Board Meetings's Zoom Meeting

001the line. Thanks. Still we do >> what? Good. Now I am. Thank you, buddy. I appreciate that. >> We have time. Logan, can you >> No. I did it right in those people that talk. >> Yes. >> Are you using the computer? >> Yes. >> Are you using the paper documents? She used it. >> Okay. I'll give you this. >> Take this one. >> Yeah. I don't know. Here. Take this. >> I I had the same problem. >> I had the same problem trying to take. >> All right. Thanks, Sergio. >> You want me to go back? Maybe just >> No, I think No, I know. >> I have an extra copy. >> Okay. No, but Sergio's in Maria. I know she wants >> I know what she wants. >> You're welcome. >> This is

002the March meeting, right? Frank, thank you for the technology report as always. >> Anytime. >> We want my heart to drop. >> Why am I hearing this? Whenever you meeting to New Jersey open public meetings law has enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advanced notice to in attend the meetings of the public bodies at which any business affecting their interests is discussed or acted upon in accordance with the provisions of the actford board of education has caused notice of this meeting about having any time in place there provided to the records and south bergenite newspapers published the posted in the test the B law of public copies of the agendas are available 48 hours prior to said meetings in the board of education office and are posted on the East Rford

003school website www.e.net that please rise for the flag salute the 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. >> Please remain standing for a moment of silence for our police department, fire department, first responders, and our armed forces. Thank you. >> Miss Caruso >> here. >> Miss Collie >> here. >> Miss Laruso here. >> Mr. Sealini >> here. >> Miss Shmley >> here. >> Miss Mena. Mr. Banker >> here. Final exits are to my right, to my left behind to all attendance, please silence all cell phones during the meeting. >> And Mr. School administrators report. >> Oh, first do >> Yep. [clears throat] >> Yes. This is Canel. Let's do the presentations, please. >>

004Good evening. These are the highlights for April 2026 at FA Middle School. B school faculty and staff participated in rare food for autism on April 8th. Take your child approaching was on April 23rd. It was so great to see all the children at heart about it. This week we celebrated students who made the honorable degree 3 and those who achieved their hard work and dedication came great up students are very busy preparing for the upcoming NJSLA adaptive assessment in their classes. Students have been taking practice assessments and learning follow tools on new sub testing begins on May 5th. The performing arts club had a great evening presenting Fox on April 9th. Great work to our performing arts students. Thank you Miss Franca and Mint for coordinating this event. Look ahead at our day will be

005at field on May. Our spring concert will be on May 20th at 7 p.m. at Bal High School. The eighth grade formal will be on May 21st. The Burton County Queen Festival will be on May 29th and the eighth grade graduation will be at 6 p.m. on June 16th. Our fourth grade incredible trip to Ellis Island and we explored the hospital that brought thousands of immigrants upon their entry to the United States. We were also able to get an up close and personal look at the statue of liberty on our very radical. Thank you to the state island foundation monitoring. Lincoln leaders closed out with its final pillar this month success. Students have been working to define what makes them successful all while developing a plan to help them together. Our fifth graders continue their

006program in collaboration with the ERP. family their weekly blessings to form a safe drug free community. Our end of the year celebration is in the planning basis. NJSLA is upon us and our fourth and fifth graders wild cats have been working extremely hard to make sure they are ready for these assessments. As a reminder, we look for the continuous support of our families to confirm that each learner is on time and in school daily ahead of them with their best efforts. Make a look ahead. Start with NGSA kids. May 5th, working for interns live on Genesis May 13. Holly rock show May 21st. Annual spring showcase or depending on the weather and fifth grade includes program and continue to positive behavior achievements and strengthen our sense of community. Given our administration for the 2027 school

007and awesome. We look forward to welcome encouraging student to our upcomation on May 28. On April 1, our kindergarten student delivery on April 8th school recognized our acceptance team and participated in engaging show. On April 21st, students and staff honored and dedicated our profession superation was a vital role in support. On April 22nd, we celebrate his birthday in his school recognizes and officiated and administrative profession with a continued dedication and support memorial assembly May 22nd at 9:30 a.m. sport multiple children NJS 3 May 5th to May 14th day May 19th May 20th and 5 p.m. First spring concert June concert June 11 June 15 June 16. Thank you. Yep. Mhm. Hey, school business administrator report. >> Thank you, Mr. President. Good evening, board members. Good evening, members of the public. Starting off with the buildings

008and grounds report. Custodial maintenance and transportation operations were effectively maintained throughout the reporting period to support safe and efficient district-wide functionality. Mashio's report at the end of March 2026, prepaid balances at the end of the month was $8,490.70. negative balances were $825.65. I do ask those parents and guardians who receive notifications to please contact the business office about resolving your negative food balances for your children. Our profit and loss at the end of March is $65,52241. On the agenda for tonight is SP1, the adoption of the 2627 school budget, as well as SP2, adoption of maximum travel expenditures for the 2627 school year. PF1, approval of the monthly facility calendar for May 2026. PF2, approval to ratify sold assets on gov deals. PF3, approval of district use of facilities applications. Finance items. F1 approval of

009payroll for March 2026. F2 approval of bills list. F3 is the approval of financial report February 2026. F4 is the approval of transfer reports for February 2026. F5 is to approve and accept the amended uh ESSA funds that is inclusive of the carryover. So we had to go ahead and amend that. F6 approval to renew the food service management contract for the 2627 school year with Mashios. Just to let the board know, next year is the last year of the contract. So for 2728, we will be going out for an RFP. F7, approval of early registration for the NJSBA workshop in October 2026. F8, approval of joint transportation agreement with the South Bergen Joiner Commission for the 2627 school year. F9, approval of the transfers for preschool education aid funds for the 2526 school year.

010F10, approval of contracts, agreements, and renewals for the 2627 school year. And finally, F17, approval of brighter provider contracts with Kibby Academy of Rutherford. That concludes my report. Welcome people internal superintendent school report please. >> Good evening everyone. Um I'm just I want to report that right now we're in the process of working toward we're in two different school years. Closing out this year and then planning for next year. Um a lot of things to do. We're going to keep everyone posted on how that works. Um so we're moving along. So tonight on the agenda you will see items uh for me uh the interim superintendent resolutions the the regulars S1 approval of fire and emergency drill report S2 the approval of the enrollment report and S3 approval of harassment imitation intimidation and bullying monthly

011report. The curriculum items are approval of student field trips and transportation requests for the balance of this year. Approval of transportation requests from the burrow of East Rutherford the wreck program and approval of student transportation requests for uh extended school year under personnel. P1 is approved Kelly uh education sublist to our P2 is personnel actions. P3 approval of travel expenditures. P4 is approval of the extension of the appointment of uh interimm super uh supervisor curriculum and instruction. Uh, P5, acceptance of a resignation notification. P6, approval of a leave notification. P7, acceptance of of a resignation notification. That was an additional one. Um, community relations, we um are acknowledging teacher appreciation week. We acknowledge the great job that our teachers do in our district. Um, there are no new technology items. And that is my report

012for the evening. If anyone has any questions, Okay. Right now we as of Friday of last week, we had 96 people uh 96 children um registered for 95 spots. Does it We're still in the process of verifying addresses to make sure they live here. And then we also have usually about a 10% fallout where we have people that may move, may decide that they don't want to attend. We're going to have a um open house um I think in May and we're also going to do one at the private provider so we can lay all of those things out. So I don't anticipate being a list if it is going to be very short but not like it was this year. lottery like you previously mentioned if there was >> if if we need to

