001All right, everybody. We are going to call the meeting to order. Wow, that was very good. I didn't even have to do any like songs or anything. Um, obviously we have a packed house. We have a packed agenda. We are going to try and be as efficient as we possibly can. We are incredibly grateful that we have such an incredible community where everybody comes out to support all of our beautiful children and all of their wonderful accomplishments and all of the great things that our schools are doing. So, the way that we're going to run today's meeting is we are going to do Signal Hill first. We're going to start with some business. We're going to do Signal Hill once we open it up. Once Signal Hill is finished, the Signal Hill students and parents
002are more than welcome to leave. We'll give you guys a few moments so that you don't have to sit through the rest of the board meeting. although you're more than welcome to. Then we will do the Crescent students. Then we will do the retirees. We have a a long list of beautiful and accomplished human beings that we want to um make sure that we make feel incredibly special and um uh and and grateful because they've given so much of their time um and years to the district. And then we are going to close with the art presentation, the art show um and then we'll get into regular business. So hopefully at each at at each point we will stop and let everybody exit if they would like to. Um so we're going to try and
003run it as efficiently as possible. We're going to try and get everybody home so that everybody can see game three with the Knicks. Um we'll see. Um and and thank you all for being here. So let's start. Um call the meeting to order. Pursuant to the open public meeting act, public notice of this meeting has been given by the board secretary in the following manner. Posting written notice in the official bulletin board at the Vorhees Township Public Schools administrative building on August 4th, 2025. Sending written notice to the court courier on to the Courier Post on August 4th, 2025. Filing written notice with the clerk of Vorhees Township on August 24th, 2025. And posting on the Vorhees Township Board of Education website on August 4th, 2025. Please rise for the salute to the flag. Pledge
004allegiance 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. >> Board secretary, will you call the role? >> Mr. Bryce, >> here. >> Mrs. Munan here. Mr. Rosen >> here. >> Mr. Rosner >> here. >> Mrs. Ruer >> here. >> Mrs. Smite >> here. >> Mrs. Stewart >> here. >> Miss Kettover >> here. >> Mrs. Watson >> here. >> Okay. So, we're going to move to Sigma Hill now. >> Yep. Perfect. Okay. We are going to move to Signal Hill. I'm going to call up Principal S. >> Thank you, President Watson, members of the board, and Dr. Hacket. Good evening. I am Mrs. Sal's principal of Signal Hill School and tonight I have the honor of
005recognizing some very special students from our school. This school year, our students once again voluntarily participated in a book song challenge by writing and performing an original song about their favorite book they read this school year. As part of this contest, they were required to summarize and share why they love their book choice through song. 15 grand prize winners from across the nation were selected to receive a $1,000 book gift card for their school library, excuse me, and a $75 book card book gift card for themselves. I'm pleased to share that Signal Hill students landed five of the grand prizes. Additionally, several of our students were selected as category prize winners and received $250 each for our library. The grand total of Signal Hills prize winnings is, drum roll please, $8,000. This money will be
006used to purchase new books for our library for students to enjoy. So tonight, we would like to recognize these talented students and thank them for making a huge difference at our school. First, I would also like to acknowledge and thank our wonderful library media specialist, Miss Herz, for inspiring students to participate and encouraging a love of reading throughout the year. This accomplishment would not have been possible without you. So, please help me give a warm welcome to Miss Herz. Thank you, Miss Sal, for being incredibly supportive on this project um and making learning fun all the time and enjoyable for our students. Um board of education, Dr. Hackett, um President Watson, um we appreciate you recognizing our talented young creators. Um, and of course to our parents who made this possible. They are at the
007end of the project submitting them. Um, I'd like to also give a quick shout out to Tjall, if you want to stand up and give a wave, and Miss Rup, who brought this project to Signal Hill at the very beginning of it. So, we thank you. Um, our students have earned probably about just under $20,000 um, over the past few years for this project. So, we have several new books. Um, it encourages students to combine two powerful forms of expression, which is literature and music. So, what better way for you to hear about the project and see what our kids are doing at Signal Hill. I would like to invite up Satie, London, Ryan, and Margot to the microphone. >> Good evening. Our names are Margo, >> Ryan, Ryan, London, and Satie. We are excited
008to share our experience participating in the book song challenge, a competition that celebrates books and music by encouraging students to write and perform an original song or wrap their favorite book for the school year. When Miss Herdz present presented the challenge to our classes again this year, we knew that working as partners would help us combine our strengths and create something special. The first step was choosing a book that we all read and enjoyed and felt inspired by. We spent time discussing the story, the characters, and the important lessons we learned from the book. Once we selected our book, we worked together to brainstorm ideas for the lyrics. We wanted our song to capture the main events of the story while also sharing why the book was meaningful to us. Satie and Margot focused on
009writing verses that summarized the plot, while Ryan and I worked on creating a catchy chorus that highlighted the book's message. We then reviewed each other's ideas and made changes until we were all happy with the final results. Next, we collaborated on music and performance. We practiced reading lyrics out loud, experimenting with different rhythms, and decided which parts each of us would sing or rap. During rehearsals, we encouraged one another, offered constructive feedback, and helped each other, improving our timing, expression, and confidence. Working together taught us the importance of communication, teamwork, and respecting each other's ideas. Sometimes we had different opinions, but by listening carefully and compromising, we were able to create a stronger performance than any of us could have created along. >> Hello. >> The book song challenge gave us an exciting opportunity to
010combine literacy, creativity, and music. It helped us think more deeply about the book we read and allowed us to express our understanding in a fun and memorable way. Thank you for listening and inviting us to share our work with you tonight. We hope our project inspires others to discover new books work collaboratively and share their creativity through music. We will now play our book songs for you to enjoy. >> Okay, so we're going to start. First up, um there was a submission submitted by two third grade students for their book song on Elephant and Piggy. So congratulations. Could you come up? Ava Van Selton and Stella Climman. Each book song is about one minute. >> Okay. This is Ava and Stella as Elephant and Piggy. Take three. Action. >> Piggy. Piggy. Where are you? Piggy.
