001Right. Good evening everyone. Welcome to the June meeting. If we could rise for the pledge of allegiance. [Music] I aliance 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. We got a we got a packed house here tonight. All for good things. I just want to take um one second. I will make my brief my uh remarks very brief just to uh thank everyone again for the beautiful field of flags. We had a great day. The American Legion came. Our FET student council did a great job. Mr. Carter and and your group did a wonderful job. Uh looks beautiful. And uh our legislator Michael G came uh representing the county. So we just want to say
002thank you uh for the field of flags and person on behalf of the board we'd like to congratulate and thank all of our retirees. You made it. Congratulations. We're not going to bel labor the meeting for you. Uh Dr. Signak, I'm going to pass over to your comments. Good evening. Welcome to our June meeting. Such an exciting meeting. So without further ado, we'll go right into our presentation with the which is the celebration of our retirees. So first I would like to call up Miss Maria Castle for her 31 years of service. [Applause] Yes. Good evening everyone. Board of Education, Dr. Senak. This is really a wonderful, wonderful evening tonight. It is with gratitude and a touch of sadness that we are here tonight to honor Maria Castle after over 31 years of being a
003teacher in North Merrick. The first recollection that I remember of having any dealings with you, Maria, was that was all good. It was when we were both asked to be on this compact for learning committee in the fall of 2004. Why I remember this, I don't know, but I do. And there were some parents there. Uh the superintendent at the time and the uh interim uh superintendent was also there. And I was just taken and impressed by how you articulated vision and goals and how you addressed all the important pieces of what had to be discussed. And I said to myself, that's why Maria was put on this meeting because of who you are as a person and as an educator. It is going to be impossible to imagine North Merrick without Maria Castle part
004of the staff here. It really is. For every student that you taught, you taught them to know about their promise, about their potential, about their possibilities. Now, elementary school, as you know, it's just not about reading and writing and arithmetic. It's a lot more. It's about shaping hearts. And you have done that beautifully. You really, really have. Your students knew warmth. They knew safety. They knew that they were being valued as people. You believed in them in every role whether it be as a classroom teacher in the different grades AIS wings you gave of yourself 100% each and every day. Your impact is immeasurable. Your legacy it will never fade. But the lives that you have impacted, what you have taught them, it will go on forever and ever and ever. Now you begin a
005new chapter, one filled with new adventures and new joys. and know that you had a lasting impact on every child that you touched, that you taught. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you have done for both at Camp Avenue and at FET. We wish you all the happiness and peace that retirement can give you. All the best. Maria Castle. [Applause] Watch that. Yeah. [Applause] Next, we would like to call Miss Arleene Lucero for 27 years of service. Please come forward. [Applause] Yes, you do. I wrote down my speech. I can't talk off the cuff like that. It's amazing. Good evening, everyone. It is both a privilege and an honor to stand before you today as we celebrate the remarkable career and well-earned retirement of Mrs. Arlene. Today we are not
006only saying goodbye to a dedicated educator, but we also recognize the legacy of a woman who has shaped the hearts and minds of countless students, colleagues, and families over 27 years. Arlene began her journey in education with passion and purpose. Over the years, she taught across five grade levels, bringing energy, creativity, and compassion into every classroom she entered. Whether she was introducing young learners to the joys of reading or guiding students to become critical thinkers and problem solvers, Arlene left a lasting mark on every student lucky enough to be in her care. Her classroom was more than just a place of learning. It was a space where curiosity thrived, creativity blossomed, and every child felt seen, heard, and valued. 17 years ago, Eileen took on the role of teacher center director, a position that allowed
