001Welcome to the December 16th um board of education meeting. I'd like to read our vision and mission statements. Every student empowered for tomorrow. Our mission statement states, "The North Hunted and Bores Regional High School District empowers all students through innovative and personalized learning to achieve their full potential, embrace lifelong learning, and contribute responsibly to a changing world. The North Hunter and Voys Regional High School District Board of Education meeting Tuesday, December 16, 2025 is now called to order. In accordance with the requirements of the open public meeting act NJSA 10-46 adequate notice giving this time date location and to the extent known the agenda of this meeting was published by the Hunton County Democrat and the Star Ledger on January 9th 2025. In addition, notice of this meeting has been posted at the North Huntington
002High School and Boris High School provided to the municipal clerks of Bethlehem Township, Califon Burough, Town of Clinton, Clinton Township, Franklin Township, Glen Garner Burough, Hampton Burough, Hybridgeboro, Lebanon Burough, Lebanon Township, Chubsberry Township, and Union Township, as well as other interested parties and posted on the district website. Fire exits are located in the directions indicated. If alerted to fire, please move in a calm and orderly fashion to the nearest smoke-free exit. Restrooms are located through the doors behind me and to the right as indicated. At this time, please silence all cell phones. >> Uh, Miss Blue, a roll call, please. >> Mr. Chapman >> here, >> Miss Galla here, >> Miss >> here, Miss >> here, Mr. >> Here, >> Mr. McSac >> here. >> Miss Reyes >> here, >> Mr. Spanzer >> here, >>
003Miss Stein >> here, >> Miss Biano >> here, >> and Miss >> here. Please rise for the pledge. >> 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. Can I have a motion and a second to approve agenda item 4.1, the minutes of the November 25th regular board meeting? >> So second, >> Tara and Beth. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any nays or absentions? >> Abstain. Dan is an obsession. student. Okay. Uh we will move on to the recogn recognition of student achievements. Uh let's start with Mr. Ron Peterson for Boris High School, please. >> Good evening everybody. So, I have two of the three individuals here with me tonight. Unfortunately, uh
004Zach Sam could not join us tonight because he's a member of our uh music groups. He's part of the band and the jazz band and they're performing tonight. So, uh I will talk about him even though he's not here tonight. But with me are Anthony Giello and Soros Doss. They are part of our math league um or math contest and they're here because and if you don't know it's a series of problem solving um contests that happen throughout the year. I believe it's a total of six competitions that they have and with that um two contests have been completed so far this year and VHS is the leading school in Hunter County with a cumulative team score of 49 points. Three of the students Anthony um Soros and Zach scored a perfect six out of
005six on the second New Jersey Math League contest. Um both Zach and Anthony are among the top cumulative scoring students in the state of New Jersey. Both with 11 point each 11 points each right now. And Vorhees ranked as a top performing school uh thus far based on their current performance out of 141 schools that are in the competition right now. We're tied for seventh. So, uh, kudos to them and what they're doing with the competition and and, uh, making Vorhees a great place. And again, it's great day to be a VI. Um, Zach, who couldn't be with us, is a member of the Jazz Band and cross country and tennis teams. He is in the National Honor Society, math honor society, and spends, he said, spends nearly every day tutoring students after school or
006um, during lunch and after school. and he plans to study economics and get a master's in business administration. Anthony is a senior here at Vorhees. He is currently enrolled in AP Calculus BC and is a member of the National Honor Society and the Math Honor Society. He's a ninetime high honor role recipient. Outside of academics, he is the captain of the Vorhees track team and an active Eagle Scout in his community. And next year, he plans to attend the four-year university to study chemistry as he works toward his goal of becoming a doctor. And Soros is a junior at Vorhees and his strong interest in math and science is currently taking six AP courses. He has volunteered in over a 100 hours of working and helping working with and helping children. And he competes in
007fencing and plays golf or VHS outside of school. He enjoys traveling, watching movies, and I got to say, I enjoy this too, trying new cuisines. So, uh, congratulations to Anthony and, uh, Sor. Get back. >> Thank you. I got quite a crew tonight. >> I'm actually going to We have a We have another picture, too. Would you mind showing the board members what we uh take the other side, John? >> Perfect. So, if you remember, it was about a year ago, uh, I had Ava here, Ava be hiding behind me, Ava, uh, Ava to talk, we recognized her for the mural that she did in downtown Clinton, a big mural on the side of one of the walls in downtown. And at that time, I said to Ava, well, if you ever want to do
008a mural at North, let me know. And wow, she took that to heart. Uh it was I think within about a month she came forward with members of our national honor society and they had a great idea uh spearheaded again mainly by Ava at the start of the idea here uh to talk about how we could put a big mural and what what you see there is actually about 20 ft long and 4t high those those are it's in the cafeteria um and it's supposed to represent all the different things that we do at North. So everything from athletics to academics to the arts uh and then some of our community events at the end that we're really proud of. Again, you can see in there the because of Joey and the Sophia Shining Light
009Foundation again highlighting all the things that we do at North. So, um this idea uh was a collaboration of all of our members. Uh they worked together to create the design. Um I know uh Giana was very active in this as well adding the color to the mural and what they did is they actually projected it on the wall with a projector and then they stencled it out and then Mr. Petraia came in and said, "You know what? I think that that should be bigger." So then they repainted over it, did it all again, stenced it again, and then spent a lot of time over the summer painting it. And then uh everybody chipped in at the start of this school year to finish it. So the next time you were at North going to
010cafeteria A, you will see the very big mural in the back. You can't miss it. And it's because of the hard work of our National Honor Society officers, which is I what I should have started. >> Art Honor Societ. >> Sorry. Art National Art Honor Society officers, better known as NAS. Uh thank you. Mr. Calibri is our adviser. I asked them to come up here and help out uh hand out our certificates tonight. Uh some of the other things that our art honor society does is they work with some of our foreign language clubs such as our French club, they just uh had a meeting with them and they talked about French impressionist artists and so trying to bring like the collaborative approach there and their whole goal when I asked the the officers here
011what the goal of the club is and it's just to make make art accessible for the entire school. So they have some different galleries throughout. So, uh, quickly again, that is what they did. And I want to just introduce who's up here. Uh, we have Janna Marina, who is a senior and hopes to study biology and become a doctor and continue to pursue her love of art. Janna, give us a wave. Okay, Mr. Calibers, you can hand out the certificates while I'm doing that. Uh, Ava Valerie is a junior and she plans to become a kindergarten teacher and continue to create art as well. Ivy Storage is a senior and hopes to be a medical illustrator and work as as a forensic artist. Emily Zang is a senior as well. She aspires to work with
012children as a psychiatrist. Natalie Olsen is in 12th grade. She plans to study art history and pursue a career as a museum a museum curator. Ray McConna is a senior and intends intends to earn a degree a PhD degree I should say in psychiatry and hopes to integrate art into her work. Sophia Stacy is a senior and she is excited uh for a future in interest both in art and forensic and I believe she's up at our she's one of our girls wrestlers that they had a match match tonight. Elizabeth Span is an 11th grader and she is interested in a career in STEM and chemistry. And finally, finally, Arthy Condra is an 11th grader and plans to study biology or chemistry. So, round of applause. >> There you go. Hold the pit. Can we
