001Thank you. Good evening and calling the meeting to order. Welcome to the West Harford Public Schools regular board of education meeting. It is Tuesday, November the 18th, 2025. Karen, may you please call the role? >> Mr. present. >> Mr. Goldman >> here. >> Dr. Harris >> here. >> Mrs. Marman >> here. >> Mrs. Nesserella >> present. >> Dr. Thomas Farcus >> here. >> Mrs. Yagalof >> present. Student representative Conrad Kelkkey >> here. >> And student representative Kayla Gia here. >> Thank you. And Conrad, may you please lead us in the pledge of 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. >> Thank you. We do have a revision to the agenda order. I make
002a motion that the order of the agenda be changed to put the following agenda items before unfinished business. that being recognition of outgoing board members, induction of newly elected board me board members, brief recess, new board members will take seats at the board table and election of officers and board organizations. Is there a second? >> Second. >> Thank you. Any discussion? All of those in favor say I. >> I. I. >> Any oppose? Any abstain? The eyes have it. Thank you. Now we shall proceed to public communications. This is an opportunity for us to hear from you your thoughts, your questions, your suggestions. Each individual is allowed three minutes to speak and we ask when you go to the podium to please share your name and your town of residents. Please be mindful that we
003are attentively listening. However, it is policy that we do not respond to comments as they are being made. While you are speaking, please be aware of Karen who will hold up a yellow card when you have one minute remaining in your time. And when your time is expired, you will see a red card. and we ask for you please to conclude your sentence and respectfully take your seat. We do have a signup sheet but there were no names on the list. Therefore, we'll ask if there is anyone in the audience who cares to make a public comment. One more time. All right, seeing none, we shall proceed with the agenda. Moving on to non-staff communications and reports. This is where we're able to hear from our student representatives what is going on within their schools.
004So, let us begin with Kayla sharing about Hall. And that's all right. While you get settled, we'll move right on. You're all set. Okay. Good evening, everyone. I'm so happy to be back with another update from Hall. To start off, I want to update that the Veterans Day was a great success. We had a lunch in a concert featuring the orchestra and coral ensembles. And thank you to Miss Yagalof and Mr. Vicinus for attending. It was so excited to have you as guests and we really appreciate the opportunity for us to show our appreciation. So, tomorrow kicks off parent teacher conferences for the next three days and we are so excited to invite families to partner with teachers in support of students. Classes on Thursday and Friday will have a delayed start at 10:30 a.m.
005Furthermore, next week is a short week due to the Thanksgiving holiday. On the sports side, this Saturday is the Hallconered football game taking place at Hall. Winter sports registration is also open for an early December start. Lastly, the fall showcase at St. James Church presented by I, Giovanni Cisti, and the West Hartford Camda featuring Hall Coralers and Connor Solo Choir on November 16th, which was last Sunday. It was a great success. And that is all. Thank you so much. >> Thank you, Kayla. And swift job coming on in, keeping it moving. Good job. Nice. Conrad, please share what's going on at Connard. >> Hello everyone. My name is Connor Kaukkey and I will be your representative from Connor today. Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Veterans Day ceremony. A heartfelt thank you to
006the Tracy family for generously donating our flag and flag pole. To Chris Islo and his modern warfare classes, and to Danielle Urick and her culinary students for their hard work and preparation. Thank you to Dana Martin for hosting a visit on sustainability and the value of buying secondhand clothing from Evermello, owner of Forever Vintage. This year, Connard's junior class board continues the tradition of assisting families in providing holiday presents to their children. If you're interested in participating in such a wonderful program, feel free to reach out to Cindy Vanic. A reminder to all parents and and caregivers, we have conferences this week and we look forward to connecting about your students progress. Also, Connor fall sports are wrapping up and Connor's final football game will be at Hall this Saturday. So, make sure to show
007your support. The principal of the losing team will wear the other school sweatshirt. I wonder who will win. Congratulations to Con Connor girls swim west champions. The team also finished in third place at the CIA doublel championships and 12th place at the CIA state open championships. Field hockey, boys golf, boys and girls cross country and girls volleyball also all qualified for their state tournaments. Tonight, Connard's 10-minute play festival opens. The much awaited studentr run plays have been almost entirely sold out, and we are looking forward to seeing all our amazing student actors. Thank you. >> Thank you, Conrad. Nice job stepping in representing well nice both of you nicely done now we shall move to recognition of outgoing board members and so it's odd stating this while I am one of those members nonetheless we
008shall proceed as the agenda is written and so we know that we have three teammates that are departing that being Dr. Gail Harris Claire Nessarella and Dr. Dr. Lorna Thomas Farcus. So we will give an opportunity for teammates to share their words of farewell individually. And let us begin with words for Dr. Gail Harris. And if I may start here and we'll just go along and each person will say their words. Okay. So Gail, I truly appreciate how much time you put into the board. Um being on the policy board and the other committees. Um you've been dedicated to West Harford and it's been very evident as well as now running for town council. So congratulations on that. Um I really appreciate the effort you made to connect personally um coming to my school garden
009and inviting my daughter and I to Sukoke. It was really nice to get to know you and I wish you the best. >> So I I'm very happy that this isn't really goodbye, right? Um you're going to continue to serve and I think the town is all the better for that. Um I've really enjoyed our time together. Um I thank you for always being so data driven. Um, and I I really have always admired your um, you know, your dedication to the mental health of our students. Um, I think those are just two things that um, I'll carry with me going forward. Um, I've enjoyed collaborating with you on what we can. I think it's been a nice show of what, you know, we can do across the aisle. Um, so again, I'm glad we're
010not losing you. I think the town is appreciative of your service. I certainly am, and good luck to you. Um so I just want to um echo my colleagues and giving my appreciation Gail to your service on the West Harford Board of Education. Um you've brought very thoughtful judicious um scrutiny to our discussions which ground um our work in uh data like Jason said and you present questions in a desire for transparency, clarity and responsible stewardship on behalf of students, families and the community. Um as you step into your new role in the town council, I wish you success. It takes a lot of courage to take on new challenges in public service in particular these days and I applaud your commitment uh to our town. And on a personal personal note, I want to