011>> I'm right here. Have you heard of the new singers, Apa and Stella? Let's go to their concert about us. Elephant and Piggy by Mo Williams. Best friend energy full on blast. Different style but they don't clash. Piggy is bored and elephant is shy. Piggy likes to play ball. Elephant likes to eat ice cream. Both like to share. Big ideas, tiny jokes. Inside laughs that only they would know. Side by side, day by day. Real friendship finds a way. Elephant and piggy teach important lessons like how to be patient, how to try your best, value of including others, try new things, and how to be a good friend. And now elephant and piggy rap. Read more elephant and piggy books. >> Congratulations, girls. You can stand with the girls right here. Um, next up we
012have another group of third grade students who submitted their book called Amulet. Congratulations to Cameron Conventto, Sahil, Chedda, and Charlie Kger. Come on out. All I really wanted was an ambulance chain. I love those shing my name. It's not enough. All I really want to do is say, "My mom, I move into a scary house." It's not enough. It's so sad. And his mom's dying. It's so sad. Everyone's crying. It's not enough. We went into a scary forest that had the tree that had the fruit to bring it back. >> Everything. >> All I really wanted was a lit train. I love those trains. They call THEM MY NAME. STAY UP HERE. >> WAIT, you can stay up front. Um, the next submission was submitted by a group of four fifth grade students who featured
013the book drama. That is London Watson, Sadie Rivella, Ryan Richmond, and Marggo Mansanelli. See you in London. Stop doing competition dances. Margo and Ryan, stop doing flips over and over again cuz IT'S BLAH BLAH BLAH BOOK SONG. >> YEAH, let's go. Callie loves theater. She would like to try out for her high school's new play of Moon Over Mississippi. The problem is she can't really sing. That's why she desire to be a stage crew member. She wants to have all of her sets to be good enough for Broadway, but she has to keep the school budget. What does she do? There is drama, drama, drama. Read this book to find out what happens next. Thank you. The money drop was money. Our fourth submission was submitted by three second grade students who showcased the book
014Phoebe and her unicorn. Congratulations to Ellie Levine, Amelia Smith, and Lucy Bishop. Come on up. >> Baby skipping rocks in LA. LA and the unicorn stuck gazing at her reflection reflection. The unicorn's name was Marold heavenly nostrils. Merry gold heavenly nostrils. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Mold granted Phoebe a wish to be your best friend in the world. The world. They go on so many adventures together. To read the rest to find out what happens next. to go and read the series. The adventure never ends. It'll feel like a dream to read the series. Read Phoebe and a unicorn. Read Phoebe and a unicorn. Read Phoebe AND A UNICORN. I love Unicorn. And last but not least, this fourth grade student was selected for her book series, Never Girls. Congratulations to Yea Mackin. Adventure and excitement. Me
015love dresses, roses, and anything beautiful. Laney dreams of talking to animals. Gabby believes and fairies more than anyone else. These are the never girls and they travel to the world of Neverland. That place has adventures, fun and grand. There's no problem they can't fix. Especially when you add magic in the mix reality they will bend with magic and their fairy friends. These are the never girls and they travel to the world of Neverland. That place has adventures, fun and grand. There's no problem they can't fix. Especially when you add magic in the mix. Reality they will bend with magic and their fairy friends. 14 books in all. Read them and you'll have a ball. These are the girls and they travel to the world of Neverland. Let's go to Neverland. So, we'd like to congratulate
016these students and 45 other students at Signal Hill that did participate in this project. So, we're very proud of all of you. We have a gift for all of you. So, we're going to come down and and grab it for you. Everybody. Take another picture. So, we can give the Signal Hill parents and children an opportunity to exit. >> Thank you all so much for coming. Right. Those hands. Okay, we're going to move on to the Crescent presentation. Can I have Miss Ivers? All right. Good evening. You know how much I love speaking in front of adults. All right. Good evening. My name is Hope Ibler and I have had the honor of being a group, an amazing group of students, their teacher this year. I'm very lucky. Um, Miss Morris is not feeling well,
017so I'm covering her part as well. Each year, the third circuit court's community and rule of law committee sponsors an essay contest for fifth and sixth graders. students, fifth and sixth grade students across Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and the US Virgin Islands. This year's contest focused on civics, citizenship, and the important question, does the United States Constitution address the grievances listed in the Declaration of Independence? And if so, explain how. When this essay question was made public, I knew we had it in the bag. This topic aligned perfectly with our fifth grade social studies curriculum where students study the founding of our nation, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the principles of an American government. It also comes at a perfect time as our country prepares to celebrate America's 250th birthday in 2026, giving
