001Thank you. one more time. >> Um, >> yeah. >> So, me and Donna are going to be giving out the certificate. >> She'll go down with you. >> Yeah. So, that's why it's good to read. >> Okay. >> Good evening. We'd like to get started, please. Is this mic on? >> Good evening. We'd like to get started. Please, please take your seats. All right. Good evening. Today is April 1st, 2026. Regular board meeting for the Vinland Board of Education. Roll call. Mr. Mr. Masarell, please. >> Obi, Mr. Bono >> here. >> Mr. Fio >> here. >> Mr. Harris >> here. >> Mrs. Perez >> here. >> Mr. Santiago >> here. >> Mr. Silva >> here. >> Mrs. Vasquez >> here. >> Mr. Rivera >> here. >> Mr. Holmes >> here. In compliance with the New
002Jersey open public meeting law, commonly referred to as the sunshine law, the Vine board of education has caused notice and posting of this meeting to be sent to the following announcing time place agenda. The Daily Journal, SNJ Today, the Press of Atlantic City, Vista Bueno, the clerk for the city of Violent and the administrative public uh bulletin board. Pwway and Winslow will lead us in our flag salute. pet way. >> Oh no. To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Tertificates for you. My guys are not that might be Okay. Yeah. Guys, look at the next time. Ready everybody? >> Thank you so much. >> Thank you boys and girls. [applause] >> Scott, is there a resolution for executive
003session this evening? There is not. >> Thank you. >> Special presentations. We will recognize the future chef of 2526. I'm going to ask Mr. Dallas Johnson to come up to the podium. [applause] He said I can start >> wait last year. Okay, >> while we're waiting, can you give a round of applause to Mr. Johnson, who was Mr. Krabs in this week's Vamp uh musical for Spongebob? [applause] >> [applause] >> You want to sing real quick, Dallas? >> All right, Paulie is here. We're ready to get started. Mr. Johnson, >> last year I won the Future Chef competition, and it was one of the best experiences ever. I felt really proud of myself and super grateful that I even got the chance to be a part of it. I worked really hard and it was
004so fun to cook and share my dish with everyone. The Future Chef competition helped me grow my my passion for cooking and I was able to prepare over a 100 meals at the Violin Soup Kitchen two times since. Now, I'm really honored to pass the hat to this year's winner and I hope he had just as much fun and feels just as proud as I did. Congratulations, Paul Koya. [applause] >> [applause] >> Mr. Bono has certificates for the both of you. Thank you so much. [applause] [applause] >> We're changing our agenda around a little bit. We'll have Mr. Bob Rush and Dr. uh Sandra, executive director of jobs for America's Graduates New Jersey, will give a JAG presentation with students. Good evening. I am Sandra Strers. I am the executive director for Jobs for America's
005Graduates New Jersey. And uh Mr. chairman, uh, members of the board, uh, Superintendent McCann, staff, students, and the community. I thank you for allowing us this opportunity to share more about this amazing program. It's always an honor to present Jack to our stakeholders and share our updates on the incredible work of the JAG specialists. Tonight, I am thrilled to present a brief summary of the program, followed by a long- aaited public presentation to your own, Mr. Bob Rush Viner joined the JAG network in 2016 and has supported hundreds of you since that time. Uh the demographics uh presented on the screen uh represent our current participants for this year at Vinand. Um I call your attention uh to selection criteria because that is what we use to select our students and it gives us an
006idea of the kinds of training that they need uh to transform their lives as a part of the program and even with those kinds of criteria um our JAG New Jersey leaders fare very well in the program. The next slide is a summary of our post-secary education opportunities. uh secured by our JAG leaders. Uh for many of our participants, this is the first time that they secure a job. The power in JAG is that they are prepared for their first job and will be able to sustain that same job over time. Also, we are fortunate to have employer partners that are secured by our specialists like Mr. Rush who are now employing several of our JAG students. So, the goal is twofold. The specialists secure partnerships with prospective employers and facilitates the employment process with
007the students. Uh for your information, our national network is now looking at credentiing our participants. Um so they are prepared and competitive in career track jobs. Uh they are equally uh we are equally pleased uh to increase in the increase in vinand jack students seeking additional education and training even beyond high school. And as you can see um you will see Mr. Rush has done a stellar job in establishing pathways to higher education and training. So these are some of the results. Um hard to see but we are a high accountability program. Um each program is challenged to meet what's called a six of six. And there are six metrics that each of the programs uh strive to meet each year. graduation rate, employment rate, full-time employment rate, positive outcomes, further education rate, and connectivity
