001Good evening. Welcome to the May 18, 2026 Hillsboro Township Board of Education meeting. In accordance with the state sunshine law, New Jersey, adequate notice of this meeting of the Hillsboro Township Board of Education was provided on January 6, 2026 to the Hillsboro Beacon and the Courier News. Mr. Ear, will you please call the rope? >> Mr. Arrance, >> here. >> Miss Jackson, >> Miss Craig, >> here. >> Miss Lanny Beer >> here. >> Mr. Marini >> here. >> Miss Nurse, >> Miss Stats >> here. >> Mr. Hill >> here. >> And Mr. Davis >> here. Please rise for the pledge of allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. [cough] [clears
002throat] >> We're going to move straight to the uh superintendence report. Mr. Vulpian. >> Thank you, Mr. President. What do you say about people who are true not just educators but institutions in the Hillsboro Township public schools? Luckily, there are some people out there who have said some things about you. So, I'll be repeating those tonight. Um, but I do want to say that as a superintendent and a parent, uh, having four children have gone through the Hillsboro Township public schools, we are truly blessed to have incredible educators. And my children are the people they are today. maybe a little bit because of me, uh, but a lot to do with their experiences here in the Hillsboro Township Public Schools. Whether you taught my children or not, um, you have made that kind of difference
003in someone else's child. Uh, and that's why we want to recognize everyone here today. Um, so this is our official uh, retirement celebration as we will be saying goodbye to some people um, as the school year draws to a close. Uh, what I would like to do procedurally, just so we have schools kind of going in order, principles, when you see your school come up, please come up here. And then retirees, one at a time, as I call you, we'd ask that you come over to the podium so that the camera can zoom in on you while there's some nice words said about you. And then you can join your school over there with the board president who will be handing out a token of our appreciation during this time. Some of you, I'm sure,
004never imagined being here on retirement day because it just seems like the difference that you make with children goes on and on forever. But part of the journey in being a hero is is the end. And the end could be something new for a lot of you. I don't think that any of the people on this list, you know, when I thought of retirement as a kid, the person goes home and they lay on their couch and they watch TV all the time. The passion and energy that these people have, I know they're going to do something else, something else really good for other people. and we are just so thankful to have had you uh with the students here in Hillsboro. So, we do have one retire and I'll if the person is not
005here, I'll just be recognizing them but not reading off. Uh from central office, we do have Cynthia Poval, our director of school counseling. She is retiring this year. I don't believe Cindy is here. Cindy, no, she's not here. Great. Congratulations, Cindy. We will be moving on to Hillsboro High School where we have a slew of retirees this year. Again, some of those people who are longtime institutions that you might be surprised um are are ending their career here. And we will start with Elizabeth Berliner. [applause] After 40 extraordinary years in service to Hillsboro High School, Beth Berlin retires with the admiration and gratitude of colleagues and students both past and present. Over the course of her distinguished career, she has earned countless accolades, but she will be especially remembered for her unwavering advocacy for teachers
006and mathematics education, her kindness and her steadfast support of students and colleagues, and her uniquely delightful flare for coordinating her attire with her writing implements. Just this year, Miss Berliner was recognized in a particularly meaningful way by both a former and current student for the profound impact she had on their lives. What made this moment even more special was that these two students, mother and daughter, share the experience of having Miss Berliner as an influential teacher, a testament to the lasting and generational impact of her work. Elizabeth, congratulations to you. [applause] Also from Hillsboro High School, Patricia Gamberella. >> [applause] >> With 15 years of dedicated service to Hillsboro High School, Patty Gamberdella moves on to new ventures, leaving behind a lasting impact on the school community. A longtime community member and steady presence within