018students an opportunity to reflect on the ideas and documents that help shape our nation. A group of 15 of my students worked together to investigate and answer this question. They selected two of the 27 grievances listed in the Declaration of Independence and used research, primary sources, and committee provided resources to guide their learning. What makes this accomplishment even more special is the dedication these students showed throughout the process. While keeping up with their regular school work and responsibilities, they volunteered their free time both during school and outside of school to research, discuss, write, revise, and perfect their essay. Their hard work, their teamwork, and perseverance paid off with their collaborative essay, winning first place in this comp competition. And now I would like the students to come up and they'll introduce themselves and they will
019share their winning essay with you. >> We have one student who is not here. She had a softball game and as much as we wanted her to reschedule wasn't an option. So Does the United States Wait, what? >> You have to say your name. >> Oh, just everyone can introduce themselves. >> Okay. >> Hi, I'm Celia Crutoff. >> Hi, I'm Juliana Jacobs. >> Hi, I'm Blair Henry. Hi, I'm Arya Meta. Hi, I'm Maria Sdar. >> Hi, I'm Lily Varky. >> Hello, I am Ryan Savage. Hi, I'm Mina Odeir. Hi, I'm Kayla Cooper. Hello, I'm Aella Merage. >> Hello, I'm Sahan Patel. >> Hello, I'm Moin Salem. >> Hi, I'm Logan Coachworth. >> Hello, I'm Landon Goldstein. >> Does the United States Constitution address the grievances listed in the Declaration of Independence? The Declaration of Independence
020adopted in 1776 was the official start of the colonist break from England. It not only declared our independence, but it also listed the many problems or grievances that the colonists had with Britain. A grievance is a complaint about something unfair. When Jefferson, Franklin, Livingston, Adams, and Sherman sat down to write the Declaration of Independence, they included 27 grievances. One of the grievances was about being deprived of the benefits of trial by jury. Long ago, colonists did not always receive a fair trial, and sometimes they were not allowed a jury. It doesn't seem to be fair that one person should be able to decide everything. Depriving any citizen of the benefits of a trial by jury shows how unfair the system was under British rule. The constitution solved this problem by adding the sixth amendment. This
021amendment says that people have the right to a speedy in public trial by an impartial jury. A jury is a group of your peers who listen to a case and help decide the outcome rather than your fate being left in the hands of one person. This shows how the constitution aimed to ensure everyone is treated fairly. A key part of democracy. A real colonial example of why this matters is the Boston Massacre. After this event, British soldiers were put on trial. Many colonists were angry and wanted them punished right away. However, John Adams, who was also a member of Sons of Liberty, believed in fairness. Against popular opinion, he defended the soldiers and made sure they had a jury trial. He showed that even people we disagree with deserve a fair trial. This helps us
022understand why fairness is important for everyone, no matter the situation. Another grievance was about imposing taxes on us without our consent. Under British rule, Congress were taxed by Parliament but had no representatives there. This was when the famous phrase no taxation without representation was born. It was not fair for parliament to post taxes on the colonist to pay for the war they didn't want start or even benefit from. When King George III issued the proclamation of 1763, it required the colonist to give up land and promise not to settle west of the Appalachian Mountains. It seems as though they have already paid the price for helping England win. Why do they have to pay for war for the debt? This is exactly what the taxes such as the sugar act and and the stamp act
023were meant to do making the colonist very upset. The constitution resolved this problem by creating a government where people can vote for their leaders. These leaders serve in Congress and make laws including tax laws. >> This is ridded in article one of the constitution. When people vote for their leaders, they are giving their consent. Now we can elect people who represent our interests and ensure that all of our voices are heard. This can help shape the government. >> Groups like the Sons of Liberty protested unfair taxes and stood up for the colonist rights. Leaders like Samuel Adams helped organize people to speak out. Their actions showed that when people unite and stand up for fairness, they can create a system where everyone's voice matters. This helped lead to the creation of a government in which
024leaders are chosen by the people, ensuring that decisions are fair and represent everyone's interests. The Declaration of Independence listed 27 grievances. And in 1787, just 11 years later, the Constitution addressed all of them. >> It guarantees the right to a trial by jury and ensures that elected representatives decide taxes. It is fair because we have a voice and rules to protect us. In addressing these grievances, the Constitution helped to build and maintain a country based on fairness, rights, and democracy. So, they worked on this. They volunteered their time. They did an amazing job. They they they obviously got a hundred on that essay, on that test when they took it that topic. Um, but I'm very proud of all of you guys. I'm I'm excited. and graduations in a couple of days and we're kickball