008rate. The graduation rate, we go for a 90% graduation of our uh JAG participants, 60% employment, 60% full-time employment, 75% positive outcomes, at least 35% of our students uh secure a post-secary ed or training opportunity, and we maintain a connectivity rate as a goal of at least 95%. Uh Mr. Rush has met and exceeded those metrics for at least six of the 10 years that he has been a specialist for the program. I think that that really um deserves a round of applause. It is not an easy feat to do that. [applause] So what you see before you is uh the uh class of 2024 for reporting for 2025. The next slide is the year before with with the class of 2023 for reporting 2024 and he has met and exceeded both. He's also met
009uh some other uh metrics and some goals uh and exceeded as one of our senior specialists. Uh in 2025 he met his six of six outcomes. He uh Vinand High School uh Mr. Rush as the specialist uh had highest graduation rate. Six of our programs had 100% graduation rate. He ranked fourth in our network in terms of uh full-time employment rate among New Jersey programs. And the year before he was recognized nationally as a high performer of New Jersey because of his outstanding outcomes and his ability to secure employer partners. and with the premier uh program that takes place every year, the career and job fair. So, I want to take this opportunity to uh present the national award to uh Mr. Rush, but I think it would be incumbent upon us to hear what
010actually happens uh in the JAG program from some of our JAG leaders and Mr. Rush himself. So, with that said, I'll give the microphone over to Mr. Rush. >> [applause] >> Thank you, Dr. STS. Um, members of the board, audience as well. Um, many up on the board. I've had some of you guys in. Um, Sergeant Harris, Sergeant Harris has been a big fan of ours for years, Mr. Bono. Um, it's been a lot of work. Uh, our students need jobs and JAG is out to get our students work and jobs, get them set for after high school. Getting getting them to maintain work after high school is a plus if we can get them to get there after high school. It It's a lot of work to get there. Um, I'm hoping to have
011a second JAG cohort possibly added on for future years. hopefully here we can get to get other students um um in the program engaged and involved. Everybody has a flyer up on your board there as well. Our annual um job fair is coming up April 17th. My students totally run the entire event. They set the event up. They work the event all day long. All the vendors come and go and they help out. I have a couple students here currently in in JAG right now. I'd like to have them speak a little bit if I may. >> Good evening everyone. [applause] Good evening. Good evening everyone. My name is Nefera Webster. I am a junior at Biolin High School and also a JAG student in the program. I am here to share with you the
012impact upon JAG. JAG is known for many things across having a skill within that class, building your skill to a greater achievement and possibly getting an internship or job within there that you may like. It also helps you navigate yourself within a career, how to maintain stature within that career and possibly stay within that career for a many moons. Uh for JAG, the impact that it has for me is that it has helped me maintain my skill to know that I will be going to a trade school for graphic design and possibly advertisement. I love the entire elective with everything that I have because it's fun. You get to have opportunities where you can volunteer in multiple and many other places. You can volunteer in soup kitchens, food pantries, anywhere that anybody needs help for.
013You can learn a lot from it and it is actively helped me in it. Thank you. [applause] Good evening everybody. My name is Isaiah Rodriguez. I am a junior at Van High School and as you see I am a JAG student. Um JAG has impacted my life a lot. It taught me how to like build my soft skills. It taught me how to like keep them. Um, as you seen on the TV or the projector, we went to the Salvation Army and when we was there, it definitely taught me how to like work with my like work with my classmates like a lot better. Um, taught me how to like not be nervous around. Um, and yeah, Jag, it's very fun. It's like it helps you in many ways. And I'm honestly very grateful to