013we will and it will be a live lottery but again if there's like not we'll have to see we could do it two ways you can do it by order of who came in or you can do it we'll we'll have to determine that in a couple of weeks just to see how many people are eligible. >> So how when are we planning on notifying the families of the students that have applied? We generally notify them late May and we do have the open house because sometimes that determines whether or not they want their child to attend. So after the open house then we'll make all of those announcements. I don't do we have a date for that Mr. on or about within the program and then the safe date for the orientation. So we're

014hoping to get that as soon as possible there 100% of the rest of today's the end of our registration. >> Okay. So anyone registering after this will be automatically to the weight list. Anyone that registered prior to this will automatically get selected. >> So if we have 96 applications in the Friday, assuming that we didn't get any this week as long as 95. So even if there's one person over, are we just saying that they are accepted into the program? >> Um I I would say as Mr. scarbo pointed out that the verification process there's usually a 10% drop off on that though I'm anticipating that we'll have to promote it again to fulfill the 95 spots okay um so we have 96 at this time right but I don't think it will be 100%

015of the verification process okay but as a result at the end of tonight registration is over anyone that registers after will automatically be on the waiting list first come first serve all the read list to come through we're going to have the orientation I don't have a date right here but I do think the orientation is u excuse me orientation is in bag reference to the communication and then we'll have open houses and have the other provider see this u the lay of the land the classrooms the facilities and so I think they'll be pleasantly surprised >> thank Yeah. >> Any other questions? >> Thank you. >> You have able to get that over here. >> You should be able to Mr. Budget presentation. >> Yes. Thank you, Mr. President. >> Where would it be?

016>> I shared it with you. You had send it to you again. Send it to you again. You again. Mhm. Got it. Please stand behind technical. There you go. All right, good evening everyone. So before we start with the budget presentation, budgets are never easy. Difficult decisions have to be made and we are not exempt to this in the state of New Jersey. Every district that I know of, colleagues I speak to, are facing similar situations that this board is facing right now. So, I wanted to preface that by saying to the public, budgets are never easy. This was debated. Mr. Scariffield [clears throat] can attest to that back and forth. So, with that being said, here are some of the budget highlights. The district tax levy uh would increase by 3.99% which is 765,287.

017Well, in order to get to that without going for voter approval, we to go over that 1.99 over the 2% cap, we had to use our healthc care waiver. We had that eligible to us, which was $381,684 to help balance the budget. There was an increase in state aid, but the big part of it was from the preschool expansion aid. We went from 860,000 to almost 1.7 which was an increase of almost 97%. Increase in debt service aid that is to pay down the referendum. So that went up a little over 1%. Other ways to help balance the budget was the maintenance reserve. We withdrew $150,000 for next year's budget. We also withdrew $840,220 for capital reserve. This can only be used for capital projects only. It cannot be used for anything else. Nothing else.

018So the district has planned the roof replacement project at McKenzie as well as the exterior door project at FA. So again, capital reserve can only be used for capital projects. Another way we're help helping to balance the budget is the budget of fund balance is $700,000 and that's to help maintain the long range financial stability and health of the district. This is a number that the district has to start working on lowering. So that's this is how we helped balance the budget because in order to go into the budget, our revenues must match our appropriations or what we're about to spend. uh the continuation of instructional coaches in the area of math, language arts, science and reading intervention and a partnership with William Patterson. This is through fund 20. This has nothing to do with

019the general. The general fund is where the majority of the salaries come from. The benefits come from there. This is coming from aid from the state or I should say I'm sorry between the state and the federal government. We c we do not use this towards salaries and the district will continue to increase student capacity and rigor while decreasing the placement of special education education students in outof district private schools. Next slide. So what is the impact for our taxpayers? So the general fund of the 22 million 3589 932 19 almost $20 million 19.9 million will come from the general fund. There's nothing taxpayers do not contribute to the capital outlay that comes from our capital reserve. That's money that we have saved aside. Special revenue, that's our fund 20. That's state aid and federal

020aid. Again, the public does not contribute to this. There is no tax levy for that. But there is a tax levy for the debt service, which is to help pay off the referendum to build that beautiful school we have over here. So of the total budget, the total budget is a little over 27.8 million. Of that 21.4 million is coming from the local tax levy. >> So now to show you the difference from the current year to next year. Couple of slides ago I did say the difference. It's 3.99. The debt service fund increased almost by a percent. When you take it into consideration altogether, it's 3.78. The annual tax levy increase. This is just a history. Jump ahead. The history of the 10-year history. As you could see in 2017, 18, and 19, the

021district went over the 2%. But then for four years, they kept it the same. But starting in 2024, we went over the tax. We went over the 2%. There are a lot of exterior factors that go into this that we cannot control. We cannot control the cost of health benefits. Every school district that I know of is going through this. We're also talking about utility costs are skyrocketing. Out of district costs are skyrocketing. Transportation costs are skyrocketing. Unfortunately, we cannot control these costs. We just can't because this this is out of our control. It's out of the control of the local boards of education. >> Now, the slide that everybody would like wants to see, what's the tax impact? Well, the average assessed home is 534,000. Based on the average assessed home value, the increase

022is $112 per year, which breaks it down to $9.33 per month or 31 cents per day. This is on the average assessed home. If your home is assessed more than 534,000, you will pay more. If it's less than 534,000, you will not pay that 112,000. Please understand, this is just the local tax impact for our district. This does not include Beckton and it does not include the burrow or the Oh, thank you, Mr. Baker. Or the county or the library and the open space and all that stuff. Yeah, I know. I see that too. This is just a comparison of the revenue. This is money that we bring in. How do we bring in how do we bring in money? A big chunk, huge portion of it is is the local tax levy. And we'll

023show you that that pie chart. So about 72% of all the revenue the district brings in comes from the tax levy. Okay. And we're talking that was it's a lot of it was about $21 million from a couple of slides ago. I'm sorry. >> Yes. >> 21.4 million. And then the rest of it is, as you can see, withdrawal from here, from there, Medicaid, miscellaneous, royalties, state aid. We were fortunate enough that the state aid didn't go down. It went up a little bit. It helped us a little bit, but not like it did in the past. The next slide is just a comparison of our appropriations, how the money is being spent this year and where we have it budgeted next year. As you can see, the total operating fund from this year to

024next year has increased by 2.1%. And if you look at the total budget, it is increasing. But the next slide will show will give you a a better picture. When you look at salaries and benefits together, that makes up 64% of how the how the money is spent. We only have 36% left for everything else. So when you look at salaries and benefits, 36% I'm sorry, 64% is already spoken for. The rest 36% is basically to maintain the school district. You're talking about the debt service, special revenue, capital outlay, administration, tuition, support, support service that has to do with our special education students, general instruction, buildings and grounds to maintain it, transportation. So 36% may sound like a lot, but at the end it really it really isn't. >> So scarfield. >> Okay. At this

025point, just so you are aware, board of education is primarily responsible for finance and ensuring the district operates effectively. As the superintendent, I'm responsible for programming and personnel decision. And in light of all of the financial pressures that we dealt with, including a 30% plus increase in health benefits and prescription cost totaling $1.4 4 million, a 20% rise in utilities, and escalating out of district tuitions for our most vulnerable students. We've been forced to make difficult decisions. This board of ed is not the ones that make those decisions. They rely on me to give them the recommendations. And unfortunately, we had to dig deep to make some cuts that were very reluctant. Over the past three years, the board has exceeded the 2% cap through approved waiverss and remains mindful of the additional financial burdens

026on the community, including a 6% increase from Beckton Regional as well as anticipated increases at the municipal and county levels and also uh the district's proposed budget reflects a 3.99 increase nearly double the standard cap. This is not offered as an excuse for the reductions, but rather uh provide context for the decisions were made. Not one board member takes these cuts lightly. They're tasked with balancing fiscal responsibility to the taxpayer and maintaining class sizes in line with East Rutherford's standards, an objective that has been achieved. Unfortunately, the dance and theater programs were impacted. In addition, the district is reducing one principal position and consolidating a special ed role based on projections indicating that it will be no um negative effect on the programming. These decisions are particularly difficult given that East Rutherford has been the

