved by her students and valued by her colleagues, Miss Amelio is truly an asset to School 9 and the Clifton School District. MISS AMELIO. >> [applause] >> MR. BROTZ, HERE. COMMISSIONER BROTZ, HERE. Congratulations to Miss Shang Li Ying Li for being recognized as elementary employee of the month. Shang Ying has been a cornerstone of the Clifton School District's elementary music program for many years, serving as a lead elementary strings teacher with unwavering dedication, talent, and
036professionalism. Working across multiple schools, Shang goes above and beyond to nurture young musicians with patience, kindness, and expert instruction, producing exceptional performances at winter, spring, and all-city concerts. She oversees the strings portion of the Music Angels program, ensuring instruments are properly cared for and accessible to students from financially underprivileged families, while also leading the extensive organization required for all-city strings rehearsals and performances. Widely respected for her reliability, passion, and musical excellence, Shang truly epitomizes a rockstar teacher and is a well-deserving, unsung hero of the Clifton Schools music department. Congratulations, Shang. >> [applause] >> Commissioner Penna. All right, for middle school we have Anthony Lanzarone. Congratulations to Mr. Anthony Lanzarone on being recognized as middle school employee of the month. Anthony has dedicated many years to teaching music to students across all grade levels at Woodrow
037Wilson Middle School, leaving a lasting impact on both students and staff of the district. A wonderful and passionate music director, a music educator, he is deeply loved by his students, many of whom return to visit him after long after leaving his classroom. His leadership in the middle school band program is evident in every rehearsal, performance, and hallway conversation as he creates a positive, supportive environment where students are encouraged to take risks, grow through challenges, and discover their potential. Always cheerful, helpful, and collaborative, Anthony elevates the music department through his consistency, care, and his pride in work, leaving a lasting experience that students carry with them beyond middle school. Is Anthony here? >> [applause] >> Unfortunately, a lot of our players got delayed because of the weather, so everything's pushed around. So, I appreciate everyone being
038gracious to us and understanding that God's keeps on snowing. Um with that being said, Commissioner Brotz. All right, and last but definitely not least is the high school awardee, Miss Cara Fine. >> [clears throat] >> Congratulations to Mrs. Dawn Fine for being recognized as high school employee of the month. Dawn, a CHS alumni alumni, demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the school and community through her roles as senior class advisor, pre-med club advisor, and member of the Clifton Community Band. Mrs. Carifio worked tirelessly to bring back the Red Cross blood drive to CHS, helping save hundreds of lives over the past several years. And she crafted and implemented the anatomy and physiology curriculum, which has grown into one of the school's most popular electives. Her passion, dedication, and impact makes CHS a better place for students
039and staff alike. Dawn truly embodies what it means to be a Clifton through and through, and is a deserving recipient of employee of the month. CONGRATULATIONS. >> [applause] >> I'D LIKE TO TURN OUR PORTION TO SPECIAL recognition for PBIS. This is Mrs. Espinoza. Sorry. Thank you. Um, hi and good evening everyone. Um So, tonight's section on PBIS, positive behavior supports in schools, uh we're dedicating this to our family engagement and a very special parent liaison. So, here we go. Strong family partnerships are essential to student success, as we all know. When families and schools work together, we strengthen the systems that support every child. Within our PBIS framework, family engagement is not an add-on, but rather a critical part of our tiered approach that helps create consistent, supportive environments for students across school and home.
040Tonight, we are proud to recognize Ms. Debbie Guzman as our PBIS champion parent members. >> [applause and cheering] >> So, here is just a small portion of how amazing Ms. Guzman is. Debbie serves as the PTA president for School 9. Is a dedicated PBIS member to the member of the PBIS district collaborative team, as well as the district collaborative team. And not to be outdone, but certainly outdone by being a full-time working parent. She represents the very best of the authentic partnership in Clifton. Debbie's a true reflection of a mom balancing it all. At the center of her work are her two elementary school-age children, and through them, her commitment extends to every child in Clifton. Her voice helps us co-create spaces that nurture students while strengthening strengthening the connection between families and our PBIS
041tiered framework, ensuring family perspective informs our universal practices, our targeted supports, and the culture we build together. Her actions inspire us to remain involved, which is critical. She leads with optimism, always promoting a si se puede mentality, that always reminds us that everything is possible when we work together for our children. Ms. Guzman, thank you for your leadership, your partnership, and for modeling what family engagement truly looks like in action. Thank you. >> [applause] [applause] >> Moving right along, this is great Mr. Brontia, I Commissioner Brontia, moving right along. You're happy, right? Okay, so this portion of the uh the program is open to public recognition. Um this um to the citizens of Clifton for the purpose of addressing any subject matter pertinent to and related directly to the operations of the Clifton Public School
042District. Residents are required to sign the register, which is right here, um and provide provided for purpose to state their name, address, and subject matter. Comments are limited to 5 minutes per person. Uh issues raised by members of the public may or may not be responded to by the board. All comments will be considered and a response um will be forthcoming if and when appropriate. The board asks all members of the public to be courteous, mindful of the rights of others. Individuals when speaking, specifically all comments uh regarding students and employees of the board are discouraged and will not be responded to by the board. Students and employees have specific rights, um legal rights afforded by the laws of New Jersey. The board bears no responsibility, nor will it be liable for any comments made
043by members of Members of the public should consider their comments in light of legal rights of those affected or identified in the comments, and be aware that they are legally responsible and liable for their comments. Would anyone wish to speak? Seeing none, motion? Motioned by Mr. Brontia, second by Commissioner Paris. Uh board member comments, motion to suspend? Motioned by Mrs. Siadis, seconded by Commissioner uh Suarez. All in favor of no comments? Um we're going to go into a brief um brief executive board in 10 minutes. Motion to close the regular public session. By Mr. Brontia, second by Commissioner Suarez. It was requested by Mr. Al Smith. All in favor? Meeting over. Thank you. Scratch those names. I'm Benjamin Dad. How are you doing? It's a great honor. I just wanted to thank you all very
044much.