014be in here. I'm grateful to be here with all of you guys as you like. Yeah. [laughter] A little nervous, but we got it. Um yeah, Mr. Rush, he's also been a very good teacher to us. He's been a very good mentor, and he's been encouraging us to do better. and he's been encouraging us to make a good first impression. And yeah, [applause] >> so it is my honor and pleasure to present the six of six program award. Vinland High School. Robert Rush, Jack Specialist, recognized for achieving six performance outcome standards for the class of 2024. Uh, presented by the JAG board of directors, Janelle Duray, CEO and President, the Honorable Albert Bryan Jr., Governor, US Virgin Islands, Chair of the National Board. To you, Mr. Rush. Congratulations again. [applause] I'd like to thank um
015somebody who is also sitting up there, Dr. McCann. If it wasn't for him in 2016, Jag would not be here in Vinland High School. Thank you. [applause] For a moment, I'd just like to add a commentary about the success of this JAG program. The status of the program as of now, the JAG program in the state of New Jersey is first is the best program in the state of New Jersey. Thanks to Mr. Rush, and most importantly, thanks to his students. Congratulations, [applause] Thank you and congratulations. >> We'll get it. >> We'll have Mrs. Terry Galooi, director of student services to honor our support staff members for 2526 along with Dr. McCann and board member Fio. Okay. Arrows here go back and forth. So, and they're gonna >> I'm gonna read. I think you're gonna
016>> Okay. >> Good evening everyone. Tonight we are proud to honor our support staff of the year. An exceptional group of individuals who play an independ indispensable role in our school community. These honores represent a wide range of essential positions, each contributing daily to the success of our students, our staff, and our families. Their dedication helps ensure that our schools operate smoothly, safely, and effectively. Whether working behind the scenes or directly with students, their efforts create a supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We are truly grateful for their hard work, commitment, and unwavering support. It is our privilege to recognize and celebrate the meaningful impact they make in our schools each and every day. As each honore is recognized, the words shared are by those who nominated them, highlighting the impact they
017make each day. From the Landis administration office, we have Amelia Pena. She's secretary to our district supervisors. [applause] Amelia goes above and beyond to assist and help all staff. She is patient, kind, and understanding with all that she has to do on a daily basis. She is truly appreciated for all that she does. Okay, >> Amelia Pena, [applause] Robert Mason from our technology department. >> [applause] >> Robert has continually shown dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the staff and students of Violin Public Schools. His reliability and strong work ethic ensures that tasks are completed accurately and efficiently. Robert represents the department with expertise and professionalism. Robert Mason, [applause] Brenda Donovan, one of our bus drivers. [applause] Brenda is very polite, respectful, and caring towards her students. She goes above and beyond for all of the students
018in her care. She is always willing to cover extra runs, and she helps out whatever and wherever needed. Brenda Donovan [applause] and Travis Durham, mechanic. Travis is a valued member of the garage team whose kindness and professionalism make a positive impact every day. He approaches his work with a helpful attitude and a willingness to support others. His reliability and strong work ethic combined with his approachable nature make him a great employee. [applause] Travis Durham [applause] from Barcy Elementary School. We have Lillian Torres Santiago, principal secretary. [applause] Lily has a wonderful disposition and she is truly a dedicated staff member at Barc. She volunteers her time and talents for many school events. She is also a very conscientious employee. [applause] Lillian Torres Santiago [applause and cheering] from East Preschool. We have Sarah Smith, one of our
019instructional aids. [applause] Sarah is a dedicated, compassionate, and loving assistant who is a pleasure to work with. She is the definition of a team player and loves every student as if they were her own. She is a great support for not only our students, but for all of our staff. [applause] Sarah Smith, West. Crystal Villan Noeva, instructional aid. [applause] Crystal goes above and beyond in the classroom and is part of the school family. She is an active volunteer at school events and generous with her time and her talents. She is very supportive of new preschool instructional assistance, always willing to answer questions and provide support. She is a genuine pleasure to have on staff and she is most deserving of this honor. [applause] Crystal Villanoevo [applause] from Depalito. We have Gabriella Aceo, our building substitute.