011thank you for something very special. Um you were the catalyst that reconnected me with my closest childhood friend. Um and I think that's a gesture that meant a lot more to me than you'll ever know. So um I'm just very profoundly grateful to you for that and just thank you for your service and I wish you all the best in your next adventure. Um, so Gail, I want to thank you for number one, just staying open-minded and giving me an opportunity to show you who I am. Um, over the time that we've served together, I genuinely appreciated getting to understand your deep love and commitment and advocacy for our community. It's clear how much you care, and that care has always shown up in your work at this table. I was truly honored when you
012invited me to attend the JCC event with you. Um, that moment mattered a lot to me and it gave us a chance to stand beside each other and to share our beliefs openly with each other and to affirm our commitments to educating and protecting our communities. We may not agree on everything and that's okay, but what we do share is a passion for peace in our schools and a high quality of life for all of our neighbors. Thank you for checking up on me during some of the tougher moments and reminding me that this role is very human. Um, and you made space for me to feel and to process and to understand that being upset was okay and that it didn't didn't mean that I was weak. Um, it meant that I cared and
013I'll always appreciate your compassion. I also appreciate everything that you've brought to this board. your perspective, your voice, your steadiness, it all made a difference. And I know that you'll continue to bring great insight and passion and dedication as you move into your new role in the town council. Congratulations, and I'm wishing you nothing but success and fulfillment in your new chapter. >> You're welcome. >> So, Gail, while the town will benefit overall from your moving to the town council, I'm going to miss your support, collaboration, teamwork on the board of education. I appreciate all the help over the last four years as well as being able to hear your point of view which was always well thought out. I also appreciate the way you were able to work with members of both parties. Finally,
014I want to thank you for your support on getting me on the board and good luck on the town council. >> And Gail, I will echo all that has been shared and certainly do not want to consider this a goodbye just to see you later. But one thing I very much appreciate with you is your willingness to receive and hear different thoughts even if at the end of the day we agreed to disagree. You were still willing to share and still willing to hear and still willing to engage thereafter. And that's really important. It's important for us to model that level of communication. Differences of opinion does not mean communication has to stop. So thank you so much for modeling that. And I also have to say, and many of you may not know this,
015but she is so very talented in many ways, but one way in particular with crocheting. Oh my. And I point that out because it's important to remember there's some levels of connection that are universal and some levels of caring for others that are universal. So, thank you so very much for modeling that. Appreciate the time we've had together. It's been an honor and look forward to more to come. And so with that we shall proceed to we're going to have those of us that are departing we'll give our comments at the end. Next we have departing the board is Claire Nessarella. So if I may this time begin on this side and proceed downward to share words of farewell. So, Claire, thank you for dedicating four years of your life to our town and thank
016you for your many contributions, particularly as a teacher with a unique perspective as to how things actually happen and work in real time. This often made our discussions more real and your comments enhanced our conversations because of your expertise and I really do appreciate that. I know that you are leaving here and you are have big plans for the future and um I wish you luck and success on your next journey and um like said this isn't goodbye but see you later. Claire, I'm sorry to see you leave the board but wish you well in your future I assume retirement hopefully. Uh while there are times I have disagreed with you on your position position on the issues, I've never questioned your passion and sincerity or the amount of time you spent researching issues. And
017then finally, I want to thank you for the text you sent me after October 7th. I appreciate the sentiment at the time. Thank you, Claire. Thank you feels too small for everything that you've been to me. Not just a colleague, but a friend and a sister in this work and a model of what true allyship looks like in action. You are an example full stop. You are the blueprint for how white people should show up for marginalized and vulnerable communities. Your courageous willingness to speak truth to power, to call out corruption, inhumity, and division head on is unmatched. In a social and political climate where so many hide behind titles, bureaucracy, and silence, we need warriors who will step onto the front lines, who will go toe-to-toe with anyone threatening the safety of our most
018vulnerable. And that's you. Every single time you show up with truth, you show up with receipts. You show up in public and in private. You stand 10 toes down. And you stand with heart. You've set a precedent on this board for what integrity, courage, and real allyship look like. You're a legend in your own right, and honestly, one of the most interesting people I've ever met. Your diverse experiences, your sharp mind, your depth, they've shaped the wisdom and insight that you've brought to this board. And I've learned so much from watching you lead. Thank you for being my friend. Thank you for having my back. Thank you for showing up for me in ways big and small and being there for every single win. And my professional life and my personal life since I've met
019you. I'm honored that we got to plan the women's march together. I'm honored we got to serve on this board together. I'm grateful that this isn't the end and we'll keep building, learning, dreaming, and fighting for what's right. Your legacy will continue and I genuinely believe you are someone who can train other mothers, other women, other allies on how to find the power of their voice and stand up for others the way that you do. I look up to you. I respect you deeply and I plan to keep learning from you and playing golf with you. I love you, friend. Thank you for everything. So, Claire, um just want to extend my deepest gratitude for your service and your unwavering commitment to the West Harvard Board of Education and our greater community. Um, as a
020classroom teacher and practitioner, you have brought an invaluable perspective to our deliberations, grounded in the daily realities of schools and the lived experiences of students, educators, and families. Your voice consistently reminded us to center every conversation on what truly matters, each and every student, and with a particular care and celebration for those who might be overlooked or marginalized. Your tenacious lines of inquiry, your thoughtful questions, and your passion strengthened the board's work and pushed us all toward deeper thinking and better outcomes for students. I am grateful for the insight and heart you brought to this role. Thank you, Claire, for advancing the board's purpose with such integrity and dedication. Good luck with what comes next for you, and I know I'll be seeing you soon. So, this is a very profound personal loss for me