013get to John? Hold the picture. You're in it, too. There you go. >> Thank you. Congratulations. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Congratulations to all our students. Fabulous. Amazing kids we have. We'd like to move on to our board student rep report. Um let's start with Max. >> Sure. All right. So, we've had an eventful last few weeks since we last saw you. Lots of music things going on. On December 4th, we had our first music concert. This featured our freshman choir, show choir, string orchestra, and jazz ensemble. The following week, we had our second concert on December 11th. This featured our chamber choir, our magical singers, concert choir, and concert band. At the end of each of these concerts, each one of the all the performing ensembles that night come together to sing one
014final holiday celebration. I was actually a part of both of these concerts, and I can say they were definitely a success. It's going to be a great turnout in the audience. Y >> um music has also been going on some field trips. On Friday, December 5th and Friday, December 12th, the jazz ensemble, show choir, and string orchestra um our most competitive um and honors ensembles at North visited sending district middle schools that included Ethel Hapuk, Clinton Township, Clinton Public, and Union Township. And this is where we performed and encouraged their participation in North music department. Um, on Friday, December 5th, for the first time, the North Hunter and Dance team joined the Golden Lions marching band in downtown Clinton to march through town for the Clinton parade, which was very fun, very cold, but very
015uh the senior class hosted their third annual thrift store on Wednesday, December 10th. We ended up raising over $1,300 for the senior class, which will go towards prom and project graduation. We actually ended up having a student reach out to us who offered to um uh pay us some money uh to take the remaining clothes who would repurpose them and then sell some of the other clothing um on different sources and then donate the rest of it to various places in need. The wrestling club donated funds to create a wrestling mural in the wrestling hallway at North. It looks great. It's a montage of pictures throughout the years of North Wrestling which does include some former North wrestling alumni who are now our wrestling coaching staff. So, it's really fun to look at some old
016pictures of them. I was able to receive North's AP Scholar reports that were requested at our last meeting. So, from our 2025 AP exams this past May, North had 124 AP scholars with an average of 4.15 on the exams. North had 46 AP scholars who averaged 3.72, 19 AP scholars with honors who averaged 3.87, 87 and 59 AP scholars with distinction who averaged a score of 4.34. Overall, 89% of North students scored a three or higher on their exams. The sophomore class has planned a holiday movie night for this upcoming Friday. This has been open to the entire student body and should be a great way to get spirits up for the upcoming holiday break. We are watching Home Alone, which I'm very excited for. Today was the student advisory committee meeting at North Hunter.
017This is held once a marking period. Um it includes every class officer from freshman to seniors and our national honor society officers and our student council officers are in attendance and we all come together to debrief on upcoming school events and give input inputs towards school related things such as like our lunches. This was also our first time meeting the new freshman class officers because they hadn't been elected at the first meeting. So, it was great for everyone to introduce themselves and also give them advice towards being officers for the upcoming classes. And finally, the last thing is just our new attendance policy. Not going to say much because I know Dr. Burgess is going to talk about it, but I am happy to report that our new attendance policy that was implemented this year,
018our absentee rates have gone down significantly. >> And that's all I have. >> Excellent, Samantha. >> Okay. So, at Vorhees, because it's only been a couple weeks, we haven't had a ton going on. People are kind of winding down for the holiday season, but I'll report on what I do have. So, in terms of sports, VHS winter sports have started up and are in full swing for the respective seasons. I'm very excited to report on their records as we have more data, but they've just started just a few games so far, matches, etc. The competition cheer team hosted their victory competition on Saturday, December 13th, and they had 17 teams in attendance, which was a really good turnout for them, and they had a great time hosting. Um, in terms of the arts, we did
019have our unified theater production of Moana Jr. this past weekend. We did get to have our show on December 13th at 6 PM, but our Sunday show was cancelled and has been rescheduled to this Saturday at 400 p.m. So, we're hoping that people will be able to come and all of the tickets are going to be honored for the next performance. Uh the winter coral concert and winter instrumental concerts are this week tonight at 700 pm. The band and orchestra concert was happening and that's jazz band, concert band, middle school honors band combined with high school students. So we bring up seventh and eighth graders and they partner with our high school students and they perform a couple of songs as well as our string orchestra. And then on Thursday at 7, we have magical
020choir, bass choir, concert choir, and freshman choir performing as well. The VHS marching band also marched just like North did through Clinton on December 5th during their 50th annual Christmas parade. It was a cold night, but they said they had a lot of fun. In terms of clubs and activities, we had the Warren Hunter academic meet at Borhees this past week. There were 16 teams in attendance and Warheis placed second overall. And if you don't know what that is, it's kind of like like quiz bowl or like trivia. Um, so they have a lot of fun with that. We brought three teams and two out of our three teams placed. National Honor Society participated in Operation Holiday Box, which is where they make shoe boxes filled with a bunch of little toys for kids and
021that they're distributed. And they packed a total of 42 boxes this year for children in need. Key Club hosted their cookie walk, which I can say is one of my favorite events. and they brought in over I think it was over a hundred dozen cookies and they lay them out right outside the cafeteria at the end of the day and you can buy a bag and it's a small bag or a big bag and then they fill it with cookies. Um, and they made over $500 towards community service projects in the process of spreading holiday cheer which was a very fun event and I can say everyone that went definitely enjoyed the cookies. Um, and then they are also running their annual giving tree fundraiser, which is like one of the holiday trees that you
022can see at like Walmart with the tags. And this year we're helping 27 families. Craft of Palooa, which I talked about at our last meeting, happened on December 1st and that's an event hosted by English National Honor Society where students get to come after school and just relax a little bit. They make crafts and they eat food and it was a lot of fun. Everett said they very much enjoyed it and we're hoping to bring it back next year. The VHS staff members started something new this year. They're calling it Deck the Halls. And it's a competition where they are decorating their doors. So, if you walk around Borhees, all of the teachers have different door decorations right now. It's a lot of fun. So, if you get to stop by, keep your eyes peeled
023and I'll let you know the results of the competition next month. The local scholarships have been posted for seniors and that's on the counseling page. We're very excited about that. It offers our seniors lots of opportunities to help with their future endeavors, whether that be trade school or college. And then finally, we have our winter pep rally on December 23rd, which is the half day next week, and it's going to recognize winter sports captains and help celebrate the upcoming holiday season. And that's all I have for you. >> Excellent. Thank you, >> Samantha. Just quick question on the um musical performance with the grade seven and eight students. Has that um been is that new or is that always >> No, they do that every year. Okay. >> Um, it's a really great opportunity. I