020Gabriella is an outstanding PAR professional who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every student feels valued and supported. She builds positive relationships with students, offering encouragement, patience, and care while helping to create a safe and welcoming school environment. Her dedication to help wherever needed makes her an essential part of our school community. Depaloto is lucky to have her. Gabriella Asave [applause] from Durand. We have Joanne Totti, another building substitute. [applause] Joanne is the epitome of a team player. She is willing to take on any role at Duran to support our staff and our students. Joanne holds our students to highest expectations while at the same time forming a true bond with all students and navigating the most challenging of situations. Mrs. Totti is an asset to our building and her dedication and her
021service is truly appreciated. Mrs. Tottstone, [applause] we have Linda Telus, our school's custodian. [applause] Linda is one of the hearts of our school. She is hardworking, kind, and goes above and beyond for the staff. The teachers arrive to spotless classrooms that smell amazing every single day. She always has a smile on her face. Linda is the perfect example of what a VPS employee should be. She brightens everyone's day. Linda Telus, [applause] congratulations. From Veterans Memorial, we have Tina Marcado, secret uh security guard. >> [applause] >> Tina, thank you. Tina consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication, professionalism, and care for our school community. She goes far beyond the expectations of her role. She builds meaningful connections with all students and their families and creates a welcoming, safe environment for everyone. >> [applause] >> Tina Marcato for men's we
022have Rosa Rodriguez from food service. [applause] Rosa is a hard worker and she genuinely cares about the students and staff. She takes pride in what she does. Rosa makes sure every student eats regardless of the circumstance. She is a wonderful person with a huge heart. She is a great employee and we are truly lucky to have Rosa at many school. [applause] Rosa Rodriguez from Pway. We have Willow Still, one of our instructional aids. [applause] Through Willow's patience, uplifting attitude, and unwavering dedication, she exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding employee. Willow goes above and beyond her daily responsibilities to ensure every student has the support they need academically, socially, and emotionally. Her dedication not only helps students improve, but also empowers them to believe in their own potential. Willow Studel >> [applause] >> From
023Pillow, we have Kelly Williams, principal secretary. [applause] Kelly is truly the backbone of the building, and she plays an indispensable role in ensuring the school operates smoothly each and every day. She handles every responsibility with remarkable efficiency, organization, and professionalism. Kelly is a constant source of support for students, staff, and their families. She is always willing to help and step in to problem solve, and she always has a positive attitude. Her work does not go unnoticed. Kelly Williams [applause] from Rossi School. We have Javier Rodriguez, our school custodian. Javier consistently goes above and beyond his daily responsibilities and brings a positive, welcoming energy to our school community each and every day. He is always willing to lend a helping hand, whether assisting staff members or supporting students, and he always does it with a smile.
024Javier has built strong connections with both our staff and students. It is very common to see students greeting him excitedly with high fives as he enters the cafeteria. Javier Javier has made a positive impact on our Rossi family. [applause] Javier Rodriguez from Sabotair. We have Dur Derell Johnson, one of our instructional aids. [cheering] [applause] Derell is an outstanding instructional aid and plays a vital role in supporting our goal to provide every student with a safe, inclusive, and meaningful learning experience. His patience, compassion, and unwavering dedication ensure that each child's unique needs are met with care and respect. Derell consistently goes above and beyond to support both students and the teachers, adapting instruction, fostering positive behaviors, and creating an environment where all learners can thrive. We have Derell Johnson [applause] from VHS Tanner Building. We have
025Maria Rodriguez, secretary. [applause and cheering] Maria stands out for her genuine empathy and treats every student, parent, and staff member with kindness and respect, taking the time to listen and to respond with care. Her compassionate approach fosters trust and builds relationships throughout the school. Through her dedication, helpfulness, and heartfelt commitment to others, Maria truly embodies the qualities of an outstanding school secretary. >> [applause] >> Maria Rodriguez from VHS our Aselta building. We have Michael at custodian. [applause] Michael is probably working because I'm sure that there's some athletic event going on right now. So from Wallace School, we have Ephen Perez Lopez, one of our custodians. [applause] Ephine's impact on his building goes far beyond his job description. He is a vital part of our daily operations. The level of cleanliness and care he maintains is
026truly remarkable. He takes visible pride in the environment, ensuring our school is a professional and welcoming place for students and staff alike. Whether it's a lastm minute classroom setup, a repair, or a logistical challenge, he approaches every request with a can do attitude. Ephred is also the unsung hero behind the scenes. His dedication, reliability, and kind spirit represent the very best of our school's values. Ephen Perez Lopez. [applause] And last, but certainly not least, from Winslow School, we have Kathleen Flanigan, our one of our playground cafeteria aids. [applause] Kathy is an exceptional human being. Her defining qualities of patience, kindness, understanding, and love are the very first things that you notice when you meet her. She speaks with sincere warmth to each one of her students. She genuinely cares for every child that she watches
027over. Winslow School is a better place because of Kathy, [applause] Kathleen Flanigan, and can we have one more round of applause for all of our support staff? They are truly the unsung heroes. [applause] [cheering] [applause] Thank you. I'll take this. I'll give it to you. >> Oh, yeah. Let's go. >> Is Rob here? >> Don't you know how to get this back? Board members will take a little recess and then come back. Congratulations. Element. I will >> my mommy and my grandmother. Great. >> When is that? [cheering] Yeah, >> you said it was in C. >> You said it was That's like a video. You can do a banner. >> Yeah. He went through the double doors over there. >> Nice to meet you again. >> You kids awesome job. Your teacher on fire, too.
