001I'd like to call this meeting to order. Mrs. Norian, would you lead us in the flag salute? Certainly. 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. Sunshine Law statement, all requirements of the Open Public Meetings Act have been met for this meeting of the Board of Education of the Borough of Oradell. Notice of this meeting was filed with the record and all persons requesting such notice. Mr. Darian, would you read the mission statement? The Oradell Public School District is dedicated to the ongoing pursuit of educational excellence through comprehensive, innovative curriculum and instruction. The district is committed to providing opportunities for social, emotional, and activity Excuse me, and act academic discovery to foster
002curiosity, courage, and character. Our goal is to provide our students to become lifelong learners who are self-directed, resilient, productive, responsible citizens. >> Thank you. Roll call. On the roll, Mr. Del Greco. Not seeing him. Mrs. Downey. Not here yet. Mrs. Genchi? Here. Mrs. Moran? Here. Mrs. Norian? Here. Mr. Notland? Here. Mrs. Walker? Here. Mr. Darian? Here. Mrs. Nickels? Here. At this time, we will open to the public for agenda items only. Okay, not seeing any, we will move forward. This is um most people, I say it every year, the board knows this is our favorite night of the year where we recognize our staff. We're going to do it in a little uh different order than it is on the agenda. We are going to start with years of service and then go to retirees.
003We're going to teacher of the year and then retirees. So, we're going to start with the five-year um five-year staff. If you could just come up here, take your certificate, and then go over there cuz we want to take a picture of everyone, so we will start. Some people are not here, I know, but we will start. David Barron? I don't think he's here. >> [applause] >> Angela Barbalucci? >> [applause] >> I don't think she's here. Jean Cabani? >> [applause] [applause] >> WATCH THE WIRES. THANK YOU SO MUCH. Kristen Collins, I don't think is here. Maria >> [applause] >> Maria Constantinou >> [applause] >> Thank you. From one Greek to another. Kayleen Dalziel >> [applause] >> Thank you so much. Marvin Gomez >> [applause] [applause and cheering] >> Be careful, Marvin. Thank you, Marvin. Thank
004you for everything. Michelle Haas >> [cheering] [applause] >> Thank you so much. Caitlin Minhinick >> [applause and cheering] [applause] >> Thank you so much. Alexandria Palada >> [applause] [applause] >> Thank you so much. Andrea Park >> [cheering] [applause] >> Erin Reese Peter, I do not believe she's here. >> [applause] >> David Roth >> [applause] [cheering] >> Tara Schlesinger >> [applause] [applause] >> Kathleen Tarmino >> [applause] [applause] >> Kathleen Windrum >> [applause] >> I don't see Kathleen. No, we're doing that today. All right, stay up there cuz more joining you. All right, we're going to >> [applause] >> LOUISE IS NOT HERE. KAREN MARIN >> [applause] [applause] >> AND ROCHELLE VALMONTE, I don't think she's here either. >> [applause] >> None of our 10 years are here. Not good. All right. No, that's okay. So none
005of you have to come for 10 years. >> [laughter] >> All right, 15 years. MICHELLE KOLATKIN. >> [applause] >> OH, SHE'S COMING LATER. OKAY. Lisa Ann Santangelo. >> [applause] >> Thank you. Okay, moving on to 20 years. OSCAR GOMEZ. >> [applause] [applause] >> THANK YOU, OSCAR, FOR EVERYTHING. JANE JETTS. >> [applause] >> THANK YOU SO MUCH. JENNIFER POWERS. >> [applause and cheering] [applause] >> THANK YOU SO OKAY, MOVING to 25. I don't believe she's here, but Erica Moore. >> [applause] [applause] >> AND NOW 30 YEARS, LESLIE MACLEOD. >> [cheering] [applause] >> THANK YOU. WHOOPS. 30'S BIG. FOR SURE. Thank you. Thank you. All right, so we need pictures with the superintendent and the principals. Let's go. >> [laughter] >> Every time. So everyone get on the steps. You are You look like the photographer. I
006look like I just walked out of a cross game. And that's a good thing. >> That's a good thing. These people know I do a lot of volunteering. >> [laughter] >> I can't believe why people don't come. I mean, this is a good turnout. Very used to it. I don't know how many of the school districts actually do this. Yeah, but it's a nice >> I've been in Paramus 18 years. I haven't been called for the five, for the 10. Really? For the 15. No kidding. Nothing. Please. All I do is do it. Oh But it's kind of awkward though when they like call the name and nobody's here. Yeah. Yeah. And this is a good turnout compared to uh some years. Peter. You can go. I like that color. The one in [applause] the
007blue shirt. Oh, really? What does he think? Does he see anything? He might be. Is he not speaking? Yeah, he is pretty I know what I would think. Look at this one in the white. Ooh. I know. Okay, so moving on to teacher of the year. Every year I like to read the prior ones. This is our ninth year doing it. Next year may be the last year we read all the names for 10, but we'll start from 2017. We had Tracy Shaum, moving to Rosemary Cataldo, then Melissa Pizza, Janine Black, Helene Albrecht, Leslie Macklin, Jamie Caruana, Jennifer Hook, and for 2025-2026 KRISTEN TARZANO. >> [applause and cheering] [applause] >> OKAY, I just want to read the Certificate of Recognition presented by State of New Jersey Department of Education. The State of New Jersey Department
008of Education 2025-2026 Governor's Educator of the Year Program awarded to Kristen Tarzano in honor of the contributions of being an outstanding educator in a New Jersey public school. >> [applause and cheering] [applause] >> All right, does anyone want to say anything to our educator of the year, while she's up here. Good evening, everyone. Tonight, I have the distinct privilege of speaking about a person who represents the very heart of our profession. To know Kristen Terzano is to love her, and that love is felt deeply by her students, their families, and every one of her colleagues. When I first joined Oreton Public School, I found myself in a bit of the transitional space, while the lower level office, not basement, lower level, was being completed. I was set up with a desk in the intervention room,
009sharing quarters with Kristen and Erica Moore. She and Erica embraced me as a roommate and were absolutely instrumental in help helping [clears throat] me to navigate the ins and outs of OPS. Sharing that room allowed me a front row seat to see Kristen in action, and it was a master class in educator excellence. What I witnessed those months was who Kristen Terzano is just naturally. Students weren't just attending lessons, they were eager to learn with Mrs. Terzano, because they knew that she was their biggest champion. Kristen has a unique gift. She celebrates, not just the final success, but every single effort made along the way. She is the rare kind of person who makes everyone feel like they're her favorite. Whether you're a student or a staff member, she connects with you on a personal