024believe that the band directors from the sending districts that like go to Vorhees elect students and then they get to partner with the high school students. >> Okay. Thank you >> for not having a a lot to say. I was a lot. >> I feel like it's been slow, but I guess it's not. >> But we love to hear about what what's going on. Thank you so much. >> Uh, moving on to our chief school administration report. Dr. Bers. Thank you, Miss Leo. All right, so I have some things to announce, then we have some business items, and then we get to thank our outgoing board members. So, let me start with um some of the things happening around our schools. Uh so, as part of our staff health and wellness initiative, Hunter and Health
025and Wellness came out to do a body balance class for the professional development day we just had this past December 10th. Um staff had the opportunity to participate in a 1-hour yoga type session. This will continue to happen at our professional development days going forward. Uh just again part of our staff um health and wellness initiatives and I think it was very well attended. Body balance is sort of like tai chi and yoga and karate and all kinds of things all mixed together. So great feedback. We had Dr. Spencer out um at North and Boys last week um from mind of an athlete. Um he presented his winter installment and the winter athletes were invited to the assembly which included workshop working with Dr. Spencer who spoke about frustration and how to manage emotions to
026thrive. Different programs are presented as a reminder throughout each academic season um throughout the year and the minded athlete program focuses on sports psychology content, goal setting, time management and team play but it also focuses on things like academics, making good choices, leadership, mental health and life skills. Uh both Vorhees and North Hunan High School announced their teachers of the year and educational services professional of the year. North Hunter's high school teacher teacher of the year is Michelle Naples. Um she is the Spanish teacher at North Hunter High School and um very well deserving. Michelle does a lot of work in our school with our students. Um and our educational services professional of the year at North was Cynthia Pek, one of our two school nurses and Miss Pek is awesome. So she's again well
027deserved. >> At Vorhees High School, the teacher of the year was Mary Beth Breth. Um she is a science teacher at Vorhees. Um, and again, Mary Beth, I see her all the time. Um, she's one of those teachers that are always around. Uh, so great to see her recognized. And our educational services professional of the year is Dan Tarantula. Um, he is a school psychologist at For High School. And again, um, welld deserved. Um, Dan is, um, goes above and beyond on a regular basis to help our students out. So, thank you to all of them. Congratulations to all of them. Um, the two teachers will then be able to buy for the county teacher of the year. So, we filled out that application now and now they're realizing how much work it is to
028be teacher of the year. I do want to send some congratulations to North students um Stephanie Dogus, Maya H, and Daniela Knox for auditioning and being accepted into the honors region choirs. Um they'll perform in January at Rutgers University. Over 400 students auditioned for this prestigious choir and we are excited to have North represented. Congratulations to North Senior Brooklyn campus for breaking the shotput indoor school record on her first meet of the season at the coach saint imit invitational. Um so again shattering a record on that first meet that's pretty good accomplishment. Um uh Vorious High School students Kayla um Jacob Zalinski, Jess Rodic, Rodri, and Ava Flet Frail were nominated to participate in the Vortes, I'm sorry, Rowan University Windfest Honors Band on Tuesday, December 2nd. Um and that they worked with Rowan students
029and faculty as well as the composer John Mackey. I think we talked about some North students participating at last time. Borie students were also part of it. So, uh, and then Boris High School is kicking off, um, winter break with dress up themes for winter spirit week with themes including winter wonderland, dress as your favorite holiday character, and many more. Staff are going to get in the holiday spirit with door decorating contests as we heard um, at both North and Boys. North has been doing it for quite a few years. I think Bory's is doing it now. So, um, I can't wait to see the, um, dress up. That's always fun. Walk around. I did want to mention a couple things. Um, as winter sports are starting, um, now that they're underway, I want to
030take a moment to share that we have results from our fall sports end of season surveys. And I wanted people to know that we do this. Um, we we at the end of each season, we send um surveys out to our parents and our students to find out what their um experience was, you know, with that program. Uh, the feedback from these surveys help administrators to ensure that our students are having a positive experience in our athletic program. Um but as anyone can attest, you know, being that's been a part of sports, um athletics brings out strong emotions with a competitive spirit that lends to a difference of opinion sometimes. This data allows us to ensure that our students are part of a positive competitive program. And it also ensures that we have data to
031support our coaches in the work they do. And so with that, I want to take an opportunity to thank our coaches um and our athletic directors for all they do throughout the year to ensure that our athletic programs are successful both in wins and life lessons. I did want to share a quote that stuck out for me from one of the coaches this year. Um, and basically when he emailed me, he said, "I coach to change lives, not win games." And I know this coach, and believe me, he likes to win and did win a lot this year. Um, but they also see the importance of the life lessons that can be learned through athletics. And we continue on evaluating and improving our own programs in our district, um, including athletics. So, uh, I can
032do this now. I have information on our attendance policy or do you want me to do that in policy as part of the committee of the whole usually talk about it in policy but >> I'm open how would the board >> since this is our first committee as a whole right um I can talk about it now and answer questions during policy we can talk about that >> um we did have our our attendance has continued to improve at both of our schools >> um and I did share a um spreadsheet that I didn't realize I I think we had it in our committee folders before and yeah so now I put it in our board resources folder that all board members have access to. So you can see the actual data, but what the
033data says um based on the end of November, which is the latest data that we have that we're using. Um North had 571 less absences than the same time frame last year. Uh which is about a 30% decrease in absenteeism. Uh at war, there were 615 less absences for the month of November and compared to last year, which is just over a 50% decrease in absences. So, as Matt, I'm sorry, as Max was um was mentioning, you know, so far we're seeing great data. Now, again, I don't want to get ahead of ourselves. We still have a lot of year left to go. Um we still have few seasons, things like that coming. Um but year date based on possible days of attendance, which is another thing we were asked to add to that chart
034and we added in that you can all see the data. Um the absent rate at North Harden, um year date currently is 4.7% and Boris is at 3.4. what we were trying to combat with our new attendance policy was over 14% at North and I think a little over 20% at Borage. So, um these are very encouraging numbers right now. We're going to continue to monitor them, but I just wanted to share good news with you. Um I stole a little bit Max wanted to talk about numbers and I said, "Can you let me talk about so we're coordinating a little bit." Um so, >> especially since it's good news. So, >> thank you. Definitely deliver. Um I did want to talk about our strategic planning advisory committee and our progress on our strategic plan.