027only district in Bergen County to offer standalone dance and theater programs at the prek to 8 level. Well, actually it would be four to eight, but it's mandated 6th through 12, but there are little waiverss in sixth through 8th grade. We're currently exploring ways to integrate elements of both programs into the existing curriculum. The district will continue to offer enrichment um opportunities such as the Junior National Honor Society that Mr. Tanel does on his own without compensation and also grades four uh and grades six to eight is the debate team but there will also be other ways that we will be integrating it without impacting the other programs. We appreciate your perspective and your advocacy for the programs and unfortunately these are things that are happen. And I will tell you this, I give the

028business administrator a lot of credit because the costs were very alarming when we saw them come in. The way the budget works is we come in, I sit with principles and supervisors and we decide what we need for next year. It's all zerobased. when we look at it then we tell them okay these are the fixed costs that we have to work around now we have to make some tough decisions things that we don't want to do a lot of times we also you know another big cost is transportation and we're looking for ways to curb that we're going to be working with the surrounding districts to try to curb those costs but we can't anticipate that in this budget and we can't come we cannot present the budget that is not sustainable so it's

029very very difficult I do commend the the board though. I mean, I know that they had to make some tough decisions. I know they didn't want to go with these things, but you know, we have to move forward to make things work. And you know, I offer no I offer apologies for having to do that because again, I am here for one year and this is not what I signed up for and I I really uh respect the fact that there are so many people here and trying to do it. Too many times in a board meeting, we we do our board meetings to the chairs. The only time the board of education is ever acknowledged is when the taxpayer opens their new tax bill and then they say, "What is this board of ed

030doing?" And I can assure you that they were really torn with this. But if you look around the state, you look around the county, there are increases of over seven and eight% in a lot of districts and cuts on top of it. And we did a pretty good job here of trying to rein those all in and try to save the best we could and unfortunately it didn't work that way. At this point I'm finished with my presentation. I'll ask the board first if they have any questions for me or Mr. Barach and if not I'm going to turn it back over to Mr. bank up and uh just show the meeting to the public on the budget budget comments. Opening public comments on any agenda or non any agenda name address the board President

031Thomas Banka. Each person wishing to speak will have five minutes each. Anyone wishing to speak will be given to his move. Open by the public. >> Second. >> All in favor. Okay, you may approach voting. >> No problem. >> Yeah, you should tell me about the five minutes. >> Yes, you did mention. >> Hi there, members of the board of education. My name is Trace Taro and I'm a theater teacher at Lincoln P schools and next to me is the English teacher and together we meet the performing arts program at schools in um I have a lovely speech I'd like to give you but I'm going to skip ahead to one moment um that I want to make sure is highlight in case I get cut off and that is um that agency state a

0326A2 take the middle schools only excuse me, middle school only teachers specifically endorsed in the subject matter of art, dance, music, speech and drama, theater arts, audio and video technology can teach those subjects. Those subjects have to be taught by someone specifically endorsed to teach them. And I'll throw at the top of my speech. I stand tonight for two teaching but for the students resources confidence and connection with inside this classroom. First I want to say how honored to I teach in this district for just two years. It has been an absolute true privilege to teach our children. I also want to issues are real difficult and affecting many schools right now. And I understand that these decisions are absolutely not easy. Haters do not choose this profession for the living. We do it for

033the children. And that is why I'm here tonight. I ask you tonight to reconsider the decision to eliminate theater and dance positions. Every year we teach every single student at both Lincoln and FA schools. We are currently teaching 233 students at FA and 166 students at Lincoln and we see them daily. That is over 399 interactions and moments with four children every day. You may have seen us in the many shows that we during the year, the end of the year Lincoln show, the thous cycle shows, teen for the eighth grade, and the full length we put on this year where we raised the entirety of the money for the show ourselves and even turned a profit. All at zero cost to the school. from the arts club that we started just this year. Imagine

034what we could do with one time. That means that we are often one of the few constants in your children's lives as they grow and transition from one to another. We know their names. We know when something seems off. We know their strengths. We know they're all their 504 and IEP needs. We know who needs encouragement, who needs structure, and who simply needs one trusted adult to notice them. Because we serve all the students at each school, they trust us. We can help make sure that children do not fall through the cracks. Eliminating dance may look like a budget decision on behavior. But research shows that if it comes to the cost elsewhere, students involved in park education consistently show higher attendance, stronger academic outcomes, and better social emotional development. Higher grade are less likely

035to disengage from school. That's the gap we set out to Los Angeles. At the middle school level, this matters even more. Middle school is one of the hardest times in young person's life. I see you. And there are years, there are years when anxiety rises, identity forms, and many students feel withdraw. The dance provides something science increasingly confirms students need. Movement, collaboration, emotional expression, and belonging. Neuroscience research shows articulation supports mental health, resilience, and cognitive growth. That's from the National Library of Medicine. are years of anxiety, pressure, identity struggles, and emotional ups and downs. And fear and dance absolutely interrupt that. They create face to face connection, teamwork, joy, movement, expression, courage, and community. And in today's world where many children spend hours isolated on screens, gaming, or interacting with AI, our classes offer what

036technology cannot replace, the human connection. In theater, students learn empathy by stepping into someone else's shoes. In dance, they regulate stress through movement and discipline. In both, they learn how to read a room, work as a team, solve problems creatively, and communicate face to face. These are not extra skills. book in an AI future. Creativity, adaptability, collaboration, confidence, and emotional intelligence. AI can write an essay. AI can generate an image. AI can answer a question. But AI cannot teach a child how to stand tall when they are scared. Senior and dance are not extro. They are mental health support. They're school climate support. They are confidence building. They are future readiness. And they are sometimes the only reason a child wants to come to school at all. There are lifelines. I asked you tonight when

037students are struggling with depression, disconnection, and conflict, why would we remove the spaces to reduce those structure, those struggles? The arts are what bring human interaction into what can sometimes feel like a sterile student environment. Artist classes, especially dance and theater, are also places where students who are new to the English language, like many of our students, or who have disabilities, can participate alongside the general student population as equals. In these spaces, language level and academic labels take a backseat to connection, expression, and belonging. How can we expect our children to be well-rounded, happy, and confident and secure if we only count as important the classes tied to the NJSA students of the class who need attention, care, and opportunities to discover who they are. Now you may say that you agree with all of

038this that you are not getting rid of dust and that these offers will be explored into the curriculum as you did say but mag only teachers in subject matter can teach those subjects and if positions like ours are in jeopardy especially including a tener teacher vision what comes Yes. What other programs will we cut? >> And I just strongly urge you to take another look. Please do not take this away from these children. and I'm here to discuss the recent budget and how the workspiring two of most appreciated teachers in both and since be completely honest I can't express how much these two have done and the incredible relationships they have built Carol, she was fun. She's outgoing and she's always able to match. We love that. She's really good at her job. She's also

039really funny. And both of them, they were reason why rehearsals because they made and they put all this hard work into putting on an amazing show. They stayed late past 5:00 p.m. just for fun. They dedicated all their spare timing of it. It is so much all at this and since the war bed is also unfortunately cutting the I would like to note that theater isn't just reading and dance isn't just moving. Theater and dance are for people who may not be as athletic as others and prefer to express themselves in a more creative way. And I feel all for the kids who are gonna have to deal with the fact that there will be no more theater, dance, or character. But that really does suck. So I am asking you to consider that maybe