028She got heck. Everybody know Bob Follow him. I'm going to All right, we're ready. >> Thank you to everybody. >> Any questions or comments on the Hib or suspension report? Any questions or comments on the minutes? March 24th, combined meeting. March 25th, special meeting, adopt tenative budget. Questions or comments for that. Can I have a motion and second to approve? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Mr. Bono. >> Yes. >> Mr. Fokei? >> Yes. >> Mr. Harris? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Perez has left as of 520. Mr. Santiago, >> yes. >> Mr. Silva, >> I have to abstain from March 4th. That was absent. Yes. To March 25th. >> Thank you. Mrs. Vasquez, >> yes. >> Mr. Rivera, >> yes. >> Mr. Holmes, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. Committee reports
029are linked to the agenda. Public meeting report by our board solicitor. Uh there's nothing to report at this time. Thank you. >> Thank you. [clears throat] >> Is there anyone that would like to speak from the public? >> I have no yellow sheets. >> Thank you. >> Wait, let me check the audience. >> Nope, we're good. >> Uh moving down to motions and resolutions by our interim superintendent, Dr. McCann. Yeah. Thank you. Discussion approval regarding personnel items 1.1 and 1.2. >> Questions or comments? Motion and second. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Mr. Bono? >> Yes. >> Mr. Fokei? >> Yes. >> Mr. Harris? >> Yes. >> Miss uh Mr. Santiago? >> Yes. >> Mr. Mr. Silva, >> yes. >> Mrs. Vasquez, >> yes. >> Mr. Rivera, >> yes. >> Mr. Holmes, >>
030yes. >> Motion carries. >> Discussion and approval regarding procedures and operations item 2.1 through 2.5. >> Questions or comments? Motion and second. Motion. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Mr. Vono. >> Yes. Mr. Fio, >> yes. >> Mr. Harris, >> yes. >> Mr. Santiago, >> yes. >> Mr. Silva, >> yes. >> Mrs. Vasquez, >> yes. >> Mr. Rivera, >> yes. >> Mr. Holmes, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> Super. Super. No items for building and grounds. Discussion and approval regarding finance item 4.1 through 4.24. Questions or comments? Motion and second. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Who is the second? >> Mr. River. Thank you. >> Mr. Bono. >> Yes. Mr. Fio. >> I have a few recusals, so please bear with me. >> Uh, >> is this recusals or >> extensions? Recus
031>> Recusal. Yeah. >> Okay. >> You ready? >> I'm ready. 4.12 4.14 4.15D 4.16F 4.17A 4.23 Yes. on remaining items. >> Thank you. Mr. Harris, >> yes. >> Mrs. Perez, yeah, Mrs. Perez. >> Mr. Santiago, >> yes. >> Mr. Silva, >> yes. >> Mrs. Vasquez, >> yes. >> Mr. Rivera, >> yes. >> Mr. Holmes, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. Approval of bills for February 2026. Any questions or comments? Motion and second to approve. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Mr. Bono. >> Yes. >> Mr. NY. Uh, Fio. [laughter] >> Yes. >> Is that a yes? >> Yes. Yes. Yes. >> Mr. Harris, >> I have to recuse from uh vendor 1074 and 1333. [clears throat] And yes to everything else. >> Thank you, Mr. Santiago. >> Yes. >> Mr. Silva.
032>> Yes. >> Mrs. Vazquez. Yes, >> Mr. Rivera. >> Yes, >> Mr. Holmes. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Any old business? >> New business. I'll start with Mr. Bono. >> Thank you, uh, President. Uh just real quick um following up on uh some conversations that I had after that culinary competition um at Wallace School. Uh some middle school administrators reached out with interest possibly hosting another culinary competition for middle school uh students. I I would imagine at the eighth grade level. Uh the one we had was elementary for fifth graders. Uh what an event it is. Um I mean I'm a little biased here as being a chef, but it was an incredible event. I told all my uh judges um that it was like watching the uh food network, you know, junior chef's
033competition. Just a well organized, well-ran event. um very proud of our school for it and it the stress that it puts on these kids and the way they handled it at as fifth graders was amazing to watch as an adult and you know I couldn't imagine what I would do in fifth grade but um it was an awesome event. So I was in talks with our Sedesco uh culinary um I guess leader is or chef what do you call him Scott? >> Yeah he's um he works for Sedexo our food service management company. service manager there. Sorry about that, Scott. Um, and I mentioned to have him set up a meeting with you and and some fellow board members and some of the other cabinet members to maybe discuss uh some future, you know, competitions.
