June 19, 2025 - Clifton Board of Education Meeting

001Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the June 19th regular meeting of the Clifton Board of Education. Please stand for the flag salute and a moment of silence. 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. Thank you. Uh, roll call. Mr. Shada, Miss Lassford, here. Mr. Brunac, here. Mr. Kenova, Dr. Danny, Mr. Mahia, Mr. Ciano here, Miss Suarez here, Vice President Santiago here, President Paris here. We have a quorum. The mission of the Clifton School District in an open and reciprocal community partnership is to provide all students with the quality education to develop the skills necessary to become literate lifelong learners who are responsible and productive citizens contributing to a democratic

002society in an everchanging world. The New Jersey open public's meeting law, open public meetings law, was enacted to ensure the right to 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, and 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 0168. Okay, ladies and gentlemen, we need to do uh this is why we started early

003today. We have to do an executive session. It'll take about one hour and we'll be discuss discussing personnel, legal uh or student matters. Uh action may or may not be taken. Motion to go to executive support. Motion by Commissioner Bassford, seconded by Commissioner Brunak. We'll be back in an hour. Hello ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for being patient with us. Um Mr. Shahad, could we have a roll call please? Mford here. Mr. Brunia here. Mr. Kenoba, Dr. Danny, Mr. Mia, Mr. Ciano here. Mr. Wares here. Vice President Santiago here. President Paris. Yes. We have um do we have our student representative with us this evening? So, I want to thank the esteemed board for the attention that you guys have met um the students concerns throughout this this school year. On behalf of myself, the

004SCA president, and Mark Tarani, the representative to the board of ed, um we're truly grateful for your responsiveness. This is my last meeting of the school year and um given that there's there's no additional information that um you know I need I need to convey um I'm going to introduce take the time to introduce um the student representative for the upcoming school year um Ja Alur uh and right now she'll take a moment to introduce herself. So thank you guys again for your your responsiveness throughout the school year and uh it's truly been a pleasure. Thank you, Lamar and Mark. Good evening. My name is Jenna Alnator and I'm a current junior at CHS and I will be the student representative next year. So, I just wanted to take a second to introduce myself and

005currently I'm actively involved at CHS. Some of the boards that I serve on currently are mock trial, kindness and plants and next year Clifton Student Union. I'm also a member of the varsity volleyball team that I participate in the fall season and I'm looking forward to being an accurate representation of the student body as well as working with everyone and I'm looking forward to a great school year. Thank you. Thank you so much and welcome. We're looking forward to working with you also. Ladies and gentlemen of the board, if you need an attorney, that's who you want. Yeah. Jenna all the way. I hope I never need you, but Okay. Um, next is a Okay, we don't have any committee. Um, no, we have we have a report from administration, right? Yes, Janina. Um, Miss

006Kusalevich will be over giving us an overview of the five-year strategic plan. They lost my my window. Good evening, commissioners. It's wonderful to be here with you again um to present. Good evening, Commissioner. This is so far away. Good evening, commissioners. It's wonderful to be here with you again this evening. Forgive me. I love to stand to present. So, next time I'm going to try to find a way to stand. This is a great setup for people to share public comment, but to present it's a little bit of a challenge. Next time, it's all good. Um, tonight we're here to discuss the 2025 strategic plan of which all of our commissioners and many of our staff, parents, and community stakeholders participated in multiple meetings to come together and come up with a vision for the

007future. Vision is the art of seeing things invisible and that's the purpose of this strategic planning process. The strategic plan serves to revise and then create strategies to support and promote our district mission statement. This planning process has set us up for five years looking forward to where we would like to be as a district. There were three stakeholder committee meetings held at the high school. They were facilitated by New Jersey school boards and comprised of our faculty, staff, yourselves, parents, and community members who may or may not have children in our district anymore or ever. These meetings were held in January, February, and March and developed goals and objectives that the community and whole stakeholder group felt would help move Clifton forward for the next 5 years. These goal areas are now going to

008drive these superintendants district goals. As a result of what I'm going to be presenting you today, district committees will be meeting and holding focus groups to ensure that we can implement components of the vision laid out before us. We'll be determining priorities and incorporating those plans that are feasible into our budget cycle. And there will be yearly updates presented as Dr. Robert Totosey presents his yearly district goals which are a reflection of this plan going forward. After those three meetings attended by approximately a hundred people each time, five major goal areas were determined. Academic excellence and curriculum development, staff development and retention, student engagement and support, community and family involvement, and facilities and infrastructure. The main goal area under academic excellence and curriculum development is to redesign a prek through 12 curriculum which balances foundational

009skills progressing through grades and prepares students for 21st century challenges and opportunities. The three main objectives in this area will be to enhance academic skills with modern tools and crosscurricular digital literacy skills to the second area is to strengthen students social emotional interpersonal and executive functioning skills. And the third area is enhancing programs to engage and retain high school students including alternative education programs and university partnerships. The curriculum and counseling departments will be the departments leading this goal area and the action steps will include exploring the feasibility of each of these objectives, collecting focus group and stakeholder feedback and then determining which priorities and budgeting for those priority areas as well as planning for implementation over the next five years. in staff development and retention. This main goal area is to increase recruitment of highly

010qualified staff and enhance staff retention by creating a positive environment where staff and students thrive. This is a particularly important area considering our nationwide teacher shortage that is rippling through New Jersey as well. This one has four major objectives. The first is to develop engaging and personalized professional development, including opportunities where teachers have more choice in their areas of interest, crosscurricular support, and the ability to learn second languages provided through a flexible schedule of offerings. Our second goal area is to enhance teacher support opportunities including specific subject coaching as well as coaching from the various organizations such as NJA, NJREA and other organizations and universities allowing for our teachers to receive support and mentorship. The third objective is to expand outreach for recruitment of staff and this includes not only university partnerships but a lot

011of grow your own initiatives some of which have started here and need enhancing or furthering supporting our Clifton to Clifton pathway to bring back more of our Clifton students to be teachers here in our district or employees in other areas and to diversify outreach and recruitment platforms and include more stakeholders to really enhance that recruitment component. And finally, to support educator well-being, including mental health, mindfulness, and social emotional support for our staff. This would be building on things like our existing one Clifton sports program for to build morale amongst our staff and to provide other opportunities for our teachers to feel heard and supported in all areas. The human resources, counseling, and curriculum departments will also be driving this goal area. Our third goal area is on student engagement and support. Here the focus is

012to create a supportive learning environment that increases student engagement, making every student feel valued, connected, and empowered to reach their full potential. The three major objectives are to explore pathways to ensure a seamless transition between grade levels and buildings. Those transition points between grades five and six and eight and nine can be particularly challenging and this is to provide a smoother, more seamless experience for our students. Since the pandemic, chronic absenteeism has been a nationwide problem. So the second objective is to identify those students with high absenteeism early and help create personalized comprehensive support plans. And finally to explore expanding extracurricular activities at the elementary level to engage our students younger, sooner, earlier to really support that trajectory and also help with objective number two, being present in school. This will be um also under

013the student services, counseling and curriculum departments with each goal being objective being explored, collecting stakeholder feedback and then determining priorities and how to move forward over the next five years. Our fourth goal area is community and family involvement. The goal here is to enhance Clifton's brand by increasing resources and parental involvement to all provide all stakeholders a quality 21st century education and community-based programs that provide educational and social activities for family engagement. The first objective looks to provide resources at all of our children's schools to assist families with their children's education. The second is to enhance the Clifton brand by showcasing programs offered at all school levels and showcase our facility improvements to help reassure our parents that all learners will have their needs met. It is to expand on our existing communication between families

014and the Clifton community to create a stronger one Clifton. to foster relationships between the Clifton Public Schools and the senior citizen community, to create community programs including ESL and adult education, district-wide social activities that promote engagement with the schools and student activities supporting the global community and of course finding ways to provide child care so that we have greater parent participation in these activities. Once again, this is student services, counseling, the communications um department and curriculum. And finally, we are looking at facilities and infrastructure. And this is to continue those upgrades that have transformed Clifton thanks to the referendum and to really get our community aware of everything that's out there. Among those objectives are exploring space options to continue to expand our free preschool and specialized programming to promote and showcase the facilities improvements