035Um so for pillar number two which is personnel uh one of our um strategic planning advisory committee members I'm going to use the acronym stack it's just a little easier the tongue twister uh members have been researching and developing um an emerging leader program that we hope to have in place at each school this year um with full implementation for next school year. Um, you know, I the the staff member working here at North Hunter is a special ed teacher named Abby Conland and I believe there's a math teacher at Bores that's also going to do it u named Nick Palis. Um, so Miss Conland and Mr. Palis um are modeling this program um after a successful program at one of our neighboring districts in Central um where they have a great model where they
036have this emerging leader program. The idea is to grow your own leaders, you So, if you have teachers that are interested in leadership opportunities and see that as part of their career, path, you know, um have them do the hone these skills while they're here as teachers, uh it's all voluntary. Um Abby decided to take this on her own and has run with it and um it's been great to to see this initiative and I look forward to see what the program will turn into. Um but again that goes right towards directly towards you know empowering our staff and and trying to you know maintain um staff as well as part of our strategic goal. And then for pillar number one under instruction and program uh there'll be more details coming in the next few
037months but surveys were deployed to staff students and parents to ask about their view of AI and the impact it is having and will have on education. there two themes that were universally the biggest concerns out of all three groups. Um and that was academic integrity was the first concern that everybody had. Um but a very close second and not I I you know very close second was the loss of critical thinking skills and I think that you know and when I saw that that was I think had more of an impact on me. The academic integrity obviously is important but I think the critical thinking skills goes hand in hand with that as well. Um but uh there was also a general theme through all the groups that you know the trainers left the
038station that AI will indeed be a part of the future of our students. It's not like we can put that toothpaste back in a tube. Uh but the committee will continue to work on synthesizing the data and developing strategies for professional development for staff um and also developing project- based learning experiences that will ensure our staff use critical skills. >> So that is my report on strategic planning and superance report. There are um for agenda items, let me go through the boring ones first. Um report on harassment, intimidation, and bullying. There was one case that was reported. It was incon I'm sorry inclusive. >> Inconclusive. >> It was inconclusive. Yes. So there was one case that was reported. It's inconclusive. Um and then we have the call for a motion. There was one that we're
039affirming tonight that was founded for all and one that was unfounded from last month. >> So, you want to do that? >> Can I have a motion and a second to affirm the determinations on the HIV um incidents reported at the November 25th, 2025 board meeting? >> All in favor? >> Yeah. >> No, I need a motion to second. >> Yeah, I I'm motioned. I think >> sorry Brendan and Tara >> did did you also want to have conversation or Okay. Okay. >> All in favor? >> Any nays or abstensions? >> Okay. And last but certainly not least, um you know, this is a sad meeting for me, um but I'm sure an exciting meeting for many of you because have some free time. Um, but I did want to recognize all of our outgoing
040board members. You know, um, we the amount of time and effort that board members put in. I'm not sure if you know, the public really recognize it. There's going to be some people in the audience that will know come January. Um, but it is it is a huge commitment uh, and a lot of time and you know, as much as you know, sometimes we don't agree on things, it is um, always great to, you know, talk about things um, and you know, come up with solutions that are good for our district. So I want to thank um you know Nicole Gallow for her three years of service um and also for serving as vice president for this year 2025. Uh Beth Kotran for your three years of service. Thank you very much. Um Kim Selenino,
041six years of service and president for this current year of 2025. And Jessica Viota um 10 years. Um she was appointed in 2016. Wasn't the full year, but you get credit for the full year when you're appointed in it. and um and then three elected terms after that. And then Jess also served as the vice president in 2019 and 2020 and also as the president of the board in 21 and 22. And if you I think most of you know those are some sort of some trying years and so um so thank you to all of you um for your service. I do have plaques that I would like to give to you and maybe we get some pictures over here. I think Mr. Schwarzia is ready with his camera. Um all this one is
042for you. Thank you. >> If we can have the outgoing board members >> draw a picture with the flag. >> Yeah, I would do I would the pl would be nice especially Oh, just so um the plaques were made by our um Lion Pride Academy. Not Lion Pride Academy, I'm sorry. Lion Pride Productions. Um and um and so our students Okay. >> I think it's all right. >> Okay. >> Thanks. So thank you again that >> okay. Um thank >> Oh sorry sorry. Yes. Um, so I was thinking about with the last meeting today, like how I had a lot of thoughts on my mind and with four board members leaving was kind of a little little bit of a sad moment as superintendent said, but just real quick, Jess, I mean, I know we
043haven't always agreed on everything, but I said it from the beginning, man. I you're passionate and I respect the hell out of that. I mean, you're a fighter. Anyone who feels as strongly as you do and fights the way you do, I have a lot of respect for that. We don't always have to agree, but I respect how you how how you uh fight for what you believe in. And I mean that that says a lot about yourself. >> I believe in the kids and I believe in um government governance, not management. Yeah, Beth, I think when this whole thing started out, if we listened to the outsiders, you and I would have been on polar opposites, right? >> I know, right? >> And and I think we kind of quickly realized that wasn't the
044case. >> No. >> Um, >> you're one of the smartest professionals I've ever met. I I honestly mean that. >> Um, >> your your experience at this board and what you've taught me, >> I I appreciate that. So, >> I really appreciate that. here. This is uh it's a sad day >> and I' I've enjoyed serving with you. >> No, it's been great. Like you've been very helpful and I just thank you for everything. >> You too, >> Nicole. Um listen, the they always say the first year is like the hardest learning curve, right? And boy is that true, especially with no on boarding process, right? You've been instrumental in trying to help me learn this stuff, especially whether to the drive that maze, whatever we call that thing. um just policies, procedures, administrative uh
045you've accelerated my learning curve. So, thank thank you for that, Jim. I mean, I don't even know what to say. I mean, one of the first decisions I've ever made sitting on this board was to nominate you for for president, and I think it was by far my best. So, I've seen what you've done behind the scenes, the time, the energy, and I don't think anyone cares as much as you do. I've I I I've seen it. So, thank you so much. I know it's a thankless job. I know you take a lot of slings and arrows. It's not an easy job. And whoever takes the role next year has really large shoes to fill, and I believe that from the bottom of my heart. So, thank you so much all of you for for
046everything that you've done. putting your name on a ballot probably one of the hardest things that anyone can do and it takes a lot of time from of yourself and your family and you should be proud of all the work you've done here. Thank you guys for everything you've done. >> THANK YOU and wow saying that reiterate um I I just again to what Dr. Bersax has said to what Mr. Lordy has said um it is a volunteer position. It is thankless at many times. Um hours and hours that everyone puts in um and to your point putting your name out there on the ballot and getting yourself out there. Um and I thank each and every one of you. We don't have to, my mantra has always been, we don't have to agree, we
