001There will be a presentation of the external internal and claims auditor reports as detailed in the Friday mailing. We will have a claims audit report by Miss Erin Teda. Thank you. every Oh, that's not on. Hello. Hello. Oh, I got to get low. Okay, hold on. Sorry. Good evening, everyone. I'm the claims auditor. So, my responsibility is to review every vendor dispersement before it leaves the door. We want to make sure that every purchase is properly authorized, that it's supported, appropriate, and compliant with general municipal law and school policy. This was another strong year for Baldwin. You'll see on the report that there were minimal findings. Um there's continued process improvements and a great level of collaboration between the business office and the auditors. Last quarter we reviewed a total of 17 sorry 1,770 claims
002and we only had one finding with like a 0.07% incident rate. Um, our quarterly report showed that out of 6,000 claims reviewed over the entire year, there were only five issues uh and none of them anything outstanding or inappropriate. And you'll also see that the trend over the years um over the year shows continued improvement and there were no repeated uh issues. So basically uh we'd like to just thank the business office for their continued collaboration. and they're really proactive. Um, and we're available should anyone have any questions. >> Okay, thank you. And Aaron Tata is from Serenian Associates. So, thank you for that report. Does anyone have any questions? >> No. 07. >> Hold on. It's a good one. So, we'll share 0.07%. >> Okay. Thank you again. >> Thank you. >> Okay, next
003we will have our external audit and that's from Christopher Reo from um Cullen and Denowski. >> Hello. I could I can hear it. Uh yeah, I'm Chris Reno. I'm one of the eight partners at Cullen Dowski. uh were your external auditors to render an opinion on your financial statements that they're relatively free of material in the statements which they are. you have what's called u unod unassigned I forgot unmodified opinion thank you just like so um and with this the cleanest opinion you can have you know because you have the unmodified you have the modified and then disclaimer and adverse so um so that's you got a clean opinion that's the first report in the financial statements themselves and then in the back of the financial statements. There's another letter and this is where we
004talk about internal controls over financial reporting. Um we would we would site significant deficiencies and material weaknesses as as far as like you know the district couldn't close their books. They're not monitoring their capital assets. Um the district does not have any of those. So that would warrant a separate letter and you know you know an adjustment to that opinion. It's known as a yellowbook audit. So, we have another clean opinion there in the financial statements. U back we met with the audit committee, you know, about an hour ago and we went over all the numbers and the financials. You you're in excellent financial shape. Um, you know, you you know, got real healthy reserves funded. And we also issue another bound report, smaller one. It's the extra classroom activity report. And basically that just
005shows all the clubs, more of a cash flow. It shows the cash balances of each of the clubs, the money that comes in, the money that goes out, and your ending balances, which is also reflected as one of the funds in the financial statements themselves. So, we issue a separate report for that. And then we have a communication to the board and that's uh known as a SAS 260 letter and we have some bold print. It's it's that letter of the two letters that we issue and we talk if there were any difficulties in the audit, which there were not. And then we have attached our proposed journal entries and we only have four journal entries you know which is excellent uh mostly you know just approval adjustments which so you know we've had districts
006with pages and pages of adjusting entries. So it's really good job there. And then finally there's another report that gets issued where it's not significant deficiencies and material weaknesses but it's other things you know where we look at the controllers reports and you know what they're looking out for and we just it's just additional comments that we would you know discuss with with you and u you know so basically it's it's minimal. There's no current new comments. It's just follow-ups on comments from last year and there's only a couple and you know they've been you know primarily addressed. So great job. Um you know like I said strong business office you know smooth you know it's one of the earlier audits we're you know getting out as far as you know being completed. So we
007do and we do about you know 43 external audits. So good job and um you know any questions? >> No questions. Um well sorry not to say no questions but I just had a quick comment. Um as you said it was an excellent audit. I just wanted to ask again, I know we did have a longer conversation earlier about um the audit the non major governmental funds. You mentioned that it was new. Is that just new through like an accounting principle, a new standard that was presented? >> No, it's just it's just a new format, you know. So, if we you know, we group them all together. So, it's just a new way of reporting it because then we could take all those funds together and consolidate them as one. in the in the the
008main balance sheet. Um so we were doing an opinion on that whole group as one for our material materiality level purposes. >> Okay. So it's more of a formatting change versus a new standard. >> Yeah. It's not No, it's not a new standard. Um you know the new standard this year was for compensated absences which is a whole new liability way reporting according to you know government accounting standards board. >> Okay. Thank you very much. Okay. >> All right. Thank you, Chris. Any other questions, comments? Okay. >> Okay. Chris left us with a lot of reading material. So, thank you for that. >> Okay. And uh our final uh report is from our internal audit and that's from Lauren Agunzo and Kyle Zah Zaharados. >> Very good. >> Okay. M Mr. Z, I would say.
009>> Okay. From the firm of um Naroni and Smith, >> right? Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Did a good job with that last name. It's not an easy one. >> Thanks for having us. Um again, I'm Lauren Gonzo. I'm with my associate Kyle Dehartos. Um we're from Naki Smith where the internal orders were responsible for looking at the internal co controls of the district. Um so we're here to present on our work for the 2425 fiscal school year. Um this year the area that we looked at was safety and security. Um that area included looking at general policies and procedures, the district-wide safety plan, building safety plans, safety training, building access and security system. Um we conducted building walkthroughs. We looked at uh fire and emergency drills, bus drills, compliance and incident reporting.