034Um, also, uh, Sedesco, Sedesco, um, has, uh, some connections with, um, you know, the Food Network. So, how cool would that be? >> Um, >> I didn't know that. >> Yeah. So, yeah, there's my new business. Thank you. >> Any other new business before I begin? All right. As promised, I wanted we wanted to give a an update on the superintendent search after we close the posting on March 24th. Again, we're governed by our theme building on the momentum leveraging existing progress for continued success. As of the date of the uh closing of the posting, there were around 58 applicants um that have applied and expressed interest in the superintendent position, including those who started the process may not have submitted the application, but they at least started it or they may or may not
035meet the necessary qualifications. So, um, we're pleased with with that number and we're looking forward to the interviews. With a strong number of applicants, interviewing every candidate will not be possible. The committee will interview around 10 qualified applicants, which we will be guided by the desired characteristics developed through the focus groups. We meet tomorrow with our search firm for three hours. Um and we will review those applications with our search firm more in depth. Again, we are unable to offer courtesy interviews, especially for our in district candidates. We asked HYA to uh treat all of our applicants the same. No one gets the upper hand because they're in district. So, we will interview um those that are qualified and those that we want to see in those interviews. The search committee will need to agree
036on all applicants to bring to the interviews. The interview locations will be kept confidential. We will not be using any district sites for interviews, not even Landis. We won't be using any schools or any other buildings um from the Violent Public Schools. Those locations will be uh confidential and known only to the search committee members, the four search committee members, the search firm, Dr. Adams, the applicants, and it's on file with the board secretary. Lastly, the non-disclosure agreements. All non-conlicted board members have signed non-disclosure agreements to further support the integrity and confidentiality of the process. Although our code of ethics already requires confidentiality, this step adds an extra layer of protection. These agreements are kept on file with the board secretary's office and those NDAs were formed by our alternate council Karton Scatchard. Do I
037have any questions for the superintendent search update? >> You did answer my question. if the search committee would be able to review all 50 applications and you did answer that yes, you would have all of them. You would just uh know that they recommended the the 10, I guess, that would move forward, right? >> But you still would have the ability to review beyond the 10. Correct. >> Yes. So Monday we received all 50 applications. We also received the recommended um slate that HYA is recommending that we interview. Tomorrow for the three hours we will talk about who to bring into those interviews. If in that 10 we see that there's someone that we don't want to interview and switch out for someone else, we'll have the ability to do that. In the end, it's
038the board of education's decision who we bring in for interviews. >> Any further questions? >> Yeah, Mr. President, at those 10 at that point, uh, you and the search committee, would you involve the other non-conlicted board members at that time or you're going to narrow down even more before you introduce us to those applicants? We're definitely going to narrow it down. We'll start with the 10. Um, one of our interview days, we're on from 8:30 to 5. Every applicant gets an hour to interview. So, we'll narrow it down and bring to you hopefully two finalists for the superintendent search. >> Thank you. >> Question for you. So, out of the 50, so they were vetted through this, this law, the firm. >> Yes. >> They met all the criterias on the actual job description, what
039we're looking for prior. >> All 50 did not. >> Did not. So, but you're still reviewing them even though they did not meet. >> Correct. >> Got it. Thanks. >> Correct. and we won't be interviewing anyone that does not have the certification, those things that are required by law. Further questions? Thank you. Moving on to board member superintendent remarks, starting with Mr. Fio. >> Nothing at this time. >> Mr. Bono. >> Uhhuh. All >> [laughter] >> right. Um, just like to start off in thanking Bob Rush and the JAG uh program. U I've had some recent and past experiences dealing with JAG. Um, some students came and visited my uh site locations here in Violin. Um, my businesses and the students got a firsthand look at what what it's like to get out into the
040industry. um and a majority of the students had interest in pursuing that career. So, what an advantage it is for these kids to go out to the real world and see it firsthand before they actually go out, you know, to the work into the workforce. Um but just commend Bob Rush and congratulations on your award. What an acknowledgement on a job well done. Uh I look forward to the job fair. Um I believe he said April 17th. uh we will be there in attendance. Uh looking forward to it. Um second huge thanks to all the violent public school support staff uh of the year. Just phenomenal. Uh it takes a village. Uh we say it all the time to to run a a good uh violent public schools district and you can't do it without
041your support staff. Um, I've walked into every school in Violin and I always comment on how clean the facilities are and and you know there's some we have some older schools here in Violin, but I always say how uh clean and uh organized uh the facilities are and good jobs to the facilities crew and and again all those support staff members that keep us going. Uh lastly, I just like to touch on the culinary competition again. Uh myself, uh Cedric and Donna had the privilege of attending and and being judges. Uh can't speak highly enough about the event. Um just phenomenal job by the by the students, by uh Sedesco, uh that organize and promote the event. Um kudos to all the kids that were involved. They brought us some really, really good uh dishes
042and uh yeah, it was a lot of fun. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Bone. Mr. Santiago, >> no comment. >> Mr. Harris, thank you. I want to congratulate the uh support staff. Tell them thank you. [clears throat] I want to say also congratulations to the JAG. Uh Mr. Rush, I would encourage other board members to go in speak to the class. I generally go once a year. I've been going for several years. It's uh very refreshing. Talk to the kids. Uh generally talk to them about my past experiences, my jobs. It's two periods. Goes by real quick and the kids love it. And they always ask you to come back. So I would encourage you guys if you have time to go. Uh, I'll use up uh the remaining of my time just to