015that are out there and to explore the expansion of transportation through the district. And this will be the responsibility of the business office transportation communication and maintenance departments. Once again, the action steps will include collecting feedback from the community, reviewing the existing demographic study and future demographic reports related to that study, and coordinating to determine the priorities and budgeting for those areas that are feasible. These five goal areas will be the driving force, the beacon which Dr. Robert Toy will be using to help all of our departments, our schools focus our efforts and balance those five goal areas with the challenges of space, enrollment, technology, budgeting, fiscal responsibility, our facilities, and any new mandates that come down. While the group may have appeared small, we nearly filled our auditorium, we can never doubt that a

016small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. Margaret me, thank you so much for allowing me to present to you again tonight. Thank you, Mr. Kuselvich. Uh like to open any questions for Miss Kusalevich from the from the board. Can I have a comment to through you to the superintendent? Uh first of all, thank you for your comprehensive report. We did sit in the same group together. So I I know you from the results of this community involvement page, I know you heard me. So I I appreciate that. Um, I would like to explore the establishment of an adult evening school and I would like that to go to the education and probably the finance committee for um for input in it. Um, that

017will help bring the community into the school system. We can offer a plethora of things. Start out small. Um, I was very involved in that when I first moved here to Clifton. It helped me meet people. It helped me get involved in the community. it um it had its downfalls because we weren't automated and you know there was things going on but start out small but we can also use it to help the adults help the students and we did talk about that in our small group so I'm asking for that request I'm respectfully requesting that that get done Mr. password. I'll make sure that's on the agenda. Did you say uh finance and education? Right. Anyone else? Uh I do President Vice President Santiago. Thank you very much again, uh Miss Kousvich. Um this

018was a great initiative. Um we we we continue to talk about it throughout. It's not just it was an opportunity just to speak but an opportunity for the community to come and participate and have a hand in the future of our schools. Um I in terms of curriculum development I do see enhanced programs to engage and retain high school students including themies. There's a lot of talk about um trades and things like that you know different routes for for students. Not everybody wants to go to college that kind of thing. Um the next step is really the feasibility first right what we can and can't do and or partially do whatever um can you give a very high level quick overview of themies and then do you think that in five years it could possibly

019be full-blown programs that lead to trades I mean there's probably a lot of resources or budget or things like that that that are involved right now right now ourmies are primarily based on um academics. Um we do have a very large fine and performing arts academy um as well as our careers academy. There are components of CTE programs, career technical education programs that we can expand on within our existing structures. And the purpose um of that goal here or the objective would be to determine which of our existing we can add a CTE credential to which of our existing we can expand and or enhance upon and what we can do to add tracks to ourmies that may be more tradebased um not necessarily leading to a university education but get students into the workforce

020more quickly. However, a lot of the more technical trades, those are very expensive to um create a program. That's where a place like PCTI does really come in to serve our students for those types of programs that require specialized equipment, um very high-end components that we may only have a handful of students for. But in terms of building hands-on STEM activities, strengthening our STEM and STEAM programs, adding more to our um visual and performing arts, and creating more CTE or career technical education endorsed programs that might not be so equipment heavy, those are things that we can um and will be exploring um to add and enhance those programs at Clifton High School. Thank you very much. So um the academy seems like for me for my layman's terms it's kind of like a concentration

021maybe like a major if you will or a minor. Exactly. Themies that we have are like a they are a concentration either in the STEM areas and academic content in the visual and performing arts or in the career and technical areas. Um usually your freshman year is just a typical freshman year. By your sophomore year, you've declared your academy choice. You are um now taking electives. In freshman year, it's sorry, sophomore year, it's usually one elective. Junior year, it's one or two that are in that concentration area. by your senior year. In addition to those electives, you do have some other capstone opportunities, university connections, and other connections including um hands-on learning experiences where our students may be going out for a structured learning experience for half of the day, working with a business and

022so forth. Not quite like an apprenticeship because those are usually for the more heavily um equipment based technical programs that we would not be offering. Great. Thank you very much for that. Anyone else? Thank you so much, Miss Cuselage. J, you're the best. Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President. Yes, Commissioner President. After the PBSIS presentation, are we allowed to move to personnel and then do public comment? That's what we're I see. Awesome. Thank you very much. Do you want to We could do personnel now if you want. Let's let Miss Regosa finish her presentation and then we'll move that. Okay. Um so next up, you have the floor, Miss Regosa, for uh tier 2 team at school 12 uh recognition for PBS. Sorry, do you need to close my window out? Yeah, the sitting down

023gig is a little different. You say, "Okay, Janina, I thought you were going to grab this mic and like stand and like do your thing with it. I'm tempted. Sitting is very difficult to present, but here we go." All right. Good evening, board members, uh, President Paris, uh, commissioners, Dr. Robertsi. I am so excited to be with you today. It's been a while. I've missed you all and it's June. So, here we go. Uh we've been talking about PBSIS and universal systems and recognition for so many years and the time has come as we've scaled our our intervention practices to secondary and tertiary tiers uh upcoming. But now we're starting to highlight and see the fruits of our labor for tier 2 interventions. Tonight we're focusing on the success story at school 12 and we

024are so fortunate to have them here to celebrate them. Tier 2 interventions as you all know addresses about 15% of our student population who benefit from more intensive behavior supports. I am happy to say that 15 is about the national that we see. our schools barely make it to six or 9% uh of students who need our supports. But what that means is that students who are uh meet a certain criteria which includes a combination of major behavior infractions or as we call them in Clifton, special action referrals or minor behavior infractions over a period of time called staff managed infractions in Clifton. A combination of any of those will have um our teams looking at students behavior so that we can intervene before it becomes a bigger issue. Other things that our teams look

025at are um things like multiple unscheduled nurse or counselor visits. You know, some of our friends uh definitely like to visit our nurses and our counselors and those are clear signs for hey, please help me. Um and so we're we're manage we're tracking those and we're placing interventions sooner rather than later. We're also focusing um in in great detail on our attendance. As we know, we have chronic absenteeism across our nation and that's one of the things that our tier 2 interventions aims to help address. All of this of course has room for a good old-fashioned request for assistance. If a staff member feels in their stomach there's something going on in this student's life and we need to help them out, there's a space for that as well. So that's the criteria that gets

026a student's name across our tier 2 intervention teams. What that looks like is that then our teams go on to develop intervention plans and um one of them is revolves around uh check-in checkout. Our schools have done a tremendous job this year getting those systems up and particularly school 12. And what that does that particular system is it divi it it identifies a student specific goal to meet their behavioral needs and it pairs students with trusted staff members. That is the joy of a check-in checkout system and ultimately reinforces positive student behaviors. as I've sat or stood here uh in front of you for many years in saying that the only way we change behavior is by rewarding what we want to see. The more advanced we get into the intervention um game still this

027holds true. We want to reinforce what we want to continue to see. So here we go. Panda pride. Panda pride is strong. They're in the building and they are responsible, resilient, and respectful. And their tier 2 action plan is full swing looks something like this. They meet monthly for about 45 minutes. And I got to tell you, when they first started their journey, it the meetings were averaging about 3 hours to cycle through all of the students and all of their plans. They have gotten it down to about 35 to 45 minutes. and that is impressive for their team and their dynamic. It includes a about 15 crosscurricular team members from all grades spans, child study team members, um, uh, counseling, uh, teaching staff to really bring a comprehensive plan to life. The team is

028utilizing the link intervent the link platform which now houses our behavior intervention plans. And this year alone we served about six% of the student population at school 12 which roughly uh came out to about 37 students. Those are 37 students who are success stories and who are now further connected to their uh schools 12 community. A total of 264 weeks of support for those students was recorded through our data. that. Can you imagine the number of times that those kids felt connected to adults by just having someone show additional interest in them? This was really cool. This was one of their uh team meetings. The reason why these pictures are in front of you, I want you to take a look at the faces and the smiles on some of these team members. Uh what

029they're showing. The l the little bucket that you see in front of you was an activity that Miss Tracy Marie, our PBSIS district coach, um made made for them. What she did was in in one box, she had little rocks and pompoms with their school colors symbolized each student that was successful for their plan. And as the teams met throughout the year, they kept on putting them in another um in the other box. Now, it might be small and trivial to some, but take a look at these staff's sincere smile. Every single time that a student was successful after 8 weeks, they got a chance to do this. And we're happy to report that the success rate was tremendous at school 12. Plans for tier 2 interventions were naturally try uh tied to uh reinforcers,