007our special education program, she is widely celebrated for her compassionate care and commitment to students with learning differences. Throughout her time here, she has fostered student independence and personal growth through her calm and supportive presence. Miss Gamberdella consistently balanced high expectations with genuine encouragement, holding her students accountable while thoughtfully supporting their integration into the broader school community. Her work has made a meaningful difference in the lives of many students and her contributions will be deeply appreciated and remembered. Congratulations to you, Patty. [applause] Next, Shelley Gamula. >> [applause] >> Shelley has 21 years of dedicated service to Hillsboro High School. As a longtime resident of Hillsboro, Miss Kamoka has been a foundational force in the growth of our programs to support our diverse learners. Here, she has fostered important and lasting relationships with students and families
008in addition to her colleagues. She is a welcome site by both students and teachers as an important collaborating support. Always willing to be responsive to a need, Miss Gamula has many who have counted on her kindness, calming energy, and relationship building to further student growth and assist in student engagement and achievement. Congratulations to you, Shelley. [applause] Next, Ron Knights. Believe Ron is here. Is he? [applause] Congratulations, Ron. Next, Lynn Lynch's Derwood. [applause] Lynn has helped establish a strong foundation for advanced placement psychology at Hillsboro High School, shaping the course into a rigorous and engaging learning experience for students. She has been a tireless advocate for her colleagues and a trusted confidant to many, earning deep respect for her professionalism, insight, and unwavering support of both staff and students. As a teacher support, Miss Derwood set
009the high standard for advocacy, professional growth, and collegiality, which has become a hallmark at Hillsboro High School. Lynn, thank you and congratulations to you. [applause] Next, we have Helen Matchet. I'm not sure if Helen's here. [applause] Congratulations, Helen. Next, we have Kathleen Redden. [applause] Congratulations, Kathleen. Next, we have James Smart. [applause] Jim Smart has played an instrumental role in implementing a coaching based instructional model to support technology integration across the school. Through his leadership, he has helped build staff capacity, strengthen instructional practices, and promote the effective use of technology to enhance teaching and learning. His work has supported educators in thoughtfully integrating digital tools into their instruction, fostering greater engagement and expanding opportunities for students. Mr. Smart's collaborative approach and commitment to instructional growth have made a meaningful and lasting impact on the school's teaching
010and learning environment. Congratulations, Jim. [applause] [applause] Next, we have Andre Sosnitzki. Andre here. [applause] Congratulations, Andre. Next, we have Debbie Vano. [applause] Debbie Wano serves as Hillsboro High School's resident historian, bringing a unique and enduring connection to the school as both a former student and valued staff member. In her role as graduate liaison, Miss Volano has created an environment where she often becomes a surrogate support figure, offering guidance, care, and a lasting sense of belonging to countless members of the HHS community. In addition to her meaningful work with students, Miss Milano has played a critical role in supporting the administrative team across several key areas, most recently contributing to the smooth and orderly day-to-day operations of the facility. Her dedication, institutional knowledge, and genuine care for the school community have made her an indispensable presence
011at HHS. Congratulations, Steph. [applause] Next we have Ellen Weller. [cheering] [applause] With Hillsboro High School truly in her blood, Ellen Weller is both a proud graduate and 39-year veteran of the English and world language departments. Throughout her distinguished career, she has made a lasting impact on generations of students, bringing both passion and expertise to her classroom instruction. As an adviser to the senior class, she has also played a meaningful role in guiding students through one of the most significant years of their high school experience, offering support, wisdom, and steady encouragement. Miss Weller's deep commitment to the school community and her enduring influence on students and colleagues alike reflect a legacy of dedication that will be long remembered at Hillsboro High School. Congratulations to you, Alan. [applause] Now we'll be moving on to Hillsboro Middle School.