021because I'm losing my seatmate. So, I hope you I hope you realize what you're doing to me here. But, um, I think you've heard it all, right? The heart, passion, integrity. Th those are all things that spring to mind when I think of you because I've never met someone with so much passion and dedication for what they do and what they throw themselves into. and the fact that you you come to this with that perspective of a teacher always grounded me and reminded me of why I got on the board in the first place being the son of a lifelong educator. So, it was nice to always have that that constant reminder. Um, I want you to know that those things that you fought for up here, those things that meant so much to you,
022we're not going to let those go by the wayside. We're going to be the advocates for that. So, special education, uh, early childhood education, all those things, we're going to keep those going for you and and honor you. So, um, thank you. I know we're going to be hearing great things about what you do in in, um, it doesn't sound like retirement to me. It sounds way too active for retirement, but, um, I know good and great things are are coming for you and then your whole family. So, thank you so much. >> Again, it's awkward. Um, but if there are um, comments to be made regarding um, Dr. for learner Thomas Farcus. We'll start over. >> Oh my lord. See, that is something. I didn't even give my comments. Pardon? I think that speaks
023volumes. Yes. Well, you know what it is? I I think what it is, Claire. It's because many of you don't know, but I knew Claire even before I was on the board. We were in PLTI together, Parent Leadership Training Institute. So, that connection was pre-existing the formalities of where we are. And as I've already shared, do not view this as a goodbye at all. Just to see you later. And so I think that my unintentional oversight is a reflection of that because plan to see you later. But what I will say with the formalities of the forewell farewell cla is what I greatly respect about you and this is something that was quite clear the very first time we met as well is you are someone who is fiercely determined to pursue whatever you put
024your mind to fiercely. And I say that with admiration because to hear you elevate and speak up and speak out even in moments when the room is quiet speaks volumes about you and your character. You give voice to those who may feel like they have no voice. And that is so very special and so very meaningful not only for the time here on this board but for all of the wonderful things you are going to do beyond the time here on this board. So I appreciate you, I respect you. I uplift you and once again not at all saying goodbye just saying see you later. Okay. Well now if there are comments and we'll start whomever would like to go and I really just want to proceed and move things on but whoever would like
025to make a comment if you if you care. So, as as you mentioned, um I never imagined 10 years ago when I met you at PLTI um that we'd be serving on the board together. And immediately we knew you were our class speaker that presented at the L um the legislative office. Um, and I was so impressed with all that you did in that group and I loved how you lifted up other people. Um, with our stepping down and our daughters graduating, I'm very excited about the chapters ahead and the new experience we have of moms that are leaving um, West Harford Board of Ed. Um, I'm also appreciate all the time you put into the position being a chair and the other roles. You know, you had so much more time. Um I can't
026imagine it was already a big lift and a lot of time on my part and I can't imagine how much time you spent. I appreciate that dedication. Um you showed grace and strength in during very challenging times. Um I was admired your patience and how you handled some of the conflict that we had. You taught me how to rise above, how to have faith and how to keep students at the forefront of every decision. and I'll forever be grateful to have served with you and I'm not saying goodbye. >> It It's so funny as I was listening to to your remarks how similar they are to the words that I was writing down. Grace, strength, being taught. Um you you really have led this board with dignity, grace, and strength through some extremely trying times.
027Um I I think it's uh no secret that that serving on the board of education these days is a lot different than it used to be years ago. Um and and you have just done a remarkable job and and I have learned so very much from from you um about how to do this this role, how to fill it, how to do it right. Um and and really as as Claire said, the time and the dedication it takes to to do it right. Um you've you've modeled all of that and and more. Um you will be deeply deeply missed on a professional and and a personal level. I' I've enjoyed so much getting to know you. Um I know uh we'll probably be seeing you around. Um, you're always free to come get your three
028minutes in. Uh, certainly if if uh we start if we start to stray um I know we'll be hearing from you, but um know that we'll carry all those lessons that we've learned with us. I had to spend a lot of time writing this. Um so it has been a complete honor to serve alongside you, Lorna. And I also met you at PLTI, but I don't think you knew that I met you at PLTI um because I was a couple classes after you and you came back and spoke as an alumni and I was incredibly impressed with your poise and presentation and it it had it set the seeds I think for me even thinking that this was a possibility. Um so you you are a multiplier in that respect. Um, as others have already
029said, you have exquisite grace, diplomacy, and compassion. Um, you are you have qualities that have anchored the board through mo moments of challenge and moments of great progress. Um, as the chairwoman, you have modeled what true public service looks like, steady, thoughtful, inclusive, and centered entirely on what is best for students. Your leadership has never strayed from its core purpose, ensuring that every single student in West Hartford, regardless of background, identity, or circumstance, has access to the opportunities, support, and highquality education they deserve. As I've gotten to know and work alongside you these past two years, I am profoundly grateful for the example you have set and the legacy that you leave behind. West Hartford is a better, stronger district because of your dedication and leadership, and I'm a better person because of it. Thank
030you for all you have given to the West Harford Board of Education and for the inspiration you leave with us as we continue the work you have led with such care and integrity. And this is definitely not goodbye because I will be seeing you in the halls of Connard very soon. Okay. Laura, I'm I'm gonna try to get through this, you are truly a woman of God, a woman of strength, resilience, grace, and purpose. Watching you lead while raising your beautiful daughters, serving the community, and carrying so many responsibilities with excellence has been beyond inspiring. You just don't step up. You walk the walk every single day. You've been our captain. Steadfast, steady, and unshakable. You held this board down even when it was hard. Even when you probably didn't want to, even when the
031load was heavy. And as a black woman in leadership, as the chair, you faced racialized attacks, long nights, constant changes, and you still showed up strong, dignified, and committed. In the black community, we don't always get a chance to meet our legends while they're living. Our heroes, the women who paved the way for us. Usually, we read about them in books. But I've been blessed to actually serve beside one of them. When I first came onto the board, when it felt like parts of our community abandoned me, I felt dehumanized in ways that stayed with me. You were the one who stood by me and never wavered. You restored dignity in me when it was stripped away. You lifted me up. You dusted me off. and you reminded me that I deserve to be here.