047agree to disagree, but we have collaboration, discussion, and we represent 12 Senate districts here at North Voice. And we should be proud of that. I'm proud of what I've done. So, with that said, congratulations to everyone who is stepping off and may have more time with your family, friends, health, but there's always a step on you can come back and step on. So, thank you very much. >> Thanks. And I would like to add that um I think we discussed this in executive session, but I don't think I've said it publicly. Um coming on to this board um in the third year walking on as VP really was just to support Kim and in what she needed to do and what she wasn't able to do. Um and the learning curve was so huge. Um,
048but I've never learned I I learned so much this year and it was really because of her process and procedures and the years of service that she's had on this board and before. And um, I think that I'm hoping that things would be received in a different fashion. Um, they weren't all the time, but I think that going forward, I think that she's going to leave a great imprint on this district for the next board president to step into. uh she leads by example. She's strong in her convictions, but the amount of hours and I and I'm I'm going to reiterate this that she has put in diligently and reading things, going through things, process, procedures, dotting her eyes and crossing her tees and doing everything I could to support her. I didn't even stand
049up to the plate to what she put in. And I just want to thank you, Kim, for teaching me and guiding me and helping me through a lot of weird scenarios. For sure. Thank you. Well, I appreciate your service. Thank you. >> Um, can I just add one last thing and and I really just kind of want to direct it to the incoming board members and the public and that is >> as Kim mentioned, it is a volunteer job that we have and we have day jobs and we're all parents and have family. And I would just ask that you all take that into consideration when you're doing social media posts that say you're reporting out to people because the comments that are made can have a real impact on the rest of our lives,
050right? And so I think that's sometimes forgotten and all the board members are trying to do is really represent and do what's best for students and the school and the district. They're not trying to do anything other than that other than help. So, if you can really keep that in mind, um I think it would be it it would really benefit the people here who are trying to do what's best for for the students in the community. So, thank you. >> And I would be remiss if I let it go on if I if I didn't get a chance to speak. Um but uh after uh I think I I could say a lot after 10 years. Um, and I remember sitting here, um, as a new board member watching John Mik and Fran and
051Sandy and, um, the crew that was here then, uh, run the board and, um, just being in awe of everyone at that table at the time. Um, and never realizing I'd be here sitting here 10 years later um, saying goodbye. Uh I thought I didn't think Mik would ever go. So um that was that was a that was the first shock. Um but it has been quite an adventure. It's been quite a ride. I've been there, you know, um through the worst of times and um hopefully I am uh excited about the change. I'm excited to um welcome uh our new board members, especially my new replacement who is in the audience tonight who I'm very excited to pass my torch to. Um and I think there's good things to come. I think we have
052very good elected people uh to replace us and um I hope we're a positive light for the board going forward. >> Change is good. >> Y >> I definitely agree. change is inevitable and it's positive and a new team and and the best of luck to everyone coming in. Um and we are all here for you to previous board members, sitting board members to assist you in any way that we can. >> So, best of luck. Um moving forward, um our reorg meeting is Tuesday, January 6th, um here in the office, but reminder, it's 6 pm. So, remind that that it's a 6 pm start. And as my last going out, I you know, other than saying thank you for everyone, thank you. Um, and I appreciate each and everyone's service. I also want to
053thank the board reps. You are just terrific and the board appreciates that. We get an insight um into the district and the ongoings of students and success and achievements and what's going on in our district. And a lot of us here do not have students in the district. So, we appreciate your time and service. So, thank you. And I'm sure great things are ahead for both of you. >> Thank you so much. We really appreciate our time with you guys, too. This is a lot of fun for both of us. I'm glad. >> Well, you guys make it look like fun. I mean, you two really make it look I don't think we've ever had two rup sit here that we're so smiley and happy to be here. >> Um, so you guys really do
054make it >> the way you make it fun for us to hear what you have to say with your enthusiasm and your passion. So, it's really fun to hear your updates. Actually, you're both very passionate and I appreciate that. >> Absolutely. And I leave on this as I've have been for the last few months and it it just leaves a mark and I know it resonates um with with everyone. It resonates with our students, but it resonates with me and I will leave you on this again. As a school district dedicated to fostering thoughtful engagement and mutual respect, we recognize the importance of helping students navigate complex events with care and understanding. The recent developments have had a profound impact on many in our community, our state, and our nation. This is a time that
055calls for steady, compassionate leadership. It is essential that we model respect communication especially when perspect perspectives differ. We must also be mindful of the emotional impact on students who may feel unheard or overlooked. Quiet responses do not mean these moments pass without significance. Remaining true to our shared values means standing against intimidation in any form. Encouraging constructive dialogue and promoting an environment free from bias. These principles are not just part of our educational mission. They are vital to creating a safe and welcoming space for all. And I truly believe that and I hope everyone else does too. And I will say this is bittersweet. My family I think did a cheer when I left in my car tonight because this is 16 years for me. Every all my children I've been on the board through
056their whole entire you know career and they're off college and gr and on in their own lives and they're like mom what are you going to do? So, I am I'm I'm going to be doing the meal thing, the cuisine, the big shine things, but it'll be weird. So, but I had a great ride. I've enjoyed it. I've always been about the kids. My background is education and I am here for the kids. So, we all are. So, just remember that. Thank you so much. Okay. So, we are doing things a little bit different. It's kind of a hybrid. We had no committees last week, so we're doing the committee as a whole structure. So, we've kind of been doing that all year long, >> so it's not really a dry run. So, I think
057we're we're okay with this. Um, moving on. Attorney report. Do we have anything to add? We have no report other than my hope for all of you and everyone in the North 140s community. Have a happy, healthy, safe, and peaceful holiday season. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> At this time, we would like to move into public comment. During this portion of the meeting, the public is invited to address the board of education with comments. You are requested to sign the register provided and to state your name, municipality of residents, group affiliation of Apple and direct your comments to the school board president. While all comments will be considered by the board of education and a response may be forthcoming if and when appropriate. Individual school be board members may not respond to the speakers