025champions. So, we got we got a lot going on for us. >> So, we we have a gift for all of you. And I I do want to say we have a lot of lawyers on this board. So, like that was totally our jam. Um I that was awesome. You guys were incredibly thoughtful. I loved how you weaved a story in there, too. It was really really excellent. So you guys should be super proud and thank you for thank you for making our district look so amazing. Take a We're going to take one picture. Hallelujah. I guess I shouldn't say just lawyers. That wasn't just lawyers jam. That was everybody's jam. Yeah, >> that's right. >> That was fantastic. Exactly. Okay. Okay. We're We're doing awesome. Um we're going to move into retirees. Um this
026list is it's a little heartbreaking for me. Um, it's hard saying goodbye to people who have la have had ah who have made lasting impacts in our district for so so long. Um, and I personally know so many of these incredible educators. Um, on behalf of the board, Jennifer has a couple of comments that she is going to share. Um, and then we will get to the list of retirees. >> Thank you. First, I would like to extend my congratulations and sincere gratitude to all of our retirees being recognized this evening. Collectively, you represent decades of service, dedication, and commitment to the students and families of this district. Each of you has left a lasting mark on our schools, and we thank you for the countless ways you have contributed to our community. We wish
027all of you happiness, good health, and fulfillment in this next chapter. I would also like to offer special recognition to Mrs. Tracy Redern on her retirement after nearly 30 years of dedicated service to our district, particularly to the students and families of Signal Hill. Over the course of her career, Mrs. Redern has earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, parents, and generations of students. She represents the kind of educator who understands that while teaching methods and technology may change, strong relationships, high expectations, consistency, and genuine care for children never go out of style. She has remained grounded in the fundamentals of great teaching, knowing her students, believing in them, and helping them reach their full potential. As a board member, I appreciate the impact she has had on our school community. As a parent, I
028am especially grateful that my son McKinley had the opportunity to be in her and Mrs. Sharice Deo's classroom this year. My family has benefited from the patience, wisdom, and dedication Mrs. Red brings to her work every day. She has challenged my son, encouraged him, and helped him grow both academically and personally. What makes Mrs. Redford truly special, however, is that my son's experience is not unique. She has done this for every student who has walked through her classroom doors. She takes the time to learn what motivates each child, leans into their strengths, and helps them grow in areas where they need need a little support without ever making them feel singled out or defined by their struggles. She has a remarkable ability to build confidence while maintaining high expectations. Teachers like Mrs. Redern leave a
029legacy that extends far beyond the classroom. Their influence lives on in the students they have inspired and the families they have touched throughout their careers. Signal Hill and our entire district have been fortunate to benefit from her commitment, wisdom, and heart for nearly three decades. Mrs. Redern, I I saw you earlier in the crowd, but Mrs. Bedford, thank you for your extraordinary service and for the countless lives you have impacted throughout your career. Congratulations on a well-earned retirement and best wishes for many happy and fulfilling years ahead. Thank you. >> Going to call each person up. your get a picture Barbara Andrew. Leanne Benley. Tim Hassel. James Jordan and Clark Matis. I don't think that's Karen Montgomery. Tracy Redford Hi, Rebecca. Bob Rossy. Mary Thompson. Last but not least, Donna Trunkwater. Pretty sworn I saw
030her earlier. Okay, thank you all so much. I think we're going to try and take a picture with everyone. One Morning. Oh, yeah. >> Okay. Last but not least, we're going to do the art show. Can I call up Miss Mcigill? Oh, yes. We Yes, we can. We can give everybody a moment. I'm sorry. To step out if you would like. >> Oh, Miss Miguel had to step out, too. And >> Oh, of course. Miss Palumbo, we like Come on. Oh, yeah. Thank you. Thank you. Appreciate it. >> Uh, good evening everyone. My name is Kate Palumbo and I'm the art teacher at Signal Hill School. Miss McGill had to step out unexpectedly, but on behalf of the entire art department here in Vorhees, I want to thank you all for continuously supporting the arts
031in our district. In the back of the room, you'll see artwork created by our talented K to8 students. Please take a moment to have a look on your way out tonight if you haven't done so already. We're so proud of the amazing work that has been created throughout this year by our talented and creative students. Thank you so much. >> Thank you so much. >> Okay. Sorry. I'm getting back into the meeting. Okay, we're going to do an executive session later. We are going to move right into What are we moving right into? Number seven. Um the award of for contracts for professional services. Um can I get a motion? Correct. >> Yeah. Um, do I have to go each one? >> Yeah. Okay. Um, sorry. Bear with me. Um, so can I get a
032motion to approve the firm Fryac Fights Hopkins Duffy PC as architect of record for the period from July 1, 2026 through June 30th, 2027 at a variable rate of $75 to $155 an hour budgeted at $40,000 as per the f as per the attached resolution. >> So moved. Bunion. Second Rosner have to read. >> Online voting is open. >> Mr. Bryce. >> Yes. >> Nothing's coming off. >> Is anybody getting something? >> I didn't push the button. Oh, okay. >> No, you're fine. >> Motion unanimously passes. Can I get a motion to approve appointing Todd Sailor of PKF Okconor Davies LLP as auditor? Item 7.2. So moved. Manion. >> Second. Rudder. >> Online voting is open. Mr. Bryce. >> Yes. >> Motion unanimously passes. >> Can I get a motion to award contract for board