010Um overall it was a good report. We did have some recommendations that the district had prepared a corrective action for and is addressing those. Um so we expect uh next time around we'll see some improvements in that area. We also looked at some other areas uh bank reconciliations, budget transfers, cash receipts, and retirement payouts. Um there were no recommendations in those reports. They were excellent. Uh and then we uh concluded with our risk assessment update as of June 2025. Uh within our risk assessment, we look at 21 business process areas which includes 92 subprocess areas. Of those 92 areas, we had zero areas rated as a high risk. So that's excellent. Um we had nine areas rated as moderate and 82 areas rated as low risk. So again, an excellent risk profile with over 90%
011of those areas being low risk. Um our observations only included those that were in the safety and security cycle. So there were no additional um observations and recommendations. Uh so overall it was a very good year. The reports were very good. Uh I just want to take the opportunity to thank uh everyone for their cooperation. Um Dr. Robinson, Jen Walsh from the business office, the superintendent for their um for their dedication and hard work towards uh towards making sure that the control the controls in place at the district are uh are effective and uh in place. So, thank you. >> Thank you. Any questions, comments? Okay. Thank you for that. And thank you, Dr. Robinson. Jen, thank the Jen. Thank you for the thoroughess, the transparency, and all the work that you continue to do
012for our district. Thank you. We appreciate it. Okay. All right. So, I would at this time like to call the meeting to order at >> 8:12. Okay. Please stand. Join me in saying the pledge of allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic which stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Motion second to >> Oh, okay. Okay. >> All right. So, good evening. A quorum being present. I again we'll call this meeting to order and get started. >> Motion. >> Um so move. >> Second. >> So it's been moved by Miss Dresca and seconded by Miss Smith. >> Okay. All those in favor? >> I. >> Okay. All right. Okay. So effective September 1, 1991, chapter 9 of the laws of
0131991 requires that we inform persons other than students who attend meetings within a school of the proper procedures to evacuate a building in an orderly and timely manner in the event of a fire emergency. So if you must evacuate this room because of an emergency, please use the exit door closest to you. There are two exits on the north wall which lead out to a black top area and there's another exit on the west wall. So if you leave by that exit, turn left and exit the building through the breezeway door. And the third exit is behind you on the south wall. And I would also like to compliment the Brookside staff for the fruit, the delicious fruit, the uh pastries. We appreciate your hospitality. And I would like to get to Well, first things
014first, I would like to welcome Miss Katrina Smith. This is her first meeting. She is joining us this evening. Thank you. Thank you. I'm honored um to Annie and Pam for the appointment. I am looking forward to serving our district in the community. I know a lot of you just through everyday um you know occurrences. I have a younger daughter who is in Baldwin Middle School, Courtney Smith, and an older daughter, Kennedy Smith, who is in our high school. So, I have children in the district. Um I've been here since 2009 in Baldwin. I love Baldwin. So, please I'm I'm looking forward to meeting everyone. Um, you know, just forming relationships and really having a successful year with the board. >> Thank you. Yes. >> Yes. Definitely. Thank you for your willingness to serve. Okay.
015So, the board of education acknowledges receipt of the treasures report for the month of August 2025 as detailed in the Friday mailing. So move >> moved by Mr. Dresca, seconded by Miss Smith. All those in favor? I >> Okay. The board of education accepts the minutes for the September 10th, 2025 board meeting as detailed in the Friday mailing. >> So move. >> Moved by Mr. Resca. >> Seconded by Miss Smith. All those in favor? >> I. >> Okay. The board of education accepts the minutes for the September 25th, 2025 board meeting as detailed in the Friday mailing. >> So moved. >> Moved by Miss Dresca. >> Seconded by Miss Smith. You guys can change the order at any time. >> Okay. All those in favor? >> I All right. So, at this time, I'd like
016to turn the meeting meeting over to our superintendent, Mr. Anthony McNella, and we will hear the wonderful things that are going on in Baldwin. Thank you. >> Thank you. Uh, first I want to say it's wonderful seeing so many parents here, students here, and colleagues. Uh, it's wonderful to have this room filled with uh, our family members, community members. So, thank you for being here. Um before I turn the meeting over to our PTA to help us celebrate and recognize our wonderful board of education for board appreciation week, um I just want to thank the business office for their diligent and exceptional work as you heard from the uh auditors and that's a tremendous number of hours behind the scenes uh labor intensive. So thank you very much for all your work. Uh it's greatly
017appreciated. Um I also want to announce on behalf of the PTA that there's a legislative forum that's coming up. Um I believe on the calendar it's scheduled for the 23rd, but it might change to the 22nd maybe cuz it's a little conflict with um schoolboard convention. U but please make sure you attend that forum. Uh the legislators, listen to the community members more than anyone. Please represent and um advocate for Baldwin, advocate for public schools. There's a lot going on right now as you know and we need to make sure your voices are heard. So please look forward uh the announcement of the location. I believe it's at the high school. The time should be 7:00 p.m., but please come to that forum and uh support the Balden community. I also am extremely pleased to
018share uh while everyone is here that we've expanded some dual enrollment opportunities at the high school level. Um dual enrollment allows students to take a college level course in high school, pay for that college level course, and therefore leave with a high school diploma as well as college credits. So, uh, an expansion on that is with our seniors at the high school. So, anyone who has a senior in the room or will have a pending senior, this is very important to hear, our seniors, if they've never taken an advanced placement class or dual enrollment class before, can earn up to 12 college level credits. >> English senior English class is in dual enrollment with Nassau Community College. Um, so that's three credits for uh, college 101 and college 102 English composition. A senior can also
019take up to six credits in their social studies. So that's going to be with that college civics. That's a dual enrollment collaboration with Stonyie Brook University. And their economics class has been recently redesigned to uh, be a personal finance class and that's with Nassau College, Nassau Community College for another three credits. So, it's just 12 credits that are Sunni credits which are highly transferable to any college. The best part about this is since the district is enrolled in the uh free reduced lunch program, Nassau County Community College offers a 50% discount to all our students. So, a three credit class on average is about $180 taking half of that off. So, if you have a senior for about $90, you get three college credits which is unheard of. So I I implore everyone to take
020advantage of the opportunity. The high school is sending out messaging to families for all seniors. Spread the word. Uh but it's a tremendous opportunity for students to go into college with 12 credits at a very reduced uh rate. So >> um in addition, another great thing to share, I want to congratulate the Meadow and Plaza Schools PTA for being named National PTA schools of excellence. It was in the news day. a true reflection of the strong partnership between the families, you guys, and the schools. A special congratulations to Meadow Elementary School, which also earned the National PTA's 2025 Phoebe Apperson Hurst Outstanding Family School Partnership Award. That's the organization's highest honor. [Applause] And to top it off, they were recently in the news day meadow for um uh winning the county and statewide titles in
021a reading challenge promoting the love of reading among students uh park often known as PARP. So again, Meadow um thank you so much PTAs for your collaboration and all their support. Congratulations to all. And now we're going to move into our board appreciation. So um really this is a important week because behind the scenes the board of education works very hard reviewing budgets, policies, programs to ensure every decision that is made supports the students um supports their families. Their belief in our mission and their support for our innovation allows Balden schools to thrive, grow and lead with creativity and purpose. Um, and they get a very big check for that, which is a lot of zeros, 0000. It's all voluntary. Um, so the hours they put in to ensure the success that the district is