010level that is so genuine and thoughtful. If you want to see the true essence of Kristen, I challenge you to spend a morning at the kindergarten entrance. You will hear her asking students about their new pet, their weekend trip, or special stuffy from their grandma. She remembers to ask about family members who maybe weren't feeling so well. She follows up on the details of a family celebration. She notices when a student or adult just doesn't seem quite right. Kristen is is exceptional teacher because she understands that the small stuff is actually the stuff that matters most. Kristen Terzano is truly one in a million. Throughout our time together, I've watched her take on a variety of assignments, often requiring her to pivot to new roles on very short notice, and she always did this seamlessly
011with a positive attitude. Regardless of the challenge or the timeline, she handles every situation with a smile and gives 100%. No, I'd say 1,000% of herself in everything she does. Kristen, thank you for being a wonderful example of everything that a teacher should be. We are so incredibly lucky to have you at Oreland Public School. >> [applause] [applause] >> That was really good, Mrs. Brancato. >> [laughter] >> I agree 100,000%. Mrs. Terzano is is an original. She embodies what it means to be Teacher of the Year. She's kind, compassionate, caring, and gives her whole heart to her students, her team, her entire school community every single day. No matter what's needed, grabbing students, covering classes, mentoring new teachers, or simply supporting a colleague. She's always willing to step in with a positive attitude and a
012smile. Her patience and kindness is most evident when working with children. Over the years, she's worked with students from kindergarten through sixth grade. She makes all her students feel special and he helps each one of them reach their potential. Every child in her class learns and thrives under her tutelage. Even the most reluctant worker, she's like, "You can do it." And they do it. It's amazing. Mrs. Terzano is someone you can always count on. Her consistency, dedication, and commitment to the Oreland school community never goes unnoticed. She gives 110%, but now I have to raise it to 1,000% uh percent every day and does it with grace, patience, and genuine care for everyone around her. She's truly one of a kind. As her colleagues and friends, we are incredibly lucky to work alongside her. Sharing
013a room and working with Mrs. Terrazzano every day is a gift, and our school is a better place because of her. Congratulations. It's an honor well deserved, and your team absolutely loves you. >> [applause] [applause] >> Yeah, Amy, that was really good. It was anything that I would ever say about this one cuz it's a 100 million percent true. I've been waiting for 30 years for this. I have truly been in awe of you since Hackensack. Uh Lisa, Kristen, and I worked together at Fanny Hillers, and she truly embodied what it was. She made me run and jump to school every day. Um I followed her to softball practice, and I followed her again um on a tandem bike for some reason. >> [laughter] >> We all thought that was a great idea. Um and
014she truly made me excited about teaching, and she truly made the kids excited to be at school every day. And you do that from day one 30 years ago till today, and then some. And you really inspire everyone here, and there is not one person that doesn't think that because every person from the kindergartner that walks in and truly takes the wrath and takes the claw grip off mom, and you have some way about you that is just truly a gift, and we are so very thankful that you have stayed here, and you um bring more life into our school. So, thank you so much for all you do. >> [applause] >> Miss Terzano is very kind to us and she makes me feel better when going to school. If we didn't have Miss Terzano,
015then we wouldn't have any more teachers until Miss Daisy came. >> [applause] [applause] >> Hi. Um, so I had the honor of working with Kristen as my mentor my first year teaching here, which has been the greatest gift and even now in my second year going into my third, I still bother her just as much as I did last year. Um, but she never turns me away. She has turned her car around when she has left to come back and help me when I needed it and I think that just embodies who she is and she is so deserving of this and I feel very lucky to have worked with you. So thank you. >> [applause] [applause] >> Okay, so if Miss Terzano's family could come up, we'll take some pictures. >> [applause] >> Thank
016you. >> [applause] [applause] [snorts] [applause] >> Angel. This way. I'm going that way? Yes. It's the short way. >> Okay, moving on to the retirees. We're just going to go in alphabetical order, I guess. Miss Bendet is not here, but her resolution is in on on our agenda. Will be in the minutes, so she wants to come another time we can read it for her. So, we will start WITH JOAN NOVAK. >> [cheering] [applause] >> OKAY, I'LL JUST READ HER RESOLUTION. Whereas Joan Novak has tendered her resignation as a nurse aide in the Oradell Public School District to become effective July 1st, 2026 after 8 years of dedicated and faithful service to the Oradell Public School District. And whereas during her years in our school system, she has imparted her knowledge and skills in support
017of the students, family, staff, and administration of Oradell Public School. And whereas she has influenced the lives of many and has earned the love and respect of students, colleagues, and the Oradell community. And whereas she has given unselfishly unselfishly of her time and effort in the interest and welfare of the children of our school district. Now, therefore, let it be resolved that the Oradell Board of Education hereby recognizes Miss Novak's contribution to the district and expresses its appreciation of her dedicated service and directs that this resolution be included in the minutes of the board and that a copy be presented to Miss Joan Novak as a token of his esteemed. Woohoo! >> [applause] [applause] >> Uh no, I'm I'm good. Thank you. Would anyone Would anyone like to Oh, uh-oh. We're in trouble now. >>
018[laughter] >> I got some words for me and Gina that are stated to Joan, so. It's okay. >> [laughter] >> So, uh tonight we celebrate many staff members including Joan Novak and her credible 7 years of service as our school nurse aide. Uh from her very first days working OPS alongside our former nurse and our current nurse, Joan brought not only dedication and professionalism, but also a wonderful sense of humor that could even brighten even the busiest days in the nurse's office. Over the years, so much has changed yet one thing has remained about Joan. She cares tremendously about our students and our staff, and her compassion for every student who walked through that door, you can see it every day. She developed meaningful rapport with our students who truly need someone they could trust,
019and she became such an important presence to our students, always willing to step up and assist with the countless health-related needs we have every day. That was nurse Gina's part. >> Yes, there's few of these sprinkled in. Joan is smart, wise, seasoned, and incredibly quick-witted, and her advice has been valued by so many including myself and Gina who often turned to her for health guidance. I'm sure Joan will both miss and not miss those busy lunch periods uh filled with kids stopping for ice and Band-Aids and every little emergency in between. While we'll deeply miss her laughter, wisdom, and steady presence, we're so happy for you as you begin your next chapter enjoying summers by the pool with your husband and making time for your family. Joan, thank you for the care, heart, and humor