032Your confidence gave me confidence. Your poise gave me poise. Your PhD inspired me to pursue mine and your belief in me changed me. I'll never forget it and I'm forever grateful. Lorna, you are a Proverbs 31 woman clothed in strength and dignity, laughing without fear of the future, speaking with wisdom, guiding with faithful instruction. The strength it takes to move the way that you move, to stand the way you stand, to love the way that you love, that strength is supernatural. As you pass the baton tonight, I want you to know this. I will carry your legacy forward, our legacy with pride, honor, and the same righteous fire that you modeled for me. Thank you for being my sister in this work. Thank you for loving me through the storm, and thank you for paving
033the way. Lorna, walking into the board of education four years ago, I had no idea how the board operated or how the board members interacted with one another. Upon joining the board, I was really surprised or pleasantly surprised to see a real positive team attitude. It isn't something that happens by accident. I've seen how hard you worked to foster a positive team atmosphere and give you a significant amount of credit for creating the attitude that exists on the board. It makes the board of education a much more effective organization with the positive teamwork. I also appreciate the number of times that you've called or text Gail and myself to let us know if changes to the schedule or provided advanced information that has enabled us to be more effective in our roles as member of
034the board. Thank you. So, Lorna, thank you for your leadership at our as our board chair. As much work as this job takes for each and every one of us, being the chair is even more work and it's more time away from family and friends. So, thank you for taking that on. You ran these meetings professionally and gracefully and always allowed everyone's opinion to be heard. I believe that part of the ability of this group of people here to work together as well as they did is because of the leadership that you provided here. I wish you luck wherever you are going next and wherever your journey takes you and thank you for everything that you've done for this board. Okay. All right. Well, after everyone has been so kind with their words, now it's
035an opportunity for Claire, Gail, and myself to share our farewell words. And so, Gail, may we begin with you, please? Um, so I'm proud of many of the things that we did at this table and I'm disappointed in some of the decisions that did come at this board table. But what I'm most proud of is how we operated here as a group. We are all different people. We have different life experiences. We bring something different to this table. And while we could vehemently disagree here, but once we were done debating and discussing, we treated each other generally with respect and friendship. At a time where there is such vitriol in our politics around the country, I am proud of how we conducted ourselves at this table even when the issues were difficult, hard, and divisive.
036And I think that that's a testament to the people sitting at this table. I want to also thank um our superintendent and the executive team and all of our uh people who work for this district for everything that they do every day for our students and our district. So, thank you. Um it's really been quite a for quite a journey for me. Um I've learned a lot from each and every one of you. Um, I've enjoyed working um with each and every one of you and um I appreciate everything that everyone has done uh for the board. Um I also have I didn't know if we were going to give individual comments so I can wait and let other people go and come back. >> Okay. Um I just wanted to say a few things
037about the people who are staying on the board. Um um Latoya um I am I truly admire your passion for the things you believe in. Although we did not agree too often at this table, occasionally we did agree even though we were coming at the issue from different directions. Um, I got to know you a bit uh when we went to the JCC and had some discussions um when we attended a couple events together. And I realized that even though we disagree um we also have a lot in common um and our humanity uh for each other I think is what really sticks out for me. Um I wish you success in your final two years here and um only good things going forward. Uh Jason, I enjoyed working with you. Um me, you and
038Lorna worked really hard together at policy and negotiation team. Sometimes I felt like we saw each other more than we saw anybody else. Um as the only lawyer at this table, I believe, um your ability to negotiate and work collaboratively was much appreciated. It I think it often helped us find common ground. Um, and I think that that really helped in uh policy committee and even on the um negotiation team. Um, I wish you lots of success in your new term. Congratulations to you. Got a whole another four years here. Um, and I know you're going to be great here. Um, and the new board members are are lucky to have you here. Um, Ethan, thank you for being a great board of ed partner for four years. Um, I really enjoyed our time working
039here together and I appreciate all the collaboration and all your expertise. Um, I appreciate all your help on the financial side of it and understanding budgets uh and helping me um make decisions on those kinds of important um aspects of of our job here. Um, I wish you lots of success here with the new board another couple of years um and only good things going forward. And last but not least, Shannon, thank you for your time that you have dedicated to our board of ed. I always find your comments to be thoughtful and u well thought out. Um I think when you speak, though you don't speak that often, but when you do, I I think that people listen and I think they respect you. Um I think that your background and what you do
040professionally gives you a unique perspective here that helps our our board move forward. Um, I am thrilled to hear that you reconnected with our mutual friend. Um, I wish you lots of luck going forward and um, I know you guys will take the board to to a good position. Thank you. So, um, my four years of serving on the board is ending. Um, it's been an honor, a challenge, an adventure, and a privilege all in one. I'm thankful for the vote of confidence placed in me, and I was happy to do all I could for the students in the town that I love. Having the perspective of working 17 years for West Hartford and then having the chance to be on the board, it is not by chance that this district wins so many uh