022having is really, um, exemplary, and I thank you for your your service. Um, and with that, I would now like to call up our first PTA representation, uh, which is from our SEPTA organization, uh, Miss, uh, Curts, please, uh, come on up. I think you're maybe bringing someone with you. Yes. Christian Christian uh Phelise. >> No problem. >> We're late. So, uh I don't blame him. >> You want to do another group? >> You want us to do another group? We can do another group and then bring you back up after. >> Yes. >> Very good. So, um Brookside, would you mind stepping up and uh Miss Cindy Gene Louise, the president of the Brookside PTA, has a little um Thank you. Is this on? You can hear me? Okay, perfect. Uh, good evening, Superintendent
023Mcnella, Board of Education members, my fellow PTA executive committees, and the Baldwin School District community gathered here tonight. This evening, we are honoring and giving thanks to the individuals who continue to empower and support this great district. You continue to lead with strength, compassion, and and determination, guiding us through challenges and celebrations alike. Your ability to bring clarity through dialogue, thoughtful decision-making, and a shared vision of excellence truly empowers us and sets the standard for success in our district. We are beyond fortunate to have such a dedicated, inspiring board leading the Baldwin community and even more fortunate to have Brookside School PTA alumni represented so well. It's really a reminder that true heroism often shows up in service, commitment, and care. Brooks would like to thank you for your leadership, your commitment to our students
024and community, and your consistent support of our mission that continues to improve the education system for our scholars. This district is indisputably the best because we have all of you on our team. Brookside PTA scholars and community, please join me in thanking the board for their service to our school community. Now, let's take a moment to hear from our wonderful scholars at Brookside and what you mean to them. Well, >> I feel empowered when I'm in my class and I'm able to share my ideas with my classmates and everything to show how how empowered I feel for my teachers and my and my classmates. >> Who are some of the everyday heroes in our community? the board of education because they give us opportunities to have lots of fun at school and the PTA because
025they plan fun exciting things such as the carnival which every year I know a lot of kids have I will become when I have the opportunity to teach others about my culture. Thank you board um educational for supporting our >> the board of education empowers students by believing in opportunity programs such as motor. >> How do you feel empowered here at school? >> I feel proud to be part of side schools because it's a strong community. >> We are proud to be empowered learners. What is the superheroes? Yeah. [Music] Show me what a superhero looks like. [Music] Thank you for the education programs. >> Thank you for education. >> Thank you for our nice and respectful teachers. >> Thank you for our new and better faculties. >> Thank you for the programs that help us
026learn. >> Thank you for empowering us. [Applause] We have some uh tokens of appreciation for the board members to give. Thank you so much. A >> puzzle. Oh, they have little notes in there. >> Little notes down. Just pull one up. >> I'll take this to work. >> I need this in the office. Thank you so much. >> Thank you so much. I'm going to put this on my desk at work. And I was instructed to take one out if I'm feeling a little a little blue, right? This will uh give me some type of joy. Personal notes from our students. Thank you so much. >> Okay, I'll take it. Thank you. >> Thank you, Brookside. Hi. >> Thank you, Brookside. Thank you. Thank you. And now we'll have Miss Curt step up with um
027Christian Feliz from the SPTA organization. >> Thank you. >> This is Kit. >> Hi everybody. I'm Kathy Kurs. I am the immediate past present percepta. Um, I am here this evening with Christian Feliz who is um currently a high school school student here in Baldwin and I asked him to come and help me present tonight. Um I just wanted to thank you all personally and from SEPTA um for your hard work and dedication last year and to and to date and also for Miss O'Hagen for your many many many years of service and we really do appreciate you and um Christian's going to read a poem to you in a few in a in a minute and it's I want you to listen to it carefully because if you're ever having a day where you
028need a little more Maybe some didn't go your way, just reread that and remember that everything you do is is helpful and it's worth it and and thank you again. So now Christian, would you like to come up and read? >> With pleasure. >> Hi. >> The starfish story. An old man was walking on the beach one morning after a storm. In the distance, he could see someone moving like a dancer. As he came closer, he saw that it was a young lady picking up a starfish and gently throwing them into the ocean. Young lady, why are you throwing starfish into the ocean? The sun is up and the tide is going out and if I do not throw them, they will die. She said, "But young lady, do you not realize that there are
029many miles of beach and thousands of starfish? You cannot possibly make a difference." The young woman listened politely, then bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it into the sea. It made a difference for that one. [Applause] I do Oh, wow. >> Thank you. >> You are one of my favorite men from >> Thank you. Very nice. >> Thank you. All right. >> One right here. >> Yeah. >> So, here. >> Oh, >> wow. >> I had a feeling you were going to Thank you, Christian. Wow. >> And as you were reading, I was just hoping that I would have a printed copy to reflect on. So, thank you so much. >> Very nice. >> Thank you. Thank you so much. That's beautiful. Uh, next we'll call up Lennox, please. Um, co-presidents, Miss Ra
030and Miss Morrison. And I think you're accompanied by two students, uh, Kaylee Ra and Adrien Given. Thank you. [Applause] Good evening. My name is Kaylee Ra and I am a fourth grader at Linux School. Good evening. My name is Adrien Given and I am also a fourth grader at Len School. >> Tonight we are here to celebrate some very special people. Our board of education. You may not wear capes, but to us you are superheroes. >> You are strong, working hard every single day to help every student shine. You are bold, always thinking of innovative new ideas and create ways to make our schools even be even better. >> You are brave, making big decisions, standing up for what is right, even when it's not easy. >> You are kind, giving your time and your
031energy without expecting anything in return. Thanks to you, our schools are places where students can learn, grow, and dream big. So tonight, we thank you for being our heroes. >> We put together a special video for you to show our appreciation. We hope you enjoy it. power. Every hero has a story. Ours begins in the classroom where the real power is unlocked. Thanks to the board of education, our students are empowered to shape the future. One superpower at a time, one team stands behind every student's success. Miss Pamela Green, your visionary leader. Miss Susan Pools, the champion of learning. Miss Annie Dresca, the advocate for innovation. Miss Katrina Smith, the voice of community. Mr. Thomas Smith, the defender of excellence. And Miss Mary Joe O'Hagen, the keeper of wisdom. Together, they empower our future. The
032classroom is our training ground. Knowledge is our power. And our students are the heroes of tomorrow. From classrooms to playgrounds, our students are discovering their own incredible powers. The power to learn, to lead, and to dream big. My superower is reading because my teacher helps me do really big words. >> My superower is math because I can multiply big numbers. >> My superpower is reading because I read fast and I read a lot. >> My superpower is doing all things. My superower is singing because I love singing with my voice. Thanks to >> my superower is math. Thanks to Miss Cohen. >> My superpower is art. >> My super power is math because it exercises my brain. My favorite power is gym because I like my teacher and they like to pretend. >> My super
033power is because I like playing games. >> My superpower is gym because I get to play with my friends and exercise. My superower is being fast. My superpower is gym because I get to run around and have fun. >> My power is riding. Thank you so much. I know >> my superpower is math because I can leave my brain teleportation. Thank you. We hope you enjoyed the video. We also have some gifts for you. Thank you for that. I I feel so empowered. I'm truly a superhero. I'm just missing the K. Right. Thank you for that wonderful presentation. >> And Lennox holds a very special place in my heart. Both my girls went there from kindergarten through fifth grade. So, shout out to Lennox. >> Yes. >> Oh, wow. >> Wow. That's a >> Wow.