012Our first retiree is Danuta Pacos. [applause] We are proud to recognize Dana Pacos for 25 years of loving care with which she served as an evening custodian for Hillsboro Middle School. Dana was a welcome presence each night restoring classrooms to workable conditions for the new day and tending to the needs of the many evening events and activities that Hillsboro Middle School hosted nearly every night of the week. Her dedication to the school and care for all those who worked here will be dearly missed and always appreciated. Congratulations to you. [applause] Also, Millie Pinkis, I believe. [applause] Do we have representatives here? Yes, I know. Okay. Milliey's not here with us tonight. Yeah, Milliey's, but we're gonna we're representing. So, I'm going to be reading about Millie. Yes, absolutely. So, Millie Pinkis, represented by her daughter,
013will be remembered not only for her 24 years of outstanding service as an instructional assistant at Hillsboro Middle School, but as a part of the in institutional history of the school, together with her husband, David Pinkis, who retired a few years earlier, having served over 40 plus years as a social studies teacher. Milliey's boundless energy and sunny smile have been as unwavering as her commitment to supporting students with special needs with endless patience and joy. As the song goes, to be young at heart is worth every treasure on earth. In that, Millie Pinkish truly has a heart of gold. Please express congratulations to your mom from us. [applause] Congratulations to the middle school retirees. And we'll be calling up Auton Road now. Our [applause] first retiree is Rebecca Balager. I'm not sure she's here. I'm
014pretty sure she can. [applause] Congratulations. Congratulations, Rebecca. Next, we have Mary Beasley. Is Mary here? [applause] Congratulations to Mary. Next, we have Nikki Bear. I know Nikki's not here either, but you can applaud for her. [applause] Next we have Marilyn Basipio. Hey, there we have an Autin road. [applause] Marilyn has been a cherished instructional assistant in our district. Known for her boundless kindness and dedication, she consistently put kids first, ensuring every student felt supported, encouraged, and seen. Her helpful spirit and gentle gentle nature have left lasting impact on our school community. Whether she was assisting in the classroom or offering a warm smile in the halls, her presence made a difference each and every day. We celebrate Marilyn's incredible service and wish her retirement filled with the same joy and relaxation she brought to those
015around her. Happy retirement and congratulations to you, Marilyn. [applause] Next, we have Anne Campbell. Is Ann here? I don't think Ann is here. [applause] Congratulations, Dan. Next, Gail Federa. [applause] For over two decades, Gail Federa has been a cornerstone of dedication in the world of education. As an instructional assistant, she has consistently served as an advocate for her students, ensuring their needs were always met with care and expertise. Gail is the ultimate team player, and her colleagues have found it a true pleasure to work alongside her throughout the years. Her steady commitment and collaborative spirit have made Auton Road School a better place for everyone. Thank you, Gail, for your remarkable service and heart. We hope your new journey is as wonderful as the impact you've left at Auton Road. Thank you. [applause] Next, we
016have Lann Kramer. [applause] Lannne has always been driven by a deep passion and a true love for working in the classroom, fulfilling a lifelong dream of being a teacher. Her love for her kids is evident in the warm, engaging environment she creates every day where every student feels valued and supported. Truly beloved by her students, Lann's student- centered approach has made her a cherished figure throughout her career. Her natural kindness and dedication to her craft have shaped the lives of countless children. Thank you, Lann, for sharing your heart with us. May your future be filled with the same happiness you've given your students. Congratulations to you. [applause] Next, we have James Latanzy. I'm not sure Jim is here. [applause] Congratulations, James. And thank you, Watton Road. [applause] Next, we'll be calling up Amsterdam Elementary School.
017And our first is Florence Goddess. [applause] We are honored to recognize Flo, who has been a beloved fixture at Amsterdam Elementary School for 25 years. >> [snorts] >> Known for her warm smile and boundless passion, Flo's influence was felt in every corner of the building. Whether she was assisting students with art and music, guiding science projects, or supervising on the playground, her unique ability to help every student reach their full potential is a legacy that will stay with them long after they leave Amsterdam School. We thank Flo for her heart and dedication and wish her all the best in retirement. Congratulations to you, Flo. [applause] We also have Steve Miller from Amsterdam. Steve here. [applause] Congratulations, Steve. And next we'll be moving on to Hillsboro Elementary School. [applause] I'm glad I'm glad we have the