033solicitor to Gorman, Danella, and Morlock? So moved. Rosner >> second. Kover >> online voting is open. Mr. Bryce. >> Yes. >> There's eight yeses, one no for Mr. Rosen. Motion passes. Making a motion to award the contract for labor council Frank Cavalo of the firm Parker McKay item 7.4. >> So moved. Rudder. >> Second. Mion. >> Online voting is open. Mr. Bryce. >> Yes. The mo the motion unanimously passes. >> Can I get a motion to award the contract for prof for professional physician services uh to Dr. David Kerner item 7.5? >> So moved. Ruer second. Kover >> online voting is open. Mr. Bryce. >> Yes. Motion unanimously passes. >> Can I get a motion to approve the board minutes of the May 6, 2026 regular meeting which included regular and executive session? >> So
034moveer >> second. Smithe online voting is open. Mr. Rice. >> Yes. >> Motion unanimously passes. I do have a couple of comments um but they are short. Um good evening everyone and welcome. As I look around this room tonight, I'm reminded of why this work matters so deeply. We we are in the final stretch of another school year and what a year it has been. This is my eighth year serving this district as a parent and as a board member and for the past several years as your board president. And I want to say something I genuinely mean. I never take that for granted. Not for a single meeting. This is graduation season, a time of transition, of reflection, of pride. Across our schools right now, children are crossing thresholds. From kindergarten to elementary, from
035fifth grade to middle school, from 8th grade to high school. And every chapter is something extraordinary. These moments are sacred. They belong to our students and they belong to the families who poured everything into into them getting there. But I also want to take a moment tonight to acknowledge the people who are rarely celebrated in those ceremonies. Our teachers, our staff, and our administrators. The people who showed up every single day, who stayed late, called parents, sat with struggling students, and refused to give up. This work is not easy. And the weight of it, emotional, intellectual, relational, is real. As we move into summer, I want to encourage every single person in this district, educators and administrators alike, to rest. Truly rest. Spend time with your families. Do the things that fill you back up.
036Read a book that has nothing to do with curriculum. Go somewhere that makes you feel small in the best possible way because the research is clear and common sense confirms it. We are better teachers, better leaders, better humans when we give ourselves permission to step away and recharge. This district, this district asks a great deal of you. Tonight, on behalf of this board, I simply want to say thank you and please take care of yourselves this summer. Okay. Um, fire drills and safety drills, harassment and intimidation and bullying and suspensions are on the attachments. We have one uh Oprah request that is closed out board secretary report. Thank you. Um, I have two items under my report. The first is relief from rising public school employee healthcare costs. If you remember the budget presentation, that
037was one of the items that we highlighted as as being a large increase and it affected most districts in the state. On May 6, we received an email from the New Jersey School Board's Associate Representative Lori Banlow containing a sample resolution regarding relief from rising healthc care costs for several legislative districts. We're district number six. So, there was a specific one for each district. Um, we have that on the agenda tonight under finance item 18.24. The instructions from New Jersey School Boards Association was uh make it an agenda item if you so choose. Uh, we recommend placing the appropriate resolution on your May or June board agenda for formal adoption. Since we received it on May 6th around noon, we did not put it on our May 6th board meeting. So, that's why it's on
038tonight's meeting. Uh we sent the resolution to Miss Danella for her review also to make sure that it was something that we wanted to put forward and she agreed that it was fine to do so. Uh the next step is the transmitt once adopted. Uh Miss Banlo says, "Please send a certified copy to your legislators district office." And for tracking, she says, "Please CC myself on your transmitt so I can track Camden and Gloucester County's collective process progress and share our results with our advocacy team in Trenton." And she also states, "A unified voice from Camden and Gloucester County is the most effective way to ensure our districts receive the stability and hold harmless provisions needed to navigate these health care challenges. So hopefully this resolution will make our voice heard and something can h
039help us for next year. The second item is the New Jersey Fair Funding Collective. Um, we were made aware of a group that was formed. I'm not sure when it was formed, but it was formed by the Hen Township board president, Kelly Hinkle. So, she is their board president. She founded this organization, and she's also that the president of that organization. She recently hosted several meetings with other school districts to compile recommendations for legislative action. Most recently, Haden Township hosted a meeting with majority leader Greenwald where 13 districts worked together to compile a list of ideas and recommendations for legislators to consider. It included uh like the the uh state aid formula, extraordinary aid formula, many things that affect the funding that schools receive. We reached out to Miss Hinkle and we asked if we