040you didn't make the right. Thank you. But just make sure not stand. >> Yeah. Folks, can you keep the emergency exit clear? Has to be clear, >> please. Thank you. Thank you. >> Hi, my name is a rural school. I don't know if any of you guys have ever looked in one or seen what it looks like for a school to literally have money. We were in one district where they did not have school lunches and yet they kept the dramatic arts, dance and music for their kids out of their own pockets because they knew they knew the science. They knew the statistics how much music, theater, dance, language affect the brain just as much as math and science. That is highly important. We went to another district that had no air conditioning, broken heaters,

041no dripping ceilings. They did not have anything. They didn't have parents to put any bathroom instead. They didn't have that. This was in the middle of nowhere. They had no budget. They had potholes in the roads that parents would come and fill themselves. Okay, that's what it looks like when a school has no budget. We moved here for work and we chose this district because it was state of the art. If you look around, you look at cameras, you look at tech, there are flat screens in your cafeteria, right? It is state of the art. We had none of that. We didn't have any of that. And yet we maintain our arts programs because they were a priority for the students because we knew long term those things mattered for their development. They mattered for

042their statistics to stay in school, graduate on time. They mattered for their rate to go to college and do well and function and and the kids who were on spectrums, kids who were not good at athletics, those were the areas where they thrived the most. And so whether you had money or you didn't have money, you always had access to the arts. So when I walk in here, you know, as a new parent with four kids in this district, we were floored. We thought it was a wealth district. were like, I have never seen a public school district so funded. They have brand new schools. Everybody has a computer. There are I mean the whiteboards, everything is state-of-the-art. And yet, what's the first thing to know? Is the arts program special education? Like really, that

043feels like a scary, doesn't I? Did people go home and just feel okay about that? Like was there ever a consideration as you looked at all the programs and all the supplies you guys buy each year that you replace each year so that they stay on top, right? Was there ever consideration of putting those two things up higher in the list or were they always on Make sure everybody did sign in. >> Okay. And also please you got to keep that exit open. >> Good evening. My name is Jessica. I am a parent in this district. I have two daughters, one and one. I'm here tonight because I'm deeply concerned about pro cuts to the theater and dance prototypes and the loss of two incredible teachers, Mrs. Cero. I understand that decisions are difficult, but

044not all are equal and this one comes at a real cost to our children. These programs are not just extra. They were students. They are where students find confidence, where they find their voice, and where they feel like they belong. And I've seen that firsthand. My daughter, Josephine, was in the play a few weeks ago, and I can't explain how proud I was, not just of her, but of all the kids that were in the play. The maturity, the confidence, the growth. It was something really, really special. Every person in that audience felt it. And that just doesn't happen. just doesn't happen. That comes from dedication and the passion of these teachers. Now, Justine is graduating and my younger daughter Meline will be in FA next year. She has been so excited to be a

045part of this program and she talks about this teacher all the time. And now that opportunity is being taken away from her and from so many other students. We are raising we're raising our kids in a world where screens dominate their lives and social interaction is declining. Programs like theater and dance give them something real, connection, expression, confidence, and community. I was also disappointed to see that most of the board members did not attend the recent performance to witness this program firsthand. Before making decision like this, I go see yourselves. We often talk about how hard it is to find great teachers. And yet, here we are about to lose two of them. Not because of performance, but because of budget cuts. Once programs like these are gone, they are not easily rebuilt. And the

046students who need them the most don't get that time back. Please don't take away something that is helping our kids become confident, connected, and heard, and especially when they need it the most. Thank you. Miss they're kind, respectful, and they really they take their time to explain things and learn. And they don't make you feel bad about anything. >> They understand us when their problems when student that makes everyone feel and dance are really fun. You have to express yourself and you get to be hard. You get to be creative and you get to have freedom. It makes school something you look forward to. I was really excited to be wearing a drama class next year. I would. And now I'm really sad that I might not be able to get a chance. I know

047that I'm not alone. A lot of those kids love these teachers and I'm going to miss them a lot. Hello. Steve lives record. Um, when Josie told me that she was drawing drama club and that put on a performance, I thought I knew what to expect. But boy, was I wrong. When I heard opened a clear rich, complex, dramatic, timely performance that reflected the students lives and gave them way to express themselves. Raw, honest emotion. I saw an interpretive dance that genuinely moved me. I saw no quiet kids who were able to take control of the stage and make it their own. I wasn't just proud of my daughter. I was proud of the entire cast, all the teachers and everyone. Uh I was proud of my town for being able to give this gift

048to our kids, but honestly [clears throat] it was not the town that built this program. This was a labor of love from two remarkable educators, Miss Ter and Miss Franco. Those were fortunate enough to attend performance a box saw something truly special. Students and teachers creating something new and powerful. And for those of us who are not able to attend, I believe something was meaningful was missed. Uh a real example of what programs like this bring to students, to our students, and to our community. There's no shortage of activities for our kids in this town. got soccer, baseball, football, track and field and more. Uh we have parents who enthusiastically volunteer, myself included, and we celebrate those teams. We even go so far as to shut down our streets, hold the parades to support our

049middle school sports. Uh Eastford knows how to show up for its kids, and the arts deserve that same level of support. The art is different. They're about exploring who you are, finding a way to express it. They're about finding your voice, stepping into somebody else's story, and coming away with a deeper understanding of others. And that's something Mrs. M. Franica saw a need in our community. They focused their efforts on building a program for students who might not fit that same space of sports that a lot of kids do. in search of acceptance and a voice. They built a home for these students and now it's being taken away and their work should be supported and not students. I'll admit I do not know everything you're facing with this budget and I do know this.

050These programs are not extras. They are essential. They are when students find confidence, belonging, and voice of their own. We remove them. I respectfully ask you any elimination from dance department. Please consider what is being lost program but a space where children's where students grow into themselves in a time when education becoming more focused on sterized testing. Please don't take away something deeply human as the arts and teachers who make it possible. having better from ways to express our opinions respectfully to making us truly think about things inside our emotions, actions and futures. Mater has support us all in one way or another personally or like her lesson. And for Miss Franica, I am sorry I thought her but I can tell she was truly passionate about what she and I think that's where many

051students will see one way to express themselves or another. And I don't think you can expect him to truly put theater and dance to the other subjects because that's just like asking math teacher to teach me. It's not right. >> Keep going. Keep going. Sorry. Thank you. Great. Take them away from people. Okay. [clears throat] invest so much. I truly teach the best. We have different types of things in our school clothes after school and other things here. We have computer club. We stay after school and play. We have another use money after school, right? Baby get rid of this still anyway. SL teachers enough to school for 30 minutes for two weeks. You see that nine down maybe? So think if you stay 9 at night every single day two weeks straight and then

052two weeks later you got to go. You don't need no more. Good evening, President Board members, Mr. Barrow, parents, teachers, staff, and students. It is with great sadness and disappointment that I'm speaking with you tonight. My family has been a part of this school district for the last 10 years and this is the first time we have had to dropped something that we take issue with the budget cut and the theater and dance programs at W and schools. My sons Anthony and Alexander have both had the privilege of being students of both Miss Tar and Alexander was even student when he was in prek of ethics, one of her first classes during her first year in our district. Anthony has been a part of drama club since sixth grade and it has helped him with

053public speaking which has gotten him out of his shell with skills that I couldn't play with his high school that can equate. Both teachers care so much and as time students which are evident in the shows and productions that they have put on. While academics are important, art programs are just as important. Theater and dance programs give students the opportunity to express and explore their creative side. Our schools and students would really be at lost without theater and dance and Mr. and Mica and any of our other arts and music programs. The school year will not be the same without shows like this year's box spring winter and spring concerts. Thank you all for your time and please take this consideration when making your vote tonight. We often say to be a safe place for