020you brought to OPS every single day. Congratulations on your retirement. >> [applause] >> I just want to give her a hug. Yeah, we're going to take a picture with you guys. We're going to come over here and take a picture. >> [laughter] >> Wait, hold on. Everybody's fascinated that you're sisters. >> [laughter] [applause] >> Yes, we all learned tonight that you're sisters. >> [laughter] >> I think we would know that by now. Can I say one quick thing? Um Joan, I'm absolutely going to miss People know that the nurse's office is one of the places I stop by. But as I was handing you the plaque, all I envision on that platter is Band-Aids and ice packs at your house. So, if I come over, I would like my Band-Aids and ice packs handed on
021that. Okay. Samantha, take care of that. >> [laughter] >> All right, moving on. HEIDI O'KEEFE. >> [cheering] [applause] >> OKAY, LET ME READ THE RESOLUTION. 40 YEARS. >> [applause and cheering] >> WHEREAS HEIDI O'KEEFE HAS tendered her resignation as a teacher in the Oradell Public School District to become effective July 1st, 2026 after 40 years of dedicated and faithful service to the Oradell Public School District. And whereas during her many years in our school system, she has imparted her knowledge and understanding of the educational needs of the students of Oradell Public School. And whereas she has influenced the lives of many children, has earned the love and respect of her students, colleagues, and the Oradell community. And whereas she has given unselfishly of her time and effort in the interest and welfare of the children
022of our school district. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Oradell Board of Education hereby recognizes Ms. O'Keefe's contribution to the district and expresses its appreciation of her dedicated service and directs that this resolution be included in the minutes of the board and that a copy be presented to Ms. Heidi O'Keefe as a token of its esteem. >> [applause] [applause] >> Anybody want to go up to the floor first? How do I get to the top of the notes? Heidi, when I first met you, I thought you were quiet, reserved, and private. And while some of that may still be true, I quickly learned that you are the epitome of still waters run deep. Beneath that calm and steady presence is someone grounded in stoicism, strength, humor, and compassion. I think the stoicism is from
023the German descent part. You are an accomplished tennis player, a passionate advocate for breast cancer awareness, a world traveler, a reader, a fierce mother bear to Jillian, and most importantly to us here at OPS, an incredibly talented educator. My favorite moment elucidating your talent is from last year. I had a particular student who had you in fourth grade and he was sitting across from me and I looked at him and said, "You weren't down in my office at all last year." And he looked at me and said, "No. Mrs. O'Keefe wouldn't have tolerated anything." And I said, "Oh, is that because she's strict?" And he said, "Well, she's kind of strict, but it's really because she loves me, but she wouldn't tolerate anything." And I don't think there is a more powerful description of a
024great teacher than that. Over the past 9 years, I've watched you connect with students who dance to their own beat, students struggling with serious family situations, and students who needed someone to truly see them. You met them with humor, honesty, and love. I will never forget the humor you brought to my days during COVID, the conversations we had on Zoom after those strange days, the exhaustion, but also the desire to connect, the laughter, and even the complaints about having to readjust our wardrobes when we came back to OPS. We'll say we complained about putting our pants back on. It has been such a pleasure watching you embrace your role as interventionist over the last 2 years. You are the organizer of that team, of the closet, the room, the data, and honestly, sometimes the people
025around you, including me. That steady presence will be deeply missed. Thank you for listening. For sharing your spark, for loving kids so fiercely, and for being you. Congratulations on an extraordinary 40-year career. >> [applause] [applause] >> Mrs. O'Keefe, it is such an honor to celebrate you tonight. Before you were my colleague, you were my fourth-grade teacher many moons ago, and I still remember the warmth and kindness you brought into your classroom every single day. You made school feel special, and one of my favorite memories was bringing our American Girl dolls into class, and you would secretly decorate them during lunch and recess. It may have seemed like a small moment, but to me it was magical. That was also the year we did whale week, very memorable. Um researching whales, creating our books, and walking
026from classroom to classroom, reading everyone's work. It made us feel so proud and important. You created a classroom filled with joy, creativity, gentleness, and love, and those memories have stayed with me all of these years. What makes this even more meaningful is that I've now had the privilege of working alongside you at OPS for the past 5 years. Getting to call you my colleague has been such a gift. I've learned so much from you, not just about teaching, but about how to make students feel seen, cared for, and valued. You have celebrated so many special moments in my life, and I am incredibly grateful for your support, guidance, and friendship. You were one of the teachers who inspired me to become a teacher myself. And truly, I want to be just like you. Your impact
027reaches far beyond your classroom walls, and I and I know generations of students, including me, are better because of you. Congratulations on your retirement, and OPS will always carry a piece of you in our heart. >> [applause] [applause] >> She's bringing her laptop. Mrs. Holly had the little phone. >> [laughter] >> You can probably read it in the back row. I'm going to try. I'll save one that's not used. Okay. First of all, good evening, everyone. Um there are so many great employees that will not be who will not be returning to Oradell next year. Um to Kristen Chizano, you exemplify someone who does this job for all of the right reasons, and you do it exceptionally well, and you do it with love. For Debbie Vendetti, she's not here, though. Um I say, Debbie,
028you're brave. Really brave. All of those years of teaching kindergarten and first grade, it's not for the faint of heart. I admire you. To my sister Joan, Joan Novak, there's lots of O's. There's you're so good at being a nurse. Um and by the way, it's kind of cool to get to work with your sister. Love you. Um, and now the one that's going to really make me cry. Um, it's truly an honor to stand here tonight and celebrate Mrs. O'Keefe, who's not only been my colleague for the last 38 years, but also one of my closest teammates and my dear friend. When I think about our career, the words come to mind are professionalism, dedication, kindness, and integrity. She possesses an unparalleled work ethic, yet she's never sought recognition, praise, or accolades for herself.
