001Call this meeting to order. Thank you. Roll call, please. Mr. Musterel >> Obi Aore. >> Mr. Bono >> here. >> Mr. Fio >> here. >> Mr. Harris >> here. >> Mrs. Perez >> here. >> Mr. Santiago. >> Mr. Silva >> here. >> Mrs. Vasquez >> here. Mr. Rivera here. Mr. Holmes >> here. >> In compliance with the New Jersey open public meeting law commonly referred to as the sunshine law, the violent board of education has caused notice and posting of this meeting to be sent to the following announcing announcing time, place, agenda, etc. The Daily Journal, SNJ Today, the Press of Atlantic City, Visto Bueno, the clerk for the city of Vinland, and the administrative public office bulletin board. Please rise for the flag salute. Wallace school and varsity school will lead us. [clears throat
002and cough] to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands one nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all. >> [applause] >> Oh, so much. Thank you guys. Scott, is there a resolution for executive session? >> There is. Now therefore it be resolved that the board of education of the city of island school district will convene an executive session for the following reasons as outlined in NJSA 10 col4-12. Discussion is about a grievance matter, an employment matter, and any matters falling within the attorney client privilege to the extent that the confidentiality is required in order for the attorney to exercise her ethical duties as a lawyer. >> Motion and second. So moved. >> Second. >> Mr. Bono. >> Yes. >> Mr. Fio. >> Yes. >> Mr. Harris. >>
003Yes. >> Mrs. Perez. >> Yes. >> Mr. S. Mr. Silva. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Vasquez. >> Yes. >> Mr. Rivera. >> Yes. >> Mr. Holmes. >> Yes. We'll now convene into executive session. Huh? >> Just let it go. Oh my god. I don't know how you doing songs, by the way. Okay, thank you. Are there any special presentations for this evening? Yes, we have a few special presentations. Uh, please allow me to take the podium. >> [laughter] >> That's just too bright, Mercini. I'm sorry. Good evening, everyone. Uh, we are proud this evening to recognize Tylen at Violin High School who was recently crowned Miss Southern Gardens team 2026. Tylie is an outstanding student leader who serves as president of the Cappen Dagger Club and as a dedicated youth ambassador, she exemplifies academic excellence, integrity,
004commitment, and community service, setting a powerful example for her peers. [snorts] While Tyl proudly represents Cumberland County, her title and platform extend all across southern New Jersey, including the seven counties of Cumberland, Salem, Gloucester, Camden, Cape May, Atlantic, and Burlington. [snorts] Through this accomplishment, Tylie serves as a positive role model for young people throughout the region, promoting confidence, leadership, civic responsibility, and pride in community. Her success reflects not only her own dedication and hard work, but also the strong support of Vinland High School, her educators, her family, and the greater community. Recognizing tightly before the board provides an opportunity to celebrate student achievement, encourage youth leadership, and highlight the excellence that continues to thrive within Violin Public Schools. Let's hear for Tylie. [applause] >> [applause] >> Good afternoon. My name is Tyl Mel. I just
005wanted to say thank you so much for this recognition. I am so grateful to have been able to experience helping in the community and being able to receive this title alongside all of the amazing other contestants that were there at Miss Cumberland. Um, I only hope to continue to be a good mentor for girls my age, for girls younger, to continue to chase their dreams, to be confident, and to be a leader in the community. and to continue to do good. I really truly appreciate this. Thank you. [applause] uh President Holmes if I could have an opportunity to address our community this evening. And I promise there are no tissues up here, so I think I'll be okay as long as I don't see any tissues. Scott, I might need that pile there. So, [laughter]
006good evening, President Holmes, Vice President Rivera, members of the board of education, colleagues, families, and members of the community. Tonight marks my final meeting as your superintendent and I want to begin with sincere gratitude for the opportunity to serve for the trust you placed in me and for the partnerships we shared in service to our community. Serving this district has been both an honor and a responsibility that I've never taken lightly. When I reflect on our time together, I am proud not because of the that the work was difficult. It's that the work mattered and because it was grounded in the belief that all students can achieve greatness with a community behind them. Together we made real progress and measurable progress. We strengthened student achievement by grounding our work in data while keeping students at
007the forefront. We expanding career and technical education programs, opening doors and creating meaningful pathways for our students so they can graduate with skills, confidence, real options for the future. We reduce chronic absenteeism not by lowering expectations but by strengthening relationships, improving communication, ensuring students feel seen, heard, supported, and held accountable. We deepened community engagement by establishing our back to school extravaganza, the community partnership action committee and bringing district folks community together to support all of our children by conducting meaningful dialogue and action. We delivered the district strategic plan and our portrait of a graduate and embedded those core competencies in our curriculum ensuring our you know ensuring our vision for students after graduation becomes instructional and is embedded in our daily practice not just aspirational and we invested in our people expanding leadership capacity instructional
008coaching classroom resources because sustainable improvement can only come from investing in our supported educators. One of the most meaningful areas of progress has been at our high school. We [snorts] restructured leadership there. Two principles, super active and strong assistant principles. We launched the ninth grade academy. And we brought focus, stability, care for our students and intentionality at a critical transition point. And what we've seen, the results have been immediate. School climate and culture has improved. Student engagement strengthened. And most importantly, students felt known, seen, supported, and positioned for success from the start of their high school experience. The next phase of the work includes revising the master schedule to increase instructional time, reduce transitions, allow teachers time to work with students, and create more effective patterns of instruction and support across the district. Student meetings
009that we conduct helped shape how we lead. Those conversations gave us direct insight into the student experience. Many of our board members will be able to participate in those student meetings at the elementary, middle school, and high school level. We listen to kids. What's working? What needs attention? And where do the adults need to listen more carefully? The kids told us often what we needed to do better. Student voice became a guide, not just a formality. At the same time, we made a deliberate commitment to developing leadership from within. [snorts] During my tenure, more than 60 educators and staff members were promoted or advanced into leadership positions, including over a dozen principles, several dozen assistant vice and vice principles touching every school in this district. These promotions also included directors, supervisors, and operational leaders across
010instruction, human resources, transportation, security, and central office. Many of these leaders began as classroom teachers, assistant principles or support staff, often in the very communities they now lead, strengthening continuity, institutional knowledge and trust. These outcomes did not happen by chance. They happened because we were willing to be honest about where we were, disciplined about where we were going, and unwavering in our commitment with this board to our students. We didn't always agree, right? We didn't always move at the same pace, but we stayed focused on what's important and what matters most, our students. Because of that focus, the trajectory of this district is clear. The foundation for continued success is in place, a clearer instructional vision, stronger systems of support, expanded leadership capacity, better alignment between the resources we have and student needs. What comes
011next is not reinvention, it's stewardship. The work ahead requires care, attention, and followthrough. It requires protecting what has been built, strengthening what is working, and continuing to ask those hard questions in service of our students. I want to recognize members of our leadership team and colleagues whose dedication made this work possible. [snorts] This is where I probably need tissues. Where's Rini? Rossini. Yes. [applause] Rinia Serna has been the rock that's helped. [snorts] >> She's helped guide our chef here. Thank you. I I literally practiced this like 10 times today and it's it's I knew as soon as I said her name it was going to be difficult. She she's she's the rock. She's she's amazing. The work that she does for this district. I remember when I first came in, I was asked, "Hey, do