034>> Is it a Kate? >> It was your superhero characters. You turned them into a comic book cover them and read a mouse. >> Oh, wow. >> Wow. >> Am I Am I opening it? Okay, >> that's fant. And I love seeing our young superheroes in training >> from Lennox. That was amazing. And all their superpowers, young mathematicians, readers. >> Amazing. Amazing. >> Oh, >> very creative. >> And I was saying this is a nice picture. >> Very creative. >> You look good, girl. >> Wow. Thank you so much. >> That's great. >> That is so cool. It is >> next if possible like to call up steel uh co-presidents Miss Sherry and Miss Watson. >> Thank you. >> You said you said this sh >> Oh gosh. Thank you so much. Appreciate it. >>
035Great. By the way, what is here? >> I'll just Good evening, members of the board of education. On behalf of Steel students, families, and the PTA, we want to express our sincere gratitude for your continued support, and dedication of our school. Your efforts directly impact our children's growth, learning, and well-being every day. Whether it's through curriculum improvements, facility upgrades, or simply making time to listen to our community's needs, we see the difference you're making, and we appreciate it deeply. Thank you for empowering our students future and for helping to create a safe, supportive, and inspiring place for them to learn and thrive. We look forward to continuing this partnership and building a brighter future for all of our children. Thank you. >> You [Applause] just break that after. Please take a break. Good boy. [Music]
036>> That's beautiful. a scientist. Wow. >> AI robots and figuring out well the problem and a lot of things and eventually develop what helps kind of develop in like an future. um helping others when they need it. Like if someone was going through a hard time, maybe you can give them some kind of gift that can help them. How can you know? How can police officer because we are [Music] [Applause] So, this was a collaborative art piece made by our students at Steel with the help of our art teacher, Miss Ruben. >> Oh, very nice. [Applause] >> Thank you so much. We're going to perhaps display that at the district office. >> Yes. Thank you so much. >> I'll take that. >> Yeah. >> Thank you. Fantastic. >> Yeah. >> Thank you so much. Fantastic.
037>> Thank you. >> I'd like to call up the representatives from Meadow, please. Um, Miss Mercedes. I'm not sure if anyone else here. Yes. Wonderful. Good evening. >> Hi, good evening everyone. Good evening. So we would like to present with gratitude um the ele the me elementary school and students and families in PTA are here to um celebrate you guys today. On behalf of the families of Meadow Elementary, we pause to honor the Baldwin board of education. Your dedication, leadership, and vision have guided our school and empowered our children to build a strong and successful futures. Tonight, we share this tribute. As parents, we see the difference you make in every lesson, in every chance our children take. You have worked with hearts, with vision, with care to build a future where every child is
038prepared. Your effort empower success yet to come, opening doors for each and everyone. You have shown what it means to believe and invest in the promise of Baldwin in our children's best. So tonight with gratitude, we stand and say thank you for guiding our students way for shaping bright futures. for all that you do. Me family are proud to honor you. Thank you. Tribute to Mary Joe O'Hagen. On behalf of the families and students of Meadow Elementary School, we want to express our deepest gratitude for Mary Joe O'Hagen for her 30 years of extraordinary service on the Baldwin Board of Education. For three decades, Mary Joe has been a steady voice for our children guiding Baldwin schools with care, vision, and strong belief which was students can achieve. She has helped shape Baldwin into more
039than just a district. She has helped it a lot make a launch had for dreams and academic success and for brighter futures. Tonight, as we celebrate her legacy, we say thank you not just for the years of service, but for the heart she poured into every decision. From me elementary and all the families and students who those live she has touched. We honor Mary Joe O'Higan with heartfelt appreciation and gratitude. >> Thank you. And we also would like to present you with some amazing superhero gifts. >> Oh, okay. >> So, one thing we don't have up here is a box of tissues. >> A that was great. I I need him to read my speeches for me. I don't know if he what he's doing on graduation, but perhaps he could be there for me.
040That's fantastic. Thank you. >> And is that's um Let me see. Thank you, Meadow. >> Yes. >> Wonderful. Thank you so much, M. Great. >> Very impressive. I'd like to call up next Plaza uh co-presidents, Miss McCriedi and Miss Salco. Good evening everyone. I'm Mr. Salco and this is Miss Jer. Miss um McCreaty is not available today. All right. On behalf of the Plaza community, On behalf of the Plaza community, I want to take a moment to sincerely thank you all for the incredible support, leadership, and vision you continuously provide. Your commitment to our schools empower our students to dream big, think boldly, and express themselves fully. Whether through academics, the arts, leadership, or service, you make it possible for students to see their own excellence and recognize the power of their ideas and creativity.