058at the time of their appearance. The public comment period will be a maximum of 30 minutes in length unless there are unusual circumstances. You will be allocated three minutes to speak and no one will be permitted to speak more than once on the same topic until all others who wish to speak on that topic have been heard. Please keep your comments respectful and non-defamy and maintain a level of decorum appropriate for a public meeting where students may be present and in the audience. Thank you. Public comments. Any public comments? I know coming. >> Let's move on. >> Just go. Hurry up. >> Yeah, Jessica says, "Hurry up." Uh, we'll move on to >> curriculum, instruction, and technology. Um we had just one item uh for curriculum and that is home instruction. Um does anyone have
059discussion on home instruction? Thank you very much. Happy holiday. >> Thank you. >> I'm sorry. Did everybody catch that? Uh curriculum. Uh it's just 11.1 home instruction. Does anyone have any no >> uh discussion or comments? >> No, it's all a continuence. >> Right. Anyone? >> Okay. Can I have a motion and a second to approve 11.1? >> Second. >> I had so second. Who? Who? Brendan. Brendan and Tara. >> I think it was. >> Dan and Tara. >> Beth or >> Okay. Dan and Cynthia. >> Be to the to the punt. quick to the punch. >> Um, moving on. Oh, I'm sorry. All in favor? >> I. >> Any nays or abstensions? >> Um, moving on. Um, policy and school security. We did have um first readings last month. This again uh is second
060reading of the policies. Um does anyone have any concerns, questions about those policies? None. >> Okay. Seeing none, can I have a motion and a second to approve agenda items uh 12.1? >> Second. >> Nicole and Beth. >> Thank you. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any nays or abstensions? before moving out of so again this I'm not I'm not sure how we're doing on this so I don't know if this is considered new business or not but um so under security um so what I'm really happy about the new um way that people are driving through the north parking lot I think it's it's taken everybody off the road off of you know that kind of stagnant line off the highway um but the only there there are two other concerns that I
061have about kind of what's happening now so as the juniors ers have been getting their driver's licenses. They continue to park over at Beaverbrook. And I know I'll be the bad guy for saying this. The concern the concern and the reason why I'm raising it is because now with the cars going down >> to the area where the students typically walk from Beaverbrook, it's not only creating a safety issue, but it also ties up the line, right, as the students. So, my concern is that as the school year progresses and more kids get their licenses, it's it's going to create an issue. Um, so that that was one point. The other thing that I've also noticed, and honestly, I don't know if there's anything that can be done about it, but I've noticed that there
062are some parents who are opting to not sit in the line and they are dropping their kids off at the front of the circle. So they are getting in the way of traffic and also, you know, putting their kids in, you know, in in danger by just kind of coming up to the front and having their ticket out >> and then doing like a UI or just going around the circle. >> They're not even going around the circle cuz it's it's it's walked off, right? So they just kind of pull up to the front of the circle and then drop their kid off and then go down. >> Yeah, I noticed it. Somebody pulled up. Didn't even go like through. >> They just stood there. I I didn't get to see them. I was exiting.
063I didn't get to see. >> Yeah. So, I don't know if there's anything that can be done about that, but >> I'll bring up Doc. See if you can >> But the Beaverbrook issue is it's becoming >> Yeah. We usually don't hear about Beaverbrook until about March or April. >> But you have new But you have a new traffic pattern. >> Yes. >> You have a new traffic pattern where people weren't going back there when the Beaverbrook kids were going. >> Yeah. >> I thought that was shut down. I thought it would be the animal. >> Well, I mean, it's it's it's just we can't officially shut it down because it's not our property. So, >> and aren't they charging rent over there? >> Don't they charge kids rent for parking? >> They pay for
064parking there. >> And and we did if you um I think what you're referring to, Rich, is we sent the letter basically. >> I'll let that one slide. >> You know, not taxpayer money. >> It's holiday season. >> Just saying. >> But maybe Yeah, we can send a letter. >> I mean, again, student safety is going to be at our um the lens. I want to look at this through make sure we >> Yep. Exactly. Okay. Thanks. >> Did we were at one point? Weren't we look wasn't Don't they have to cross something to get to us that's not like is there a path or something that they have or do they >> There it is. There's a path they made through a hedro. >> Yeah. Is it safe? >> It's a hedro. >> It's
065a relative term. >> Yeah. I mean it you know the kids they use it every day but yeah it's it's not a paved path. Yeah, >> it gets muddy and but hey, you know, they don't care. >> It's been happening for >> years. Ran has been there forever. >> I think it's Yeah. >> I mean, I've been in Beaver. I live right at the end of Beaverbrook and >> we've been doing it for >> It's always been >> must have a lot of older kids. >> We'll take a look at it since being compromised. >> So, the parents don't pay attention to the line. You know what I mean? Any other questions regarding uh policy? Any other statements? >> Good point. Thank >> you, Beth. >> Okay, moving on. Uh finance, facilities, and transportation. Um
066we have 13.1 through 13.5. Um let's have some uh discussion questions regarding um any of the items uh on our agenda. I I I note um on 13.2, didn't last month there was a request for columns to be split on the travel request >> to to item to show because it actually says travel >> on the instead of and it's really like I know it how it falls but for the board can we is there any way to do that make that column where it shows the travel and the professional development? Not to make it look easy to read here, but what we're going to do is do something so that the board understands what these numbers come from. So there's, you know, basically a breakout for the board. >> Are you talking about the
067cost of it? >> Yeah. Like some of it, some of it is for mileage, some of it is for lodging, some of it is for registration, some of it is for, you know, and there's a form that all that information is on. It's just that all that >> it's an expense report. >> Yeah. >> I had a question about uh 13.1 the district. I I went through some of the folder just to see kind of how long ago we did the original contract with ESS and I couldn't find it anywhere. You just just kind of as a going forward it, you know, first of all, it'd be helpful instead of just saying it's an addendum. So the agreement, you know, we don't know when the agreement was done, right? Um, so when you have a
068sit when we have a situation where we're doing an addendum and the contract is old and we can't find it in the system, it'd be helpful to attach it so that we can um have that as a resource to look back at, you know, what these provisions say, the rates and things. Um, >> okay. >> And I so the pay and so then the followup on the the exhibit to it, these are the the pay rate versus the bill rate. So we pay the I guess the agency one thing and then the individual gets the pay rate. Is that correct? >> The pay rate is what the individual gets and the rate to us is what we pay. >> What we pay right to to whomever is implementing the payments. Okay. Got it. >> And
069that's for the management basically that they put on. >> Yeah. Okay. Okay. I have a followup question. Um based on these rates and I think um do we have trouble finding substitutes? >> Uh right now actually our substitute pool is pretty good. We're not, you know, we're never 100%. Um, but we've had times where it's been very difficult. Um, I would say over the last year, um, it's gotten better or this year it's gotten better >> because I know just, you know, looking around at other districts, what the individual gets paid is less than what they would get paid subbing in, you know, other districts. So, I don't know if that if we're having a problem filling, if we're not competitive. I was just curious about that. >> Yeah, I I I think it's better