012you want to hire your own assistant and bring somebody in?" And I'm like, "Well, how's this lady?" Oh, she's amazing. Well, why would I change what's already amazing? And she's been wonderful from the first day. The work that she does, I know she she'll be committed and she always will shows, you know, her heart. She she leads with her heart. And um one of the things that we talk about with our cabinet is about leadership, right? It doesn't always have to be in a formal position as a assistant principal or principal. She's a leader and she leads with her heart and has the support of this community. So I want to say thank you to Rini because she's just amazing and we have many days that we will be continuing to talk and this friendship
013and partnership. She's my sister. She knows everything about me. The only thing she doesn't know I think is my No, you know my social security number, don't you? She does. She has every password. She knows everything. She knows where to find my stuff when I can't find it. That's Rini Serno. The most amazing person I've ever met. Marita Diaz, she's here tonight and also another just diehard, you know, supporter, just amazing. When she would see me in the mornings and she's like, "You need a hug." And she gives the most amazing hugs because she knows that sometimes you just need to have that contact to be, you know, to set your day straight and to show you some love. And the love that she has for this community, for the work that she does is
014is is unparalleled. So, thank you, Marita. You're amazing. >> [applause] >> One of our very important partners, Gia, is not here this evening. You know, we we all know why she's not here. We're going to keep her in our heart, our prayers, our support. That's my girl. She always gives me sass. She lets you know when you're messing up, if you're not doing anything right. So, Gia, I know you're watching tonight. We we we love you. You're in our heart. Uh can't wait to see you soon. Uh just maybe not as much attitude for the next person. Dr. Mac, I apologize if Gia doesn't treat you right because she might, you know, give you a little little little stuff, but she's she's great. [snorts] To my brother from another mother, Scott Musterell, I'm sorry your
015three minutes are up. [laughter] >> Uh Scott is a wonderful guy. He's um he tells terrible jokes. We all laugh at him just to make him feel good. He's an amazing BA and uh this community is is blessed to have him on leading and and safeguarding the money because when he says no, there's a reason why he's saying no. you know that he's protecting our financial stability and as you know it's it's just amazing the value from Scott and his jokes and also his chili. He says he's won awards with for this with this chili. I don't believe yet. >> Four four awards. >> Four awards. Exactly. Right. It's unbelievable. He's an amazing guy. Ish and Terry and Susette and Kristen, you know, and Lenny uh even Jeff before, you know, he was here for
016a year and then he decided to go work with farm equipment. I don't know what happened. You know, he just we we're an amazing team. Uh as I step away, that's the group that this board will be uh leaning on with Scott and the greater uh uh leadership team. They they know what needs to come next. They're leading. They're taking the charge as they have been. It's been an exciting opportunity for me to promote this group of folks into these positions. All except Terry. Terry's the historian. She She knows where all the bodies are buried. Yes. So, she's amazing. But this group of people really, you know, rely on them because they they they they have what it takes to to continue to lead and do amazing things. Um, also, you know, uh, sometimes it's
017funny because you don't hear you won't hear this often, but I want to send a special shout out to Lou Russo from the VA. Uh, you know, he does an amazing job with his association. We work well with him as a as a group. We we fight at times, but his heart is in the right place. He's a good He's a good partner and I appreciate the work that we've established here along with Paul Faronachio and Rosen Rossado from uh our president of VASA and Paul's the president of uh the non-certificated association. Thank you for your leadership, your your professionalism, your commitment to this district. You're amazing. Oh, I see some of my other folks over here, too. Hey. All right. So, and also there's just a few community members I need to shout out.
018I'm sorry I'm taking too long. But um the through thick and thin over time I've made some connections and and and uh I just want to say a great big thank you. If I could give him a hug I would right now. Uh Mckima Douglas, uh Chris Wilson, Will Turner, Jasmine Dembi, Shirley Santos, uh uh loose before you got on the board. You were one of those community members that always was fighting and pushing us forward. I appreciate you that for that. and for a former superintendent and lifelong champion of all things violin, Mary Gucho. She's made the transition into this position. Amazing for me as an incoming superintendent and I appreciate the work that we've done over the years. She's been a great supporter. Uh so thank you Mary Guchio for everything that you've
019done to support our success. To our principles, our teachers, our administrators, everyone who's here and uh and everyone who's not here, you know, thank you for the work that you do. You're amazing. Um I Oh, there you go. How you doing? So, so Miss Kulic is is uh you know a superstar, one of the newest hires, right? So, you I'm gonna embarrass her because she's gonna get beat up tomorrow because she's the chosen one as I've heard, right? That's that's the And Dorothy, one of the originals that's been here. Amazing work. Thank you. As I step away from this role, I do so with confidence in the district's direction and deep respect for the people who will continue the work. Progress is never about one person. It's about the systems, the culture, and the shared
020responsibility. So, thank you for allowing me to serve this community. Thank you for your partnership, and thank you always for your commitment to our students. [applause] Thank you. [applause] Appreciate you. Thank you so much. I appreciate it. [applause] Got a standing ovation as I'm leaving. I don't know what that know. So [laughter] the next presentation it will be uh on let's see the board superintendent search committee we shared a succession plan regarding the superintendent's position for president Holmes. Thank you again everybody. Come here. >> Good evening. and we thought it f fitting to uh present and kind of answer a lot of questions that are out there now about what happens next. Right. So before we get to that um as the district and community are aware, our superintendent will be resigning from his position
021effective February 27th to accept the role of state superintendent of Camden Public Schools. While we fully intended to extend his contract, he was he made this important career decision to continue his service in public education in a new capacity. We are deeply grateful for his time in our district and for the exceptional leadership he has provided. His vision, steady guidance, and unwavering commitment to students, staff, and families have strengthened our schools, advanced key initiatives, and positioned our district for continued success. He's led with integrity, transparency, and yet genuine care for our community, leaving a lasting and positive impact that will be felt for years to come. We thank him for his dedicated service and wish him continued success in the next chapter of his professional career. So, superintendent section plan. First, I want to introduce
022you to who will lead us uh through our superintendent search. Myself, Mr. Mr. Dennis Rivera, Vice President of the School Board, Mr. Shane Harris, and Miss Donna Perez. Please give them a hand. [applause] We have uh as with all of our committees, we can only have four board members to sit on our committees. If not, it's a quorum. We have three additional board members who are non-conlicted. Those being Miss Vasquez, Mr. Santiago, and Mr. Bono, they'll be kept a breast of the process every step of the way. They'll probably meet with me once a week so that they are also uh in the know of what's happening. Our theme um is building on the momentum le leveraging existing progress for continued success. As you heard from Mrano, I feel comfortable in saying that we are
023not looking for someone to come and clean house, bring a bulldozer to our community. uh to our school community. What we're looking for is someone to leverage what we've already accomplished and just take us to the next level. Rest assure that that's what we will accomplish. I'll have Mr. Rivera speak on focus groups. Good evening everyone. So part of our focus as a group, as a committee was to involve different sectors of our community. Um we felt that that was important because you guys live in our community. We are your children are in our community and we wanted to for you the community to be part of the process. So we are going to be forming some focus groups and the main goal is of the focus group is of the superintendent search focus group