041recognitions. the town. It is amazing. And when you have um children that are vulnerable or um struggle with learning, there is nothing that compares to West Harford's education. Um and so I'm so grateful that I could represent on the board, but also um that my daughter could benefit from it all and that we could do some important work to make more impact on our marginalized students. Um I also want to say um I think there's a misunderstanding of how much power we have and it was very difficult at times um in public comment and emails being um accused or things being shared and we really do we had the honor of hiring Paul which was you know amazing opportunity to look for a new superintendent. We've worked hard on policy decisions and budget. And really,
042if people understood that that's the scope of our influence, that's our purview, that's what we do. Um there are many times that I wished I could have said, but we don't have that control, you know. Um because people, we need people to serve and we need people to stand up. And I'm really glad that I did. I hope more people realize that their voice has value. We need to hear from everybody and there's no one out there that couldn't represent something they care about. Um, and we have that obligation. I'm not finished advocating for special education, um, working on LGBTQ rights, pushing for increasing preK seats in West Hartford and across the state. Whatever I do, I will stand up for diversity, equity, and inclusion because I believe that diversity is our strength. Equity lets
043everyone succeed and inclusion will never be wrong. I want to thank the residents for voting for me to represent them. It's been an honor to serve the students, teachers, and families of West Hartford. And as to all of you, um I feel confident that the board is in good hands. I've had the pleasure of working with you guys for two years and Latoya a little bit longer. Um, I'm glad you're continuing to serve. Um, and I hope that people um start to understand more about what your role is and what you can do and what you really can't do. Um, I also think that it's an amazing town and the dedication of board members makes the school stronger. So thank you all >> and I echo the thanks that both of my colleagues have shared.
044Uh and I will we'll share a little bit more. It has been an honor to sit at this table in various seats for the past eight years. I've been very candid in sharing that there was no mistake in terms of wanting to be involved and committed in serving our students in this district did not require me having to have this title of being a board member. As a parent in the district, I knew that I wanted to be involved. I knew that I wanted to be a part of our students learning. I knew that I wanted to be a part of the culture of our community. and being a part of the board has helped that all the more and it will continue to help because I think it's important that what we invest the
045time that we put in is something that should not just be during the duration of our board seat but it should be a lifetime commitment whether you have children in the district or not have often said it takes a village to raise a child and very much continue to believe that because all of us must support and work together to help our children who are going to be our future leaders. And speaking of leaders, current leaders, I certainly want to thank those that are here at the table with the role that you played in helping to lead our district. Jason, I have to say that I greatly appreciate and respect the way that you think and you process step by step. And you ensure that we think and conceptualize in a way of making practical
046decisions, but also listening to all that has been shared. And you have a universal smile about you as well, which can be helpful and at times it makes you wonder, what are you thinking? But nonetheless, the words that come out and the actions and the steps you take clearly remind us of what your purpose is here. And we are so honored to have you at this table. Congratulations once again on your election. And as have said, not at all saying goodbye, just saying see you later. But your presence speaks volumes and thank you for reminding us that when it comes to representation, all persons matter. So thank you so very much. And with you, Shannon, again, not saying goodbye to you because yes, we have children that happen to be at the same school, same
047grade, all of those things, same class indeed. But what I respect about you and and many have made reference to this, Shannon, you are a quiet storm. A quiet storm. because although your words may be few, what is said is powerful and lasting and greatly appreciate and respect that about you. And I also appreciate your willingness to expose and to share those things that are often not wanting to be talked about, but talking about it in a way that encourages for us to continue to move forward in a holistic way, recognizing that where we are now may not be where we need to be come tomorrow, but at least to consider those conversations. And I appreciate you pushing the envelope in that. I appreciate as well your love for life, your love for learning, your
048love for analytical thinking. Oh my, you talk about an analytical mind. You certainly have that and you are such an asset to this team as is everyone else. So thank you. Not saying goodbye, but certainly look forward to seeing you again. and to you. I was I didn't break a tear until you started talking and you mentioned my babies. Latoya, you are something else. And you are someone who in spite of challenges you were faced with, you continue to pursue with resilience, with purpose, in spite of. You are a wow. And what do I mean by that? A woman of words and action. And that's important. A lot of people can talk, but when you're willing to put some action behind those words, that's powerful. And so I encourage for you to continue to use
049your power, to continue to use your voice, to speak up for so many, those heard and those unheard. But while doing so, always remember who you are and your purpose, and never lose sight of that because you do belong. I wish you well. No goodbyes, just a see you later. And Ethan, I appreciate you, Ethan. You are such a blessing. I appreciate because you ask questions. You receive feedback. You're willing to engage. Even if there may be a difference of opinion, you are still willing to engage. But what I very much appreciate and respect about you is you remind us of the importance of generational love and support. The way that you talk about your children, but then also your grandchildren speaks volumes to that Ethan. And you remind us that the commitment that we