054our children. child needs to get away in first that is not a football field a baseball or basketball court but I know for my child and many other children on the stage the theater program is no luxury or a hobby for many students it's the primary reason they feel connected to their peers excited to come to school it builds resilience in our children beer for my son provides safe environment for It builds his confidence uh helps him transform from a quiet child to a child who's to speak up and speak his mind. It supports mental health in this era where everything's about testing and performing well on standardized tests. This provides creative outlet for them to create be creative on the outside to act out. It's also a team sport. Um, we praise our sports

055teams for doing such a good job at working together as a team, but theater works the same way. Everything needs to fall into place. Um, when we talk about cutting theater, we aren't just cutting a play. We are dismantling the sport system. If we remove these programs, we are telling our artists, crews, and creative thinkers that their way of belonging is extra and acceptable. I urge the board to look past the line items on the budget and see the faces of the kids here who find their confidence under the spotlight. Please keep the theater alive. Let's make sure there is a pace for every child in this district, not just the ones who carry a ball. Paris. I'm speaking to you tonight as a parent. Um, many of you are aware I am a board

056of education member for all sessions district. Um, I'm an educator in New Jersey. I'm a school counselor in New Jersey for the last 22 years. Um, however, I'm here as a parent. My my youngest child is now in sixth grade here in the district at F school and he is not one of the sports although we are going to baseball at 7:45 who I expect him to do what he does every single game be happy and um his teammates he is another student who thrives in the arts um I'm asking you to reconsider your budget I'm asking you to look at decisions that were made with the previous administration. I'm missing you to look at a position specifically that that came about and was created after these two teachers were already hired. You have a

057buildings and grounds supervisor for now two schools. If you're reducing a principal on paper, now we have two schools. Do we need a building and ground supervisor for just two schools? You have you have coaches. I love my my my instructional coaches in my building. They help the advance kids. Unfortunately, our math test scores have not improved with these instructional coaches. I am asking you to go back to the budget. Let's look at other positions rather than teacher positions that impact our student our kids. They impact our kids, the kids that thrive in these arts, the kids that have that connection. Um, I'm asking you again, why are we look at the top not where not where we we're needed, teachers are needed everywhere. We still have although there are cuts, there are still vacancies

058in a lot of districts. We still have again educational coaches in the um math and ELA but test scores are not changing. We need to keep the arts where kids are thriving and you pull up the data check how many you know you can go by how many more kids are involved this year compared to last year. Look at that again. Look at the previous administration who they hired. Do we need that? You don't need a supervisor for two schools. That's the new position. That's one that really stuck out when I went back and looked at and reviewed some of the agendas. That is a newer position that can definitely um be agreed with. So, I'm asking you to go back, look at the budget. Um, I'm asking you to look at your educational approaches.

059I'm asking you to look at these positions and let's keep rather than you're eliminating the principle. So, thank you for that. Again, there are others that we can that you that you can be creative with and play around with. So, I'm asking you to go back. I'm asking you to look at that budget. I'm asking you to look at those positions. You have new administration coming in very shortly. Let's get together, talk about transportation with other districts. I think there are some things that we could keep these teachers here. There are other things that we could do rather than letting them let them. We are the 16 B terrace. We have a 10-year-old boy in Lincoln school. We got a 5-year-old girl. Um I'm here not to give I don't want emotional support and appreciation.

060I want us to explore every budget maneuver to save these programs. >> Yes. >> Revenue increases. I want us to really do that. It's really really important. We heard from our distinguished teachers here about the impacts. This is Rio is research and evidence-based and it it in rural public suburban schools. It makes a difference. Um, I used to lead arts immersion programs in Philadelphia for impoverished schools that had lost their arts and programs. And I would bring teachers in to grant programs. And I would hear teachers and principles talk about the devastating impacts of losing these programs and marginalized kids and people children failed in the program who once flourished and we were able to give lifelines but we need dedicated arts music and dance program teachers to sustain it year after year. It's really

061really critical. Um I can also say that we heard I will also I want to give some respect the fact that you guys are asking administration to stretch into the principal work like you know two principles for the three schools I do understand that that's uh important that you guys are working hard on that but again the arts and culture experience for our children is critical I have a special needs son some of you are familiar with Um he developed an autoimmune response to chronic like cases of strep and [clears throat] since then rather than getting a fever or a cold he gets attacks on his brain from his autoimmune system that attacks fight anxiety system of his brain. So, it has been really hard at certain circumstances to get to get to school, to

062get him to manage his emotions, to get him to be able to stay present to a difficult day. Some of you witness this first. I really respect your loving, dedicated approach to my son. I will say that the arts and dance instruction he's received from the teachers in this room have been really really critical and it has helped him look forward to the school day. It's helped him feel proud of himself. It's helped him meet and encourage and really be able to interact with his peers in a way where sports has been harder for him. Even though he started off as a great athlete, we've seen that diminish. But the arts and culture experience been [clears throat] really critical, really sustained. And it's made the difference that our son can go to school every day

063and be a winning student versus dropping out and failing. And it is the truth. I really want you guys to explore every single opportunity here to save this program because it's making a huge difference in our family's life. Thank you. I used to go to town only a year ago but I became I bully my grandfather died. However, tomorrow theater was my home. But the science that was dead, sorry, but the science that they showed you, that was my life. And I just want to say that theater and the arts, that was my home. That was my connection. That's how you deal with some pain. However, taking away all that from the through the connections, you're taking away that from the future of many generations come many generations who may do with a difficulty. other

064through without theater, without the arts, we're taking that away. And I get they say they continuing it with the curriculum. How other than teachers who are um whoever who are behind theater, who are behind dance, who are behind the arts, they are the people who build the connection with their students. They are the people who create the homes for their students. Without that, there are no homes. There are no connections. a lot mental and emotional stance. So I please I ask you please keep these teachers connected to this school. Please keep the teacher in their job. Please keep these connections. Thank you. I would like to address superintendent SC and the board of education. When I first came to the school, I was one of the only new people and I was so nervous because

065no one knew me and I didn't know anyone. When I found Missica, they were the nicest teachers I have ever met. They were also making a dance and theater club. Since I didn't know anybody, I thought it would be a great opportunity to find some new people that have those in common. And let me tell you, this is the most amazing I have ever made. I have made new friends that will last me a lifetime and adults that I know to trust with my word. They have been our caregivers and our teachers at the same time. They had also taken unpaid time by their days just to make individual props that had so much more creativity to our play. This has taught me everything I know about acting and expressing myself to that help me

066understand the value of dance and how adaptive it is. But passing teach us how to perform on the stage with a ton of people watching. And so show that that is the most feared thing in the world. Whether it is playing a character on a stage or puring around and being crossed a safe space and welcome and that just makes me feel like there's always some trusted people for me when I need the best and I might just be a child and I accept that but I know what I should someone ripped for me or for anybody at all. I hope you all know the decision you are making right now. But someone has told you many times before that. If you ever doubt yourself, just remember what I told you that you were one

067of the most talented students I have ever [clears throat] worked with. And I'm so proud of you. And I just hope that you are proud of yourself, too. Thank you. And have a good evening. Not that I know. >> All right. >> Hi everybody. Good afternoon, evening. Thank you so much for the opportunity to speak to you. I know there have been many people speaking and I hope to keep my what I have to say is succinct but also give my perspective. I'm really excited for this opportunity and I really appreciate. My name is Rachel Silverstein and I staff member many students here know me as either Rachel or Miss Hi guys and I'm also in theater production for all your stage shows as stage manager and music as educators. We are intend to focus