040could be included in future emails and meetings. uh she she agreed and she's trying to grow the group and she uh told us that there would be a fall campaign to go forward with this with many meetings and trying to get up to Trenton with the message. So, we look forward to assisting with that to help all school districts. Thank you. >> Thank you. Superintendent report. >> Thank you very much. Good evening everyone. Um, just want to say to our retirees, I know many of them may have left, but to our retirees, as we close another school year, we take a moment to recognize all of you and for the impact that extends far beyond your years of service. Through your dedication, care, and commitment to students, they have help you have helped build futures
041and leave lasting footprints throughout our district in the lives of the students you have inspired, the colleagues that you have mentored, and the programs and traditions you have helped to shape. So on June 16th, we will honor our retirees at our annual lunchon. And the theme of our lunchon is building futures leaving footprints, a reflection of the legacy that they leave behind. So on behalf of the entire school community, to all of our retirees, we thank you for your service, your contribution, and the difference you have made in the lives of everyone you have touched. We wish you joy, fulfillment, and a success in the next chapter of your lives. Um I have to respond to um one comment made at our last board meeting. Um it was a comment made that students are um
042when they arrive in the morning they are in carline prior to 8:25 but still being marked late. So um I did speak to Miss Ange and she explained that students are not marked late until after 8:30. Um and again the administration is currently exploring an option to redesign how how drop off is processed in the morning. they're going to work on something this summer to present. I also visited the school myself on May 11th to observe arrival. Um by 8:23 the car line was clear. Uh between 8:23 and 8:30 I saw approximately three cars arrived to drop off students. Um and about two students arrived after the doors closed at 8:30. So it was a very smooth um arrival. Um and there were no kids students marked late who were in line by the appropriate
043time. So, I just wanted to make sure I clarify that because it was discussed at our last meeting. I also want to recognize two staff members. The first is Jacqueline Prrisbocowski and she's a grade eight teacher um English teacher at VMS. She was selected by the New Jersey Department of Education to participate on the English language arts content development and review committee and that's really exceptional. She'll be working with the statewide assessments. Also, also Angela Scotis, a self-contained teacher at Osage was select Yay was selected as a member of the New Jersey Department of Education testing attributes advisory committee and the work of this committee will be to provide feedback on accessibility features and accommodations within statewide assessments. I am so proud that Vorhees will be represented in this very important work by both of
044these staff members. So, congratulations So, finally, as we close out another school year, I want to extend my sincere appreciation to our students, families, staff, board of education members, and community partners for your continued support and commitment to our shared mission. This year brought both successes and challenges, and through it all, our community came together with resilience, compassion, and a focus on student growth. We celebrate accomplishments, supported one another through difficult moments, and remain committed to providing highquality learning experiences for every student. The dedication of our staff, the perseverance of our students, and the support of our families along with the leadership of our board have been instrumental in the progress we achieved together. So, as we look forward to the 2627 school year, I am confident that our continued collaboration and shared commitment will
045lead to even greater success. Thank you for a wonderful year and I wish everyone a safe, restful, and enjoyable summer. Thank you. >> Thank you. Audience participation. Anyone wishing to address the board, please approach the side table on the right and write your name and address on the login sheet. While the board has limited its inability to respond to the public on matters involving personnel litigation, negotiations, and attorney client privilege, the board will now hear comments from the public relating to items on the agenda for this board meeting. Comments are limited to three minutes. The board will not take action this evening. You will be notified at some later time by letter, electronic mail, telephone, or in the context of a later board meeting of any action the board does take. Seeing none, as we
046move moving into the business meeting statement, as we move into the business portion of our meeting, we want to recognize that it may appear as if the board does takes action with very little comment and in many cases unanimous vote before an item is placed on a board agenda is thoroughly reviewed by the superintendent and administration. The superintendent then presents the recommended action to the appropriate board committee and works works with the committee to ensure that the members fully understand the recommendation. Once the committee is satisfied, the item is placed on the board agenda for discussion and action at a public meeting. Board agendas are made available to the board members several days in advance of the meeting, giving us ample time to review the agenda and have all of our questions answered. Further, we