018principal come up, but Sue, could you stand by the podium first? [laughter] Sue Xeen has been a pillar of the Hillsboro community since 1998. She has dedicated her career to the students of Hillsboro, first as a special education teacher and then an LDTC. After serving as the middle school vice principal, she brought her visionary leadership to Hillsboro Elementary School as principal in 2015. And I'm so glad she cleaned up that school with the person who was there before. [laughter] If you see Sue, she is defined by her commitment to excellence and a deep kids first philosophy. Her nurturing spirit transforms the halls into a sanctuary of learning. She is frequently seen offering warm hugs and encouragement to every child. to principal XE. HS isn't just a school, it's a family. Congratulations to you soon. [applause]
019[cheering] when I left, nobody clapped for me like that. That's okay. And Sue, I do need you to receive someone as princ in your role as principal as well. Kim Wright. [applause] Kim writes, "Impact on HS is immeasurable. Her unwavering belief in every child, she has shaped countless lives. Kim sees the whole child, creating rigorous, compassionate pathways where students feel valued, safe, and inspired. Her work extends far beyond academics, from intergen intergenerational learning to modeling profound acts of kindness. A trusted colleague, mentor, and leader. Kim strengthens our entire community. Kim writes, "Love, dignity, and generosity define her legacy, and HS is better because she has been a part of it." Kim, thank you for your humor, your kindness, and dedication. We're wishing you the best in your retirement. Congratulations to you. [applause] And next we
020can invite up Sunnyme Elementary School and Dr. Tammy Jenkins to receive her retirees. [snorts] [applause] First from Sunnyme, we have Lynette Ray. [applause] Lynette's dedication, warmth, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting imprint on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her. She brought not only professionalism, but also genuine care, positivity, and a spirit that uplifted those around her each day. Her contributions have made a meaningful difference, and her presence will be deeply missed. As she begins this new chapter, we wish Lynette endless joy, relaxation, and all the happiness she so richly deserves. Congratulations, Lynette. [applause] Next, we have Beverly Stack. [laughter] Beverly Stack's years of service reflect a remarkable legacy of professionalism, compassion, and excellence. She consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to her work while building meaningful relationships and making a positive impact on her
021colleagues and her community. Her steady presence and dedication will not be forgotten. As Miss Stack enters this exciting new chapter, we wish our retirement filled with happiness, fulfillment, and many wonderful new adventures. Congratulations to you both. [applause] Next, we'd like to invite up Mr. Aliperie to represent Triangle Elementary School's retirees. First, we have Carrie Erdman. Is Carrie here? [applause] See her? Okay. Congratulations, Carrie. [snorts] We also have Karen Grimmer. [applause] Today, we honor Karen Grimmer, a truly remarkable ed educator whose dedication, compassion, and patience have touched countless lives. For years, Karen has championed every student, believing in their unique potential and guiding them with heart and purpose. The classrooms she supported were more than a place of learning. They were a haven of acceptance and encouragement. Your impact reaches far beyond the walls of Triangle
022School. You've inspired students, parents, and colleagues alike. As you step into retirement, may you find the same joy and fulfillment you've so generously given others. Congratulations to you, Karen. [applause] Next we have Rebecca Wolf. I'm not sure if Rebecca's here. [applause] Congratulations to Rebecca. Next, if I could bring up uh Principal Rajin to receive Woods Road Elementary School's retirees. [applause] First, I'd like to bring up Jane Calgary. >> [applause and cheering] >> Since 1997, Jane Calgaryi has been a constant level of support for our students and staff. With an impressive 29-year career, Jane has defined what it means to be a dedicated educator. Jane is more than an instructional assistant. She is a mentor. By creating orientation packets and offering a warm welcome, she has been the guiding light light for new instructional assistants. Every
023morning, her smile and wave at arrival set a positive tone for our families. While her quick wit and sarcasm, you don't you're not sarcastic, are you? Provided the muchneeded laughter that gets us through the toughest days. Jane's transition to tranquility is welld deserved, though her presence will be deeply missed. Congratulations to you, Jane. [applause] >> Also from Woods Road, Janice Jeans. >> [applause] >> Jan Woods Road Elementary has been honored to be your home for 33 remarkable years. From your early days inspiring upper grade students to your transformative tenure as our math specialist, your legacy is written in success. Under your guidance, math scores soared and stayed there, a testament to your expertise. Beyond the classroom, they'll miss their bus captain, whose dedication ensured every child made it home safely. As you trade the school