030their universal school reinforcers, which included access to preferred adults at appropriate times, access to universal recognition system, access to the therapy dog initiative and access to intentional positive interactions between staff and students. I want to draw your attention to the word access because the whole goal for their team was access for all students in their buildings. The access to to be loved, to be to be heard, to be to feel safe and the school 12 clearly demonstrated that, aka their panda pride. So tonight, please welcome me. Please um help me welcome them with a big round of applause. We're going to ask the team 12 team to come up. [Applause] Congratulations. Come on up. Congratulations. [Applause] You want coffee? Let me just get everybody set up. Let me take one with my phone just somebody

031take one with my phone just in case. No. No. All right. Here we go. Kobe. One, two, three. Kobe. Kobe, you're gonna have to sit there one more second. Okay. One, two, three. Kobe. Where's Titi? Where's Titi? Good job. Congratulations. [Applause] No, I'm gonna log out. I didn't know if you have to put in your notes or something. Okay. Uh we have we don't have we don't have any board um committee reports for this meeting. We are going to move to public recognition. This portion of the meeting is open to the residents and non-residents of Clifton for the purpose of addressing any subject matter pertinent to andor directly related to the operation of the Clifton Public School District. Residents and non-residents are requested to sign the register provided for this purpose and to state their

032names, addresses, and subject matter. Comments are limited to five minutes per person. 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 will be forthcoming if and when appropriate. The board asked that members of the public be courteous and mindful the rights of other individuals when speaking. Specifically, comments regarding students and employees of the board are discouraged and will not be responded to by the board. Students and employees have specific legal rights afforded by the laws of New Jersey. The board bears no responsibility, nor will it be liable for any comments made by members of the public. Members of the public should consider their comments in light of the legal rights of those affected or identified in their comments and

033be aware that they are legally responsible and liable for their comments. Uh let's start. No, no one online. Okay. Motion to close. Motion motion to close our online virtual by Commissioner Brunac, seconded by Commissioner Mahia. Uh is there anyone who'd like to approach the mic and speak to us this evening? Welcome. Thank you. Keith Bassard, Clifton, New Jersey. Come to these meetings over 25 years. First time I ever was able to sit down and talk to you guys. First time. It feels great. Believe me, we're almost at eye, you know, we can see each other in the eyes here. And that, you know, uh I haven't been here for a while. had other business to take care of and everything, but um I'm back again. And uh either June or July, I always say this

034is silly season if anybody ever heard me. And what I mean by silly season is um in November we have election coming up. We have incumbents. We have new people going to be running. And um everybody has own ideas how they want to do things, but I'll save that for September. Tonight we bid farewell to Lori Lammana. And I don't mean it I mean in a way that she was a asset to this school system. She really has done a lot. And um I was thinking about something her elevator which I spoke to people about. It's a shame we don't have the elevator ready for her. But I'd like to present something with that elevator. I like that that elevator named after Lorie Lammana. Her elevator. That's her elevator. She always wanted an elevator. Always

035did those stairs all these years and that. And I think it would be a nice dedication to her that elevator. Her name Lori Lammana elevator. Yeah, but we could put some on there. But I think I'd like to see that. I know you think I'm crazy, but um another thing, the other night there was a council meeting and I was at the council meeting and it was quite entertaining, we'll say. I was listening to about what they owe you, what you owe them and everything. And some council people agreed that, you know, let's just leave it where it is and call it even. But other council people want to say, "Okay, we owe $300,000." Other words, the council owes the board 300,000. Then the council owes you people, I believe, 1.5 million. And um you

036know, all these years in Clifton, you know, it all comes out of the same pot, but they they want to push us. And I heard their ways of uh trying to say the board here your bills a little inflated because it's them and you know you listen but you you know what at the end of the day if that's what they want well let them give you your bill and you give them their bill but it's going to hurt the taxpayers. That's what's going to happen. It's going to hurt the taxpayers and that stuff. Um, another thing too, they were talking about the SRO's that they pay for the SRO's. Well, I got a suggestion, peers. We have police officers that work security now in our schools. They could carry their guns. They could be

037our SRO's officers at the high school. We don't need the city police to be there. They could do it. But another thing with the high school I noticed too is that where you have your monitors for the cameras and everything and this is just a suggestion. I think that should be a full-time position. Somebody to watch those cameras and see what's going on and actually monitor everything within the high school. If something goes down, they have a radio that could tell them right away. Let's not wait until something happens. Let's keep it from the minute that school opens to the minute that school closes. Let's watch those monitors and everything. I think our police officers at these schools, they're trained and they should carry their guns in the schools and everything. I think uh it's

038a good safety thing to keep our schools safe with the kids and that stuff. One other thing too that I suggested a while back and I'm going to suggest it again with these schools with this parking and everything. My suggestion is you get a hold of the Clifton manager some. Let's see if we could pay a one of their parking enforcement people and come around to our schools at certain times and let them start giving tickets out to these people. the other day. Lucky I stopped because I knew the guy was crossing the street by school too with his daughter. Even look, I would have hit them both and that. Oh, time's up, guys. I'll be back again. Don't worry about it. Thank you, Mr. Pastor. Is there anyone else who'd like to speak with

039us this evening? Of course. Welcome. [Music] All right. Good. Good evening to everyone. Um, I'm Lori La Lama and uh I'm the president until the end of the month of the CEA and as of June 30th, the end of my 41 years of teaching. So, I look good for my age. So, as I stand before you today, preparing to retire at the end of June, I'm filled with deep gratitude and reflection. It's never easy to say goodbye to something that has meant so much to me for so long, but I leave with a heart full of memories, pride, and appreciation for every person who has helped make this journey so meaningful. Throughout my years in this district, I've come to see our school community as a beautiful and intricate puzzle. Each of us, students, educators,

040support staff, administrators, central office leaders, board members, and our attorney represents a unique puzzle piece. No two pieces are the same. Each has its own shape, its own colors, its own purpose. But when we come together, we create something powerful, something whole, a picture of unity, learning, resilience, and hope. To our students, thank you for being the vibrant, dynamic center of this puzzle. You have been my reason, my challenge, and my inspiration. Watching you grow, question, and discover your place in this world has been one of my greatest joys of my career. To my colleagues and staff, thank you for your collaboration, kindness, and commitment. Day after day, you showed up with heart and passion. And I've learned so much from you. Working alongside you. Working alongside you has been a privilege I will always

041treasure. To our school and district administrators, your leadership provided the structure that held our puzzle together. Thank you for your trust, support, and vision that kept us aligned and striving for excellence. To our central administration, board of ed, and Mark Tabacin for the guidance you got called, the decisions made behind the scenes, and the dedication to making our schools even better for every child and every employee. Your piece of the puzzle might not always be in front or center, but it's essential. Together, we've created something far greater than any one piece could do alone. As I step away, I know this puzzle will continue to grow and evolve. And while my piece may no longer be on the table, it will always be part of the picture we've built together. Thank you for letting me

042be part of this incredible masterpiece. I am forever grateful. To my executive team, before we look ahead, I want to take a moment to sincerely thank the incredible members of the CEA executive team and committee chairs. Your unwavering support, tireless dedication, and commitment to doing what's right for our membership have meant more than words can express. You've shown up through challenges, negotiations, late nights, and tough conversations with purpose, professionalism, and heart. Together, we've been a strong, united voice for our members. And that's because of the strength each of you bring to the table. Because of your leadership and unity, we haven't just advocated. We've built something lasting. Together, we've established a strong labor management collaborative rooted in respect, communication, and shared purpose. That progress didn't happen by chance. It happened because of you. Thank you

043for your partnership, your trust, and your belief in the work we do. It's been an honor to lead with you and because of you, Janina, as our assistant superintendent of curriculum instruction, embodies the very spirit of the quote by Elanor Roosevelt, "Do what you feel in your heart to be right. You will be criticized anyway." It's not just a saying. It's a guiding principle woven into the fabric of her leadership and never letting the critics control you. Think about it. In the ever evolving landscape of education, there are always varying opinions, different philosophies, and yes, even criticism. We both know that it would not it would be easy to play it safe, to stick to the status quo, to avoid rocking the boat. But Janina does not shy away from the currents of change. Instead,

044she navigates them with a deep-seated conviction in what she believes is best for our children's learning and growth. We've seen this firsthand in her unwavering support for the integration of new technology, the focus on social emotional learning, the labor management collaborative, and the new professional development from educators thriving. Moreover, the state and federal initiatives that have been mandated over the last 20 years, these weren't always the easiest paths. I still don't like most of them, and they certainly weren't met without questions or even some resistance. Yet, Janina drive driven by her belief in the potential of these initiatives to transform our students educational experience, persevered. Her courage doesn't stem from the place of defiance, but from a profound commitment to doing what she feels in her heart is right. She meticulously researches, thoroughly considers different