029In fact, she's spent her her entire career quietly and consistently lifting up everyone around her. Students, colleagues, families, and friends. She's always been a source of calm support, both emotionally and academically, for anyone who needed her. She's generous with her time, generous with her praise, and endlessly patient. At the same time, she's always maintained high standards and high expectations, guiding others toward success because she truly believes that every child, every teacher, is capable of more than they realize. She's an extraordinary mentor and role model. She believes in with unwavering conviction that anything is possible with patience, compassion, perseverance, and devotion. So, the truth is, if you couldn't tell from my tears, we kind of grew up here together at OPS. We started our careers as young teachers full of energy, optimism, and ideas. And honestly,
030we thought we were movers and shakers. Together, we helped create a blue ribbon social studies program, embraced whole language instruction, and jumped enthusiastically, a little blindly, into every new educational initiative that came our way. >> [snorts] >> We also survived some truly unforgettable educational historical moments together. Uh we pleaded and bargained for our first Macintosh 2E computers. Uh computer. Um complete with those meltable Mac 5 and 1/4-in floppy disks. We were integrating technology while still running copies on the Ditto machine next door. We went from pantyhose and skirts and slips. Well, she had one. To more She yelled at me every day. >> [laughter] >> To more practical clothes like for sitting on the floor with children. And getting written on with a pen that happened to walk by you too close. Somehow, we managed
031to bridge two completely different eras of education side by side. And through it all, we laughed a lot. >> [snorts] >> We shared successes, challenges, long days, hilarious moments, and countless memories that I will treasure forever. There was always hard work, and there still is, but there was also joy. We genuinely had a blast. I feel incredibly blessed to have spent nearly four decades teaching beside Mrs. O'Keefe. Someone I admire so deeply and even and I'm even more blessed to call my friend. As we both begin this next adventure called retirement, there I go. I know there are many exciting things ahead for us, new experiences, new memories, lots more laughter, and hopefully a little more sleep. Thank you for your friendship, your partnership, and your example. Your unwavering devotion to education too. Each of
032us is fortunate to have worked beside you. You've made a difference that will last beyond these classroom walls and beyond these school worlds walls. Congratulations and cheers to you. >> [applause] [applause] >> I'm speaking on behalf of the intervention team. We are beyond honored to celebrate someone who has touched so many lives with kindness, dedication, and love. After teaching in fourth grade for so many years, Mrs. O'Keefe came to teach in intervention. Where she continued working her magic with the students and gliding effortlessly into our team. Mrs. Moore, Mrs. Black, Mrs. Sheridan, Mrs. Bartlett, sometimes Mrs. Sosha, and I were lucky to share a room with her. She is the most thoughtful, generous, and caring person. Always willing to help, listen, share, and make everyone around her feel supported and cared for. She's not only
033an amazing teacher, but also wonderful friend and colleague. She is quite the adventurer, traveling traveling all over the world, playing tennis and pickleball, spending time with friends, and making trips to California to visit her daughter. The intervention team will miss talking about books with Heidi, as she always gives us a great recommendation. Your warmth and laughter will be deeply missed, but we're so excited to hear all about your next chapter of adventures. Thank you for being such a special part of our lives in and out of school, Heidi. Congratulations on your retirement. >> [applause] [applause] >> I'm going to keep it short and sweet. To the community of Wardell, thank you for sharing your children with me. They're wonderful. To all the teachers out there, we don't do this alone. Couldn't have done it without
034you. Thank you for being on my journey. And hang in there. >> [applause] >> Miss Shalom, can you come up here for a picture? And as you're going there, Mrs. O'Keefe, may I give you a retirement homework assignment? >> Oh, boy. Um people who who have spoken to me a lot about education know that I'm very concerned about the next wave of educators. And after you travel a lot, I think the field of education would really benefit from your humility and your professionalism. So, I encourage you to speak to Mrs. Walker about observing student teachers because the field of education would truly benefit from everything that you've accomplished. And I don't want it to just go away. You can still give back a little after you travel. >> [applause] >> Our last retirement of the
035evening, Tracy Shawn. >> [applause] [cheering] [applause] >> I'LL READ HER RESOLUTION. Whereas Tracy Shawn has tendered her resignation as a teacher in the Ord Public School District to become effective July 1st, 2026 after 38 years of dedicated and faithful service to the Ord Public School District. And whereas during her many years in our school system, she has imparted her knowledge and understanding of the educational needs of the students of Oradell Public School, and whereas she has influenced the lives of many children and has earned the love and respect of her students, colleagues, and the Oradell community, and whereas she has given unselfishly of her time and effort in the interest and welfare of the children of our school district, now therefore let it be resolved that the Oradell Board of Education hereby recognizes Ms. Schaum's
036contribution to the district and expresses its appreciation of her dedicated service and directs that this resolution be included in the minutes of the board and that a copy be presented to Ms. Tracy Schaum as a token of its esteem. >> [applause] >> Open up the floor. Good evening, everyone. It is an honor to celebrate Tracy Schaum and her 38 years of educating students. Although I have only had the privilege of knowing Tracy for the past 2 years, it honestly feels like much longer because of the impact she's had on me and so many others around her. Throughout her career, Tracy has taught across grade levels, impacting countless children, and creating a classroom where every moment became a teachable moment. Her dedication to our TAG students and her work as an Odyssey of the Mind coach