007her to expand her influence far beyond the classroom walls. In that role, she became a true leader and collaborator. Someone who fostered professional growth, encouraged meaningful professional development opportunities that empowered educators and directly supported district-wide goals. She led with empathy, integrity, and an unshakable belief in the power of lifelong learning. As we reflect on Arlene's incredible career, it's clear that her legacy lives on in the students who approached the world with curiosity and confidence. In the teachers who grew under her mentorship and in the school community she helped to shape and strengthen. North Merrick is better because Arlene Sarah was here. Arlene, your contributions have been extraordinary and your absence will certainly be felt. While we'll miss your presence in the halls, your impact will continue to resonate for years to come. We wish you
008joy, relaxation, and many new adventures in this next chapter. May your days be filled with everything you love most, and may you always know how deeply you are appreciated. Congratulations on your retirement. [Applause] Smart girl. Next, I would like to call up Miss Kathy Marquados for 25 years of service. [Applause] [Music] Today we come together to honor and celebrate the incredible career of a wonderful educator, Mrs. Kathy Marquados. After 25 years of dedicated service as an ENL teacher, Kathy is retiring. And while we are thrilled for her next chapter, we know her presence will be deeply missed in North America schools. From the very beginning of her career, Kathy brought with her not only expertise and professionalism, but also a genuine warmth and compassion that set her apart. Her care for her students extended far
009beyond academics. She cared deeply about their lives, their families, and their stories and cultures. Kathy created a space where every student felt safe, valued, and understood. where language was not a barrier but a bridge. As an ENL teacher, Kathy had a unique and powerful role. She didn't just teach English. She opened doors. She helped students find their voices in a new language, gain confidence in a new culture, and see their own backgrounds as strengths, not obstacles. Her students thrived because she believed in them, and in turn, they believed in themselves. Kathy's influence extended beyond the classroom as she worked tirelessly to foster a more inclusive, culturally responsive school community. She was passionate advocate for celebrating diversity, helping staff and students alike recognize, respect, and appreciate the many cultures and countries represented in our district. Through
010her work, Kathy brought awareness, compassion, and unity to our schools. Kathy, we are so grateful for the years you've given to the North America community. Your dedication has touched lives in ways that words can never fully capture. While we'll miss your kind spirit and tireless dedication, we are excited for all the joy that awaits you in retirement. May your next chapter be filled with peace, adventure, and all the happiness you so richly deserve. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] And now we would I would like to call Miss Sheila Kushner for her 20 years of service. Please come forward. Sheila, it has been such a joy working with you these past 21 years, minus the year that you were at Camp Avenue, of course, but all but it really is a wonderful night to celebrate such
011an extraordinary educator in Sheila. You knew that her children were going to be given love and care and all the things that children need. Now, we know kindergarten, that first step in the educational journey. Being a kindergarten teacher is no small job. It's not for the faint of heart for sure. But you have done it so beautifully. You have taught them to share, to learn how to be part of community, to be working together both with teachers and aids and everyone else. You taught them how to ask questions and to really start thinking of themselves as students, children who learn. your room a place of love, a place of wonder. And for generations of students, you made that possible. You really made that possible. How many shoes were tied? How many tears wiped away and
012hugs given and hands held and reassurances given? So many children were impacted by you and the care and joy you gave of them. You leave a legacy of love and the ripple effects will be there as we move on and move on and move on. The students that you had were so fortunate to have you as their teacher. You also gave of yourself outside of the classroom teacher center and of course theater arts. What a great program that is. It sound like muscles clap by the way. And now as we step and you step in with Matt and family into this new chapter of joy of following your dreams. Just I want to wish you all the best and know that you have such an impact on the fet community. Your impact can never be