045perspectives and engages in open dialogue, but ultimately when faced with a decision, she trusts her informed intuition and the unwavering goal of providing the best possible education for every child in our district. The beauty of Janina's leadership is that she doesn't ask us blindly to follow. Instead, she inspires us to think critically, to challenge assumptions, and to also act with conviction. She understands that progress often comes with discomfort and that true innovation requires the courage to step outside of familiar boundaries, knowing that criticism may follow. So, as we continue to navigate the complexities of education, and there's a lot of them lately, let us remember Janina's example and the wisdom of this powerful quote. Let us bra let us be brave enough to pursue what we believe is right. Knowing that while criticism may come,

046the potential for positive impact on our students is immeasurable. Janina, thank you for your leadership and for showing us the power of leading with your heart and for hiring me 25 years ago. Thank you very much. [Applause] Mr. Paris. Um, may I have a superintendent uh point of privilege? Point of privilege. Go right ahead. Dr. Robert, Miss Lama. Yes. I want to just take a moment to recognize you. Um, we started our leadership roles around the same time in Clifton, July 1st, 2019 for me and a couple months earlier you as the Clifton Education Association president, which means we've been in the trenches together for six years. And um, contrary to popular belief, we didn't always agree. Uh, but we always shared a commitment to doing what was best for students and trying to find

047great solutions. So um I just want to wish you uh all the best on your retirement. Uh personally I will miss you. I will miss your uh passion uh for for education for kids for defending public education. Um, and I just want you to um hopefully look back and know that you have touched the lives of thousands and thousands of students, adults, and members of this community. So, I have a little something for you. [Applause] I like sunflowers. [Applause] Make sure it's not upside down. Lauren, congratulations. [Applause] Congratulations, Lori, and enjoy your retirement. Thank you so much. Um, is there anyone else who'd like to address the board this evening? All right, seeing none, motion to close. Motion to close by Commissioner Bassford, seconded by Commissioner Brenak. Um, next up we have two minutes to

048adopt the minutes of May 22nd and June 12th. Motion to accept. Motion by Commissioner Bassford, seconded by Commissioner Brunak. Roll call, please. Mr. Shott. Miss Bassford. Yes. Mr. Brunak. Yes, Mr. Mia. Yes, Mr. Ciano. Yes. Abstaining on the May 22nd executive session. Mr. Wararez? Yes. Vice President Santiago? Yes. President Paris? Yes. Motion carries. Dr. Abertosi. Do you have anything to add this evening? Mr. Paris, thank you. I do have a brief report tonight. Um, good evening members of the community, members of the board. Uh, tomorrow is the last day of school for students. That that deserves a round of applause. And, uh, you know, the students uh, of course, as a student, you love, you know, last day of school, summer's coming, but the adults like it too, guys. Don't let them fool you. The

049adults are very much looking forward to a little break as well. Uh tomorrow is also the Clifton High School commencement um graduation ceremony. And I'd like to just give the board a few statistics. Uh tomorrow uh 776 students will graduate on the field at the stadium. It's the um this was a larger uh class uh than has been in the past few years. Um a little bubble. uh next year's class is a little bit smaller, but still a significant number of students. Uh of those students, um 48.1% plan to attend four-year colleges, so almost half. Another 23 and a half% plan to attend a two-year college. Uh about 9.4% plan to attend a trade or technical school. Uh 3.8% 8% 30 students plan on enroll um enlisting in the military which I think is wonderful

050and then another 15% plan on uh going right into the workforce. And I will say that um and I'll mention in my speech tomorrow during graduation that I think just being a graduate of Clifton High School has prepared them so well for the real world. um dealing with the um different types of of people um the diversity, the different uh nationalities, religions, the cultures, being able to work alongside so many people with so many differences and realizing that we probably have a lot more alike than we do different and they will be better prepared because they grew up in Clifton. Um and here's a really great number. Our seniors have uh been offered 4,649,170 [Music] in uh financial aid and scholarships. Unfortunately, that is not all from the superintendent scholarship fund, but but one day

051you can have goals. Um, being the last day of school, I got to say that besides the being the last day of school, one of the best things is if it's also your birthday. Where's Phillip? Oh, he left. It's um, commissioners, you know, Phillip is Phillip. Happy birthday. Phillip, I don't I don't have anything for you, but I'll give you a hug. Happy birthday, mother. Thank you very very very happy. [Music] Philip, I don't have anything for you, but I'll get you something for your birthday. No, no, I will. I have to now. I've said it publicly. There's the only people going to be asking. I will. It's on record. I didn't know he a great and uh and and last but not least for tonight, I want to uh take a minute to congratulate

052one of our own up here on the deis uh Mr. Joe Ciano uh who uh you may know has been named the visionary of the year by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Um it's really a tremendous recognition. And um through this program with LLS, um Mr. Ciano and his team raised an incredible $138,000 to support blood cancer research, uh patient support and advocacy, $138,000. Um so, you know, where some people uh where some people talk about doing something, Mr. Iano uh talked the talk, but he walked the walk and actually did something that will impact who knows how many lives for uh in a very positive way. So, congratulations, Mr. Sienna. I wanted to publicly congratulate you because it's welld deserved. Mr. Paris, that's my report for tonight. Thank you, Dr. Roberts. Okay, we're going

053to jump to uh C personnel and be looking for a motion to approve items 1 through 44. Motion. Motion by Commissioner Bassford, second by Commissioner Brunac. Any discussion? Roll call, please. Mr. Shahada. Miss Bassford. Yes. Mr. Brunac. Yes. Mr. Mahia. Yes. Mr. M. Suarez. Yes. Abstain on P38. Santiago. Yes. Abstain on P38 and 40. President Paris. Uh, yes. Abstain on P9 and P38, please. Carries. Um, I'd like to invite anyone up who would like to make any comments. Can't wait to get out. [Applause] Good evening, One Clifton community. My name is Anthony Luzy and I'm honored to serve as the newly appointed vice president, vice principal. Excuse me. Oh, Christopher Columbus coming for my job though. Not yet. Your job pays. Yeah. Right. Right. Right. I'll stay with this one. Uh, first and foremost, I

054would like to thank Superintendent Dr. Robertoi, Board President Paris, Vice President Santiago, and the rest of the Clifton Board of Education Commissioners, as well as assistant superintendents Kusalevich and Shahada for entrusting me with this opportunity. I am committed to advancing the mission of the Clifton Board of Education and serving the students of Clifton, particularly those of CCMS with grit and dedication. I would also like to express my extreme gratitude to assistant superintendent Jenaro for his vision of admin academy. These sessions have well prepared me and several other cadets for these roles. Your leadership and guidance throughout Admin Academy have been instrumental in shaping me on my journey. Over the past three years, I've gained invaluable insights and experiences through your sessions, as well as those led by many respective administrators from across our district. That

055said, nothing has prepared me more for this role than my internship over this past school year. I'm especially thankful to the administrative teams at both middle schools for their trust and support. To Mr. Jagger, Miss Bertolo, Mr. Manin, Miss Gaba, Miss Tory, and Mr. Berlini. Thank you for your mentorship, your generosity in sharing your knowledge and leadership skills, and for helping me grow professionally. I would be remiss if I did not thank the staff, students, and families of both middle schools. The amount of support and welcomeness that I've received has not gone unnoticed and it has truly assisted in my journey. Both WWMS and CCMS are special places to work. Finally, and most importantly, I want to thank my family though they are currently in North Carolina for USA dive zones. Best of luck to

056my son Anthony. Your support, patience, sacrifices, and constant encouragement have made this journey possible. I love and appreciate you more than words can express. I look forward to the opportunity to embrace the responsibilities of this role, to work tirelessly for the success of our community, and to rise to every challenge that comes our way. Enjoy the rest of your evening and have a safe summer break. Thank you all again. Good evening, Dr. Robertsi, Mr. Jingaro, Miss Kus Levich, Mr. Shahada, President Paris, Vice President Santiago, and commissioners of the board of education. My name is Adrienne Simmons, and it is an honor to stand or sit before you this evening to share that I have accepted the position of assistant principal at school 2. I would like to express my sincere gratitude for this opportunity and