041As a small symbol of that empowerment, we're proud to share with you a special display board signed by Plaza students. Each signature represents a voice, a vision, and a future you've helped shape. It's a reminder that your decisions at this table impact young lives every single day and that impact is real, lasting, and deeply appreciated. To show our gratitude, the Plaza PTA would like to present a simple to token of thanks for all you do. Your work may often happen behind the scenes, but tonight we hope you feel seen, valued, and celebrated. We want to specifically thank Mary Joe O'Hagen for her service and commitment in the board. We also want to welcome Katrina Smith to the board. Thank you Pamela Green, Suzanne Couls, Annie Deresca, and Thomas Smith for your continued dedication. Thank you
042all again for empowering our students and being advocates for their limitless potential. Thank you. Put this back. >> All right, I'm going to put this right now. >> Yeah. Wow. >> Thank you so much. >> Wow. Thank you, >> students. >> Wow. It's beautiful. >> Yes. Thank you. Another display for the district office. >> Absolutely. >> Yes. Thank you, Plaza. [Applause] >> Thank you so much. Uh, next like to call up our middle school um representatives. There are some student speeches. So, will the co-presidents uh please step up? Miss Yanika and Miss Prabhakar. Hopefully I said that correctly. But please come up. And a couple students I think are joining you tonight if they're here. Good evening, Superintendent Mcnella. board members, teachers, families, and friends. My name is Philip Toyo and I'm an eighth grade
043student at Balden Middle School. I'm very honored to be speaking tonight about something that should matter to all of us, which is empowering our students future. When we talk about empowering students, it's not only just about making sure we do well in school. It's about preparing us for the world outside of school, like for careers and life in general. To me, empowerment means to give us students the confidence to take risks, to encourage us to keep going when things get tough, and to give us the tools we need to build our futures. Every day in class, we should not only be learning subjects, we should be learning how to problem solve, how to work together, how to lead, and how to believe in ourselves. Those lessons will stay with us forever after we graduate. I
044know personally that when a teacher or an adult starts to believe in me, I start to believe in myself. A kind word, a little extra help, or simply knowing that someone cares can make a huge difference to me. Empower empowerment can start with something small, but it can also grow into something that's life-changing. I think that as students, we want to do more than memorize facts or study all the time. We want to use our creativity, our voices, and our ideas to make our schools and communities better. When we feel supported, we're not afraid to try, even if we fail the first time. That's where real growth happens. Honestly, the truth is when we as students succeed, our families, schools, and communities all succeed along with us. There's a French phrase that my grandpa told
045me, and it's This phrase translates to is its nation is as good as its school. Meaning the future of our country depends on the students of the country. So right now I would like to say thank you. Thank you to the teachers who inspire us, the families who support us and the leaders here who make decisions that give us as students opportunity to grow. Your belief in us truly shapes our future. When you empower students, you empower the future. Thank you. [Applause] >> Good evening everyone. My name is Sarai Ashby and I'm in eighth grade at Baldin Middle School. When we were younger and asked what we wanted to be when we grew up, the answers were often fun and imaginative things like like astronaut, dancer, singer, and even influencer. At that age, no one
046took it too seriously. As we get older, the question shifts. What do you want to be? What do you want your future to look like? Suddenly, the answers carry more weight. Some of us know exactly what we want to be, while others are unsure, and that's completely okay. Right now, it's normal to make mistakes. As we mature, our answers about the future will come more clear. We won't respond with, "I don't know," or, "I have no plans." Instead, we'll be able to answer with confidence. The board of education, parents, and staff have helped by encouraging students to try their best and reminding them that mistakes are part of the natural life. No one expects perfection and nothing is permanent right now. We can change our minds, make new choices, and try again. I remember a
047moment from seventh grade when I received my first bad grade on a science test. I was so disappointed in myself that I didn't want to tell my parents. For a week, I felt unmotivated and doubted my abilities. Then my seventh grade dean said something that stuck with me. Everyone makes mistakes, but those who learn from them and try again are the ones who succeed. That advice motivated me to focus in class, and by the end of the year, I had a 98 average in science. This taught me a valuable lesson. Mistakes are inevitable, but learning from them is what helps them reach our full potential and becoming the best versions of oursel. Thank you. [Applause] Hello, my name is Kara Diaz. I'm an eighth grader at Baldwin Middle School. One thing we all have in
048common is that we at one time in our lives were students. We all know what it's like to sit in a classroom. Student optimism is what fuels people to be the best they could be. But what fuels my love for education at knowing always have a teacher I can reach out to if I need anything. I do my best work when I know that if needed I could ask for help because with great work comes a lot of responsibility. Through my years at Balden schools I have learned how much having a great teacher can affect not only the way you learn but also the way you feel about yourself. With all of the teachers I met cheering me on, I become so confident that I could feel like I could do anything. Each one of
049my teachers have taught me some unforgettable things. Like my third grade teacher who showed me how to be kind and considerate. My fifth grade teacher that let me know that as long as I was trying, I could never fail. My fourth grade teacher and the social workers who taught me how to be peaceful. Having a say in the way that I learn, whether it's working with a partner or working alone, makes me feel that my ideas and needs will be considered and met to the best of their ability. That's something that as a student makes me feel optimistic. Opt, sorry. Optimism is a faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. This quote by Helen Keller is exactly how I've been learning for years. So, thank you to all the
050educators in the board of education who have made me feel that I can believe in myself and do anything I put my mind to. [Applause] Good evening, members of the board of education. Empowerment means being given the confidence and support to reach our goals. At our school, I feel empowered and educators truly understand us as students and remember what it's like to be a kid. Baldin Middle School and the Baldin School District embody this perfectly. Each teacher manages each teacher manages to make learning meaningful while still keeping it fun. For example, my sixth grade teacher, Miss Ryan, always gave us a few minutes to unwind before a long busy day. My seventh grade teacher, Miss Linsky, let us play fun learning games activities that helped us grow. Thank you, Board of Education, for fostering a