013measured. It really cannot. So let's take a moment to honor this wonderful educator and a cornerstone of the fet community, Sheila Kush. [Applause] Now I would like to call up Miss Pamela Schllo. [Applause] We gather to celebrate someone whose impact on our school and our hearts is immeasurable. After 18 incredible years at North America Union Free School District, Pam Schlass is closing this chapter and beginning a new and welldeserved one in her journey, retirement. Pam has made so much more than has been so much more than a teacher's assistant. She has been a quiet leader and a beloved presence in the lives of both students and staff. Her commitment to education, to her students, and to our school community has never wavered, not for a moment. Anyone who has walked past her will likely recall
014seeing Pam sitting pretzel style on the floor, deeply engaged with a small group of students, whether they were immersed in a story or working through a math problem. I always commented how flexible she was. Her ability to connect with children at their level, both emotionally and academically, is one of her many gifts. students adored her not only because she made learning fun, but because they knew she truly saw them, understood them, and believed in them. Teachers who had the privilege of working alongside Pam knew they were working with a true partner. She used the six models of co-eing not just as strategies, but as tools to lift every student and enrich every lesson. Her ability to differentiate instruction was skillful and thoughtful. Pam, your departure leaves a space that won't be easily filled. You have
015left an indelible mark on this district, on your colleagues, and on the hundreds of children whose lives you've touched. We will miss your presence, your wisdom, and your endless kindness. As you step into this next chapter, whatever it may bring, we hope it is filled with relaxation, adventure, joy, and the same kind of love you have so freely given here. You've earned every bit of it. Enjoy your retirement. [Applause] And now I would like to call up Miss Mary Hegerty for 21 years of service. Mary, unfortunately, Mr. Luca could not be here tonight and I was honored to be asked to read her speech. As you may have known, Mary started with us at FET and see that so from Mr. Luca, but also my sentiments as well. Good evening, everyone. And Mr. Luca did
016send her apologies, but I'm so happy that I'm able to read this. It is both a joy and an honor to speak about someone who has truly made a difference in our school community, the wonderful Mary Hagerty. For nearly 20 years, Mary has dedicated herself to the students, teachers, and families of our district. She began her career here as a lunch monitor many moons ago and within a short time became a full-time special education aid. As a special education teacher aid both here at FET and at Old Mill Road, Mary has worked in general education classrooms, ICT settings, and across just about every grade from kindergarten through six. No matter the grade, no matter the classroom, Mary has brought her signature patience, compassion, and steady presence to each and every day. Those of us who
017have had the pleasure of working alongside Mary know that she leads with heart and integrity. She supports not only the students in her care, but also the teachers she worked with, collaborating to help every child reach their full potential. Mary has a gift for knowing exactly what a student needs. Whether it's an encouraging word, a helping hand, or a reassuring smile, she has been a calm in the storm for many children navigating big challenges, and her care has added to the warmth and compassion in our classrooms. Beyond the day-to-day tasks, Mary has been a role model for what it means to serve with grace and humility. She never asked for recognition or praise. But today, we want to make sure she knows just how appreciated and admired she truly is. Mary, as you step into
018retirement, we hope you carry with you the knowledge that your work mattered deeply. You have left a lasting mark on this school, on your colleagues, and most importantly on the many students whose lives you helped shape. We wish you all the happiness, relaxation, and new adventures that retirement can bring. And please know that you'll always be part of our school family. Congratulations, Mary, and thank you for everything. [Applause] Right. Well, congratulations again to uh all of our retirees and your families. And uh we will not hold it against you if you want to leave now. So, uh while we know you can't get enough of us, if you want to have uh you know, make a quick getaway, we'll let you do that at this moment. So, um if not, we're going to continue with
019our We'll give you a minute and we're going to start. Yep. So, don't be don't be shy. I like it. You were brave. You were the first one to get up. Everyone followed. Well, I'm asky. [Music] Yeah, that's why it's okay. All right. I know. Okay. I'm going to we're going to continue. I'm going to ask for a motion to approve 4 A through 4 C listed on the agenda. 4 A through 4C by Mary, seconded by Tracy. All in favor? I. Motion carries. And if we have any public comments on agenda items only, uh, please step forward. Agenda items only. All right. Having none, I'm going to ask for a motion to approve 6A through 6W as listed in the agenda. Motion by Tracy, second by Mary. All in favor? I. Motion carries. And