050have is not just situational. It should be ongoing. And I so appreciate that with you and respect that about you. And even with your questions, appreciate you asking your questions, but ensuring that we continue the conversation. Even if some may not want to converse, it's important to have those conversations. So, I appreciate you. The board is blessed to have you. And again, not saying goodbye, just saying see you later. Thank you. I also certainly want to express thank you to our superintendent. It has been an honor working with you all my duration of the time being on the board in different capacities but nonetheless having the opportunity to work and engage with you and what I respect about you and I call this one here a quiet storm. you as well recognizing all that you
051manage and juggle. And many of you know and some of you may not know that this is someone who we when we talk about someone and their service and commitment to not only this town but this country and the sacrifices you have made in the armed forces and the leadership role you have and yet you continue to show up and speak up and speak out and the fact to hear you talk about the importance of us operating with the lens of equity and that we are here to support all children and to support all children from all backgrounds, all abilities, and you speak it and you mean it speaks volumes. Your leadership is one that is greatly respected, admired. So appreciate you not at all saying goodbye because I'm still a mama here in the
052district, but just want to say it's been an honor and not only to work with you, but also the entire executive team. To all of you, thank you all so very much for all that you do for our young people each and every day. And when I speak about young people, our student representatives, thank you so very much, Kayla and Conrad, and you can share with Bridget as well. So appreciate the roles that you play because it's important to know that you're not just sitting here to give us updates of what's happening at Hall or Connor. Your voice is important. Your voice matters and thank you for making sure that we hear your voice and your voice representing the students that you are honored to represent as well. So, thank you so much for all
053that you do and all that you will continue to do. And there's no way that I can sit here and not thank and express appreciation to my family. My family who has been a supporter from the beginning. My husband is here. I'm trying to hold back tears. He was here the very first time I was sworn in and he is here at this time. And when you talk about someone behind the scenes helping to carry the load, doing the car pooling, the picking up, making dinner, all of those things. He's not someone that likes to have the spotlight on him. But when you talk about a fierce supporter who has my back, that it just speaks volumes. So, I'm so thankful to my family and their love and their support. I just do want to
054share two parting words before we wrap this piece up. I think it's important to know that as we move forward, our work certainly never comes to an end. And I want to share the words of the wonderful inspirational Mary Mloud Bthoon who once said, "Our children must never lose their zeal for building a better world." That is what I charge all of you and our new teammates that are coming to the board. Jonathan and Jennifer the Jay's and Jason who is continuing on. Our children must and Miriam. Pardon me. Where's Miriam? I didn't Oh, there she is. Yes. And Miriam. Wonderful. And Miriam, absolutely. Please always remember our children must never lose their zeal for building a better world. And we know our primary charge is policy building, appointing our superintendent and the budget. Let
055that always be at the forefront of your mind. But young people, I have some words for you as well. Also coming from Mary Mloud Bthoon who said believe in yourself, learn and never stop wanting to build a better world. We know that you are eager to graduate. We have the graduation date and you will be cheered and celebrated on. But please don't let the let the life lessons that you have learned while being a student here in this district end because you are going out into a bigger, brighter world. And it's important for you to carry the message along of the importance of learning, of living, and to encourage us to be the best people we can be. So, thank you for carrying the charge on. Thank you for being our future leaders. And thank
056all of you for the wonderful opportunity to serve on the West Hartford Board of Education. So, with that, we shall proceed now to induction of newly elected board members. And so, We now will have induction of newly elected board members Miriam Ble, Jason Gagnen, Jennifer Herz, and Jonathan Winer. Are they all here? And we have our town clerk here. Hello there. And so Leon David off, our town clerk, will now induct the newly elected board members >> right here before the podium. Uh, good evening everyone. I'm West Harford Town Clerk Leon David Off. I first would like to uh thank uh Gail, Lorna, and Claire for your service to our wonderful community. Uh, public service is uh very much valued in West Harford and you truly have made a difference in our community and should
057be proud of all the things that you have accomplished. So, thank you on behalf of the citizens of West Harford for fulfilling your civic duties to the best of your ability. That's the oath that you took and you uh definitely completed that without uh any uh body questioning whether or not you discharged your duties. So, thank the uh town clerk's office works with the registar of voters and uh we have to certify the results of the recently held election of November the 4th. Uh the head moderator has provided uh results to the town clerk's office indicating that the following have won uh uh seats on the West Harford Board of Education for a 4-year term. So I'm pleased this evening to uh present the uh give the oath to Jason Gagnen, Jennifer Hers, Jonathan Weiner,
058and Mariam Bleach. So, if you'd all be so kind to raise your right hand. Do you solemnly swear or solemnly affirm as the case may be that you will faithfully discharge according to law your duties as a member of the West Harvard Board of Education to the best of your ability. So, help you God penalty of perjury. Congratulations. >> Thank you. Congratulations again. And uh before you go away, um I want to present you with a certificate that states that I've administered the oath of office to you confirming your appointment as a member of the West Harvard Board of Education for a term ending November 20th, 2029. >> And we now will have a brief recess. Okay. over here. >> Paul has it. Uh we are now going to move to the election of officers