057for the support I've received throughout my years in the Clifton public schools. Over the past two decades, it has been a privilege to grow as an educator in this district and work alongside so many dedicated, passionate, and student centered professionals. The relationships I've built and the experiences I I've had have shaped me both personally and professionally, and I am incredibly proud to continue my journey in the district I've long called home. Although my administrative internship at school 2 began in February, it has been a truly rich and rewarding experience in short time. I am especially thankful to Mrs. Voitello for her guidance, encouragement, and mentorship. Her leadership has made this an invaluable period of growth. I also had the opportunity to contribute to the important work being done through PBSIS, which offered meaningful insight into

058the school's positive culture and commitment to student centered practices. Being part of that effort reinforced my passion for creating inclusive supporting environments where all students can thrive. I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Estri who served as my mentor during my academic internship at school 4. His leadership was both impactful and inspiring as I continued developing my skills and vision as a future administrator. I am deeply appreciative of the district's investment in leadership development through the Clifton Admin Academy. I'd like to especially thank Mr. Jarro for his vision in starting this program which has provided such thoughtful and impactful training for aspiring leaders. This in-house professional development and collaboration with colleagues across the district have been instrumental in preparing me for this next step. In addition, the last school year being part

059of the master's cohort in partnership with Felician University and Clifton Public Schools has been a tremendous experience. It was also a privilege having Dr. Roberts as professor for a couple of classes. His real world real world perspective and leadership experience brought both meaningful depth to our learning. To my family, thank you for your constant support, especially over the past few months. Your patience, encouragement, and belief in me means everything. Finally, to the school 2 community, thank you for welcoming me so warmly this year. It has been a privilege to learn and grow along such a dedicated and caring school team. I look forward to continuing that work in this new capacity and serving our students, staff, and families with dedication and pride. Thank you again for this incredible opportunity. [Applause] Good evening. This is different.

060Congratulations, Miss Sim Simmons and Anthony for your accomplishments. [Laughter] Thank you. Let's do it. Um, I want to begin to by expressing my sincere gratitude to this incredible uh district and I'm honored. I'm honored that and humbled that you appointed me as a principal of school 14. This this moment is very meaningful to me. Um this is my 24th year in Clifton public schools. I started my journey in 2001 as custodian. I did six years of that. Yes, I was custodian for six years. Yeah, it was wonderful. It paid for my college and allowed me to be where I am at right now. Um the district has not only supported my growth but has shaped the educator and leader I am today. Then after being exodian, I was teacher for about 12 years and then

061past six years I had a pleasure of serving as administrator at school 14. I am beyond thankful to the incredible staff of school 14. They're wonderful. I am thankful for their trust, support, collaboration throughout my time there. Their dedication to our students and to one another has been both inspiring and essential to everything we have accomplished this year and during my time there to the commissioners. Thank you for your confidence in me for your continued commitment to our schools. Dr. Roberti, Mr. Jenaro, Mrs. Scooavage, Mr. Shahada, thank you for your steady guidance and support throughout my time here. I'm also thankful to my family for their support understanding what it is to be administrator in school system just a administer just a working in school system it's uh long hours a lot of stress but

062always happy to be here and I thankful for their understanding I'm honored to continue to serve this community I look forward leading school 14 with passion purpose and pride thank Could [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Could we have all of you come up to take a picture, please? Mr. Rose, would you take Mr. M Simmons, Mr. Peterson? That's okay. We'll let them take a school 14 picture first. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. No problem. I mean, it it's it says something to have the the staff show up tonight at your appointment. That says all I need to know that we made the right decision and they got here at 6:00. Okay. Simmons. Mr. Luzy. Mr. Luzy and Miss Simmons. Don't leave. There we go. All right. We're getting there. All right. Linda. [Music] Come on now. There we go.

063And let's see. I think now you can you just go back. There you go. And then right. Perfect. And you're gonna just go down. There you go. Perfect. All right. Now I can see everybody. Okay, we're good. We're good. We're good. Three, two, one. Got it. Thank you. Congratulations. [Applause] Thank you, Richie, for having my back. Did Did we manage to Yeah, Mr. Lizzie? Have everyone else come up, Miss Did we miss? There's the team. Miss Simmons. All right. Well, there's this one. I can see everybody. Three, two, one. I think Rob, you blinked. It's all right. I'll forgive you this time. Congratulations. [Applause] Congratulations. Thank you. Congratulations. There you go. Why don't you just go back up a little bit? Yep. There we go. There you go. Ready? Three, two, one. Beautiful. Congratulations. [Applause]

064Very good. Thank you. Congratulations to everyone. Thanks. That's good stuff. All right, we're going to move back to um topic topics under education and administration. Uh starting with uh the resolution commemorating Junth. Commissioner Brunak, please read that. Thank you, Mr. President. Whereas Junth also known as Emancipation Day, freedom day or Junth independence day is a significant day in American history commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans. And whereas June Junth serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles for freedom and justice as well as achievements and contri contributions of African-Americans throughout our nation's history. And whereas the Clifton Board of Education recognizes the importance of educating our community about the historical significance of Junth and promoting values of equity, inclusivity, and respect for all cultures and histories. And whereas the observance of Junth offers an opportunity

065for reflection, learning, and growth, and fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the diversity that strengthens our community. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Clifton Board of Education hereby recognize June 19th as Junth and encourages all schools within the district to commemorate this day with appropriate educational activities, events, and discussions that honor the sign significance of this historic day and f be it further resolved that the Clifton Board of Education supports the inclusion of Junth in the school curriculum to ensure that students understand the importance of this day in the context of American history. and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice for all. And be it further resolved that the Clifton Board of Education reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment that respects and celebrates diverse backgrounds and experiences for all

066students, staff, and community members. Thank you, Commissioner Brunak. Um, Commissioner, uh, Vice President Santiago, could you please read the LGBTQ plus Pride Month proclamation? Yes. Thank you, President Paris. Whereas the Clifton Board of Education welcomes and encourages diversity and inclusion within our community. And whereas celebrating Pride Month raises awareness and provides support and advocacy for the LGBTQ plus community and is an opportunity to become educated, engaged in dialogue, strengthen alliances, and build understanding. And whereas while there has been remarkable progress towards acceptance and equality, members of the LGBTQ plus community continue to face discrimination, intolerance, and hate. And whereas we must commit to supporting and accepting LGBTQ plus individuals, in particular our youth, who compared to their peers are far more likely to experience violence and bullying at school, to suffer from depression, to struggle

067with substance abuse, and to have attempted suicide. And whereas we must remain vigilant in deterring oppression and discrimination against people on the basis of sex, gender, identity, or expression or sexual orientation. And whereas by protecting the rights of every individual, we enhance and strengthen the value of everyone throughout our entire society. And whereas we affirm our support for LGBTQ plus residents in our community and stand with them to protect their civil rights and their ability to live openly, equally, and without fear. Now therefore, be it dis uh resolved by the Clifton Board of Education that the board recognizes and supports the month of June 2025 as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer questioning, and plus LGBTQ plus pride month. And we urge all residents to celebrate and build a culture of inclusiveness and acceptance during this

068month and every month. Thank you, Vice President Santiago. Commissioner Siana, could you please read Men's Health Month Proclamation? Thank you, Mr. President. I'm honored. Whereas 2025 marks the 31st year of Men's Health Month. And whereas despite advances in medical technology and research, men continue to live an average of 5 years less than women with Native American and African-American have the lowest life expectancy. And whereas educating the public and health care providers about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and early detection of male health problems will result in reducing rates of mortality from disease. And whereas men who are educated about the value that preventative health can play in prolonging their lifespan and their role as productive family members will be more likely to participate in health screenings. And whereas fathers who maintain a healthy lifestyle

069are role models for their children and have happier, healthier children. And whereas New Jersey's Men's Health Month will focus on a broad range of men's health issues including heart disease, mental health, diabetes, and prostate testicular and colon cancer. And whereas by recognizing men's health month, the students, staff, and residents of the district are encouraged to increase the importance of a healthier lifestyle, regular exercise, and medical checkups. Now therefore, be it resolved that the Clifton Public Schools Board of Education proclaims the month of June 2025 as men's health month. Thank you, Commissioner Ciano. Um, looking for a motion to approve under education uh items 1 through 16. Motion second. Motion by Commissioner Brunch, seconded by Commissioner Mahia. Any discussion? Commissioner Bastard? Yes. Seven and eight. Uh are there any costs to the district on those? Um

070the agreement between uh Sage Thrive and uh eight would be Biata. Yes, they are. Yes, they are um like counseling services that we utilize. Third party counseling services. I was just curious what the cost would be. And Biata is for nurses. Sorry. Biata is for nurses, right, Miss Basser? It is on the um is it in the executive content in the contract? Okay. Thank you. I just want to make sure. Okay. Any other discussion? Okay. Roll call. Mr. Sh. Miss Bassford. Yes. Abstaining on EA12. My name only. Uh Mr. Bruniac. Yes. Mr. Mia. Yes. Mr. Ciano. Yes. I'm going to abstain on EA12 because my sister is apparently a chaperon. Miss Suarez, yes. Vice President Santiago, yes. Abstain on EA6. President Paris. Uh, yes. With a abstain on number six, please. Motion carries. Thank you.