043uh recognize an individual from Violin who was uh instrumental in law enforcement uh connected with the schools. Uh very sentimental. I attended his funeral today. Uh I came to violin in 1992 and 93. Violin was the only city that had a dedicated police unit just to the schools and that was because of Mario Bernetta. He was a great man, mentor of mine. Uh he believed that the police department should be a part of the school and not police the schools. Uh he encouraged the safety patrols, the uh crossing guards and mentoring. He was a dominant figure in violent. He will be missed and I just wanted to take my time to remember him and thank his family for sharing him with the city. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Harris. Miss Vasquez, thank you. I
044first want to say thank you to Chef Paulie for feeding us today. we had the honor and the privilege of tasting his amazing uh tacos and uh just thank you for a great job. Uh I just want to say thank you to this district especially uh for honoring our support staff. Many of our support staff move on uh to the educators and it is a stepping stone and stay around teachers and educators. Many get inspired to move on and in their careers. But I thank this district for acknowledging the support staff at all levels. It sends a message that you are valued. Every job in this district matters. You're important and without you, we would not be the district that we are. And I'm incredibly proud of your administration for and and our board president
045and vice president for allowing that. That to me is very near and dear to my heart. Valuing staff is important to me. Uh congratulations to the JAG program and Mr. Rush for six of six performance national award. It is always an honor to see departments and uh our programs excel but to be acknowledged nationally is definitely something very special and for that I say congratulations and kudos. I do have something special and I received an update from the Rise Cafe. And for those who are not familiar, our amazing, wonderful district that we have the privilege of serving has a the Rise Cafe. And I I worked with individuals with developmental disabilities for the first part of my career, 18 years I worked for Elwin. And so this particular population uh is very special to me.
046and they taught me so much and for that I do want to give a rise update that was sent to me. I think they deserve their moment and uh so for that I'd like to share students have been actively participating in community- based instruction CBI where they practice real life skills such as shopping, ordering food, social interaction, and navigating the community. All this in preparation for when they leave the program, setting them up so they can get jobs in the community. Many of them will be adult with assistance. So, this definitely uh helps them learn these valuable skills. In the greenhouse, students are planning, watering, organizing inventory, and assisting customers. In the cafe, students are building skills in food service, teamwork, communication, and handling money. uh all students need to know the this uh but
047definitely those with challenges it's sometimes it's a little difficult and but I appreciate them focusing on on basic life skills that does help them uh function as adults in the community these experience help students build confidence and independence in meaningful ways uh the rise program they are proud to offer a wide variety of job placements that match student interests and strengths Uh, Heath has started working at IHOP, joining Christian, who continues to work there on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Ryan and Shawn have begun working at McDonald's. Jenny is working in the VHS kitchen and with Sedesco. Alexis is gaining experience at Sedexo's central kitchen. Rachel is working in the dining hall in Spiria. And this is just an example of all that uh of the opportunities that are available to them even with challenges. Child care
048experience. Uh students are working at Compass Charter School and the Salvation Army. Several students are gaining valuable experience at the animal shelter. Kira is working in a preschool classroom at the YMCA. Eight students are currently working at the Together Cafe at RCSJ Cumberland campus building strong customer service and workplace skills. Four students are auditing classes through the ACT adult center for transition program at RCSJ gaining exposure to college life and postsecary opportunities. This is the district that tells these students yes you can and there's nothing that you cannot do. And for that I say thank you. Thank you, Mr. Vasquez. Mr. Silva. >> Yes. I'd like to thank our flag saluters from Pway and Winslow School. Um, like to congratulate Paulie again for for a job well done. Thank you, Scott. Um, congratulate all of
049our support staff and our Jack program, Mr. Rush, for the multiple pathways continue to provide to our students. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Silva. Vice President Rivera. >> Good evening, everyone. I'd also like to thank Pete and Winsow for leading us in the flag salute. Um Paulie, thank you for those tacos, the chicken parm. That was good, right Rob? That was good. Um thank you again. Congratulations on your win. Uh the JAG program is just another example why Violin is the best school district in New Jersey. I keep saying it and I keep believing it because programs like JAG highlight what we offer here in Violin. Highlight the things that you can accomplish here in Violin and offer to our kids and our students. So come to Violin, stay in Violin. We got plenty
050for you here. You can succeed here. Yep. >> And you will succeed here. Congratulations to all of our support staff and our and and the the winners from all the different buildings and administration has been said, but without support staff, our buildings don't run on a day-to-day basis. They are important. They are needed. They are appreciated. Thank you so much for the effort, the work that sometimes goes unseen and unmentioned. Thank you. Thank you so much. We appreciate it. I'm sure every single member of this board appreciates everything you do on a day-to-day basis. Thank you so much. Um, I'd like to congratulate also the students of Duran School. 162 students accomplished perfect attendance in the month of March. [applause] They had their March attendance challenge and 162 students were able to get perfect attendance.