037has shown just how deeply she believes in nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and confidence in students. Tracy's students are independent thinkers and learners because of her. Tracy, thank you for welcoming me so warmly and allowing me to truly understand what Odyssey of the Mind is all about. Thank you for allowing me to share my insight, my wit, and feedback with the Odyssey of the Mind team along the way. I have genuinely genuinely appreciated our conversations about the evolution of education and the passion you continue to bring to teaching every single day. I will especially remember how you always checked on me every morning. Did you get up from that chair? Please go for a walk, especially during this year's NJSLAA prep. That thoughtfulness speaks volumes about who you are, not just as an educator, but as
038a person. I thank you for that. Maria Montessori once said, "The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say the children are now working as if I did not exist." Tracy, that quote perfectly reflects your legacy, especially within your TAG classroom. As you begin the well-deserved retirement, remember teaching is more than imparting knowledge, it's inspiring change. Your legacy will live on in every student you shaped. Thank you for being more than a teacher. You have been a mentor, a colleague, and a friend. Enjoy your retirement. Take all of us with you. I'm just joking. You have truly earned it. Congratulations. >> [applause] [laughter] >> Hi, my name is Sheila O'Hare Barrels. And here at OPS, I am best known as Tracy's Odyssey sidekick. >> [laughter] >> A friendship that started
03915 years ago over a refrigerator box, a Ryder truck, and an absurdly large roll of bubble wrap has flourished into one of the most significant relationships in my life. I told Tracy recently, and it is true, I got a lot more out of this deal than she did. Both personally and professionally. So, thank you, my dear friend. But, to truly appreciate Tracy's influence, you need to look at her students. And my daughter, Colleen, was one of those lucky few young people. And she's asked me to read this. I was in Tracy's TAG team from 2011 to 2015, as well as on her Odyssey of the Mind program from 2014 to 2018. Tracy has remained a very strong presence in my life, even till today. Tracy's TAG class was the best part of my day growing
040up. Looking back, that's probably because it was the first place where I was part of an academic group discussion. In Tracy's class, if we had a question about something totally random, she wouldn't tell us to go and get back on track. Instead, she met our curiosity. Well, what did you think about? What makes you think it works that way? She both encouraged childhood creativity and treated our thoughts, questions, and opinions with the respect all budding young people crave. I was a very quiet, anxious kid plagued by constant self-doubt and starving for confidence. When I tell this to people who know me now, they're surprised. Sometimes, even I'm still surprised. The truth is, I did not change, not as a person. What happened was that Tracy and the program she ran, particularly Odyssey, pulled who I
041am to the surface by giving me the confidence and courage I needed. Tracy pushed me when I needed to be pushed, and I can't tell tell you the number of times she told me to get out of my own way. >> [laughter] >> It was perhaps her most prolific piece of advice during Odyssey. I used to plan a costume for days until she particularly grabbed me by the shoulders and say don't plan it, do it. Even now as I approach my mid-20s, her maxim still rings in my ears when I notice myself paralyzed by self-doubt, anxiety, and indecision. She also pulled me back when I got too far out on the edge. I remember nights shortly before competition when it felt like everything was going wrong. In my moments of festering, I felt like doing
042everything for another run and quitting altogether. Tracy would do something like take me into the middle of the room, lie on the floor with me, or get me to laugh at myself, or just spin in circles. Tracy never let me take myself too seriously. Most importantly, she'd drag me out of my shell, sometimes by force. Kidding. And I will always be grateful that she did. Not only has it made the best things in my life possible, but has brought me a great sense of relief. I never realized how heavy caring about what everyone else thought about me was until she took that lift off my shoulder. Tracy has the immeasurable impact on my life. She's not just my teacher, but my family. She is someone I can call when everything hits the wall, or when
043I just need to talk. Perhaps it's part of being a young person to take your mentors for granted. I know I've certainly done that many times before. You can say thank you after the fact like I'm doing now, but I don't think that will ever be enough. Perhaps the only way to pay it back is to serve as that kind of person for somebody else. Someone who pushes you to be best version of yourself. Not for the benefit of others, but for you. Someone who sees who you are and what you're capable of, even when, especially when, you don't see it in yourself. And that's Tracy's legacy. I have several more letters from Tracy's Odyssey teams in here, and each one shares a similar sentiment. You have influenced and inspired thousands. Mazel tov, my friend.
044>> [applause] [applause] >> Ms. Sham, you were a great teacher, and I think you probably were the most impactful out of any teacher I've had going from elementary school even through now I've graduated college. Um I I learned a lot in TAG. I I agree with a lot of what Colleen said, but I don't have as nice of words. Odyssey was is very, I think, unforgettable experience that'll stick with me for the rest of my life. Um a large part thanks to you and how much you pushed us. It was very hard. Um you know, it was possibly one of the hardest things I'd done at that point in my life. Um but I think it was worth it, and it was incredible going to compete on a world stage, and like getting second place.