070this year. And we can look at that, look at the data um and and report on that in the new year. But um you know it is always one of those things that it's you know somebody next to us will raise a little bit right >> and then we raise a little bit and then they raise a little bit it becomes this um and sometimes it's really about convenience that's closer to here or they know somebody that goes here and sometimes we get lucky because of that. >> And just have we always used an agency or has it been something where it's on again? >> We we haven't always used We've used them for whenever the um American healthcare act in place that's when we started >> about 5 years ago. >> Had to be
071longer than that. >> That's a long time. >> Yeah. So it was it was a while ago and and basically um when it went into effect, we had we were faced with the we would have had to hire staff to be able to track the hours that substitutes were subbing the and provide them insurance on a regular basis and prove that we had offered them insurance. they did not take it. And so at that point, that's when a lot of these um subbing companies actually came to light and they we've been using the same one ESS for a while. We could look at what other options we we do look at what other options are out there every now and then, but it's usually >> I think my curiosity was more aligned to Andrea's comment
072about just the competitive nature of the rate, >> right? And I understand >> and we've talked we've talked about bringing it back in house as well because of the fact that some of those mandates have have since gone away right um and so we might be able to bring it in house without you know the the expense that we do for a company to manage >> right that was sort of my next question is I know some places or you know do it on their own and then they're able to pass the >> money on to you know subs but if if that was it was a question about the rates being competitive. >> Yeah. the the advantage to having a a system like ESS um is that they do their fingerprints, they get hired
073by ESS once and then ESS is contracted with us in multiple districts in the area. So that's that's attractive to some subs because if we don't need them on a Tuesday, but Watch on Hills does, >> they end up going there, right? So it becomes one of those that's the other thing that's attractive about using a service is your pool sometimes is bigger because you're not just a local pool. It's a little more expanded. And I assume they have some sort of uh management software that subs can go and look at and see what's available, right? Things that we would that's harder for us to do if we're doing it in house. Yeah, it's a calling system. It doesn't >> I had thought about this earlier because if you don't have the answer, I just
074thought of the question, but what what would you say a fra a fraction of of hours total hours are sub is it like 5% is it or >> mean how much do they teach when they're here for the day? No, our all the hours that are taught in a year >> each high school >> how many hours >> fraction are taught by I don't and I'm not looking for like >> you know what I can see >> that's interesting data >> see if we can find that out >> okay okay >> that's a good question right >> I mean if it's >> 25% which I >> freak me out a little bit but if it was >> you might want to bring it in house if 5%. >> Yeah. >> So really if I looked
075at our absentee rates for our teachers that >> Right. I guess that's the next question. What do our absentee rates or >> at least get us closer to the answer? Right. Because there are some internal policy for that >> a sub or sometimes internal coverage if we can't find a sub. Yeah. >> Um >> so yeah that would be interesting to hear. >> And do you do you use that the agency for longer term absences like FMLA leave or disability leave as well? >> Whenever we can. Again, we're not as successful with the agency with that. Just it's just harder to find people for longer terms like that. >> Okay. >> Because they have to be certificated. >> So, it has to be after 30 days in the classroom, you have to have a certificate
076to teach. Yeah. >> Subject areas. >> Yeah. Okay. Um, I have a question on the bill's list. Um, is is the Magic Touch Construction is that who's doing the parking lot? touches. They're on cooperative. >> Okay. >> Typically use them frequently. >> Okay. And Dr. Frederick's paid is it a monthly on the retainer or how is his service used? >> He's paid an hourly rate. >> It's a flat fee, isn't it? Or no, >> it's an hourly rate. Yeah. >> Okay. Is that how many weekly monthly days? We just >> uh he's actually been coming in less and less um because um there's only so much left on appeal for him >> and so we told him to scale back a little bit but >> okay >> he'll be in Monday >> perhap I think
077that was what is the what is the deadline on the bills when it comes to when invoices come in for when they actually hit this bills list compared to the prior to the next month's bill list. Is there like a a cuddle? >> Prompt payment is typically within 60 days. >> 60 days. >> Depends on the terms of the discount, right Katie? >> Too. >> It depends. But >> yeah, >> New Jersey has prompt payment which is within 60 days. >> But again, that relies on a vendor getting us the documentation. >> You have to send us an invoice. They also have to sign off on a receiving not receiving. It's the vendor declaration. >> Correct. >> Saying they provided services or goods. Once we have all that paperwork, then the employee that received the
078services or goods signs off on a um that's the >> The receiving copy, right? >> And then once the receiving copy is then um all submitted to the business office, then it goes in the P, >> right? So it doesn't like come in. There's a process to it before it gets them. >> Are all these bills archived like the physical copies? >> We have paper copies, but we also have electronic copies. So how do you how is it different? >> As far as invoices, those are usually paper copies though. The purchase orders are electronic. >> And then if we get a paper copy, we we put them in a filing cabinet. >> Yes. >> How long? >> Typically the retention is seven years I believe. Any other discussion? Any other questions, comments? >> It's not
079about anything on the agenda, but typically in a committee meeting, we might talk about this. Is one of the items is rebuilding this thing up front. Is that what's about to happen? >> Is actually scheduled to start tomorrow. >> Yes. That's why the um port. >> I saw that >> was put there this afternoon. When I pulled in this evening, I was like, "Oh boy, that looks pretty close." There was enough space to get by. >> So, they'll be starting that tomorrow. >> Should be able to get it done before. So, we're hoping to have the concrete poured and done and cured so that we can have temporary railings prior to the next board meeting. >> Great. Just uh one other thought I know as we go forward with this as a as a committee
080of the whole um I guess when I was on the committee of the whole before when we would usually get to this portion of the agenda it would be listed more as a business administrator's report um sort of how you know I guess sharing examples of maybe what's going on with projects or just sort of where we are in the budgeting year. I don't know if others sort of experienced that as well. Um, I think it was kind of a good way to kind of move through the items there, highlight those things. Uh, of course, there can always be questions on anything, but that might be something to explore and consider as a way of structuring the agendas going forward. >> Not to put you on the spot, Katie. >> No, but that's something that
081we've talked about is are we keeping things just to agenda items or do we want to have some of those discussion items out in public session? Of course, they would look different being in public, but I think that's the review if if that's the direction you want to go, we're absolutely open to that. And I know I proposed to Rich having a few budget conversations that are board level at January and February as a leading to the March preliminary budget so that >> not only the board but the public in general can have some idea of like what cost containment that we have, what revenue streams we have, and just we're going to have almost a half of a board that's never gone through a budget with us before. So I think it would be