020before we do our personal actions report, I'm going to just uh hand it off to Dr. Siniac. Good evening. Uh before the board takes a vote on the personnel actions report, I would like to share with the public um an item that is on that report. As Mr. Marrams let his faculty and staff know last month, uh he will be transitioning into a new position in July. He will be the principal in charge of instructional technology, library, media, data, and everything else. Right, Mr. Marrams? a nice transition and he'll be working very closely with central office. We are looking forward to that. On the personnel actions report, you may be wondering, well, who's going to take over for Mr. Merrams? Well, I'm very happy to report. No, not you, Mr. Carter. I'm very happy. Get
021in line, Mr. Carter. Very happy to share that on the personnel actions report, Dr. Christine Talbot is there to be appointed in July, July 7th to be exact, as the principal of Harold Defey School. Well-earned, welld deserved, and thank you for your service to North Merit. Wait, wait, let's make it official. Uh, let's take the vote. Let's take the vote. So, motion for and thank you, Mr. Marramson. Congratulations. Uh, make a motion. No, no speeches. He's going to get motion here next year. A mot a motion to approve 7A by Kathy, seconded by Tracy. All in favor. Congratulations to you both. Thank you so much. Thank you. [Music] But wait, there's more. And there's more. I would like to introduce our new ENL teacher for Camp Avenue for next school year. Please stand. Mrs. Tiffany
022Maximowitz, congratulations. Welcome to North Merrick. Welcome. We have a motion to approve 8A, our policies. Motion by Mary, second by Ed. All in favor? I. A motion to approve our special services 9A through 9W as listed in the agenda. Motion by Mary, second by Ed. All in favor? I. Motion passes unanimously. Ahead of myself. Um, a report of our committees. Mr. Cron, will you handle the high school committee report? Thank you. Okay. So, at our our Central High School Board of Ed meeting on June 4th, uh, we honored 23 retirees at a pre-board meeting celebration. Then we also honored our valadictorians and saludiatorans at our meeting. I'll just mention at the Calhoun. Uh Isabella Roar was our saludiatoran and Ian Climov was our valadictorian. We said goodbye to our student representatives uh to the board
023of education. Our Calhoun rep was Samantha Chikin. Uh we also honored retiring members of the Delmare Merrick Central High School District PTA and that's Jackie Erikson of Meppam and Teresa Semeca of Kennedy. We also honored our outgoing Central High School District President Dr. Nancy Kaplan. After that we adjourned to a public hearing on a school safety plan and then the meeting adjourned. Thank you so much Mr. Cron. Also, we I just want to mention that we had we celebrated our uh graduations for all three schools this weekend. They had a great prom Thursday night from what I've heard. I wasn't there, but I was told it was and no issues, so that's good. And I was happy enough to uh give the graduation speech at Calhoun and uh it was a great day for the
024for the graduates of course and their families. So, that was uh it's been very busy over at uh the high schools. Uh school community relations and PTA council, Miss Keane. Okay, awesome. Hey, everybody. I'll be back. The PTAs were just incredible this year. Camp Avenue would had their final PTA meeting on May 12th. May 21st, the first and fourth grades had the journeys into the American Indian Territory Assembly. Each class watched a 20-minute video before the assembly. Everyone's looking forward to Camp Avenue Day on June 20th. Amazing Athletes last session was on May 13th. Chess club ended on June 4th. Installation dinner for Camp A is uh Monday, June 16th from 7 to 10 at Garden Social Beer Garden and Kitchen. Spirit Wear was a big success. Sold over a 100 grade shirts. Uh they're
025they've been sorted and will be handed out. They were supposed to be handed out today, but this week incoming sixth grade class held their popcorn sale and sold about $5,000. So, wow. Blankets are for sale on givebacks.com. PTA ordered t-shirts for K through fifth graders. PTA ordered t-shirts for K through fifth graders as an end as the end of year gift. They will be given out shortly. Um and sent out some class parent requests and those are due next month. FET ready set go kindergarten orientation part two was May 13th. The kids enjoyed a second opportunity to come back to FET. The FY PTA installation dinner is scheduled for June 11th at six o'clock at Lstrada of Merik. Funday is scheduled for June 20th. We're excited to welcome back Uncle Tony's Reptiles as one of