024is to gather in-depth qualitative input from diverse stakeholders for example staff parents and the community as a whole to define the ideal leadership profile identify the district's strengths and challenges and build consensus on the key qualities experiences and wisdom and vision needed for the next superintendent directly informing the school's board's hiring decision. So for some examples of focus groups we decided were examples like the VA, VASA, UAW, community action partnership committee, city and county officials, the violent police department, uh representatives from parents and senior class officers and also representatives from the community as as a regular everyday citizens from the community and the purpose is for partnering for everyday student for the for every student. We have some preliminary dates that we have uh set up. These dates may change or they may not change,
025but this is the dates that we have right now. Uh effective February 27th, the superintendent, Mr. Yano, will resign. Uh interim superintendent takes the office March 1st through June 30th of 2026. The contract for the interim superintendent is on tonight's agenda and for approval. Uh Mr. Yano and the interim superintendent will transition with the in the month of February and contract for the search firm is also on tonight's agenda for approval and for and to continue the presentation Miss uh Donna Perez. Thank you. So in the meantime what do we do? We need an interim superintendent to help us get through the time while we're doing the search. So what is the goal of the interim superintendent? It is effective leadership to ensuring the continuation of operations, maintaining organizational stability, supporting students and staff and
026fostering collaboration with the board of education and community while we continue a comprehensive superintendent search. And lastly is to assist with the new superintendent in a seamless transition. But how do we get there? Guys, don't for >> Thank you. We get there, you know, we're not going to wing it. So, we get there by using a search firm. And the search firm that we've chosen is Hazard Young at Associates, better known as HYA. chose. We've chosen them due to their extensive um experience since 1987 in this particular area. They have facilitated over 1400 school district searches. They offer nationwide um network of consultants, deep community engagement, rigorous candidate vetting, which is so important, and a commitment to diverse leadership helping boards find tailored and high quality candidates. So, that's who we've chosen. We'll be uh
027voting on them again as well tonight. Mr. Harris, >> thank you. Good evening. Get a good picture. Last but not least, council. Our alter alternative council Cape Hart and Scatchard will guide us through the superintendent search process for legal perspective. This is the decision was based on their demonstrated experience in matters of this nature, their accessibility and responsiveness, and the level of trust and confidence they inspire. We believe these factors are paramount to ensuing a clean, transparent, efficient process for all parties involved. Uh I'm taking it very seriously along with the rest of the team and I think we're going to make out well. Thank you. >> So, thank you. That's uh any questions from our board members? Gia and Doug have spent a lot of time with me to uh form a tab on
028the website where all of these questions will be answered. There will be frequently asked questions um for the community to run through. You'll see a lot of fun things that are going to be happening and we'll bring the community in um on a lot of our initiatives. All right. Thank you so much. Have a good night. [applause] The record will reflect Mr. Santiago arrived at 5:41. All right, Mr. Santiago is here and we need to go back into executive session. Okay, let's do a motion and second and a roll call. >> So moved. >> Mr. Bono, >> yes. >> Mr. Fio, >> yes. >> Mr. Harris, >> yes. >> Mrs. Perez, >> yes. >> Mr. Santiago, >> yes. >> Mr. Silva, >> yes. >> Mrs. Vasquez, >> yes. >> Mr. Rivera, >> yes. >> Mr.
029Holmes, >> yes. Non-conlicted board members, executive session. All right, ready to go. Any questions or comments on the HIP and suspension reports? All right. Questions or comments for the uh executive sessions combined meetings? Approval of minutes. Any questions, comments? >> Motion and second. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Mr. Bono. >> Yes. >> Mr. Fio. >> Yes. Mr. Harris, >> yes. >> Mrs. Perez, >> yes. >> Mr. Santiago, >> yes. >> Mr. Silva, >> yes. >> Mrs. Vasquez, >> yes. >> Mr. Rivera, >> yes. >> Mr. Holmes, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> Committee reports are linked to the agenda. Public meeting report by the board solicitor. >> Nothing to report. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Public comment on agenda items. Please limit yourselves to three minutes. Please note that
030the violent board of education provides an opportunity for public comment in accordance with the open public meetings act. Speakers are reminded that the purpose of public comment is to address issues of public concern. Personal, defamatory, or discourteous statements about district staff, students, or members of the public are prohibited. The board reserves the right to curtail remarks that violate these standards. Lieutenant Colonel Akina Weday and Cadet Colonel Gonzalez. Good evening. Um, we have a letter for Professor Yano. On behalf of the AFJ ROC program, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude and best wishes on your new job and new school district. Your years of dedication, leadership, and service to our district has made a lasting impact on students, staff, and the entire community. your support for the AFJOTC program and others alike. Through your
031commitment to our education, you have created opportunities that allow students to develop character, discipline, and pride in serving others. All things that align strongly with the mission of our program. We are thankful for your guidance, encouragement that you have provided throughout your career. Your leadership will continue to inspire generations with your legacy that will remain important to our district. We wish you happiness, good health, and success in the next chapter in life. Thank you for everything you have done for our schools and in believing in students like us. With your permission, I ask that my friend cadet Lieutenant Colonel Ainuadi Michelle presents you with the gift from us to you. >> [applause] >> Um, with this being your last meeting, we would like to give you a final update on our program. Our AFJ ROTC
032program this past month has started our planning our annual run for Ammerz, which we all invite you to attend upcoming um where we honor our late instructor. Um, we have gained a new instructor, Tech Sergeant Jackson Medley. We are now collaborating with the sister unit Briden High School AFJ ROTC with a unit community service opportunities as this one that we have started a shoe drive and supply drive within the classroom to help their drive succeed where students can donate shoes and other things. We are gearing up for our first big field trip on February 18th to the Vietnam Museum. Hoping to bring back helpful information for the VHS history classrooms to go along with in the future. We are taking all second, third, and fourth years along with our first year seniors. Our AFJ ROTC
033has been busy preparing for our upcoming drill competition. We have successfully started our armed drill exposition where students have learned to spin rifles and safely carry out the 15step drill sequence in order to compete for trophies. And this and we will be starting this year's Johnston preschool where seniors go to Johnston to visit with the preschoolers and build a positive relationship where we we will be recreating the viral video from our class of 2025 and the preschoolers from last year. >> Thank you. [applause] Good, Major Conrad. Good afternoon, Mr. Yano. I will be I am Cadet Major Conrad Austin. I am the awards and decorations officer and the flight commander for Alpha Flight. I will be reading our appreciation letter on behalf of Alphlight 2025 to 2026. Dear Mr. Lano, I'm sorry. Dear Mr. Iano,
034sorry, I didn't mean to pronounce your name wrong. On behalf of Alphlight for the 2025 to 2026 school year, we would like to express our sincere appreciation for everything you have done for Alphalight and our unit as a whole. Your leadership, dedication, and constant support has played a vital role in our success and it would truly not have been possible without you. Because of your guidance and commitment, we have been given opportunities that helped us grow not only as a flight but also as individuals and leaders. Your con consistency pushed us to do better, set higher standards, and take pride in our work. Your work allowed us to become stronger, more disciplined, and more united as a team. Without your involvement and encouragement, Alpha Flight would not have achieved the level of excellence it has