068on providing equitable access to resources for our students. We know this whether be extra support in the classroom or opportunities to grow and explore in new ways such as support and performance. Elementary was the ideal time to be starting this movement and middle school is an essential time to be having this self expression because they are such an inal becoming selfaware and self-conscious as many of these students have already said through this collaboration in their amazing teachers. The point that I want to make is that yes, there are other youth theater and jazz programs in the area, but there is a pride and a community that comes with being part of an East Rutherford production for our students, but we have see this benefit at the high school level. That's why I'm here today. Just

069a few weeks ago in our production of The Little Mermaid, we sold 588 tickets for the last show. We had running again. That was our final of three shows and we welcome so many freshmen who brought their skills that they learned in middle school directly to our program. Some of them here right now. As Superintendent Dr. Scores says, we are raising the bar as more students are exposed to theater and are joining us at the high school level. I understand that budget cuts are incredibly difficult especially when staff are taking these programs opportunity and affect us and affect their ability to participate at the level that they want to these later programs that we are offering. No matter what I have to say will continue in each run. I just hope it continues to the

070strength and foundation of this program that is already here. Thank you so much. So moved. >> Second. All in >> favor. accept the motion to uh for SP1 adoption of the 2026 2027 school budget. >> Sure. Um, I would like to make a motion to postpone that vote until after executive session because I think the board should discuss things that were said and it does require discussion of personnel. >> Yeah. Okay. So, we obained a motion to go into exec and uh vote on that going into executive board wants to go into executive. >> So, go into exe everybody. Motion Mr. Laruso in a second. Okay. All in favor? Any oppose? >> Okay. >> I just think it should be discussed in public. That's all. >> Is this a discussion that we touch on the

071public? It's hard to tell until we get in there and hear, you know, what we're going to talk about, >> especially if it's personnel and they've been raced. >> I just want to make sure it's for the sake of transparency. But if it's a rice issue, then >> I mean, we're going to discuss the two teachers who are sitting here. We're going to discuss other points that were brought up about other uh positions >> that were brought up in public. So >> yeah, there's a lot of things embedded in budget discussion that are in executive session. So let's go in there and then we'll burn it out. Then I'll see if we can stay. >> Uh how long? So 7:26 we're going in. How long you think we need? >> I think just this, right?

072>> I think just budget. >> Just budget. What do you think? 30 minutes >> minimum. >> Why don't we say >> 15? >> Why don't we say 15? We'll come back out because I want to gauge, you know, the uh the level of personnel, >> okay, >> discussion and so forth and attorney, client communication, privileges and things like that. >> Okay. And has that stuff private about 15 minutes. Amen. also down Yeah. Yeah. famous. very good. Let's get You're on the same bus. Yes. I said in my I may not have I want to see all that Yes. That's right. Excellent. No. I'm sorry. Sorry. Hello. So she's all the way from heard that motion now. All right. >> Not me. I mean Yeah, They did it for this purpose. I actually don't actually perspective.

073Sorry. It's fine. I'd like to So good. You're really We started here. They used to go by polish because we have close I love that. No, I don't I know. I know. Thank you so much. Excuse me. Are you sure? Get outside. I just I promise. >> [laughter] >> my mind. One day What? a lot of That was chicken. original. You can't do that. You don't want to do that. >> Oh, yes. I'm on your It was like behavior. No, downward Yes. Thank you very much. Stay connect. Thank you. Yeah. No, it's actually Why is that? My name is getting very understandable. would be great in the hospital. Yeah. Sorry. That's right. No, I haven't. >> I think I asked somebody >> [clears throat] >> Make it work. Hey guys. So, It's better. Best way

074This is funny. like a little bit of It's like Now we will say Yeah. What's going to take Stay tuned. around Yeah. I know my one of about it. Just like Good evening. Foreign That's how many fine yesterday. Oh my god. best. I don't even understand the same judging too. They have the model. That's what she would do with >> that. I think so. Open the door. Just give me a minute. Thank you. >> Because I wasn't there. >> See, don't go to the games. >> Water. >> Oh, sorry. Then they took them all. Sorry. >> Um, so >> right next to the fr in the fridge and next to the fridge. >> Oh, and the Oh, you put some in there. >> I didn't. >> Somebody turn on That was Frank. >> Yeah, exactly.

075>> All right, we have to wait for it sounds. >> Yeah, >> I got to get out of this. How do we get out of this? Yes. Okay. Is that you? Oh, I going to move to uh adoption 2026. 2027 school budget. Um just want to quickly say we we um considered every everyone's standards. Um we've spent hours and hours and hours this budget. Um and everybody we did listen to everything everybody said. We considered everything. Um just want to preface that before we take the vote. And then also everybody on this board has children. Many of them are in schools. We have a lot of teachers so they understand all your concerns. We we we all so just want to preface with that. So SP1 adoption of the 2026 school 20 26 2027 school

076budget. >> Second roll call. >> Miss Caruso. >> Yes. Miss Collie, Miss Laruso, yes. >> Mr. Seagalini, >> yes. >> Miss Shemley, >> yes. >> Miss Mana, >> Mr. Banker, >> yes. >> Motion passes 70. For the record, I want to let the students and parents know that we are not while you may not see your program in its form that it is now, there will still be the afterchool component. We are contracted with William Patterson for an artist and residence. We will be working with our administrators and we will be working to make sure that arts doesn't just go out the window. I can't do it I cannot do it justice. I cannot do it justice on paper but I can assure you that you will have a program. I understand your disappointment. Uh,

077however, we're not, like I said, we're not abandoning the program totally. It's just not going to be in the form as you know it now. That's my statement. >> The regulatory business [clears throat] for SP2 adoption maximum travel expenditures 2026 2027. Second roll call. >> Miss Caruso, >> yes. >> Miss Collie, >> yes. >> Miss Laruso, >> Mr. Scalini, >> yes. >> Miss Shmley, >> yes. >> Miss Mana, >> yes. >> Mr. Banker, >> yes. >> Motion passes 70. >> Oh, yeah. Now >> agenda. >> Yeah. Agenda and non-aggenda, right? So agenda and non-aggenda. >> Only opening up points for agenda. >> It's just the agenda at the end. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Agenda item. >> Correct. Do you make shame on all of you? There are ways to yourself when you are upset

078and that is not it. Enter a motion to open the meeting to public and items. So >> second in >> favor I post. Everybody would like to speak on agend. So we have no correspondence. >> Okay. correspondence option required meeting minutes on the recommendation of interim superintendent board hereby approves the following meeting minutes April 3rd 202 budget hearing and public session meeting agenda No, >> March 12th. Should be March 12th. >> March 12th, 2026, 2026. Work session meeting minutes. March 12th, 2026, work session, executive meeting minutes. March 23rd, 2026, public session meeting minutes. March 23rd, 2026, public session executive meeting. Second >> roll. >> Miss Caruso. >> Yes. >> Miss Collie. >> Yes. >> Miss Loruso. >> Yes. >> Mr. Seagalini. >> Yes. >> Miss Shamley. >> I recuse myself from the March 12th meetings.