071All right. That brings us up to uh finance and facilities. Uh seeking a motion to approve items one through 20 21. Motion. Motion by Commissioner Ciano, seconded by Commissioner Brunak. Any discussion? Yeah, I have questions. Commissioner Basser. Sorry, he moved away from me. No, it's by accident. I Okay, I just pure coincidence. I Okay, so um Oh, thank you, Mark. Just don't sweat, please. Um the um just so all transparency to my fellow uh commissioners, I will be going forward anything with recreation department. I will be abstaining because I sit on the recreation committee. So I just wanted that um where I'm not sure about the um the fireworks. I don't know who signed the usage form. If it's uh Debbie Oliver from Wreck, I have to abstain on that. I have questions about the

072whole usage thing cuz it's it's bothering me that I thought that we had a policy that usage for our facilities weren't nothing was supposed to be advertised until after we approved. We don't um we can't control who advertises. Right. But I thought that was in the usage form that we we give them guidance about not not um not actually advertising until we give them permission to use our facility. because what if we deny? But the the problem is I and I've gone back and forth with emails and we've we've discussed this carnival um fireworks thing. Um I heard about it at at council meeting because we do attend the council meetings regularly because we like to know what's going on in the community. I don't like the fact that this just says it says fireworks

073on here and it also says um it says fields because there's going to be a carnival in front of it and and you told me in the email that I sent to you that um the city is responsible. I just want to go on record that the city uh I want the record to reflect that if there's any damage to the actual grass and and issue and our our property the city's going to pick up the tab. Correct. Correct. So if you want me to just elaborate a little further as to why the whole thing. So, um, go ahead. The city of Clifton annually, I guess, you know, as long as I've been here, past 5 years or so, rents out the stadium so they could do their, you know, little fireworks show, whatever they

074got going on over there. The city and all its vendors are all-encompassing under the city's permit. For the purposes of this one, because it became an issue, I requested that the city submit another usage form solely for the fireworks. and they gave me their insurance documentation that they had previously provided to the city. So, this resolution on the agenda means absolutely nothing because it already passed with the city's original usage form. I just put that on here so everybody can see, you know, what's going on and I got the additional insurance information that was requested of me. So, the original usage form was for fireworks and then they added this whole carnival thing because they usually have a picnic and it's on their side of the pond. So, that's their property. So, we have nothing

075to do with it. But the carnival is actually on our property. Did you receive like uh the vendor because I'm worried about carnivals people getting hurt and and a liability district? No policy. And I would urge the board and we did at the time not to adopt or modify any policy that would require us to monitor or what's the word? Uh chase down any vendor to see who it is. For example, we had the the family funday at CAB. There was literally over a hundred different vendors there. There is no way that my office or any office in the district can handle vetting each of those vendors. No. No. And I and I understand that because we we've gone through this conversation offline and because I was concerned about it, but the original and the

076the reason why originally I I contacted you because I'm sitting in a council meeting saying we approved the fireworks. We didn't approve a carnival. So I was concerned about liability because that's my role. My role is to protect the district through policy and also setting you know monitoring the budget based on so just interject just to one point based on the city's usage or the city's permit we are indemnified as to whatever they do. So if somebody blows up their hand shooting off the fireworks or somebody falls off a roller coaster, you know, god forbid. Um we're good either way. I just I just wanted to make sure that we're okay. And also because uh two carnivals ago there was a lot of damage to the park and I just we had I wanted to

077make sure and with all this rain a car a truck goes up on that grass you know they sink in and it's just going to happen. So I just wanted to make sure that we were all covered. That's my only we have a great relationship with uh the director of DPW Jason and he always but I don't know who I don't know who signed this or who filled it out. It usually comes from Wreck. So, I'm going to abstain on all the the ones because I don't feel comfortable putting myself in that liability. Thank you. Okay. Any other discussion? Commissioner Mia, um to that I know the past couple years um people have been using the CCMS parking lot and then the school one parking lot. Do they need to do that too or no?

078It's all encompassing. So, they have on their the CCMS parking lot that is the school one parking lot. They also had it on their original form as well. Okay. All right. Thank you. Any other questions? Okay. Roll call. Mr. Mr. Rashad. Miss Bassford. Uh, yes. I'm abstaining on five um 13 number uh 54556 and hold on. Uh 5465. The rest. Yes. Mr. Brontek. Yes. Mr. Mia. Yes. Miano, yes. Just abstaining on checks 223013 223021 due to my business relationship. Yes. Vice President Santiago. Yes. President Baris. Yes. Motion carries. Okay. We're up to uh board member comments. And if my memory serves me well, Commissioner Ciano would begin this evening. First, you want to do that group first. So the volume. Okay. All right. One moment. Suggestion was made to put that put our comments at

079the end and finish our executive session. And I would also say our agenda items, right? Yes. Okay. So motion to approve under executive session items 1 through 7 and under agenda item one also items 1 through 7. I I would like to make a motion to move this H in a different manner because it's an addendum item. I'd like to make a motion to accept the late items and then put them on the agenda. That's the way we do it on another committee that I saw. Okay. First, we're looking for a motion. So, motion by uh Commissioner Bassford to move to move the agenda items to the regular agenda. Anyone second? Time out, please. Oh, something wrong. No, no, not not at all. But I think we need to add something to it. If we're

080adding to it, let's circle it all the way around. There was a um matter that was uh handled in executive session. We need a walk-on motion to um accept the recommendation of the superintendent as it relates to the employee discussed during executive session. I don't have that employee number. Do you have an employee number by any chance? I do. Uh forgive me. I I apologize for the late addon. Okay. So, it's 023 2425. Is that correct? Y. So it would be a motion to accept the recommendation of the superintendent as it relates to employee 23 2022 24 motion by we're going to add all of that oh to the I agree okay thank you are we cool we we got that I was confused just move everything in one shot it makes more sense okay

081so make still first moving the agenda items to agenda items okay so motion by commissioner password to move the agenda items to the agenda. Second, seconded by Commissioner Brunak. Any discussion on that? Um, roll call. Mr. Sh. Uh, Miss Batford. Yes. And also to the walk-in late agenda item verbally that is going to be added onto the record. Yes. That's going to be executive. Okay. Uh, Mr. Brun. Yes. Uh, Mr. Mia. Although I agree with the recommendation because I wasn't in executive session, I have to abstain. Uh, Missiano, yes. Miss Suarez, Vice President, yes. Yes. Sorry. Vice Santiago. President Paris. Yes. Motion carries. Did you say yes? Okay. Yeah, Tony did. Okay. Okay. So now we're going to look for a motion to approve the items from agenda that have now been been moved to

082to the agenda as well as everything under executive session plus the item that was added the walk with the walk item. Motion to approve. Motion motion by commissioner seconded by commissioner Brunac. Any discussion? Roll call. Mr. Shad. Mazard. Yes, Mr. Bronte. Yes, Mr. Mahia. Abstain. Uh, Miano. Yes, Mr. Suarez. Yes. Do I abstain for what I had to walk out from from my executive? No, there was no action on that. So, yes. Uh, Vice President Santiago. Yes. Abstain on EX1. Uh, EX1 is not uh Okay. The resolution is supposed to be for is number seven. EX2 through EX like six. So, no abstension is necessary. President Paris. Yes. Motion carries. All right. Now we'll go back to board member comments. So again, Commissioner Siana. Thank you, Mr. President. Good evening, everyone. Heartfelt thank you to

083all the incredible speakers tonight. I want to say goodbye to Lamar. Good luck with everything and welcome Jenna. Looking forward to your rep reports. Uh Lori, best of luck on your retirement. Like I said, we've gotten to knowing each other. We've gotten quite close and I wish you the absolute best, but I'm sure I'll still see you at the meetings for some reason. Uh over the past few weeks, I've attended several moving up ceremonies, junior honor society inductions. Each event has been nothing short of inspiring, and I'm very proud to stand in support of our amazing students and the dedicated staff who make these milestones possible. Tomorrow, I'm eagerly looking forward to celebrating our high school graduation. Handing out diplomas, and sharing in these life-changing moments with our students is an honor I deeply cherish.