035today. We would not be the best unit or the best Alpha Flight without your leadership. Thank you for your time, effort, and dedication. Continue to give. Your impact on our success will not be forgotten. Respectfully, Alpha Flight 2025 to 2026. Thank you, [applause] Scott. Anybody else wishing to speak? Seeing none. >> Thank you. Motions and resolutions, superintendent recommendations for discussion or approval. >> Requesting discussion and approval regarding personnel items 1.1 through 1.6. >> Questions or comments? Motion and second. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Mr. Bono. Uh yes to everyone except for 1.5. I recuse myself from 1.5. >> Mr. Fio uh recuse on 1.2 and 1.5. Yes. On remaining items on >> Mr. Harris. >> No to 1.2 and 1.6. And yes to everything else, >> Mrs. Perez. >> Yes, >>
036Mr. Santiago. >> Yes, >> Mr. Silva. >> Yes to everything. I have to recuse myself in 1.5. >> Mrs. Vasquez, >> yes. >> Mr. Rivera, >> yes to all, recuse myself from 1.5. >> Mr. Holmes, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> At this time, I would like to congratulate Dr. McCann as a interim superintendent. Please come on up and say [applause] a few words. Thank you, sir. Thank you, Mr. Yano, and good luck in your new job. Wish you the best. Did a great job here. Thank you. Uh, I would like to thank the board of education for this opportunity for me to serve as interim superintendent for the Vine School District. It's a very proud moment for me. I know that running a school district is not an easy job and the individuals that
037are up there have a lot of things to talk about and decide on making very many people happy and sometimes they're not so happy. But it's not easy. If it was easy, everybody would be doing it. So, I'd like to commend you for that. Um, and thank you for your vote of confidence. I also like to mention because it is uh very telling on how successful Violent School District is doing. Um, because when I I was an administrator for 36 years, I I came into Violin um from Gtown. when I was in Gtown for 5 years as an assistant principal and then arrived here at Landis School in 1987 and I was in this building for 19 years as an assistant principal and principal and then I uh was fortunate enough to become the principal
038of Von High School and they they were all fantastic appointments for me but the one item that I'm reflecting on mostly as I sit here I look at the when I all the times I would be in this auditorium talking to kids at graduation or at the uh graduation at Katone Stadium that the leadership is here. You are the future leaders of this school district. You're the future leaders of this community. And as I look around, I I see different graduates from Vine High School as police officers working in the prosecutor's office. And I have uh personally four students that were under me are now board members. So now instead of me being the principal or assistant principal to them, they're my boss. Uh so we got to talk. All right. Um but and the
039leadership is two students. Uh Rivera was a student of mine when I was assistant principal here. Dennis River now he's the vice president of the Valer board of education. and Cedric Holmes who is now the president of the board of education. The leadership is right here in this district and right here are our students doing well and that is the real reflection of what and how successful Violin's doing. So I'm very proud of that moment more than anything else to be honest with you. the the students um are involved in this community in so many ways. You can see principles here today. Uh I know most of them. I worked for them as a daily sub here. Things are going real well. It's a fine running machine. I hope to keep it that way. Again,
040thank you. Good night. [applause] Thank you, sir. Requesting discussion and approval regarding procedures and operations items 2.1 through 2.6. Questions or comments. Miss Vasquez. >> Uh I have a lot of comments on 2.2. Uh but I think that has already been addressed. I mean, I'll make my final comments. Do you want my comments now on these or should I wait until my board? >> You can do it now. Yeah. Before we vote. >> Okay. So, on 2.2 uh policy 9130, and 2535. Uh I will be a no vote and and this is why on page five section E of policy uh removal request procedure any request by an individual with a vested interest to have library material removed from a school library in the district shall follow the grievance procedure outlined in regulation 2535 on
041policy 2530 resource materials. The last paragraph, the superintendent will evaluate the continuing effectiveness and utility of resource materials and recommend to the board the removal of resource of those materials that no longer meet the standards set forth in regulation 2530 and this policy. Any request by an individual for the removal of resource materials will be governed by policy and regulation 9130 on public complaints. Now, when we go to down to policy 9130, the board of education shall establish procedures for the hearing and settlement of complaints concerning district staff matters, personnel, the educational program, instructional resource materials, or the operations of the district. Complaints regarding library material as defined in NJSA 18A uh 34A-3 shall be addressed in accordance with policy and regulation 2535. What I found here in reviewing all three policies as it was
042given to me on this agenda is that I I was going around in a circle and yet could not find any clear defined standard for determining uh when a parent brings a concern of of a book that they feel uh you know is inappropriate, it's age appropriate or should not be in our in our uh in our libraries as as materials. I did so I I have it written here. I did voice my concerns to the uh per policy and personnel committee requesting that a more specific standard be established. For those who do not know, there was a law that was passed uh as Governor Murphy was leaving and it's the Freedom to Read Act which has brought us to this point where we have to develop a policy that uh governs when when and
043if a book is removed uh from the libraries and the schools and also protecting our librarians from uh any legal matters should a concern uh arise. Uh, so I was I'm looking and I'm requesting for a more specific standard to be establish established for the person or persons in charge with reviewing the request to remove a book from vested individuals. At minimum, if it is considered illegal to give to a minor uh, for example, porn sexually explicit images out there in the real world, then it should also be illegal in the schools as well. And how is this committee or said persons going to determine what is age appropriate? And this is not defined in any of this. I was going circled. I reviewed this three separate times. Uh 2530 takes me to 2535 takes
044me to 9130. And I still could not find any clear standards or guidelines that would help a lay person determine if a book why should a book be taken out of a library. And this is not about censorship. If if something is illegal and I would get in trouble for handing it to a minor out there in the world, then the same standard should be here. I will say I did have a great conversation. Thank you, Vice President Rivera, which he pointed me to policy that does define pornography in the schools. However, the policy 2361 that was last updated in 2015 is for the acceptable use of computer networks, computers, and resources. This law just passed in December. I just don't see how those same uh guidelines could just automatically be assumed to apply to
045something here if it's not really clearly defined. We can't assume that people are going to automatically refer to that. It does not apply to the this policy, the 2361 does not apply to the removal of books. it would be acceptable to pull the same language that clearly defines a federal standard for pornography and put it in the new policy 25302. But u unfortunately that that has not happened. I I don't see it. It would be uh uh at the minimum standard for in the previous agenda. We did see a board presentation that apparently was taken off and it was at the review process and board action piece, the committee who will be tasked with determining if a book should be removed. I just don't see any guidelines guiding that. And I think that this board
046has a wonderful opportunity right now to develop something that would put us in a position should something really concerning come down in the near future. While we're not presently looking at a situation, we should put things in place to put us in a position that should we ever be faced with that situation that a parent is not accused that they have ideological differences when they're clearly looking at pornography. I think if it's clearly deci defined for the committee then it would be easier and not as subjective as I think in its current form. It is very subjective. Not having a standard as I stated in my previous emails creates the potential for inconsistency at the committee level and subjective opinions. It's just too ambiguous and I'm not comfortable with the policy in its current form.