079Yes. To March 25th. >> So yes to March 23rd. Recuse from 312. Thank you. Miss Mana. >> Yes. And Mr. Bank. Yes. has been for you by approved motions. S1 through S3. S1 approval of fire and emergency drill report. S2 approval of enrollment report. S3 approval of harassment, intimidation, and bullying report. Second roll call, please. >> Miss Carissa, >> yes. >> Miss Collie, >> yes. >> Miss Louisissa, >> yes. >> Mr. Sigalini, >> yes. >> Miss Fley, >> yes. >> Miss Mana, >> yes. >> Mr. Banker, >> yes. President C3. C1, approval of student field trip and transportation request for the 2025 2026 school year. C2, approval of transportation requests from the bureau of v. Southerntherford recreation. And C3, approval of student transportation requests for the uh fory 2026. >> Second. All please. >> Miss

080Caruso. >> Yes. >> Miss Collie. >> Yes. >> Miss Laruso. >> Yes. >> Mr. Seagalini. >> Yes. >> Miss Shanley. >> Yes. >> Miss Mana. >> Yes. >> Mr. Banker. >> Yes. >> Thank you. Superintendent hereby approve motions one person. P1, approve the Kelly education substitute list. P2, personnel actions. P3, approval of travel expenditures. P4, approval of the extension of the appointment of the interim supervisors of curriculum and instruction. E5, acceptance of resignation notification. E6, approval of lead notification. And E7, acceptance of resation notification. Second roll, >> please. >> Miss Caruso, >> yes. >> Miss Collie, >> yes. >> Miss Laruso, >> Mr. Sealini, >> yes. >> Miss Shelley, >> yes. >> Miss Meadow, >> yes. >> And Mr. Baker, >> yes. >> And that is the report. >> Thank you, Mr. President. >> Thank

081you. Upon the recommendation of the interim superintendent, the board hereby approves motions PF1 to PF3. PF1 approval of monthly facilities calendar May 2026. EF2 approval to ratify sold assets on deals and CF3 approval of district facility applications. Back in >> Miss Caruso. >> Yes. >> Miss Collie. >> Yes. >> Miss Laruso. >> Yes. >> Mr. Sealini. >> Yes. >> Miss Shamley. >> Yes. >> Miss Meadow. >> Yes. >> Mr. Banker. >> Yes. >> Okay. Which one? >> From EF3. Okay. >> You're welcome. Not a problem. But everything else we're okay. PF1, PF2, but recuse PF3. Okay. The board here second. Miss Caruso, >> yes. >> Miss Collie, Miss Laruso, >> Mr. Seagalini, >> yes. >> Miss Shmley, >> yes. >> Miss Meta, >> Mr. Banker, >> yes. >> Oh, yes. Yes, please. Yes, please. >>

082That Board of Education approved the following resolution for making the week of May 4th as teacher appreciation week. Whereas American greatest has always been an educated citizenry and whereas the educated citizenry is directly attributable to our system of free and universal public education that provides an educational opportunity for all students. And whereas the foundation of language that system of public schooling rests it's the classroom teacher. And whereas the classroom teacher is challenged daily to reach out to every student regardless of ability, interest in learning, social or economic backgrounds, physical, mental or emotional handicap, race, religion, creed or ethnic origin to provide assistance and guidance necessary for full intellectual development. And whereas the classroom teaches keys to the intellectual and occupational preparation of our individual citizens who collectively determine the quality of life in America and

083in our communities. And whereas the work of the classroom teacher immeasurably affects the future lives of all students. And whereas the classroom teacher deserve the deepest respect and admiration of the citizens of our communities. Now therefore be it resolved that the Eastboro Board of Education hereby proclaims teacher appreciation week on May 4th, 2026 for the purpose of providing public recognition and appreciation for the dedication and contributions of the classroom teacher not only to our communities but each of us. If you want me to read the special education update now or do it in >> Do you have a special ed report that you read committee? you can. >> Given um so there's a couple different things. So from July through April, they were successful having oneonone um that our special education students hosted and they

084are going to be bringing it on the road to McKenzie back in after testing. Um CDI trips have been conducted um instruction. They've done a visit to the zoo as well as Ltown. Um the county director meetings have been attended each month and they're in the process of collaborating with the auditor and the business administrator on the extraordinary aid application. There is collaboration with Beckton child studying team to assist with reading visions future programming and they're in the process of looking for a full-time analyst to join the staff. They're also in the process of conducting the DLM assessment, which is the alternative assessment for students who cannot sit for the JSLA testing. Um, and there are scheduling kindergarten screenings. Um, it looks like to date there's been 43 educational evaluations. Um, 30 observations with five

085remaining. Um, successful ESY program. uh they are meeting with surrounding districts to review program and needs um and um moving forward are looking to uh beef up I guess the special education parent group um continue to work on team collaboration and communication continue to strengthen culture and climate continue to enhance CBI trips um fine-tune language and individual education plans um and meet with child team members from East as well affected and then uh continue with interventions within special education and general technology committee Mr. >> Thank you Mr. President um April 2026 technology report um information security program uh plan. The district continues to proactively evaluate all appropriate district technologies to ensure the safety and security of our data and information systems. Plenty of uh necessary maintenance and upgrades for both the current and the future

086school year are ongoing and underway. Recent vulnerability scans were conducted to identify areas for growth and improvements within our systems and infrastructure. Remediations are ongoing to better protect the district from any possible cyber attacks. Additional stakeholder meetings are pending to ensure appropriate plans are maintained to deal with response to an array of cyber security threats. rate purchasing for 2025 2026 school year is drawing to a close as we continue to support the technology infrastructure across the district. Budgeting for 2026 2027 school year is concluded with projected needs covered under the proposed budget. As we progress through the budget cycle, the technology team continues to ensure that the technology and support needs for all students and staff were considered when evaluating items and services for purchase. The district continues to evaluate varying technology platforms to help

087support productivity, efficiency, and infrastructure within the district. Uh the district continues to evaluate policies and procedures related to appropriate technologies and their acceptable use to help support productivity, efficiency, and instruction within the district. A major focus for 2026 2027 will be the integration of artificial intelligence education into practice throughout K through A. Parents are encouraged to download the Parent Square app to ensure all communications at both the district and school level. The platform will be used for all official school communications, specifically any closings and delays, early dismissals due to climate inclement weather. The district continues to use Genesis to share and collect data from families through the forms portal to allow uh for efficient and paperless communications. Forms are updated annually to account for new information. This includes the ongoing district re-registration. And that concludes

088my report on technology with the president. >> Thank you, President Ba. on the recommendation of the interim superintendent. The board hereby approves motions F1 to F10. F1 approval 2026. F2 approval of the bill list. F3 approval of financial reports February 2026. F4 approval of transfer report February 2026. F5 approval and accept amend amended elementary and secondary app uh funds. F6, approval to renew the FSMC contract for the 2627 school year with Machio's Food Services. F7, approval of early registration for NJSBA workshop 2026. F8, approval of joint transportation agreement with South Berg and Joint Commission for the 2627 school year. F9, approval of the transfers for preschool education, eight funds for the 2526 school year. F10, approval of contracts, agreements, and renewals for the 2627 school year. And F11, approval of private provider contracts with the

089Academy of Rutherford. And that concludes it. >> Thanks, >> Mr. Baruso. >> Yes. >> Miss Collie, yes. >> Miss Laruso, Mr. Sealini, yes. Miss Shmley, Miss Mena, Mr. Thank. >> Yes. >> All business. >> I have one thing in old business. I just want to report to the public and the board that we had closed out uh re-registration. We're down to the last hundred people that have not responded. Um right now their rights to uh the student information system is shut off. They will be told that failure to further to do what they have to do and register will um keep them from getting their schedules next year and getting them assigned will be considered them non residents and non- studentents until they take care of the appropriate business. But it went very well. Most

090people that did take care of uh business handed everything in they had to. So, we're down to the last few and uh we're diligently working on that >> business. >> I have some new business. So, what we are I have tentatively set up a walkth through on the 14th prior to our next meeting at 5:00 pm. If you can make it at Kitty Academy, I'll send you the details. this way you kind of get a feel on where our students will be going. Um so we want we have that set up. Um right now again we're working with them. Um it's we we have a lot of things we have to figure out with preschool also because you have uh parents who will have siblings in our schools. So, we're going to have to give