047are kept up to date between meetings on the ongoing work of the administration and the important issues in our district. All of these efforts ensure that we are well informed and prepared to take action at our meetings. Moving into the policy committee report and actions. Miss Branch Stewart, could you provide a policy committee report? >> Yes. The policy committee met on June 2nd for about an hour. Dr. Hacket, Mr. Moscowitz, and board members Monica Watson, myself were present. The committee discussed and recommends full board approval for all policy items on tonight's agenda, which includes several policies and regulations for both first and second read. The committee also discussed regulations to be abolished based on them being addressed in other policies or now being inapplicable to our district. Lastly, the committee discussed the continuation of our
048policy vendor Strauss Esme's policy audit results action plan. In pursuant to that plan, we have addressed missing policies or recommended policy revisions from audit this month. And in August, we plan to continue addressing the remaining missing policies or necessary revisions. Our next policy meeting is currently scheduled for August 18th. Thank you and have a fantastic summer. Thank you. Can I get a motion to approve all of the items under policy? >> So move Stuart second. Rudder. Online voting is open. Mr. Bryce The motion unanim unanimously passes by eight votes. >> Miss Rudder, uh, can I have an academic excellence committee report? >> Yes. Good evening. On Monday, June 3rd, the academic excellence committee met for about one hour. It was myself, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Branch Stewart, Dr. Hackett, and Mr. Moscowitz. Um, nothing that we
049discussed required action at this time for this meeting. We did discuss the sick leave law for teachers and staff. We talked about VMS students receiving low grades and how many students have an F or a D in uh at VMS, which led us to talk about a promotion and retention policy. We do not have one at this time, but it's being discussed. and we talked about Apple classroom capabilities and the use of YouTube in the classroom. Our next meeting will be in August. Have a wonderful summer. >> I get a motion to approve all the items under curriculum. >> So moved. Rosner. >> Second. Stuart. Online voting is open. Mr. Price >> motion unanimously passes with eight votes. >> Mr. Rosner, can I have a personnel and community relations committee report? >> Yes. Um the
050committee met on Wednesday, June 3rd. In attendance, myself, Miss Watson, Miss Ruer, Mr. Rosen, Dr. Hackett, and Mr. Mosowitz. We discussed the resignation of Miss Lewis. other resignations, the retirement of Miss Calabria, um the role of the student assistance coordinator. Um we're recommending to approve the resolution appointing Miss Donna Donnelly to this position. Um, we discussed one moment the um that all pending resolutions uh to hire staff will have um a required notification um on the sexual misconduct child abuse ab abuse disclosure. It has 20 days to we have 20 days to submit it. And so um any you know person who's going to be hired has to pass that um law or check. We discussed the district calendar and that is all. Thanks. Have a great summer. >> Thank you so much. Motion to
051Can I get a motion to approve all the items under personnel as recommended by the superintendent? >> So moved. Come on in. >> Second. Smite. >> Online voting is open. Bryce. >> Motion unanimously passes with eight votes. Miss Munion, can I Oh, are we moving on the front? Yes. Miss Munion, can I get a finance committee report, please? >> Yes. Um, the finance committee met on Wednesday, May 27th, 2026. In attendance was myself, uh, Richard Rosen, Julie Kettover, Jacob Rosner, Helen Haley, and Del Danielle Kerry. Um we discussed all items on the agenda under finance, transportation and building and grounds for vote and recommended for approval. We um discussed the motion to cancel the preschool facilities expansion grant application for the OC elementary school as requested by the NJ DOE and recommend that. Um we
052discussed the bid RFP and EU openings for groundskeeping auditing services and for the broker of record. Um we discussed and reviewed the annual contract lists. We discussed two separate legislative items that are being discussed amongst various districts. One is the recommending for the approval of the board resolution urging relief from the rising public school employee health care costs as provided by Lori Banlow of the NJSBA. Um we recommend the approval of that. And the other one was the NJ fair funding collective founded by Haden Township Board President Kelly Hinkle. Uh, Miss Haley has been in contact with Miss Hingle and will receive information regarding upcoming opportunities to collaborate and we discussed community solar and are gathering proposals from various community solar companies to evaluate the feasibility of adoption in our district. >> Great. Thank you
053so much. Can I get a motion to approve all the items under finance? >> So moveer >> second cut over. >> Online voting is open. Bryce motion unanimously passed. with eight votes. >> Can I get a motion to approve all of the items under transportation? >> So moved. Rudder. Second. Lion. >> Online voting is open. Mr. rice. >> Motion unanimously passes with eight votes. >> I get a motion to approve all the items under buildings and grounds. >> So moved onion. >> Second, Watson. Online voting is open. Mr. Rice. >> The motion unanimously passes with eight votes. >> Public comment. Anyone wishing to address the board, please approach the side table on the right and write your name and address on the login sheet. While the board is limited in its ability to respond to