047And so that would be my comment on 2.2 all three policies. >> Thank you, Miss Vasquez. Any other questions or comments for 2.1 to 2.6? >> Let's do a roll call, please. >> I just I just have one comment regarding 9130. Um, in the second paragraph, you'll see it says, "The grievance procedure outlined in this regulation shall not be utilized by a district staff member or board member unless the district staff member or board member is doing so in the capacity as a parent of a student currently enrolled in the district." And so the issue with that is that so basically if anyone here doesn't have a child in our district they can't bring any complaint at all regarding as according to this policy that we can't because it's outlined directly here. So as a
048board member because I don't have a child in district and I might have an issue with something I cannot bring that complaint here. That's more of a question. Can I because the policy is saying if I don't have a child in district then I can't. Sandra, please. >> Well, members of the public can make obviously public comments during meetings and they can go about but the intent of this specific policy is obviously as it relates to the board of education district enhancement of current students, right? So you want to make sure that there's also a a you know, for lack of a better term, a stake or particular complaints that are being brought forth that are almost, you know, effectively filtered in in that manner. >> So only parents who have students in the district
049can make a complaint >> under this specific policy. Correct. So, if let's say a a teacher who happens to work in district has some material that she's questioned, >> there's there's other policies and processes in place for teachers and staff members to bring forth, >> okay, >> their their complaints and and grievance procedures as >> as we've seen on on tonight's agenda, right? Um, but this is just strictly as if you can have a parent also be a an employee of the district or a teacher of the district, but this specific policy just governs them as as a parent, not not as an employee. If they have an issue as an employee, there's separate policies and procedures in place for that. >> Thank you, Miss Perez. >> Yes. As I was digging into these policies,
050and I'm going to give kudos to my fellow board member, LS Vasquez, to me, it was like trying to find out what those special charges are on your cell phone bill. And I was just I g I waved the white flag. I'm going to be honest with you. I gave up because it just kept putting me in this loop and taking me back to this policy and that and I couldn't get a clear defined answer. And and so for that reason, I'll be voting no on two 2.2 as well. Any other questions or comments? 2.1 to 2.6. Roll call, please. >> I need a first and a second. >> Sorry. Motion and second. >> Motion. >> Second. >> Roll call. >> Mr. Bono. >> Uh, yes to 2.1, no to 2.2, and yes to the
051remaining twos. >> Thank you, Mr. Fio. Yes, >> Mr. Harris. >> Yes, >> Mrs. Perez. >> Yes to everything but 2.2. I vote no, >> Mr. Santiago. >> Yes to everything except 2.2. I vote no. >> Mr. Silva, >> yes. >> Mrs. Vasquez, >> yes to everything except 2.2. Vote no. >> Mr. Rivera, >> yes. >> Mr. Holmes, >> yes. Motion carries. >> Requesting discussion and approval regarding finance items 4.1 through 4.19. >> Questions or comments? Motion and second. >> So moved. Second. >> Roll call. Yeah, >> apologies. Not 4.1 through 4.19. 4.10 is the last item on the agenda. 4.1 through 4.10. Apologies. >> There's no other page. >> Roll call. >> Mr. Bono. >> Yes. M. >> Mr. Fio. >> Yes. >> Mr. Harris. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Perez. >> Yes. >> Mr.
052Santiago. >> Yes. >> Mr. Silva. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Vasquez. >> Yes. >> Mr. Rivera. >> Yes. >> Mr. Holmes. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. >> Proposed items for review [clears throat] discussion or adoption by board members. Superintendent search proposal Hazard Young at Associates. HYA. This is the superintendent search firm. Motion and second to approve the search firm. >> So moved. Second. >> Roll call. >> Mr. Bono, >> yes. >> Mr. Fokei, >> yes. >> Mr. Harris, >> yes. >> Mrs. Perez, >> yes. >> Mr. Santiago, >> yes. >> Mr. Silva, >> yes. >> Mrs. Vasquez, >> yes. >> Mr. Rivera, >> yes. >> Mr. Holmes, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> Approval of bills to December 2025. Any questions or comments? Motion and second. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Roll
053call. >> Mr. Bono. >> Yes. >> Mr. Fio. >> Yes. >> Mr. Harris. >> Excuse myself from vendor number 1074 and 1333. And yes to everything else. >> Thank you, Mrs. Perez. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mr. Santiago, >> yes. >> Mr. Silva, >> yes. >> Mrs. Vasquez, >> yes. >> Mr. Rivera, >> yes. >> Mr. Holmes, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you, board member and superintendent remarks. We'll start with Mr. Fio. >> Yes. Good evening. Just want to thank Mr. Jana for his dedication to the district over the past few years. You're going to be missed, but we wish you the best of luck in your new role. >> Thank you, Mr. Santiago. I just wish Mr. Donald absolutely best in your future >> endeavor your mic. >> Oh, I'm sorry. I just
054wish you the best in your future endeavors and everything you're going to do for the next district. >> Miss Vas, >> uh I I do have a little more more to say. I'm sorry. Uh first, congratulations to Talia Nomic on being crowned uh Miss Southern Garden. It is always wonderful to see our young people exceed and excel in their roles. Thank you Barcy Elementary and Wallace School for their flag salute. It is just a a pleasure to see our young ones uh take the time out of their uh evening to come and join us at our meeting. Uh and a special shout out to our uh New Jersey Junior Air Force ROC. Sometimes I put junior after an or I can't get it right. Uh for the presentation and updates. Uh you continue to excel
055in the demonstration of leadership. Uh kudos to your instructors for just uh teaching you and training you for what the future uh holds and for that I am excited to see what this program has how the program is going to continue to grow as uh president said that we hope to build on that momentum and in a few years we hope that that waiting list triples because uh it's going to be a program that kids want to participate in with the full support of the board of course and so for that I thank you. I do want to take the time to thank two teachers who were highlighted in the curriculum corner newsletter. That was awesome. Uh part of the things that I want to say is students taking ownership of their of their success.