026our eight stations for Funday. PTA is planning our kindergarten and sixth grade graduation ceremonies celebrations. We're excited to celebrate our graduates. Our annual plan sale was a big success. Pre-orders were picked up on May 8th and students were able to purchase plants at the spring boutique on May 9th. Our school supply sale concluded. Students will receive their school supply boxes um on June 12th, which is the half day. So, in preparation for the upcoming school year, our annual bake sale during open house on May 19th was a huge success. The yearbook is complete and incredible. Thank you to the yearbook committee. Almost done. Halfway there. Old Mill Road had also had kindergarten orientation. The children took tours of the school and parents enjoyed the presentation. Our next big event is Funday on June 20th. We
027are having a luau theme and children will enjoy a foam party, decorate a hat, and lots of other fun activities. SEPTA will be setting up a station at Funday for the students who need a break and want something different to do. And SEPTA so uh generously is donating to all the schools, which is incredible. Um there there will also be an assembly with a science wizard. He was on America's Got Talent. So we are looking forward to the big day. The drama club had their performance on May 12th. The uh their show was called Paradisia and featured colorful costumes and a Hawaiian theme. They were wonderful. Our PTA installation dinner is June 11th at La Piaza. On May 8th and 9th, we had our first Mother's Day Father's Day boutique. Our students got to shop
028for the special people in their life. We had uh Scholastic Bookf Fair, buy one get one on May 30th. The children were excited to choose books for the summer. Our yearbooks, our yearbooks are in and students will be get the students receive them. Um SEPTA has had a very busy few weeks. We have sent supplies over to all the schools including the sensory tables for the PTAs to utilize especially on June 20th. Uh plans are underway for the upcoming funday. Our ice cream social was a great way to end the school year and SEPTA just continued to be incredible all year. So PTA's bravo, bravo, bravo, bravo. Awesome. Thank you, Mr. Carter. Building and grounds report. Some flags take down. What's that? Some flags to take down right here. Yeah, flags come down Friday. Um,
029good to see you all. Yes. Uh, busy time of year. So, congratulations to all the retirees. It's always tough to follow the retirees and the tenure folks, but I'll give it a try. Um, congratulations to this year's Irene Lenhard award winners last night. That was a I heard it was a great success. So, congratulations to those guys. Thank you to MAMS for their hospitality. They were amazing security guards, custodians, our custodians. The high school district's always so generous with us and it's it's great to have that uh relationship. Uh, it's a bummer that field day got cancelled, but we're shooting for this Monday. It's going to be great. uh we'll be ready for everyone. Uh I've been working we have been working with Mrs. Donnelly and our architect on getting the permits for the roof
030project for next uh summer at Camp Avenue. So that's ongoing. Um we're also planning a very exciting project this summer at Camp Avenue, which is a turf infield with the uh Merrick Belmore Little League. Uh generous donation. It's going to be fantastic. Uh we've been working out all the little details and getting that uh going this summer is going to be a lot of fun. So that's something to look forward to. Uh we're also planning a lot of in-house work uh as normal with summer cleaning. Uh current currently we are painting the main uh carters in Camp Avenue. We're getting some fun colors in there now. Uh performing everyday repairs throughout the district. The maintenance guys are constantly putting out small fires and I can't thank them enough for always being there and um this
031just a very busy time of year and it's a very fun time of year. So what what's that? Air conditioning. Oh yeah, the air conditioning. And I I if it gets done, the air conditioning's done. It's done finally. So, yeah, I guess it's a milestone. I thought I you know, I thought I mentioned it last time. Yes, it it is complete. It's on and it's working. So, we're 100% uh I'm enjoying it. What's that? Enjoy. Yes. And uh bring it on, Hok. I'm not touching that one. Um any communications, Miss Long? Well, one was received and responded to. Excellent. Any unfinished business of the board? Any new b business of the board? Any public commenters on anything? Freeforall. Excellent. Um, on that note, if we have a a motion to adjurnn by Ed, second by
032Steve. All in favor? I. Thank you. Have a great end of the school year. Thank you so much. That's nice.