084It's a beautiful reminder of their hard work, and I'm very proud to be part of it. Also, men's health awareness month, which carries obviously a deeper significance for me now more than it ever has. Gentlemen, don't take your health for granted. Regular checks checkups and listening to your body can truly save your life. I know this from personal experience. If something doesn't feel right, face it head on. Your health matters more than you may realize. On a personal note, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude that I've been named the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's visionary of the year for 2025. Words cannot describe how much this means to me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who supported me along the way, especially those of you on the board and the administration that really stood

085by me on this. Uh special thank you to Dr. Robert Ozie for taking the time out to stand by my side at the actual gala where I was announced visionary. Thank you for that. Um amid all of life's challenges, uh I know how heavy the world can feel right now. Every day we see news that stirs fear and uncertainty, making it easy to feel overwhelmed. I urge us all to stay focused on what truly matters, our shared humanity and the strength of our Clifton family. Despite our differences, we have the unique opportunity to set an example as one of the most diverse cities in New Jersey. Let's continue to come together even when times are tough and show the world what it means to be a united, supportive community. I hold on to hope and

086pray daily for peace in the world and for families affected by these difficult times. To our students and faculty, I wish you a memorable and well-deserved summer. Take this time to rest, bond with loved ones, and savor the joy of these moments. To our students, your determination and achievements this year have been extraordinary. And to our staff, your dedication continues to humble and inspire me. Have a wonderful night and may your summer ahead be filled with happiness and renewal. Thank you, Commissioner San. Commissioner Suarez. Thank you, President Paris. Good evening, everyone. I just want to say that I truly appreciate the end of the school year. Um, it's so great to look back at the year and acknowledge the growth and accomplishments of all of our students and staff. So many parents and families get

087to look back at pictures from the first day of school and see the physical changes of their children. Clothes and shoes no longer fit, facial changes occur, hair changes, and of course the academic skills uh rather the academic and skill growth is tremendous uh in one school year. Whether our students gained reading levels or improved in learning an instrument or worked on their personal goals, whatever they may be, all of it is worth celebrating at the end of the school year. I love seeing how our students grow into their beautiful selves. I find it exciting to see. And to that, thank you to all of the teachers, staff, and administrators for making another school year a successful one. Congratulations on all the new to all the new administrators. I wish you all the best. Um,

088also, uh, thank you for your service, Lori Lama. It's been a pleasure seeing your leadership in public education advocacy and I thank you for your service. Uh, everyone have a wonderful and safe summer and I look forward to seeing you at September. Take care. Thank you, Commissioner Suarez. Commissioner Bastard. Yes. Uh, just to my colleagues, on May 31st, I travel down to Trenton for the ledge meeting. There was an interesting discussion on pilots and how New Jersey school boards is going to actually send the legislation team down to the state to get us all a seat at the table. So I I think uh once I get some more information on some I'll send it to you Dr. Oatuzi. So this way um you could share it with everyone. Uh but it was really interesting.

089We all did advocate for our fair share. So it's it's coming. So maybe we can get our ledge team to going. Election's over. The primary is over. Maybe we can start uh seeing our legislative people. We'll get Ledge going. Um, good evening everyone. I just want to take time to thank you for this Phoenix M um little booklet uh with all some of the outstanding artwork from our students. I can't wait to go home and really take a good gander at it and read some of the poetry, but we have some talent in this district. It's incredible. I mean, I wish I could draw like that and write. Um, so first I'd like to extend my deepest thanks to our student rep, Lamar. Um, it's been a pleasure working with you. Um, I want to

090thank you for your service and I want to wish a warm welcome to Jenna. I'm looking forward to working with you and to uh forward to seeing your insights um you bring to the role. Congratulations to my colleague Josiano for a job well done on becoming 20 2025's LLS Visionary of the Year. You were all over. You really worked hard. You deserved it. I was so happy that night to see your post and I wish I was with you in spirit but I was a little busy with them something else but you did a great job kid. You really did. Congratulations. Those people have tough shoes to fill. I would like to take this time and this moment to wish a joyful and welldeserved retirement to Lori Lammana, Samantha D. Rose and Linda White who

091are in the room and all the other retirees this year. Words truly fall short when trying to express our gratitude to your decades of dedication to education. Uh you're each left an indelible mark on our schools, our students, and the community. Your legacy will come to live on in countless lives that you've touched. It's often said that a great teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart. You've done that so much with so much more. We're sorry about the I'm sorry about the elevator because I don't speak for anyone else. Wasn't completed in time for your commemorable first ride. I'm sure you're going to get an invitation, but uh please note that we leave us with high standards to aspire to and your shoes that will not be filled very easily. We

092wish you all a happy and restful retirement um filled with joy, health, and well- earned peace. Job well done, ladies and gentlemen. Um to the entire graduating class of 2025, congratulations. You worked hard, pers persevered, and your dedication has brought you to this moment. Tomorrow night, you will cross that stage, not just to receive a diploma, but to celebrate the first step of your future. Wherever life takes you. Just one second. I'm almost done. Uh never forget where you come from. The district, its educators, and your community have worked hard together to give you a strong foundation. It's your turn to build on that. Congratulations. Finally, to our teachers and staff and students. Thank you for your hard work this year, your resilience, and your dedication throughout the year. I wish you all safe, restful,

093well-deserved summer break. May you return refreshed and ready for the next chapter. Thank you and good night. Thank you for extending my time, President Baris. Thank you, Commissioner Bass Commissioner Run. Thank you, Mr. President. Want to give a quick shout out to my to uh all the administration and staff at school 14 rolling mad deep tonight in addition to Miss Linda White. So, it's fantastic to see. outstanding administration there, outstanding staff. Um, can't say enough nice things. And most of those people are are the ones that I see the most all day every day, you know, whenever I come come to get my kids, which is like maybe once a month or something, you know, cuz I work, you know. Uh, so it's it's absolutely fantastic that they come through recognized for Terrace. Congrats to

094the rest of the uh to the rest of the employees who have um permanent positions. Absolutely fantastic. Congrats on all the people in this room on your retirements. You made it. I hope I make it too just like Mr. Paris and all all everybody else who's who's able to do that. Uh big shout out to uh my colleague Commissioner Ciano on visionary of the year. Absolutely outstanding. Um can't say enough things. 138 grand. You know how many Costco pizzas you could buy with that? And you're and instead you you you raised it for for lymphoma. My godmother passed away at 28 years old from lymphoma. So it's absolutely wonderful cause and uh I mean they couldn't even cure it at Memorial Sloan. She she went to Memorial Sloan but it was just too late. So

095it's sad and uh detection is key. So you said it before, Commissioner Ciano, don't be afraid. Go to the doctor as much as you as much as you can, you know, so you take care of your your health issues. Congratulations to all the students who are walking on the field tomorrow, you earned it. Also, those unable to make it on the field, you made it as well. Congrats. Your opportunities are limitless. Whether you're going to college, trade school, enlisting in the military, going to work, or just taking your time to figure out what you want to do. To the rest of the students and staff in the district, I hope you enjoy your summer. Thank you for your time and God bless America. Have a good night everybody. Thank you, Commissioner Brunak. Commissioner Mahia. Thank

096you, President Paris. Um, to reiterate what everyone has been saying, I do want to congratulate colleague to the right of me. uh Mr. Josephiano for you know getting a huge number over 100k that is a lot you know think about it like this it's like if everyone tries to donate at least one $1 just from the city of Clipton so that is amazing um congratulations for that I really applaud you for it um just want to say it's another great year being a Mustang here in Clifton congratulations to all the students who are going to graduate tomorrow and for those who are graduating in August you just got to wait a little bit more complete those credits that you missed out on. Um, best of luck to all those retiring. Um, shout out Miss Malama.