051culture of empowerment and supporting teachers who guide us every day. Because of this, we can imagine a future where we grow into adults who still hold on to curiosity and wonder. Thank you for empowering us to be leaders of tomorrow. I look forward to more teachers continuing to support and adapt our diverse learning styles, helping every student reach their full potential. [Applause] Uh, good evening. My name is Isabella Bono, an eighth grader at Balden Middle School. The big question I focused on is what is student empowerment? Student empowerment, also called student autonomy, gives students ownership of their learning, allowing them to make decisions that match their preferences. Student empowerment is giving students the ability to choose a better way of education that fits their needs. Teachers can provide resources for students to build an environment
052that allows them to feel valued and focused, letting minds be at peace and grow more confident. Visual learners are provided with physical things and those who prefer to learn by audio can be provided with explanations. In most of my classrooms, teachers provide spaces for students to work and collaborate with each other. While some classrooms have assigned seats and quiet expectations, many students thrive when given the opportunity to choose their own seats and learn in a comfortable environment. I believe that student empowerment is a quality that our very own BMS already possesses and has the potential to shine even more. I give my best thanks to our wonderful board of education. [Applause] Thank you to our board of education members. As you can see, we thank you and appreciate the culture of empowerment you are bringing
053into our schools and into our buildings. And these are testimonies that you have to carry within you for the rest of your life. They are little seeds that are going to grow and they are going to follow you the rest of your lives. Thank you for all that you do for Baldwin district. [Applause] Thank you to the Baldwin Middle School. A lot of great things happening there and as you can see so much support from our staff. Thank you. [Applause] >> Definitely want to say to students, you struck me. The way you spoke eloquent, the way you addressed professional and the message you sent was so powerful and passionate. I see some of the former teachers that came back that was referenced. So that shows the strength of relationships and connections as you said. Um
054how powerful that is. So, thank you to the teachers, administrators for all your work and for making a difference. And Dr. Ta, I don't know. You have a great group coming up over here. So, I'm excited to see what they do. [Applause] >> With that being said, we will call up our high school um PTA, Miss Phillips. And so, I think you're joined by a student as well. Possibly. Yes, you are. Thank you. [Applause] Good evening. Um, my name is Mia Phillips. I'm the PTSA president and I would like to personally thank the board um for all your hard work and dedication and your support of our children in the community. Um, we have a student here, Cadesia, who has a poem for you. Um, good evening board of education, Balden School staff, and community
055members. My name is Kadija Kulie, and I will be presenting a poem entitled The Future Leaders Make or Break. The future leaders have the choice that they have a right to have a voice. Special opportunities, honor society, senior internship, school to career, talent shows, Phoenix magazine club to the board of ed, we give our thanks. Giving students the choice. They're all given the chance making them the future leaders. They'll have the confidence. Nobody should feel small or belittled. They have a voice once and for all. The future leaders, the heads of clubs, extracurriculars, opportunities that never cease to exist. To the board of ed, we give our thanks for shaping the futures of us students. The student popular in the crowds. The academics aren't loud. Sleepless nights giving it their all. Pushing and working hard
056through effort. A leader on the rise of fame. And the student who is the social outcast. The background noise in the crowd. They try something new. No longer in their shell. Not popular, but a quiet leader. To the board of ed. We give our thanks. You've given us all the chance. The title of leader carries in our name. Our futures are all on us. Students have to decide themselves. Board of Ed, you are representation to us. You've given us all the chance to carry on a legacy. Future-driven programs shape it for our success. We appreciate everything that you do. Is it a make or break? What path will we take? What which what character will we make is a make or break countless opportunities gaining independence focusing on the future I'll say it again students
057are the future leaders to the board of ed we extend our gratitude to you and we appreciate everything you do and I thank you for continuing to be the board of ed and serving the Baltimore community. Thank you. Thank you, Fatia. And I just want to say one last thing um about the eighth graders. If I didn't already know they weren't high school students, I would have thought those were the high school students. They were great. Um and again, we just want to thank you. Um I want to thank you for the PTSA unit. And you not only empower the students, but you also empower parents, too. So, thank you very much for everything. Thank you, Miss Phillips and uh Cadia. >> Yes, thank you so much for that presentation. >> Great job. And I
058feel fantastic knowing that you are the future leaders. So, thank you. Thank you. I believe this we have one more uh presentation. the Baldwin PTA Council. Uh, President um Patterson, Miss Patterson, >> both in the window. >> No. Yeah. Wrong. >> Okay. So, we'll transition to just the uh comment period then. President Green. >> Yes. reports codes. Yeah. >> Okay. >> Sorry. >> Okay. All right. So, now we're at the portion of our comments and reports from the board of education, our liaison reports. Do we have anything to report on? >> Oh. Um there aren't any uh updates in terms of the liaison report, but I just wanted to congratulate you again on joining us. Um Katrina Smith, happy to have you and I'm glad to see you here. Mary Joe Hagen, thank you for
059your 30 years of service. Um although this your tenure ended what like last month but I'm glad to see that the PTA welcomed you and included you in this important celebration. 30 years is uh is a lot. I will I'm not even halfway there and so I um appreciate your mentorship for us. So thank you. >> Some very huge beautiful shoes to fill. Thank you Mary Joe for everything for mentoring us. >> Yes. And and to that uh we would like to again honor Miss O'Hagen. Um I just noted one of the uh presentations that she was the keeper of wisdom >> and Mary Joe has always been a great source of leadership not just in our uh school district but in our community as well. And um we appreciate you in the Baldwin School
060District community, Sterns Park community. You're just uh I >> I can't even uh wis keeper of wisdom. And and I heard another report that said, "Your heart is in every decision." And for 30 30 years and your children weren't even in the school district and you continued to serve. And that is just a testimony of your your dedication and your just your your ability to just connect with the community and just your unwavering uh support for everyone involved and we just wanted to thank you again. And if you weren't tuning in last month, you didn't. Okay. So great. This is for you, Mary Joe. [Music] I'm not ashamed to speak about everyone. Thank you for being a friend. I buy you a Cadillac and you need a this way. [Music] Thank you. Thank you for
061being a friend. I want to thank you. Thank you for being a friend. I want to thank you. Thank you for being a [Applause] I always got my [Applause] Thank you again, Mary Joe, affectionately known as MJ. And to your letter, you said you will continue to be involved in the community and you've you've kept your word. We saw you at homecoming. We see you tonight and we see you throughout the community. So, thank you again. >> Okay, David, would you like to report? >> Absolutely. Um, and first and foremost, I'm sure everyone here is so greatly appreciated of you, Mrs. O'Hagen. And I'd like to reflect briefly on the first time we really had an encounter, which was last year. Um, before you even knew who I was, I went to the Foundation for