056Teachers can do all they can do parents. [clears throat] But it is something when a kid takes ownership as we see leadership with our junior Air Force ROC and the young lady that was crowned here. When kids take initiative and take ownership of their outcomes. So kudos to Miss Mohler at Barcie for her math fact data tracking sheets. These sheets were designed as students for students to track the practice they have completed and use them to identify which facts they still want to practice. And this allowed for the students to take ownership of understanding their facts. And Miss Voldorama with Depalto for use of a peered rubric to provide peer feedback during error analysis. Her students worked on common error problems from the recent assessment and had to find the correct solution. In both of
057these examples, the students took ownership of their outcomes, encouraging student engagement, critical thinking, and motivation to improve. Great job if you're listening. Uh this is th this is what we hope to work more uh to see and a kudos to the students for participating. Uh I enjoyed attending a few of the VHS basketball games. I do have a love for the game and it is intense and our uh VHS team is crushing it on on on on the on ball court and for that uh it's exciting. Saturday there's going to be uh the girls are going to be playing uh on Saturday morning at at the gym home team and I hope to be there and cheer our teams on. Uh the games are intense and attend attending the games has given me the opportunity
058to get to know staff and students in an informal setting. All we're doing is is just chatting about the game and and and just getting to know each other and I I thought that was an an awesome opportunity. There is a fundraiser for the Model Congress school trip happening now. As a former VHS student, I also was a model congress student. I do remember vividly what it was like to have to participate in school trips but having a hard time with the funds. My mom was a single mom so it was always tough trying to pay for these things that I wanted to participate in. And for those who are interested in sponsoring a student, please reach out to Model Congress Club Advisor Gan Grossen Meyer. It was a great experience for me as a
059former Mod Congress person and I'm confident it will be uh to the students who attend. And now, uh, I want to address Superintendent Yano. Um, as a private citizen coming to the meetings, uh, probably for your entire tenure here at the district, uh, it's not easy when an external candidate comes in to a city with our own uh, with our own ways uh, of doing things. yet you came and you endured and uh you stood fast and obviously uh at times, you know, not being in agreement with everyone. Uh but as a human being, as a person, I just want you to know that uh I I did see you work hard to try to uh build bridges and to try to come to a consensus and and do the best that you could for
060the district. Uh we did see improvement. We saw opportunities being given that maybe were not afforded prior and for that I I appreciate that. Uh we are on trend for improvement in our academic outcomes and that is evident in the data that we've been presented for that I thank you. Uh and the support that uh that that I know that you gave many of our educators. Uh it it it goes without saying that uh I do believe that you will be missed. your impact is felt in the district and as a person, as a person, not just as a professional, not just as as a board member or taxpayer, but just as a human being, I want to wish you the absolute best in your future endeavors in Camden. I I wish that you'll crush
061it over there and that you'll create impact wherever you go. And just know that uh we have friends here in Violin and it's a small world and I just uh wish you the best and uh want wish you my blessings as you move on to your uh next endeavors. God bless you, >> Miss Perez. >> I promise I'll be brief. [laughter] Um Mr. Yano, thank you for the time. I've served with you now. This is my second year, but served with you for a year. Thank you for the time, for the effort, for your leadership, and um you will be missed here in our district, but I know that you will have a great impact in Camden County. And I'm I'm from Camden County, so and I know you have a a task ahead of
062you, but I know that you will do well. So, we will miss you, but you are on to I won't say better things. I'll say you're on to other things. How's that? Because Mr. Rivera would have my head if I said on to better things. Um, thanks Barcy and Wallace school for uh participating in the flag salute. Talia Nem Nemlech Nem >> Nemk >> as a uh as being involved in pageantss not as a contestant. Dear Lord no, but as being involved in uh pageantss uh years ago. They are very good character building tools that she is learning, interviewing and giving public speaking. As you can tell, she she gave that speech right off the cuff and I was very impressed and and poised and being able to she'll use these skills when she goes
063into an interview years down the line or for college interviews. So, I'm super proud of her and um congratulations to Dr. McCann and I know that he will fill in as an interim and do a wonderful job to our junior ROC. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for always being here, for showing up, for doing what you do, for being an inspiration. Um, I was leaning over to my fellow board member and I said, "It is probably one of the best programs that this district has and thank you. Thank you. You're mannerly. You are um professional. You are intelligent. You are articulate. Thank you. Thank you for being an inspiration." And that's all I have. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Boner. All right. Uh, thank you, uh, Dan Barcy and Wallace, school
064flags. Great job. Always nice having you here. Uh, congratulations to Miss Southern Gardens teen Thy Nemlick on winning this year's, uh, Karland County Pageant. Uh, great job on representing your talents, your family, and your community. Uh, good luck in all your future endeavors. Your future looks bright. A special thank you to our maintenance and grounds departments for clearing our parking lots during this recent storm. Uh the sidewalks, the salulting, making our buses uh you know, clean and operational uh to get our students to and from school. Um driving around and checking out all our properties. They were plowed and I didn't see a thing of ice anywhere. So, great job. Kudos to them. Scott, I think they deserve a bump in their check this week. Um, a special thank you to our retirees. Uh, between
065educator Miss Noel Bennett, Chef uh, Mr. Palo Moy, and special ed educator aid uh, Caroline Monero. They dedicated over 70 years of service to our district. Thank you. We appreciate your service and dedication to the students of Violin. Uh, good luck and long healthy uh, retirement. Uh this month we celebrate celebrate um black history month and in celebration I I had the privilege to take part in this uh year's Wallace school's multicultural night. Um myself and educator Johnny Cabzola represented Italy. Uh such a fun night. Uh despite the seven degree uh temperatures outside, still families, the students, while staff, we gathered for a night filled with multured activities, dances, food, and fun. Great job to principal Rosado, uh assistant principal Dawn Bell, educator Kim Run, who's one of my uh ex employees at Eastland. Great
066job and all that were involved in the evening. Um, fellow board members and community members, if you get the chance, check out Bland Public Schools website events calendar for more of our district's upcoming events and, you know, multicultural nights. And there's a lot going on this month. Uh, to our all our parents, your students will be receiving their second marking period report cards tomorrow. It was always a fun time in the Bono household when we received our report cards. Um, so good luck to all our students. I'm wishing you all straight A's. Lastly, uh to Mr. Jana, uh thank you for your hard work and efforts within Violent Public Schools. Um and good luck in in Camden School District and all your future endeavors. I wish you nothing but success, good health, and a long
067journey in your educational career. Thank you. Have a good evening. >> Thank you, Mr. Harris. >> Thank you. I'll be brief. Mr. Yano, I just wanted to say congratulations. Uh, thank you for all your hard work. Uh, CANM is getting a good superintendent. Uh, I think we're in good hands with your leadership team that you built. So, I appreciate that. I also like to thank you during your speech. You acknowledge your predecessor, Dr. Gutio. It's good to remember the people that came before us and all the hard work. So, I thank you for that and I'm sure she does as well. So, good luck to you. >> Thank you, Mr. Silva. >> Yes. like to thank the Wallace and Barcy Elementary School for the flag salute. Um, congratulations to Miss Nikk, our Miss Southern Garden