097Um, you're my sixth grade teacher, seventh grade teacher, and eighth grade teacher. So, thank you very much for all the things you helped me out with along with my siblings and various of my family members as well. Um, congratulations to all those who are newly appointed to their new positions. Um, so excited to what you guys have planned for your each individual schools. Um, like many of us, I also attended various amounts of moving up ceremonies this past week. Um, all of them are great. I was talking about this with President Paris. We have a great selection of students who can actually sing. So, I feel like we could have a great opera. Are you one of them? Maybe. Maybe. I used to sing. I used to sing, but we do have a great amount

098of students in each of our schools who can sing. Um, tremendously great. So, I hope to see one of them, you know, become famous one day. Um, and I know we talked about it briefly right here, but um, you know that bill from the city, they owe us 1.5 million if I'm not mistaken. I say send the invoice. I've been saying it. They say it's missed revenue on their end, and it's true. It is missed revenue for us. $1.5 million they owe us. They're talking about we owe them three 300. Well, let's cut that in half. Now you guys just owe us 1.2 mil. All right, we'll call it even. You know, they're saying it's misrevenue. It is. It is misrevenue for us. We should be charging you, but we choose the betterment of our

099city as a whole because at the end of the day, it only affects, like we all know, our taxpayers. How does it look like just transferring money here and there for them just to owe us more money at the end of the day? Um, but besides that, thank you very much. It's been a great year and I hope you guys have a great night. Thank you. Thank you, Commissioner Mahia. Vice President Santiago. Thank you, President Paris. Good evening, uh, Miss Lama, thank you so much for all your work and your advocacy for our students and your dedication and for your for uh your members and our staff. And I hope we're going to continue to see you advocating for both um and hopefully mentor mentoring continue to mentor people coming behind you. Thank you so

100much again. You're welcome. Um earlier we had of the month we had uh students and employees of the month. Congrats to all those winners again. Our governor's educators of the year winners again. Um we had a great cilab uh CALB family funday. Another great day even though it rained. Moved it inside. Big crowd. Really good really good time. Thank you Lamar. All the best to Lamar. Um welcome Jenna Onar. We look forward to uh seeing you in the meeting and hearing your reporting. Happy Junth and happy Pride. Uh, next year Junth will be a holiday for the district. Um, thank you to Commissioner Schwarz for her leadership on that. Um, tomorrow is one of my favorite days. We get to celebrate our students and their achievements. They they stuck it. They stuck it out and

101worked hard and they their family, you know, mom and dad, grandparents, I seen them, I met them. It's a it's a it's a really good day for everybody to celebrate um that achievement and and I'm really looking forward to it. Um in our newly renovated stadium which is going to be amazing tomorrow if you go see that. Um so to to the graduating class, you know, I would just say go out and explore, try different things. Um it opens up new opportunities and remember always remember it's always a great day to be a Mustang. Um, I just want to talk about the grad the graduating class stats that Dr. Roberts shared. You know, 776 graduating seniors. I always say this is not Mayberry School District. It's a large district. Those are some entire schools for

102some other towns. And it's a big organization. A lot of staff has to do with a lot of moving parts, challenges, and a lot of really good things though. Uh, additionally, so it's awesome that 70% of our kids are going on to college. We have um 30 kids going into the military. God bless them. Um and um you know 4.5 million in financial aid and scholarships. Amazing. Amazing. Amazing. So um to the staff, thank you and enjoy your welldeserved rest including our amazing amazing security specialists. Thank you guys. Um President Paris and I will be in a leadership summit for NJSBA on Monday. So, another thing for our grads, never stop, never stop learning. Um, happy 4th of July. Come out to that carnival. There's food trucks, there's uh rides, and then amazing fireworks that

103we put on. You know, the city puts on every year again in our renovated stadium. Um, last but not least, it's going to be a very busy day tomorrow. So, my son Matthew, Clifton School product, Clifton High School grad will be graduating. I need a couple of seconds. just a couple seconds who'll be graduating from uh police academy tomorrow. Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Um another another Mustang. Uh six grueling months. 20% of his class did not make it and he did and it was a lot of work and we're proud of him. So we're going to go to that and he's a good sport and he's a Mustang and we're going to I'm going to run to graduation because I can't miss that. I got to celebrate

104with you guys and then we will celebrate him after. Have a great evening. Thank you, Vice President Santiago. Um, congratulations to Miss Lama and Miss White that are here and also all the other retirees in the district and welcome to the Every Day is a Saturday club. Sometimes you really do forget what day it is. Um, thank you so much to our student reps, uh, Mark and Lamar for all their help during the year. Um, and welcome to Jenna. We're looking forward to to working with her next year. Congratulations to uh, everyone who received their new positions this year. Um, we know we know you're going to do a great job for our district. Um, congratulations to a number of graduates. We, a lot of us went to fifth grade moving up ceremonies this week.

105So, we got to experience our wonderful fifth graders that are now ready to join our middle school. Um, I got to meet some of the ones that will be going to our new Maple Valley Middle School as well. Um, also congratulations to all our eighth graders who will be moving on to CHS next uh next year. And of course, congratulations to our class of 2025. and and especially their families. Um, and Joe, congratulations and great work. It's amazing and a wonderful cause uh that that you've helped in a significant way. And I have just one advertisement today. Um, Camp Write Along uh is a district sponsored program for incoming sixth graders. Uh, it's limited to 40 students. It's going to be at uh Woodro Wilson this summer from July 28th through August 1st. And it's

106a chance for uh sixth grade incoming sixth graders to strengthen their writing skills in a very fun and creative way. Um that's all I have for this evening. Oh, that's all I have. Um the only thing left is new business. Is there any new business we like to add? I have something. um reading your email, I mean the the letter that you have composed and the schedule of of cost for rentals. I'd like to bring that back to facilities and have a discussion on that because I think it's time to raise some of those fees. Uh the fee schedule is solely under the purview of the superintendent under regulations. So we can it's not committee bound. It would go to Dr. Robertsy's desk for his expertise on whatever discuss it because there's some security concerns

107that I have some of the facilities too. Um, and the facility. That's your call, Mr. Paris, if it's okay. I Yes. Although it may be my purview, I'm I'm I would like the committee's uh recommendation. So, we'll we'll bring that to finance. Yeah. Because we've been with this whole thing, we've been going back and forth and when I saw it, I was like a little shocked. It's kind of low and it's time that you know, you can help with some revenue, which leads me to my next question. Um I um I was very privileged last week to spend a couple of days with our students thanks to you Dr. Robuzzi. Um um worked hard. I'm just disappointed in the lack of the number of students and I'm concerned that there's a disconnect with uh people

108that the kids aren't going. I don't know if it's money. I don't know if it's cultural. So, I have some ideas that I'd like to pass by you because it just it was from nine buses to four and I I don't want to see it disappear. It was it it's the kids grow with that. M Miss Ber and and safety patrol is Mark's baby. Uh we actually had more kids attend safety patrol this year than last year. No, no, I know it's but I'm talking Listen, I have a 35year-old that went on that trip and plus, you know, I was always involved before she was a fifth grader. Um I just um you know I'm just saddened to see a shrinking number and also with project graduation coming up um uh I have some ideas

109that I'd like to pass by you and then you you know you can run with them but I think you know maybe there's maybe we need some involvement from your staff addressing some of these people because they don't understand that it's a right of passage. It's a good trip. The kids learn a lot. I think there's a there's some miscommunication somewhere and I don't know if it was a change of hands with chaperrons and that was unfortunate what went on here for us and everything and the the staff. I have to tell you I was so proud to be a part of that group. Those people took care of the children like they were their own and you should be very proud of your staff and we represented well. Poor Chewy was not doing very

110well. It was a little rough for him. It was warm. We went from 60° days to 90 almost 100. We were Yeah, you had some Mount Vernon rough weather down there. Listen, I'm always happy I'm always happy to listen to any suggestions. So, we'll talk. Right. Everybody's been talking about. So, that's it. But, um, facilities for and also I'm going to bring up you got a brand new stadium all nice and shiny except we didn't do the windows, the concession stand. Can we put that on the facility uh list? What do you mean the windows? I'm making a a joke. Oh, I didn't get it. It wasn't funny. You obviously you cleaned the house, but you didn't clean the windows. You did everything but the windows. The concession stand. Yeah, we we spoke about this

111at length, you and I. The concession stand. It is not a a cooking kitchen at the moment. It hasn't been in in years. No, but that whole area needs a pickme up. It was all Was it painted? Everything was painted. Everything was boxed. It's But I have parents uh the booster parents coming to me about that. So, can we put that on facilities, too? Sure. Thank you. Okay. Anyone else? Okay. Looking for a motion to adjurnn. Motion. Motion. Commissioner Brunak. Second. Second by Commissioner Suarez. Have a great evening and a great summer.