062Education meeting and you came so diligently prepared with information to help me for my initiatives. And that really spoke to me as is seeing that there was such a great gateway between the board of education and students. And having all the students here today, I I think was a perfect reflection as that as well. Um, we're here at Brookside, which as you said is is a very symbolic point, not only for your personal career, but I think also for the school district. Um, 70 years ago, the school board made the big decision to acquire 33 acres of land on the Willowbrook Golf Course. That became Brookside and the senior high school. That point was the big difference between staying comfortable with what we had and expanding into the future. And not only did we have
063ourselves a bigger amount of land, but a bigger amount of opportunity. And I feel that the school board that we have alongside myself here has always been looking for the next step to find that cutting edge even when it is such a risk. And Mrs. O'Hagen, you fully embody that. For before I report, thank you. [Applause] >> Um as as for the high school and it was great to see some of my peers here who are either watching or they're here with their families. Wonderful to have you guys and of course the younger students as well. You guys did a great job. um student body at Baldwin High School has been off to a great start. We got a wonderful crowd. So, I'll go over what's been going on from the start of the year
064um to that point. First and foremost, we've had great activities and participation with our school spirit events. Our school president for the student government is here, Miss Leila Gentos, and she's been leading the charge on a lot of that. So, we've had some wonderful events so far. Our homecoming was well attended. We had hundreds of students cheering and it was a great event. And I think that was the culmination of all the work we've seen in the summer and the opening months to get to a great point and there's a lot of school pride and ballwin and every person here and so many more are responsible for that. One of the great initiatives that we're starting of course with the student representative position and trying to put the connection between civic engagement and students is
065our superintendent advisory council. So that is an initiative led by Mr. from Manella and that's providing an opportunity for students and we're still selecting who of which to help with providing input that can go from administration to the students and vice versa. That's set to begin um Tuesday, October 21st and that's going to strongly benefit students and faculty by giving them a direct link. But of course for parents and those in the community uh you'll have a better understanding of how our district responds to our students and the back and forth will be a lot closer. So I think that's a fantastic thing and that just furthers the progress we've had of really connecting that link. So I'd also like to thank you Mr. Minnell for putting the work in. You met me at Schubert
066during August when I was working there as a custodian and you came over to talk to me about it. So we've been working on it since I was even floors and I'm here now. >> So look at that. Um participation has been great. We're looking forward to further events. Our student government is throwing a movie night and our next game football game is this Saturday. So, when it comes to showing up and supporting, everyone's always invited and things are going great in that regard. Um, one final thing since again we went over in September, we'll do it again. The phone policy so far it's been rock solid. Students have been engaged and it's a it's a noticeable difference. I was skeptical myself to start, but I I think and no one is slaying my voice.
067Nobody made the call for me. I truly do think it is a good thing what we have going on where students are so focused on their academics and their extracurricular activities. It's a much more direct connection as well and I think that's just been the uh the overall theme. So I'd like to thank our board of education here who sits alongside me. I know we have our um faculty from the middle and high school. I know Dr. Ta is there who particularly has been very open and helping us out even when I have odd requests. Can I come into the building at 9:00 a.m. on a Saturday with no one else? That's all good. security won't give me trouble. Seriously, you've done a great job with that and everyone here has. So, um, with that
068said, thank you all. Hope you guys enjoy the presentations and Mrs. O'Hagen, thank you again. You open the gateway for me and so many other students and your heart will be in all of our decision [Applause] council. You can answer it. Can you tell us what grade is allowed in the advisory council? Uh so um the question was asked uh for a little input uh description about the advisory council that we're starting and what grades. So Dr. Tess and I have been working on this uh we're trying to get a representation across the high school. So students in grades 9 to 12 from all different um population cohorts whether you're an athlete or involved in student government already or maybe more of a silent voice that's ready to get more involved. Dr. Tess is doing
069a great job of finding um the array of students. uh we are going to have a certain number of invited because otherwise it's not going to be a productive committee. So we'll probably around 25 give or take students um will be invited and we're having our first session on the uh 21st as David said and then David will share out at our board meetings all the wonderful work that will be taking place and um I guarantee you there'll be wonderful work as you can tell from David's um announce. I don't think David will give me an option to not have wonderful work uh taking place. So, I'm I'm getting ready to work some extra hours cuz I have a feeling David's going to definitely uh make sure we do the right thing for our Balden
070students and community members. So, thank you. >> Yes. >> Thank you. [Applause] >> Thank you, David, for that thorough and very informative uh update. We can always know what's going on at the high school. So, thank you for that. Uh right now, we're going to take a 10-minute pause for refreshments. >> Some cookies. Okay, we have some cookies in the back and um just a quick time to uh to engage again. Thank you. comment section. We don't have any comments available right now. comments or questions, but we'll um we'll open it up to if you are >> good card, >> a resident, if you want to fill out a card, okay, an employee, we have you have a maximum of three minutes and um as a reminder, we cannot comment on personal or individual students,
071but you are at liberty to fill out a card >> right now. >> All right. Okay. All right. So, moving along on the agenda. Okay. So, the board of education approves the personal actions report dated October 8th, 2025 as detailed in the mailing. >> So, moved. >> Moved by Miss Dresca. >> Seconded by Miss Smith. All those in favor? >> Okay. The board of education approves the recommendation for services of the committee on special education subcs 504 committee and committee on preschool special education for May, August, and September 2024 as detailed in the Friday mailing. >> So moved by Miss Dresca, seconded by Miss Smith. All those in favor. Okay. The board of education approves the home tutoring and special education service report as detailed in the Friday mailing. >> So moved by Miss Smith.