068teens. Thank you to Junior ROC for the updates and for your presentation. Now to Mr. Yano. Mr. Yano, uh, thank you for your dedicated service and leadership to our district. I want to take a moment to sincerely thank you for everything you have given to our community. Your leadership has meant more than policies and plans. It has meant showing up, listening, and always keeping students at the heart of every decision. Your commitment to our students and staff and families has made a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for the time, energy, and care you have given to our district. Throughout your tenure, you have led with vision, integrity, and genuine focus on student success. Your efforts have strengthened our district and helped create an environment where students can learn, grow, and thrive. We appreciate
069the challenges you've navigated and thoughtful decisions you've made in support of our community. As you move on to your next chapter, please know that your contribution will not be forgotten. Uh we wish you continued success in all that lies ahead. Thank you. >> Thank you, >> Mr. A. >> Good evening, everyone. Um, first of all, I'd like to thank uh Barcine Wallace students for uh leading us to the flag salute. Uh, congratulations to uh Miss Nem Elk. I think we've all butchered her name. Um, [laughter] we apologize for that. Um, on your achievement and students like her are why we created the highlights that we're going to be continually doing at every board meeting because there's a lot more of her than not in our school district. We have lots of talented individuals that are
070achieving great things and our students are the best students in New Jersey. So, we need to highlight that and congratulations on her on her uh accomplishments. Um, today I had the opportunity to attend the 910 uh building uh AfricanAmerican readin um where I was able to briefly speak to some of the students uh that attended the the event. Um, it turned into an improv to press conference uh from the students um asking me questions about everything from our uniform policy to our phone policy. Nothing about African-American anything. Uh it turned into that which I appreciate this. We're always glad to hear from our students. Um the best question that I got was uh how did I go bald? So um [laughter] I told him hereditary and you'll get there one day. Uh but I appreciate
071the students uh you know willing to ask questions and but it was it's always a great event to go see our students in the schools and and attend those events. Um thank you to the Air Force Junior ROTC as always. You guys rock. You guys I always say are one of our crown jewels and we are so proud of you guys and we thank you guys every day or every time that you come to our meetings and speak to us and update us. So thank you. Um, regarding the the policies that were voted on today, in particular, the ones that we have, like a split vote, um, like Miss Perez said a couple meetings ago, we all have the same goal and we just have different ways to get there and those policies I in
072my in my personal opinion, I believe the framework is there. So, some changes can be made. Absolutely. And I believe that we can come to a consensus like Miss Vasquez and her her she her her her homework that she's done and and her input and all the board members, we can get to a consensus where we can get to where a good place for those policies moving forward. Um so I I I'm I'm more more than confident that we're able to achieve that. And um so I want to make a comment regarding um some some events that happened throughout today in particular and and a couple of weeks ago. So there were some Facebook posts that went on um alerting the community to some things that were happening whether in our school district or maybe
073in our school district or they weren't sure. Um, I want to remind the public too, if you're going to post something about our school district, if you're going to post something that is concerning to us as board members, please verify that it is accurate. Please verify that it's not thirdand, fourthand, fifthand an account of that you're hearing. Please make certain that it's not a cut and paste from somebody else's post and you just feel like posting. Um because what we that does it triggers a movement by our the board. We contact the individuals that are you know tasked in that certain area and then they have to be drawn away from their job to investigate whatever is going on pretty much. And at the end of the day, we find out that it was not
074even about our district or about anyone that attends our district, about anything that has to do with our district, but resources were pulled to to be able to to investigate that. So, please make sure that when you alert us, let us know things that are going on that is verifiable, that is truth, that is just not just hearsay. Um, just keep that in mind. Uh today I want to I want to give a shout out to all our girls and um in sports. Today is national women and girls in sports day. A shout out to all our sports teams or our girls sports teams in violent high or violent. Um you guys are always great. You guys always achieve high and we are very proud of you. So I want to give you a shout
075out today on your day. Um and lastly what I got like 30 seconds left. Um, >> okay good. So in Latin this like coming at this end of the you know I don't get everybody says everything and I don't get you know but anyway um to Mr. Yano thank you uh Mr. Yano for for your years of service for your years of four and a half plus years that you're you were with us. Um I remember you and I came in roughly around the same time. I was I was six months in the board when you came on as as superintendent and you know I was able to be part of the process where you were chosen as our superintendent and I was I was impressed by your your presentation that you gave us and
076your ideas and your your goals for our district which is why I was very proud to vote yes on your on your uh hire. um you you your job and your your responsibilities here in the school district. You know, we we all aware of of how hard a job of superintendent is. And um but what what we don't know is that the impact that you've had for our, you know, our community as far as, you know, for students of of Latino descent. Um, I I'm a proud Latino and having Mr. Yano at the top of our school district, I believe, gives our students a something that they say if Mr. Yano can do it. If Dennis Rivera can do it, if they can be in those positions, so can I. And is it very important
077that we recognize that? But not only just for Latino students, but for any student that strives to be greater than they are currently in. Perhaps we have students that are they may think, "Oh, never. I had conversations with students, excuse me, today that I I I just want to be here. I just want to get out and I want to be done with school. That gives them an opportunity to look at all of us. We all come from different walks of life, gives them an example of who they can be. And I want to thank Michelle just for all his work that he's done in the school district for progressing our school district forward for putting us in a place where the next superintendent is going to pick up that baton and he's going to
078he's going to be light years ahead of where other individuals where where other individuals perhaps would not be if Mr. Yano did not do the work that he did along with his team. But one thing that really sticks out to me Mr. is that my boys know your name. My boys know who he is. That's important because he's in the schools. He's every day meeting students. He's putting on those student groups and my boys call him by name at home. Mr. Yano. Mr. Yano. Mr. Yano. Mr. Yano. Not the superintendent. Not that guy with the beard, but Mr. Yano because he's he was visible. He was present and he and he let himself be introduced to our school and our school community. And for that, I thank you, Mr. Yano. Thank you for that. Thank
079you for your work. Thank you for what you've given to our school district. Thank you for our conversations that we've had over the years. They've been valuable to me. Thank you. I wish you nothing but the best in Camden. Um the second best school district in New Jersey. Sorry, Camden. I have I have some former colleagues that sit on the Camden School Board and uh sorry guys. Um but Mr. Yano, I wish you nothing but the best. You're like like Miss Vasquez said, you're going to crush it. Camden is is the better for it. And I look forward to working with Mr. McCann, Dr. McCann, excuse me, in the interim and with the next superintendent that we will ultimately hire. So, thank you once again, Mr. Yano. Thank you all and have a great night.