059and board organization. Um at this point I move that Mr. Paul Vicinus acts as temporary chairperson of this meeting for the purpose of electing a chairperson for the board of education. >> Can I have a motion? So move second >> or second whatever you need. >> Second. Thank you. Uh Jason, uh now Mr. Vicinus, you will take over the meeting. >> Oh, I'm learning on the job. Um uh can I have a vote uh for this motion? All in favor? >> I. >> Any nays? Any abstensions? The motion passes. >> Well, thank you very much. And I recognize I have very large shoes to fill but a very short amount of time. Um the meeting will kindly come to order. Nominations are now in order for the office of chairperson. Are there nominations? >> I
060nominate Shannon the Storm Marry for chair. >> Mrs. Shannon Marman is nominated. Are there other nominations? Hearing none, I would uh nominations are now closed. Those in favor of Mrs. Shannon Marman for chairperson say I. >> I. >> Opposed. The motion passes unanimously. Madam chairperson, >> I feel like I have a lot to live up to. Um all right well thank you. Uh so we will continue with the officer nominations. So um as the next uh role we I am taking any nominations for the role of vice chair for the board of education and I would like to nominate Latoya Viagalof. Any other nominations? Okay. Uh the um nominations are now closed for vice chair. Um all those in favor say I. >> I. >> Any nays? Any abstensions? The motion passes. Vice Chairwoman Latoya
061Yagalof. All right. Moving on to the role of secretary. Do I have any nominations for the role office of secretary? I'd like to nominate Jason Gagnon. Um, Mr. Jason Gagnon is nominated for the role of secretary. Are there any other nominations? >> Okay. Uh, nominations are now closed. All those in favor of Mr. Jason Gangnen for secretary say I. >> I. >> Those opposed say nay. Any abstensions? The motion passes. Jason Gangan is officially secretary of the board of education. All right. Um, moving right along, we are now um identifying two financial examiners, one from each uh political party. Um, so I would like to open nominations for the Office of Financial Examiner. >> I'd like to nominate Ethan Goldman. >> Thank you, Miriam. So, uh, we have a nomination for Mr. Ethan Gleman. Um,
062any other nominations? >> I nominate Jonathan Weiner. >> Jonathan Weiner is now nominated for the role of financial examiner. Any further nominations? All right, seeing none, the nominations are now closed for financial examiner um uh for uh the for um the nomination of Ethan Goldman. All those in favor say I. >> I. Those opposed say nay. Any abstensions? All right. That's not an option. Okay. Um All right. Congratulations, Ethan. You are uh continuing in your role as financial examiner. Uh and for the open nomination of Jonathan Weiner. Um all those in favor for the role of financial examiner say I. I. >> I. Those opposed say nay. Abstensions. The motion passes. Jonathan Weiner, you are too a financial examiner. Moving on to the policy committee um which is composed of membership of three individuals from
063the board. Um can I open the nominations for the policy committee? >> Ethan' like to nominate Miriam Blush. Miriam Bleach is now nominated for the policy committee. Uh, any other nominations? >> I'd like to nominate Jason Gagnan also for the policy committee. >> Thank you, Jen. So, Jason Gagnen has been nominated for the policy committee. Any additional nominations? >> I'd like to nominate Latoya Yagalof for the policy committee. >> Great. any and uh Latoya Yagalof has been nominated for the policy committee. Any additional nominations for the policy committee? Seeing none, the nominations are now closed for the policy committee. We will vote for um those members as a slate since uh all positions um are filled. So, can we uh get a motion um to or can for those in favor of Miriam Blech, Jason
064Ganon, and Latoya Yagalof for the policy committee say I. >> I. >> Uh those opposed say nay. Any abstensions. All right. Congratulations. Miriam, Jason, and Latoya are officially members of our policy committee. Yay. All right. Moving right along. Um we are going to be um identifying representatives uh and appointments for two uh roles and responsibilities that the board has as part of our primary duties. Uh one is negotiations and one is student discipline. Um these are we have the need to convene as ad hoc uh when occasion arises for uh the purposes of negotiations and student commi uh discipline but it is not a formalized committee. It is it is just representation from the board and for the purposes of making this a more streamlined process. We want to identify three primary board members to
065serve for each of these uh responsibilities and then all other members of the board will serve as alternates. Um so the idea is that we're building a bench for both uh purposes so that Paul when needed can call upon the first three primary identified individuals and then go deeper into the bench if those first three individuals are unavailable. Um so starting with the negotiations um role, we are looking for three primary members of the board to support negotiation uh efforts as they come up. So can I open the nominations for uh negotiations? Miriam, >> I'd like to nominate Ethan Goldman for negotiations ad hoc. >> Thank you, Miriam. Uh, we have Ethan Goldman as nominated for negotiations. Any additional >> I'd like to nominate Shannon Marrymon. >> Thank you, Jason. I have added myself to
066the nominations for negotiations. >> I'd like to nominate Jason Gagnon for negotiations. >> And thank you, Jason Ganon is also uh nom uh nominated for negotiations. Any additional nominations? All right. Um, with that, I would like to, um, request all those in favor of Ethan, myself, and Jason moving forward as the primary representatives for negotiations say I. >> I. >> Those opposed say nay. Any abstensions. >> That passes. So, Ethan, myself, and Jason are now the primary representatives for negotiations. Um, all remaining board members will serve as alternates. Do we need to do a formal >> motion for that? Okay. So, can I um I would like to put forward the four remaining board members um being Miriam, Latoya, John, and Jen as the alternates for negotiations. All those in favor say I. >> I.