051That's great. We want to hear more of those. I know all the schools are doing attendance challenges. We want to hear those numbers. We want to hear those successes because one of our goals here as a board is to increase the or decrease student absenteeism and that is one of our major goals. So, I'm glad to hear that. And also uh this last week along with Mr. Bermirez, I was able to meet with some students at Duran School. Um that's always a great thing with our students. Today we met Cedric and I uh President Holmes and I met with VHS students and also with Mr. Bermuda's there as well um and um Superintendent McCann, Dr. McCann, he we all met with students about the the uh dress code policy and their ideas of what they
052wanted to see the dress code policy kind of you know change into or you know they had their ideas. They gave us ideas. Uh we appreciate every single student that came out. You know we challenged them a little bit. they, you know, they they challenged us a little bit and that's what's all about dialogue and getting to know um what our students are feeling, how they want their own and taking ownership of how their buildings are run, which is great. Uh we have future leaders in that room. They're all leaders, but we have future leaders that going to we're going to we're going to be hearing about in in the years to come. So, congratulations and thank you. Thank you and have a good night. >> Thank you, Dr. McCann. Thank you. >> Thank you.
053I'd like to congratulate the support staff through Vinland School District. [clears throat] Many times when I was working in this building and at the high school, we called those individuals our MVPs of the team. Uh they are really solid and always doing the heavy lifting and making things very smooth for the school district. Uh Chef Paul did a good job. I missed uh most of it because I was in a rush. It was a great dinner. Thank you, Paul. And I'm glad he's the new future chef of America. [clears throat] Today, you're right. Today that the if you saw the students today uh argue and talk and discuss about the uniform, uh the president of the board of education uh got to make sure that he was there, the vice president was there. It was
054a fantastic display of uh democracy. It was really good. They were really well spoken, especially that president and vice president. They were running that show. The slide presentation was excellent. Mr. Bermudas did a great job getting that whole thing together. But you would be proud to see that. It was very nice. And Mr. Rush number one in the state. He gets kids jobs every year. That Dr. St. Sandra Strs drives down from Trenton to be here. She is the backbone of our program. Dr. brother has been with me when she started that years ago with us at Violent High School and it's a real winning solution for kids getting jobs. Thank you. >> Thank you, Dr. McCann. I echo the sentiments of our board members. Congratulations to our support staff. Um, a lot of in
055a lot of cases they are the lowest paid in our district, but they make the most impact every day and they impact our students from the time they get on the bus to the time they get to the school and they're out. Um, a lot of times we focus on our teachers and our principles and things like that. Um, but I'm reminded of Mr. Alrich's words to me when I first got on the board was that we have to worry about kids as soon as they get on the bus, transportation issues, and then also whether or not they eat every day. You can't learn on an empty stomach. So, they impact our students in a great way. So I want to say thank you to them again to echo the sentiments that have already been
056that has already been shared about the uniform policy and we met with those students today. We'll present um they'll present their plan to the board in June and then hopefully we'll make changes to that policy for September. um we want to be relevant and uh times have changed so we need to come up with those times also within reason because you know we say jeans and then they said well what about if we have this on our jeans I'm like yeah no we got to scale it back we still want to be appropriate for school and for learning so we're looking forward to that there's nothing else we'll adjourn the meeting I'll ask for a motion and second for adjournment >> all in favor thank you and have a good