024bell for Key West sunsets and precious time with your grandkids, know your impact is immeasurable. Congratulations on a legendary career. Jan, [applause] >> finally we have some retirees from our transportation department, starting with Robin Aone. [applause] It takes a certain person to be able to handle riding in a bus for multiple hours a day with the responsibility of numerous students comfort and needs. This role requires an individual who is student focused with their well-being being the priority. Our transportation department was very lucky to have found those qualities and more within Robin Aone. As we celebrate Robin with her journey into retirement, we celebrate with deep gratitude for her 13 years of commitment, patience, and dedication to our district students. Congratulations to you, Robin. [applause] Also from our transportation department, Doris Kupa. [applause] Doris here. Congratulations,
025Doris. So if you look at the numbers behind me, we are going to be losing 35 retirees with a combined 832 years of experience as educators. [applause] And I don't use the term educator lightly. Whether you were riding a bus, helping clean classrooms, being an assistant, or being in front actually instructing students, you were certainly an educator of the highest caliber, and we appreciate everything that you have done. And I would like to leave you off with a quote behind me from Mr. Rogers who said, "Often when you think you're at the end of something, you're really at the beginning of something else." And for so many of you sitting here, like I had said when I I thought my grandparents were retiring when I was a kid. They were laying on the couch and
026watching TV and that was kind of it. And there's so much energy that so many of you still have so many wonderful things you're going to do for other kids or your grandkids or traveling. I wish you nothing but success and the best. And I just want to thank each and every retiree right here. [applause] And Mr. President, that concludes my superintendent's report. And I believe you may have wanted to ask the board for a fivem minute recess. >> Yep. We'll have a fivem minute recess and resume the agenda after that. Thank you. There's some cookies and goodies on the way up. Unless they want to sing. >> [music] >> Just as a reminder, there are brownies and cookies at the table up front. I'm so happy. [music] >> [music] [music] >> Hallelujah. >> [music]
027[music] >> I don't know. Recycling. >> That's a good >> Thank you all for uh joining us this evening. We're going to reconvene our board meeting now. Will board members please return to the desk. three. >> Figured that would be a little over top of eight. again. Thank you all. >> Hello. >> Hey. Uh we're going to move on and the next item on the agenda is public comment. [laughter] We very much welcome input from the public. During board meetings, there will be two 30 minute periods of time that the meeting will be open for public comment where members of the public are invited to comment, which they may do if they are attending in person. There is a clipboard for all participants to write their name. Before commenting, please state your name and address.
028There is a threeinut time limit on public comment. Please understand that our public forums are not structured as question and [snorts] answer sessions, but rather are offered as opportunities to share your thoughts with the board. In instances where the board believes that there is a misunderstanding or inaccuracy, the board president or superintendent will address the comment. There may be times when a member of the public makes a comment or asks a question about personnel or hiring decisions. Kindly note that the open public meetings act and the privacy rights of public employees and compass therein do not permit the board to discuss personnel issues in public sessions. Thank you. If anyone would like to make a comment, please come to the podium. 5 4321. >> Seeing that there are no comments this evening, uh we will
029move on to the next item, Mr. Colby. Thank you. I'd ask [clears throat] for the board's consideration to approve the following motion in the area of education. the submission of the amendment for the fiscal year 2026 for the transfer of funds within the EA grant. And that's it. [clears throat] >> Do I have a motion? >> So move. >> Second. >> Any comments or questions? >> Mr. Eert. >> Mr. Anrance. >> Yes. >> Miss Craig. >> Yes. >> Miss Lanning Beater. >> Yes. >> Mr. Marin. >> Yes. >> Miss Stats. >> Yes. >> Mr. Trillo. >> Yes. and Mr. Davis. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. In the area of human resources, I'd ask for the board's consideration to approve the following motion. Coaches for 2026 27. >> That's it. >> Do we
030have a motion? >> So move. [clears throat] >> Any comments? Mr. Eckert? >> Mr. CR? >> Yes. >> Miss Craig? >> Yes. >> Miss Lanny Beater? >> Yes. >> Mr. Moriny? >> Yes. Miss Stats. >> Yes. >> Mr. Ho, >> yes. >> And Mr. Davis, >> yes. >> Thank you. In the area of operations, I'd ask for the board's consideration approve the final motion, the ceiling and lighting replacement at Woods Road Elementary School. >> Do we have a motion? >> So moved. >> Any comments? >> Second. [laughter] >> Any comments or questions? Mr. Eert. >> Mr. Anrance. >> Yes. >> M. Craig. Yes, >> Miss Ling. >> Yes. >> Yeah.