091them priority to be within these schools and it it the people that need like wraparound services and things like that before care after care. We're going to kind of move down to Kitty Academy uh because it's just more conducive because we cannot bust them from one place to another. The only exceptions will be if they have students in the district, siblings will continue to offer them, but it's very few that are taking, you know, part in those things. So, if they don't need it, then that's fine, too. So, I just wanted to report that. Oh, one more thing also. I know that there's been talk about the um St. Joseph School. We reached out to them. Uh they told us at this point they are only looking to lease which we have no interest but

092you know we might take a walk and set something up anyway and just tell them if you're looking to sell maybe but you know not that we're looking to buy right now but you know it's something we should consider anyway at least look at it see if it's worth anything and then move from there. So we'll keep you posted on that. Thank you. I attended the eighth grade tournament which was uh I think it was well attended by students and um their families and it was a fun time. The kids seem to enjoy it. So um and the eighth grade community did a wonderful wonderful job with that. >> Thank you. >> I would like to make a comment. >> Sure. So in regards to public comments that were made this evening regarding attendance at

093school event salary board of education members I want to clarify to the public that we as the board of education we are parents. We are full-time professionals. We are coaches. We are your youth board um sports members. We're active participants in various community initiatives throughout these brothers. Four of the seven of us have young children that are currently in the K through8 district here in East Rutherford and we are here by choice because we care about this community as a whole. While we I know every one of us genuinely wish it but we attend every single event, the reality is that our collective responsibilities don't always make that bog. Our absence at any single event in this district is cannot be interpreted as a lack of commitment or our support for our schools or our

094community. I would also like to clarify that we are volunteer. We are not paid to be here. We do not receive compensation for our services. We dedicate a significant amount of time, especially when it comes to budget season. We spend hours and hours on phone calls and meetings here. Um, we do this because we spend our personal time again on tape because we care about this community and we believe that we contribute meaningfully to it. And I think the entire board can say that the decisions and the discussions that we engage in are not like this. As I said, school have young children that are directly impacted in the decisions that we make and the remainder of them either had children or have other grandchildren that will live in the district. So we we experience

095everything that you guys experience firsthand. We experience it as parents. We experience it as taxpayers and we experience it as members of this community. If you feel that you can positively contribute or make a change that is positive, then I implore you to run for the board of education. Every year there are seeds of us, please do run. But I genuinely see that by behaviors that lead to students here trying to make decisions that we feel are best for decisions. Not easy, they aren't. But to be booed and shunned and screamed at and that's what our salary is is something that I cannot condone. I'm actually taken a back because in my years of doing this, that is the first time that we have been given the middle finger or have the plan out of.

096And while I understand these intentions are high, we too are feeling that we have to decision, right? I want to emphasize that. weekend. If you feel that you've seen a positive impact or change it or do something differently, then run for the board of make a change. It will delay the right way to do it as opposed to coming here and right speaking up is great to advocate for. But the end graph that we just dealt with is not appropriate. It's not assuming you'll say yes. >> We'll get back. TA update. My name is Kevin Lion. I'm here to give the PTA update for the month of April. Uh our membership stands at 229 members. Our tricky tray tickets are finally on sale. $25 per person. Our doors open at 6 pm on May 15th,

097drawing at 7:30 and that's at the Reland Avenue Community Center. Uh please get your tickets. There are links on Facebook and we'll also be sending out emails and flyers are going home to our students as soon as I can get them to the schools. Um our eighth grade host is hosting their car wash this uh Saturday at the DPW parking lot on Hackinack Street. that leaves from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. I believe back school is also having a lot. So, make sure you go to the TPW to get your car wash. Not that we don't love any um our PTA is hosting lunch for our staff and honor appreciation day on Cinco de Mayo May 5th, Tuesday. Uh food will be delivered to all three schools for our teachers and staffs to enjoy. Uh

098PTA shirt design contest for field day has completed. uh winners from each school will be announced at our May PTA meeting next Wednesday, this coming Wednesday and those designs will be shared at that meeting here. >> Um the PTA will also then print up and provide shirts to all of our student staff and also um some of our f students help out at Lincoln school. Those student will receive a McFanty or Lincoln shirt for volunteering to help out at those events. Uh we'll also be providing t-shirts to our FA choir and band students and the chaperones for the thrills and trills and thrills music competition which is [clears throat] held in June at the um celebrates a competent music competition and a day of great adventure for our band and choir students from house. Our

099annual Holly game show is scheduled for May 21st. Our third through eighth grade students will attend that event. It's a great way for our students to unwind after the completion of the NJSLA field. Uh PTA is working with our school administration and our phys teachers to coordinate other activities around field day especially for school where we provide a full lunch for our students and staff at the uh rig field since it's offsite. Uh PTA is working with Grit Ninja to determine if we can find a date when we can bring them back in early June for our Lincoln and Foul School. That program is about having grit in life when things get tough. It's an assembly and obstacle course that they set up with activities with uh coaches to help them through it uh to

100help them take on challenges. And our eighth grade committee is putting their final [clears throat] touches on hand for May 21st and that facilities use an eighth grade versus parent faculty game on May 14th. Um and a few appreciation moments. April and May are full of mo moments to express gratitude to those in our district. This past Tuesday, we celebrated school bus driver appreciation day and our PTA is grateful to those unsung heroes who ensure our child's safety every day as school begins and ends. Uh tomorrow, May 1st, we honor our school lunch heroes and we value the partnership between our district and Mville food service in providing nutrition for our students and fueling their learning. And tomorrow is also school principal day, but we're incredibly fortunate to have Morelli, Mr. Mr. Lori, and Mr.

101are leading our buildings, their passion and dedication, creating an environment where our children really thrive and learn. And finally, we look forward to next week, our teacher appreciation week, uh teacher appreciation day on Tuesday, our classroom empty shelves without dedicated educators who provided essential frontline instruction every single day. And we thank them all for their contribution to our system. Thank you so much. And personal note, nonPTA, thank you to the board for all of your dedication to our students. I know this is a very difficult night and I appreciate your efforts and your discussion and all the work you do, especially as you said didn't end the way that we should have, but the public felt heard and I do appreciate that. Well, executive. >> Uh, no. We haven't been voting on that. We just

102do it as a uh for the hearing. We did it, but we don't need to do it. >> We don't need to call. So, we just >> Okay. Uh we'll turn to executive session um for >> HIV. I think it should be. >> Do we have anything else? If we don't >> I don't have it. >> Should be 10 minutes. If that >> that's the max >> no action will be taken. >> A motion for >> Oh yeah. >> Second to you Sergio. All >> in favor 837. Okay. I can forget. Oh, >> you're welcome. Swinging in on this one. >> Thank you, Mr. L. >> I appreciate it. Thank you, sir. >> Thank you. Thank you. You know what the problem was there? >> I got it. No, I muted. I hit this button

103here and that stops all the reverb. >> You got it. >> Yeah. That's your wife. My I play great. Good night. >> Oh, thank >> people are asking me about what's going on. >> I know you're becoming superintendent, but that's all I know because I only know what's >> next. Okay, great. I said on YouTube that right there audio on the microphone on the left mute that should be at the So, You know what it is? I hit Brian. I hit record and I because I've never set this up and maybe that's what's doing it because I think it records itself. >> Oh, they hear what >> he said, right? >> Oh, right. Oh, you're in the background. That's true here. No. >> Uh 14. >> All right. So, we need a motion to return

104to regular order. Mr. President. >> Motion to return to regular order. >> It says I'm just looking for my last page here. >> You got it, sir. Yeah. >> 91 19. What do you got? >> 920. Okay. >> Motion to motion to adjurnn. >> So move. Second. >> All in favor. Our next meeting is May 14th, 2026, 6 p.m. at this location.