045It was You know, it was it was incredible, and thank you so much. Um and you're a wonderful teacher, and thank you so much. Here's mine. >> [applause] [laughter] >> Thank you so much. Aw. >> [laughter] >> I miss you, Sham. Okay. Hello, OPS. My name is Caden Chung, and I'm a former Panther here at Oradell Public School. I'm currently a ninth grader, but I still remember my first time my family moved to Oradell. I was in first grade, and my sister Zoe was in fourth. We were both nervous about adjusting to a completely new environment, new schools, new people, and a house that barely felt like a home yet. But from the very beginning, there was Miss Sham making OPS feel like a second home. Zoe was accepted into the TAG program, and Miss
046Sham would bring the younger kids upstairs on Tuesdays to visit the cool older kids floor. Soon after, Zoe joined Odyssey of the Mind, and as the family of students in the program, we quickly learned how much dedication it took. Late nights, long hours, the grueling drive in flights to competitions, but most of all, the endless creativity. What made Miss Sham special was her ability to bring out creativity in every student and let it run wild. She gave kids the freedom to imagine, create, and simply just be kids. Even as the younger brother tagging along Odyssey events, Miss Sham took me under her wing. She did put me to work color >> [laughter] >> coloring plastic fish or even just delivering news to her students. Um but it didn't matter because she included me. She became
047what I like to call my school mother. She literally did everything um a mother would do. She would comfort me when I was stressed, give me advice on my hormonal teenage drama, >> [laughter] >> teach me proper etiquette, and of course correct my grammar. But most of all, she taught me to accept everyone and be kind. She was still a huge part of my life and nothing short of a perfect influence. Thank you so much for everything you've done for me, my family, and of course OPS. Congratulations on your retirement. I hope it's full of corgis, the Wizard of Oz, definitely no more thoughts of Odyssey, and full of love and joy. We all love you, but just know as your school son, I will always love you a little more. Congratulations, Michelle. >> [applause]
048[applause] >> All right. So, I'm Mr. Mangle, the librarian here at OPS, and I just wanted to say a few things to Tracy. Um First of all, a couple things to know about Tracy. Number one, she hates wearing hats. They mess up her hair. >> [laughter] >> Number two, if there is sunshine anywhere in the vicinity, she will find it. Even in the depths of winter, she will find a patch of sunshine on the sidewalk and stand in it. Number three, she is an incredibly loyal friend and was always there for her friends. Four, she has plenty of opinions and is not afraid to share them. Number five, she's goofy and that's a good thing. Uh Number six, and most importantly, Tracy is a teacher. She is always teaching. I have been doing morning door
049duty next to her for 9 years and I can tell you that she never misses an opportunity to pass along knowledge. Whether it's educating the fourth and first grade students about what kind of clouds are above their heads and what it means for the weather or explaining the importance of wearing a hat in the cold of the winter. Exactly, even if she's not wearing one. Tracy sees everything as an opportunity to teach and enhance children's understanding of the world around them. Even the inherent beauty in the 1970s era FM radio hit. If you've never paid Tracy's classroom a visit, you'll see evidence of this very fact that she is always teaching. It's a wonderland for kids who are interested in discovery, whether it's the creations of our Odyssey of the Mind kids that adorn the
050classroom or the books and pictures used to elicit intellectual discussions. I've sent two of my library interns down to spend time in her classroom and had a very hard time getting them back to mine. Once you enter Tracy's world, she's got you. When I started at OPS back in 2017, there were two teachers who I I tended to gravitate to and they were Corrine Lynch and Tracy Sham. Both were accomplished veteran teachers who were always willing to take a newbie like me under their wing and teach them how to succeed. I go a great debt of gratitude to both of them for their patience and willingness to guide me through the complexities of teaching. Since Corrine left in 2020, Tracy has become an even closer friend and mentor. She's guided me through difficult situations and
051reveled in my successes and I don't think I'd be as successful without her. If you know Tracy well, you know she's a reader which touches my heart cuz I'm a librarian. And not just any reader, but a voracious reader. The type that always returned to school in the fall having spent her summer reading at least 70 plus books to my maybe 20. So uh So nothing makes me happier than imagining her sitting by her backyard pool reading and reading and reading until it's too dark to do so. Tracy, congratulations on your retirement. It is well deserved. Now go read a book. >> [applause] >> I I would also like to congratulate Heidi O'Keefe who has always been so wonderful and so nice to me. She's a wonderful teacher. I've seen her at work. It's incredible.
052Some of the kids that come into my library you know, talk about her all the time and how they you know, she's encouraged them to read etc. So thank you. Thank you for all your wonderful work. >> [applause] >> Hi Michelle. I want to come up here and thank you for having such an incredible impact on my life. I was part of Odyssey of the Mind 7 years ago and there are so many lessons and skills that I have learned that I still use today. I still remember to never crinkle a plastic water bottle when I drink it. >> [laughter] >> I still remember the right way to heat a hot glue gun and I will always remember the amazing experience that Odyssey was from the cut up waterfall from the plastic bottles to the
053paper mache globe that I will admit definitely took longer than it should have. Your dedication to this school and the students will forever push them to be the best that they can possibly be. You've inspired me in so many ways and I'm so thankful that you've been a part of my life. Congratulations on your retirement, Yusef Ervin. >> [applause] >> I'll open to the board afterwards for everyone. Okay. Go ahead, Ms. Walker. Um so, I'm Marita Walker and Tracy and I met each other back Oh, I'm not going to Oh, you gave the year. Okay. >> [laughter] >> And I didn't realize, but we met at graduate school. We were both going for our master's. And um Tracy and I kind of cultivated a relationship and we ended up having a great time and that
054was in the days of the early computers. Remember that? And we were learning how to use a mouse. Can you imagine that goes back how far? But we always had such good times together and I never realized what an impact Tracy had on the school and on the kids until I became a member of the board. And Tracy, you are just invaluable here at OPS. But I tend to believe that you will not be just home reading by your pool. I think both you and Mrs. O'Keefe deserve to come out and come back, relax a little bit, but then come back and share some of your expertise in teaching. It uh I'm doing that part-time and it really does pay off. But, I do agree agree with Ms. Fouse Rios, we do need to get