072>> Seconded by Miss Resca. All those in favor? >> Thank you. The board of education approves the donation of $5,750 from the Simon Youth Foundation capacity building grant to high school to Baldwin High School Shu at Schubert for the 2025 2026 school year as detailed in the Friday mailing. >> Moved by Miss Smith. >> Seconded by Miss Dresca. All those in favor? Thank you. >> Thank you for that donation. Okay. The board of education approves acceptance of a donation in the amount of $282.114 that was collected from ticket sales of the fine and performing arts production of Willy Wonka at Baldwin High School which will be used for ancillary costs associated with the fine and art performing arts program as detailed in the Friday mailing. >> So moved. >> Moved by Mr. Dresca. Second. >>
073Seconded by Miss Smith. All those in favor? >> I. Okay. The board of education approves the consent agenda including business items 10.03 through 10.25. >> As board president, I am calling >> the first. >> Okay. Are there any items members would care to withdraw from consideration under the consent agenda for further discussion or a separate vote? >> You want to just you understand right? >> Okay. >> Nope. So move. >> Okay. So moved by Mr. Resca. >> Seconded by Miss Smith. All those in favor? I >> I Okay, >> move the consent. >> Okay. >> All right. So, the board of education approves business consent items 10.03 through 10.25. >> Do I have a motion to approve the business consent items? >> So, move. >> Moved by Mr. Dasca. >> Seconded by Miss Smith. Okay.
074All in favor? >> I I >> Thank you. >> I just got a question. >> Doesn't change um the vote. Um the uh affiliation dual >> sorry the affiliation and dual agreement that were in that were presented to us they all are the same. There's nothing different. Was there any addition of anything? >> So, one of the um agreements is for that dual enrollment with community college, the personal finance course, which is our economics. >> That's the one. >> And the other two affiliation agreements are uh for student teacher teaching partnerships with universities. Yep. >> So, we could accept uh student teachers and hopefully continue to build the education workforce. >> So, the personal finances is like is an addition to what >> that was what I had mentioned. Okay. That's the only one that's
075>> Yes. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> All good. Okay. Next item of business. Board of Education approves the updated use of facilities report from July 2025 through June 2026 as detailed in the Friday mailing. >> So moved. >> Moved by Mr. Dresca. >> Seconded by Miss Smith. All those in favor? >> I. >> Okay. The board of education has a first read of the following policies as detailed in the Friday mailing. 8635 and 8635R. Information on privacy and data privacy security. a revised breach and policy notification. >> No. >> Okay. The board of education has a second read and adopts the following policy as detailed in the Friday mailing and that's policy 5550 student privacy under the protection of pupil rights amendment which is pp. So, >> well, no, this one. >>
076No, that's just a second adoption. >> Listen, we're just wait but >> we don't have to. >> You adopt you. >> I thought we do. >> Yeah, I think it's just missing middle lines. >> So, move. >> Okay. Moved by Mr. Resca. >> Second by Miss Smith. All those in favor? >> I >> Okay. The board of education approves the following resolution detailed in the Friday mailing. Be it resolved that the board of education of the Baldwin Union Free School District, having reviewed in executive session a memorandum of agreement between the board of education and the Baldwin Teaching Assistance Association, herewith approves the terms of the memorandum of agreement and authorizes the superintendent of schools to execute the same. So moved. Moved by Miss Dresesca. >> Seconded by Miss Smith. All those in favor? >>
077I board of education approves the following resolution detailed in the Friday mailing. Be it resolved that the board of education and the board Baldwin Union Free School District having reviewed in executive session a memorandum of agreement between the board of education and the Baldwin Teachers Association regarding the resolution of agrievance herewith approves the terms of the memorandum of agreement. And be it further resolved that the board of education of the Baldwin Union Free School District herewith authorizes the superintendent of schools to execute the af afro memorandum of agreement on behalf of the board of education effectuating the foregoing. >> So move >> moved by Miss Teresa. >> seconded by Miss Smith. All those in favor? >> I >> Okay. Business. >> Okay. So, >> go ahead. >> Do you have it? There's one question under
078other. >> Remind me the um delegate for the school board is Mr. Smith. >> Yes. >> You participated a meeting. Don't we need to go through the resolutions or do we not for him to vote on our behalf? When does >> I just can't recall the schedule on that. We just >> So, we can go through those resolutions at the we can go back into exact session, right? And then review them. >> Yes, we do. We have >> we go back into Zack. >> We could do that um after this meeting. We could do maybe like 10 minutes. His uh the meeting is uh October 16th at 4 via Zoom. He does have the resolutions in hand and the way that we voted at the resolution uh dinner. >> Okay. So, >> do you want
079to announce that that Bose is having the budget that vote also to sell the property? We pushed that out. Go ahead and do that. >> Yeah, you can. Just in addition, we've pushed out um to the community uh Boseies is on the 16th also having a vote on right um selling property and buying property. Um so that was announced. We push that out through the parent link information system. So um everyone gets to vote on that. That lives in Nassau County. So you just know so you could be on the lookout for that. >> Okay. Uh just wanted to go over some important dates. Uh so we have the um PSAT on October 11th. Schools are closed on October 13th. Uh financial aid night at at the high school and that's um October 21st at
080700 p.m. We do have the high school openhouse for 8th grade parents only. And that's um you have to respond for that. respond for your attendance and that is on October 22nd. And then again, um we have the PTA sponsored legislative forum and that's at uh the high school at 700 p.m. on October 23rd, >> which we might change. Yeah. >> Which Yes. Because so we were looking at the date of October 21st or does that coincide with >> not the 21st, you said the 22nd to Wednesday? >> The 22nd >> is what we're working with the PTA to see if it's a good date to change. >> Okay. So once we confirm that, that would be posted on the district website. >> Absolutely. >> Okay. So disregard the 23rd. Um we're looking at the
08122nd. Okay. And um October 30th, middle school openhouse, 9:00 a.m. And you have to respond for that. Okay. RCP for that. And are there any other questions, announcements? Okay. So, we are going to adjourn the meeting at >> go back >> 9:44. Yes, we will go back into Isac to discuss those items. Good. >> Thank you. Okay. someone to uh move it. Are you moving that? >> Oh, so moved. >> Moved by Miss Dresca. Second. >> Seconded by Miss Smith. Thank you. Thank you for coming out. Have a wonderful evening.