054the public on matters involving personnel, litigation, negotiations, and attorney client privilege, the board will now hear comments from the public. Comments are limited to three minutes. The board will not take action this evening. You will be notified at some later time by letter, electronic mail, telephone, or in the context of a later board meeting of any action the board does take. While we're doing that, I do want to welcome Sean to the family. Thank you so much for joining our district. We're super excited to have you. Um, do you want to I I'm not sure if you wanted to say a couple of words. If you want to No, you're all good. Okay. >> He was expressing before he came. Okay. >> Thank you so much. Good evening everyone. Um, I'm standing here today on
055behalf of the BTAAA. I might cry. I just want to warn you. I can't lose my spot. Wait, wait, wait, wait. Um, but I'm also standing here as a great friend for Chris Calabria. Sorry, girlfriend. Um, Chris began her career in the district in 1993 and has dedicated 32 years of service to our community. Throughout those years, she has served in numerous roles, each one making a lasting impact on the students and staff alike. Her journey began in the CER program and included time on summer painting crew. Um, she then spent many years as a seventh grade science teacher before becoming the seventh grade assistant principal. From there, she served as a principal of the Hores Middle School before taking on her current role as director of CER. Chris, throughout your career, you have helped
056shape, guide, and inspire countless students, teachers, and administrators. Your leadership, dedication, and commitment to the excellence has never gone unnoticed. On behalf of the entire VTAA, we're incredibly proud of you and honored to call you our colleague and our friend. We thank you for your years of service, your commitment to our school, and the positive influence you've had on so many lives. Best wishes in your retirement and congratulations on this well-deserved journey. >> On behalf of the board, Ditto, >> good evening. That was one of the reasons I came up is because I didn't hear her name earlier. Um, and then you jumped in. Uh so the eight staff that retired not including Chris Chris collaborate were 254 years. So that's just for um eight staff. Um so once again uh a lot of uh
057red shirts to support them. Chris, Dr. Chris Calabry, congratulations. Thank you. >> Thank you. board comments. I'll just say a hearty congratulations to all the retirees. Um I know Miss Pris, you're not retiring and I just want to say how glad I am that you're participating in this endeavor on behalf of our district. Um, and I want to say to all the teachers out there, we remember your impact as parents, and the students do too. Um, when I heard Miss Pris's name being called, um, my older daughter, who was going to be a senior in college, walked away from that year of learning in language, okay, with a binder of the most beautiful writing, um, poetry, songs. One of the songs was a diss track about a boy who made her feel bad and didn't
058want to go out with her. However, it was a beautiful piece of writing and um we still have it and it's beautiful and so I just really want to say you all make such an impact on us as families. We remember it and thank you so much for your service. >> I have a comment. >> Yes. I just want to acknowledge and thank Miss Lynette Lewis for her time in the district. What you've been able to accomplish at the Vorhees Early Childhood Development Center in a year has been remarkable. So, best of luck on your future endeavors. Any other comments? And I'll say ditto to that one, too. Yeah. Yes, you are going to be greatly missed. Okay. Um, we are going to go to executive session. Um, there will be no act. No. >>
059Oh, there will be action afterwards. Um, I do not foresee this being super long, especially if we're going to stay on our deadlines. Um, but I at a minimum it will be 30 minutes. So do with that information what you will. Um but don't hold me to it. Can I get a motion to adjurnn to executive session? >> So moved. Rudder. >> Second. Mon. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Okay. Can I get a motion to return from executive session? >> So move. Rudder. >> Second. Rosner. >> All those in favor? Oh, sorry. That was your job. All in favor? >> I >> pass. >> You're supposed to say J. Mr. Bryce. >> Oh, Mr. Just um can I get a mo Oh, the next meeting is August something. >> Oh, can I get
060a motion to approve the superintendent's evaluation? >> So moved. Rosner. >> Second. Roder. Pick one. Mr. Mrs. Minion. >> Yes. >> Mr. Rosen, >> yes. >> Mr. Rosner, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ruer, >> yes. >> Mrs. Smite, >> yes. >> Mrs. Stewart, >> yes. >> Miss Ketover, >> yes. >> Mrs. Watson, >> yes. >> Motion passes. Eight. Um, next regular meeting is August 24th, 2026, 7 p.m. Thank you board members. I I don't know how you all do it. Um, I love you all dearly. Um, thank you. Thank you. Thank you especially to our committee chairs for all of their hard work throughout the year. I know that yes, this isn't the end of the year year, but it's school year. Um, thank you. Please relax and recoup and refresh and all the things. Um,
061thank you and motion to adjourn. >> All those in favor? >> I >> second. >> I