055some really good teachers out there. So, anyway, God bless you, Tracy, and good luck, and I'm sure you're going to be out and about before we know it. >> [applause] >> This is so much better than the one that used to be up there. With the button that never turned on. I just want I I you know me, the things I mean I say in jest, and I make [clears throat] a joke out of everything, even Shakespeare. I comic relief, right? Um so, when I start to feel that way, this is what I do. Um I for once don't have words. Um just thank you. Um it's going to be very weird not walking up and down these halls and staying here until 10:00 at night and 10-hour Saturdays and getting to know families. Um
056if you see my convertible in the driveway, anybody in this room, any family, any colleague, anybody, board member, it just means I feel like a cup of coffee and a chat cuz as my great-grandmother used to say, I was vaccinated with a phonograph needle. So, just thank you from the bottom of my heart. We As Ms. O'Keefe said, we don't do this alone, and you know, Wicked is my second favorite after The Wizard of Oz, and the song I knew you, um I know that I am who I am today because I knew every single person in this room. Thank you for helping me be who I am. Love you. >> [applause] [applause] >> Whoever wants to come up here and get a picture, come on up. All our students, colleagues, whoever wants to. Uh
057oops, sorry. Mrs. Dory wants to say something first. Go ahead. >> You can't You can't not get something from one of the Norions since you had the first one in your class long before you ever became part of TAG. Long before. Uh when you were in fourth grade and I I I have to tell you that my daughter still talks about the organization skills that she learned in your class that she uses to this day. And um you're >> [clears throat] >> you're you're the only teacher that my Well, I can't say that because there were so many that were were very very capable and very good with my children, but how you were how you were with Well, you with TAG, with with some of the others, but but actual classroom every day with
058Alyssa was incredible. And as a class mother at the time, it was incredible for me as a class mother to work with you. Um and I appreciated everything you did for not just my children, but every child in this school. Thank you. I will uh be checking on those books that you're reading because it's a contest, honey. Okay? >> [laughter] >> Okay. I'm just going to say good luck to you. We're going to miss you. And I met you through Odyssey. My son I was just texting him. I said, "I should have had you come in." He's like, "Do you want me to come now?" I'm like, "It's No, it's too late." Yeah, the first year we went to the local competition. We made it to regional the first year, I believe, right? No? >>
059first competition is regional. >> Well, then we made it to one other, I thought. >> the lost labor of Hercules. >> [laughter] >> We walked in with a box of painted sheets. I had that in my house till like 2018. And three kids who walked in going, "This is cool." And I said, "We're not staying." >> [laughter] >> But that was the start of it. >> stay, so it's all their fault. >> was the start of it. And then you went to worlds like every year after that, so. >> membership sign fell down and I was scared to talk to you and I was like, "Oh my god, this is her kids, first year, and the membership sign fell." I was like, "Kids." No, it was so fun. >> I like, "No, we're good." >>
060[laughter] >> Miss Shawn, one more final comment. Um people know that I've said before this isn't always an easy community to walk into. And my first year here, I was the new assistant principal that would do anything. And when the board said, "We want an administrator to go to Mission again for this Odyssey of the Mind tournament." I said, "Yes, boss. Where would you like me to go and how?" And you guys have been my family also because of Tracy. Ben, you ate tomatoes out through the entire world championship. Caden, I sat next to you while your sister was competing and we ate Duncan Munchkins and you had an allergy and I didn't know if you could have the Duncan Munchkins and you were like, "They're allergy free." Um so, thank you for giving me
061memories with all of them. And I see Ryan on the other side. There are photos, there are um everything on my computer. Um I will never walk into the TAG room downstairs, which I have told Tracy for years is not the tag room, it's a classroom that she rents. But when we so excitedly, Mr. Darian will tell you, renovated that room and I was so proud of it and I walked in and she went it needed a slop sink. >> And a vent fan. Yeah. So every time I walk into that room, I will say to myself, it needs a slop sink, but I'm not going to miss Choppy, so keep him home. I'm taking Choppy home with me. Thank you all for coming. We're going to take a 5-minute break. If you want to
062stay, you're welcome, but this would be a good time if you want to leave. Thank you. Yes. >> I am Yes. I will be honest Uh May you go to a park sometime? That's fine. My wife has been in class three times. So, in December We decided now is a good time. Are you taking off? Congratulations. I have a year of giving. >> [laughter] >> No, normal. I obviously have a >> Mhm. >> board, we're going to move to the superintendent's report. Good evening. Um today was a very hot day and if you did not pass, and I hope Mr. Nutlin that your son had a wonderful hot dog today. And just so you know, that hot dog was grilled by our business administrator. There are photos, there is an apron. When you take a
063job at Orwell Public School, you never know exactly what you'll be doing. But he has gotten that job and it is his for the rest of his time at OPS. Was it a chicken hot dog? There were some vege- there were some vegetarian ones, I think. There were some There were Okay. And there were chicken. Had chicken. And there were some plant-based. All I know is they ate everything. They were all gone. [laughter] >> To the point that he didn't even get one. I know. They ate everything. I don't know who came up with the ratio this year, but a little off. Yeah. Um we also did have our art show last night and it is one of my favorite times of the year. There are over a thousand pieces of art in the art
064show each year that gets put up. Every student is represented at least once, many twice. Uh I actually am very excited because I have been looking to put some artwork in the board office, so I got to walk walk the art show yesterday and choose some of our first pieces that we will display in the um lounge area. Um so that will be coming soon and tomorrow is our second spring concert of the year. So, if you are around at 7:00, our fifth and sixth grade choral groups, band groups, and handbells will be performing, and that concludes my report. Thank you, Mr. Iapelli. Yes, so this week, uh the past couple of weeks, I've been working on our extraordinary aid application. Uh so, that we won't find out what our exact funding is until July,