080>> That was nine minutes just superintendent Yano. >> Oh my goodness. Thank you so much for the kind words. I I truly feel [snorts] just blessed to have been here with you all on this journey. I want to [snorts] I I there's some extra business I have to do or else I want to get in trouble. We have to we have an anonymous donor who uh provided us with $2,000 uh former resident to pay uh towards our lunch balances. So, this is a great help to our students. We want to thank this anonymous donor who I believe every year provides a nice donation to us. And we [snorts] also want to thank uh Inspira Health and the Philadelphia Wings um for providing $2,500 worth of tickets and transportation for families to attend the Philadelphia Wings
081game. Uh that was uh organized with um um Matt Rudd and um Mr. Bermudas helped organize that. So, thank you for giving that uh uh donation to our district. I also [snorts] want to make sure that I uh shout out the pillar princesses, Oceanic, Greenfield, and Vulpi. Uh they are a dynamic trio and I have a beautiful picture of them that's in my office all dressed up in their perfect princess wear. I think they dress like that every day. They're just an amazing group of people that I really appreciate. And again, I just give another shout out to to our Memorial friends, Kulick and Burke, you know, always holding it down at Memorial School doing amazing amazing things. [snorts] But I also want to just say a few names. Daisy Marcado, Rosie, Lauren, Koya, Carly,
082who's here, Sophia, [snorts] Linda Fields in my darkest moment, in my toughest time. [snorts] the these ladies came and they gave me the strength to [snorts] get through a difficult time. So, I appreciate them. Thank you so much, [snorts] Carly. Your strength and your words will always resonate with me. I appreciate you, Rosie. Everything that you've done, I appreciate you. There was many more who were here. But we when you're getting beat up and then you see who's behind you, you know who your people are. And I appreciate you. [snorts] I also uh must say thank you to uh Mr. Harris. [snorts] We had a couple conversations during, you know, some some challenging conversations, some challenging times. and uh he expressed he said to me, "Make me proud. Work hard because now we're connected. Uh
083your vote helped me. Your support helped me and I appreciate you." And I don't know if I've ever been able to say that. It's one of the things I've learned through this process is [snorts] it's actually like from Bad Bunny, right? You know, everyone loves Little Bad Bunny. You know, like there's a time in the world right now to to to just show that love. Don't be afraid to show that love. And we should often take the opportunity to tell each other how, you know, what you mean to each other. And I know I failed at that at times, you know, but I I also believe that it's never too late to let those around you know that, you know, you were there for me and I appreciate you. Mr. Mr. Holmes, Mr. Rivera, what
084what what a dynamic duo the two of you have become up here taking the lead. The work that you have in a short amount of time prepared for this school district. And not just today, but historically looking back, the focus has always been on kids. The focus has always been on students. There's nothing more powerful than a board member whose children go to our school district. And there's times when we've disagreed, but it's always been about what's best for our kids. And as boys are the best, our school leaders are the best. It's amazing what we're doing. It's amazing and incredible and powerful and just all inspiring. I tell stories of what we do here to folks throughout New Jersey. It's from uh some of the organizations that I'm a part of. We speak of
085just that that sense of brotherhood and love. And I know it doesn't always work, but I believe for the most part, we've been very successful. 95 96% of the time, I think we've been on point together. Uh to, you know, I I I just urge you too to continue that focus, that love for your community, that love for what we're doing, you know, managing a board of ed with all the [snorts] different personalities, perspectives. It's it's challenging. It's hard, right? But the output is going to be amazing because you're locked in and you have such a charge in your hand. This board will select the next superintendent and it's a great task and I know you're going to do a great job with it. [snorts] Uh to Alex Silva, you know, he's been, you know,
086behind the scenes. He's quiet. I think he even got a little choked up when he was reading that message. I'm pretty sure I was waiting for it. I don't see it was going to happen. But just appreciate your your your perspective. He's always been behind the scenes. is the phone call that some of our board members make to get that educational kind of perspective of what happens in the school and the work that's done. So, I appreciate you, sir, and all the work that you've done and and just the message that you send and and the work that you do in Bridgton because it's it's incredible. I I also want to just say uh Nick over there, you know, thank you for the work that you have done for this school district and also now,
087you know, giving us um and and allowing and asking your wife to come work with us who's done a great job at Memorial School. I know that they love her over there. She's doing great work uh at Memorial and what an amazing package there, right? We got a board member and teacher in the district doing just wonderful things together. [snorts] And also shout out to Mr. Bono. There was an incident that occurred one morning um at at one of our schools and he called me up and said, you know, we need to do something. We need to we need to show our that our community doesn't he used some colorful language that we don't mess around, you know, with this nonsense that's happening around this school. So, let's show up and and and and show
088violin strong. Let's come. Let's get out to Memorial School. We had every administrator out there. We had board members, community members. Chris Wilson and his group were there. You provided some snacks and and and uh um coffee and and and there were shirts provided and it was just what a wonderful day to just show that, you know, this is a great place. Loose was there as well. What a way to show that we are united, right? Because when you're united, anything is possible. It's just been an amazing time. Uh I know I haven't had the opportunity to say thank you to everyone, but the one thing I've learned is I need to say thank you and I appreciate you more often because time is short and you need to recognize those who are around you.
089So I appreciate all everything that you've said from to me this evening. Um my standing ovation shall go down in history. You know, I love it. I have to get video of that. And thank you to my friends from the Air Force Junior O2C. you know, your support, the work that you have done, it's just incredible. Joe Denise, incredible work with our students, you know, just it's a lighthouse program leading the way and we appreciate you. So, thank you. Keep it up and thank you very Thank you. Thank you. [applause] I'll be brief. Thank you to our flagers. Uh, I echo the sentiments of all of our board members. Congratulations to uh Dr. McCann, our interim superintendent. Um he used to ride his bike around the campus. I don't think he should ride his bike
090around Violin, but we'll work that out. If you can believe this, I was suspended back in high school. >> Listen, I cut Jim a couple times and I was suspended. So, Dr. McC got me out of that. But, uh he he [laughter] he's a he's a great guy. Um and we're glad to have him on for this interim period. I also want to thank our junior ROC students that are always here. Thank you guys for coming. Uh just want to recognize two of our board members. Miss Vasquez is celebrating her 20th birthday today. [laughter] >> Thank you, [applause] Cedric, for that. Appreciate you. >> So, happy birthday to her. And I want >> Disclaimer, that's not true. [laughter] >> I also want to recognize Miss Donna Perez, who has been recognized as one of the
091top female wealth adviserss, best in the state of New Jersey. Congratulations. [applause] I echo the sentiments of Mr. Bono who touched on the great work that the facilities crew did uh these past couple of of weeks under leadership of Mr. F uh Paul Fairino and um his team. So, thank you guys as well. Last but certainly not least, Mr. Yano. I already cried. That was my one for the year. So, I'm not crying anymore. >> Uh, don't do it. >> Yeah. Thank you. He heard like mistriana. Mistriana. When we went to schools, they always called you Jaylen Herz. [laughter] >> So, the that they know, like Mr. Rivera said, um, until you sit in this seat, until you sit in any of these seats, you really don't know what goes into the decisions that we
092make. and a lot of people give their opinions and you really don't know the backstory and what we go through to come to these decisions. Um, so I'm glad that moving over to Camden was your decision. No one kicked you out of violin. You made that decision uh for your career. Um, I always tell our board members, new and old, I'm biased when it comes to Mistriano. If you want to hear a neutral standpoint, don't ask me because I will find a reason to defend him no matter what. um because five years ago he was the man for the job and if he decided to stay he would still be the man for the job. So I appreciate you. Um you've overcome a lot. I've watched people disparage your character, say all type of things
093about you. Um but you've overcome it every step of the way and you always came to handle business. So I appreciate you. I'm so confident in this team uh with Mr. from usell that they're going to carry us through these next four months. They are all capable of carrying our district with the help of Dr. McCann. So, I'm proud of each and every one of you as well. You're always accessible, always working, always answering our questions. I appreciate you so much. Uh I just encourage everyone to be a part of the solution, not a part of the problem. We have a lot of work to do. Thank you to our search committee. We have a lot of work to do. It's going to be long night, but we'll get it done and we'll choose the
094next person to lead our exemplary school district. Thank you. Have a good night. Motion to adjurnn. >> So moved. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Thank you.