067I. >> Oh, for a second. Okay. >> I I would second that motion. >> Sec. Now we need seconds. Okay. Um, so >> okay, gotcha. Um, so second was John. >> Yep. >> Okay, great. Um, all those in favor say I. >> I. >> Uh, those uh opposed say nay. >> Uh, abstensions. All right. So, the four remaining board members will serve as alternates for negotiation. And last but not least, uh, student discipline. I would like to open uh nominations for representing student discipline as the primary representatives. >> I'd like to nominate Latoya Yagalof. >> Thank you, Jason. Latoya Yagalof has been nominated. Any other nominations? Ethan. >> Like to nominate Miriam Blush. >> Miriam. Thank you, Ethan. Any additional nominations? >> I'd like to nominate Jonathan Weiner. >> John Weiner. Thank you, Latoya. Um
068any additional nominations? Okay. So at this time we have uh Latoya Yagalof, Miriam Blech, and Jonathan Weiner as the representatives for student discipline. Can And so this I do a motion. >> No, that's just for Okay. The alter. Okay. All right. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> Uh any opposed say nay. Any abstensions? Great. Congratulations Latoya, Miriam, and John. you are now representing student discipline. Um, and I'd like to make a motion that the four remaining board members, Ethan, myself, Jason, and Jen, um, will serve as alternates for student discipline should the first three be unavailable. Can I have a motion for the four remaining border board members to be alternates? >> So moved. >> Thank you, Jason. Can I have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you, Ethan. All those in
069favor say I. >> I. >> Those opposed say nay. Any abstensions? All right. Congratulations. Latoya, Miriam, and John, you will be representing student discipline. So I think with that closed um we have filled our responsibilities for represent representatives of the board of education for varying responsibilities of the board and very excited to see um all of you be involved in different ways and looking forward to the conversation that will ensue accordingly. Um so on to uh unfinished business on the agenda. We have none. So, we will move on to new business and we'll start with Superintendent Vicenus' report. >> Thank you very much. Um, I have a very brief report tonight. Um, tonight's really all about you and, uh, I want to begin with a congratulations to all of our new members, our newest members.
070Um, congratulations to Jason on returning on his term. uh very very excited to work and partner with all of you and uh very happy to have you serving the community in this way. Um real brief reminder, I think our student reps aptly said it, but uh it is parent conferences this week. Uh tomorrow is a Wednesday, so tomorrow's our regular Wednesday. Um uh tomorrow tomorrow's schedule is slightly different obviously than than the remainder of the week. So I want to make sure people are cognizant of that. And and an update for the board. Um, I believe uh I I had alerted you to a communication uh that went out to the uh community that uh attends school at the Cogwell. That's that's our Strive program and our post-secondary program and they had a water mane
071break last night. Uh there was an update and I thought that I sent it out and apparently it didn't make it out. The water man was uh repaired late in the evening. school was open and uh for any of the public at home um I'm sure you already know but uh things look in good shape and and we will be uh continuing service there. Um the only other thing I wanted to uh just highlight a couple of couple of happenings. Uh very very proud for Mley Elementary School, the Red Wagon Brigade. Uh it's an annual tradition. I know that uh I had I had great conversations with our food pantry and our department of social services. They are so extremely thankful. Uh we are so proud of the Moley community, really all the communities that
072have been doing everything that they can during uh during this time to help support the larger community with uh food insecurity and um other needs. So very very thankful for that. A shout out to uh both Latoya and to Ethan uh on a happy Veterans Day. I saw both of you at the Connor ceremony. I saw Latoya, you later able to join us uh in the afternoon at a hall. excellent, excellent programs that were held uh there as well as I popped around to several of our elementaryaries. I can't I always have to it's tough. I have to like alternate some of the other schools every year to get to everything. Uh but had some great great conversations with children in classrooms. Um, and it's just uh just to steal a line and and give
073thanks to our our our board members who uh who came off because I don't have the opportunity to give uh my comments then I'll take privilege. Now you know something I said when I gave remarks at the Connor ceremony was that you know service is not something uh that necessarily involves the wearing of a uniform. Um service can come as part of public service um in in sectors here that that support us larger than just our board. Service comes uh in teaching. Service comes um with doctors and with health care. And all of you uh have demonstrated just incredible servant leadership not only through your participation in the board of education, but what you do every day. Um it's truly a calling. your models for that and uh very very grateful for the opportunity to
074serve alongside you in this community. And as a very small token uh for what you do, I wanted to make sure that you knew there is a uh a chair. You all get to have a board chair. So sorry, Lorna, you're not the only one anymore. uh and it will be embossed with uh your name and the dates of service for the board of education and those will be delivered directly uh to your homes um in a in a couple of uh short weeks. Uh but uh they are all here. We just need to affix your individual plates as a small token of gratitude. And if I may ask my team and anyone here just for one final round of applause for our departing members. So pending any questions from this board. Uh that is
075my report for this evening. Thank you Paul. Any questions? We appreciate that report. Uh so moving on to staff reports and board discussions. We have none. Um, so we will move on to routine matters. Approval of the minutes uh from the regular board of education meeting on November 5th, 2025. Uh, can I have a motion that the board of education approve the minutes of the regular board of education meeting of November 5th, 2025? >> So moved. >> Thank you, Jason. Can I have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you, Latoya. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> Any opposed? Nay. Any abstensions? >> And John and >> Mirain. So we have three abstensions. Jen Hers, John Weiner, and Miriam Bleach. Um, all right. The motion passes. So moving on to information and reports
076from board members. Do we have any communications and reports from other boards and organizations? Okay. Any other information or discussions? Okay. Um so moving on to future business. Announcement of meeting dates. Our next meeting of the board of education will be Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025 at 7 p.m. here in town hall in the chambers room 314, followed by a meeting on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 700 p.m. again here in the chamber in town hall. Um, and the final two meetings of the year 2025, which is crazy. So, um, any requests for future agenda items? seeing none. Do we have any comments from visitors? Okay, any comments? All right, thank you. Um, we have no executive session. So, can I have a motion to adjurnn? >> So, move. >> Thank you, Latoya. Can I have
077a second? >> Second. >> Thank you, Ethan. Meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m.