065and that amount fluctuates each year based on how much money is available. Uh so, that's what I've been working on, and that concludes my report. Moving to minutes review of May 6th. Any questions or comments, please email Mr. Iapelli. Uh we have approval of April 22nd. Do I have a motion? Motion to approve the meeting uh minutes for April 22nd. Second. Seconded by Mrs. Walker. Any questions? Call the question. On the roll, Mrs. Ganchi. Yes. Mrs. Moran. >> Yes. Mrs. Norian. Yes. Mr. Nutley. Yes. Mrs. Walker. Yes. Mr. Darian. Yes. Mrs. Nichols. Yes. Mr. Darian, would you take administrative? Yes, I'd like to introduce items A1 and A2. Um A1 is a resolution urging relief from rising public school employee health care costs. That's the resolution we discussed last meeting. And uh A2 is the
066HIB report we reviewed. I'll second it. Seconded by Mrs. Norian. Any questions? Call the question. On the roll, Mrs. Ganchi. Yes. Mrs. Moran. Yes. Mrs. Norian. Yes. Mr. Nutley. Yes. Mrs. Walker. Yes. Mr. Darian? Yes. Mrs. Nichols? Yes, buildings and grounds. Mrs. Del Greco is not here. Mr. Darian, any report for buildings and grounds? >> Uh no no report. We did not meet since our last board meeting and I've nothing new to report. Curriculum, Mrs. Darian? Uh yes, we had uh we finally had our meeting today. Um uh and I will summarize it more in the future. You'll get probably the minutes at the next meeting, but just for your information, we reviewed where we are with our science curriculum. Um reviewed some of the data that we've gotten from LinkIt over uh over the
067years and um some of the results of our children and their achievements in different areas. Um lots of data and uh we're looking into um possibly doing a day a tech-free day um in June. Um but we would not do it for the whole school. We are looking at possibly um looking at different days for the different grades. Um again looking at technology as a teaching tool and um just uh going forward. Is there anything else that you'd like to add on to that, Miss Bozzio? Oh, it yes. Um and in addition to that, I'd also like to walk on uh C1, which is approval of a field trip. Um it is actually a field trip to Applebee's in Hackensack. Um and the reason we are doing it is because um there is one of
068our students who entered a a contest. He won the contest and his class is joining him at Applebee's. Uh only his class and so we have just the one class going to Applebee's. That'll be interesting. So, I make that motion for C1. Second. Second by Mr. Nutland. Any questions? Um, Mrs. Walker. Um, I just have to say I I really got a lot out of the curriculum meeting today. Um, we had an in-depth look at the Lincoln and also the um ELA, the results of the uh how kids have been doing in English language. And it was very interesting and informative to me. I'm not sure if you heard or the explained in your packet next month or next week. Any other questions? Yeah, I have a question. Uh yeah, I have a question regarding
069field trip. Um, is that an all-day thing or is that a Is there a time frame on this? And cuz it's kind of vague with the um We don't typically put any kind of a date or a time on because of confidentiality purposes. It is about 2 hours. It is lunch. Okay. Any other questions? Call the question. On the roll, Mrs. Genchi. Yes. [clears throat] Mrs. Moran. Yes. Mrs. Norian. Yes. Mr. Nutland. Yes. Mrs. Walker. Yes. Mr. Darian. Yes. Mrs. Nichols. Yes. Finance, Mr. Darian. Uh yes, we have not had a finance meeting since our last board meeting. So, all I have to discuss tonight is just the introduction of um D1 through I believe it's D9 now. If I'd like to introduce those nine items. I'll second. Second by Mrs. Second by Mrs. Norian.
070Any questions? Call the question. On the roll, Mrs. Genchi? >> Yes. Mrs. Moran? Yes. Mrs. Norian? Yes. Mr. Nutley? Yes. Mrs. Walker? Yes. Mr. Darian? Yes. Mrs. Nichols? Yes, delegate report. Uh yes, the delegate um assembly was this past Saturday. Um and I believe that you've all received cuz I think they send everything to you um the results of what the meeting was. Um there were a couple things that happened. Uh one of which was they elected in um someone to be uh the vice president of the legislative um committee of NJ SBA. So, their their whole committee is is complete at this point. It was Charles Carabella um who I happen to know a lot uh because we both work as trainers. Um a very good choice. Um we did review all of the
071um resolutions that were presented. Um the resolutions um all of them passed except for the first one. The first one did not pass. Um it was an another interesting day in um in watching Robert's Rules being used um because it was let's just say it was a it was a long it was a long meeting. Um and very very interesting uh presentations of people who wanted to have their their items passed, their resolutions passed. Um but if there is anything that anyone wants to talk about at any of that, this is the brochure. There's additional information on each one of those resolutions. Um and the vote that was taken on each one of them so you know how many people voted for or against each one of those items. Do they record these meetings like
072>> Yes. So is there a link that we can watch it or was that was sent to us? >> be I don't know if that is part of what they sent out today. Um They sent out Yeah. They sent out This was just a print one. I don't think that there was a link to uh the recording but they it it was recorded and we were reminded a number of times not to talk other than the people who were directly talking into the into the microphones so that they would have a clean recording. So it will be available. Okay? Personnel, Mrs. Walker. Yes, thank you. Um I'd like to present F1 through F6. I'll second. Second by Mr. Nutlin. Any questions? And and I just neglected to say that um I guess in your packet
073you have the results of the personnel committee that we had last week. Um but just to recap, we talked about um non-affiliate staff um and review of personnel uh of random new hires specifically new hires. Plus a varied other updates on administrative team etc. Any questions? Call the question. On the roll, Mrs. Genchi. >> Yes. Mrs. Moran. Yes. Mrs. Norian. Yes. Mr. Nutland? Yes. Mrs. Walker? Yes. Mr. Darian? Yes. Mrs. Nichols? Yes. Policy, Mr. Nutland? Yes, we are struggling to find dates that to work, so I will try again. It's just everyone's schedules are busy, so we will get we'll get it soon. Public Relations, Ms. Moran? Um there's no update. Hoping to get a meeting on the calendar before the end of the school year. And Special Education? Um nothing since the last meeting,
074right? Okay. Uh open to the public. Any old or new business? I think um if you saw your email May 7th, we got an email from the OEA corresponding secretary thanking us for the bagel breakfast, but I also had this in my packet. Dear Board of Ed members, thanks so much for the teacher appreciation bagel breakfast. Such a great way to start the day with gratitude. Michelle Haas, first grade. So she's in the Um I I guess this is just a comment observation. It was nice to see so many teachers that were recognized over the years to be here tonight to accept that. I thought that was very nice and great responses to those that were retiring. Two of the retiring were teachers of the year. Mary Ellen O'Keefe and >> Yes. Tracy Shaw. That's
075right. It was also nice to see former teachers who had retired years ago that came back for their colleagues. That was a a nice touch as well. Any other old or new business? Any need to go into a closed session? Any need for a closed session. Ms. Balducci? All right. I move to adjourn. Second. All in favor?