082best to to start early and have them often. Mhm. >> So depending on what the new board wants to do, I'm happy to do that. >> I always think that if we're doing big spending like a project on that, I obviously noticed that the ramp wasn't in great condition, but it's great to know that it's being fixed. Maybe that was discussed, but that we if we are spending money on some sort of significant improvement projects, I think it's great that the public knows about that. Things that people might have seen around the schools that they're concerned about if they hear that those are being addressed and you know that was we're doing that. >> But the walkway we all knew was coming. >> Okay. It's not a new project because it was part of the
083Polytech rebuild and we've all known that that walkway, we've all been promised that rock walkway was coming. So, we are very excited to see it come. So, that's not new news. It's new news to like somebody, you know, or when a parking lot's getting repaved. I mean, that is exciting news. If you see unfortunately the condition of, you know, school parking lots, they they get a lot of wear and tear. But, you know, something like that, it's good to see. And I think to, you know, let people know that we are maintaining the schools and spending money on on maintenance and keeping our physical plants up to date. >> I think that could be Oh, I'm sorry. That part of the committee as a whole is to make changes like that. Like you guys can
084kind of come up to like what you want to like you can change the whole format of it when you guys are in the working committee. It would be great for Katie to be able to explain that to the board and to the public. Exactly as what you said. I mean this is what we would normally discuss in committee meetings and then you know Dan would report out on it but when you go to do the regulation you can like put those things in there and and just as it as it flows and es what works and what doesn't work right and then I mean it's just trial and error until you know >> yeah I like the idea of the structure that Katie proposed to you so we'll be building that going forward >>
085yeah that and then I think especially as you mentioned there's going to be a lot of new people who will need to be handled through a a budget you know school budget is a lot of money and it's pretty complex. So, >> yes, >> I wouldn't mind a little more explanation too, >> right? >> The older people can handle can handle it >> and again, we're going to do what we can in January and February, but Katy can attest the timelines or people that were um >> got to go to the county school board, you know, the timelines are very stringent, right? So, sometimes we don't >> here's what we plan and then all of a sudden state aid comes in less than we thought. um we get a waiver that we're allowed to use
086for healthcare moment or you know things can change you know quickly in that March time frame but I think as much as we prepare up to that point the better off we'll be >> and to Brenda's point same thing in my experience the BA is is a large part of that role in facilitating in the committee as a whole so having those discussions but to your point you know it's now a committee as a whole you're having those discussions of what is on that agenda and and the bill should be there everything. So you're it's all going to be at once that action and then the filing meeting when you have that action meeting you should be out of here. It should be you know you're not having those discussions back and forth unless there
087was something added to your agenda. >> But I leave that to Dr. Bjax and and um Katie and the new board coming in. Um, >> can we get like a line of like like a description line on this bill's list? Like a brief couple? >> I think that's overmanaging it. >> I don't know what half of this stuff is. So, it's just maybe like I see people >> we're not supposed to know. I mean, we're supposed to know, but we're not supposed to manage that process. And I think we have to remember that Katie's job as the business administrator is full of checks and balances. There's not a bill that goes on here that isn't with a PO and that has been um hasn't been cleared or pushed through two or three different approval processes
088before it gets on one of these bills with a PO. And I don't think it's our job to manage the minutia line items on a bill list. >> I just would like to know what I'm approving. >> I understand what you that but if there's a specific line item you were given the list over two weeks ago or a week ago, you had that. You could have gone to Katie and asked her for the specific line item and we're not here to manage the No, but understand I want to leave this with you >> because and um Phil perhaps you can provide guidance on this and explain what management is versus governance and the and the minutia of managing the bill list that we have a BA who does that. Can you explain that please?
089>> Sure. >> Thank you. The board's the board's uh ultimate role is to see to it that that the district is wellrun. Superintendent and all of his staff's role is to run the district. Anytime there is anything on an agenda that the board is upon which the board is voting, the board members all have a right to ask any questions that they want to ask in order for their vote to be as informed as possible going up to to the um uh vote, you know, at the public board meeting. So, you know, the the tension between running the district and seeing to it that the district is wellrun is best exemplified in a rather trit phrase that um the board is always expected to ask the what. The administration is always expected to determine the
090how. Okay. So with that, I completely agree that that period of time that board members receive whatever information is going into agenda items is always an appropriate period of time to get whatever clarifications need to happen. as far as the practice regarding how it is to be presented or whatever, I I I would recommend that that goes into that discussion, you know, regarding um uh clarification and the due diligence that board members are doing. I would also um remind the board that um the practice that it wants to engage with regard to how the board does its due diligence is a function of the board. and and and basically what that means is a majority of board members who um who want something to happen. I mean the will of the board is essentially whatever
091the majority of the board has to say. This moment in time is is really helpful because the discussion about what might go into board practices etc. is exactly what's happening right now with regard to a concern uh that's being raised, an interest that's being raised, a response to that that will determine what the will of the board is. But I think the key of what um you are asking here is just a a reminder of the respective roles that that are played here. All of which contributes to the system of checks and balances that are in effect between a board and the board and the uh superintendent of schools, the board's only employee. >> So just just a question on that though um for you Phil and just a comment to Jessica. I mean so
092for you know I the problem that we have here is that we don't see all the contracts because contracts could have been entered into 10 years ago probably right and so when there is a vague vendor name like I'm looking at connection which is 160,000 plus thousand payment we should have additional information >> well if we want if the board member wants addition information on that line item, they can request it. Not every board member is asking for that information. And that's the point. We don't if it's if the if we as a board member feel that we have our trust in Katie, we look at the bill list. >> It's not about trust. >> No, no, it's not about trust, but we believe we look at the bill list. It looks fine to me.
093I don't need additional information. If I had a question about one of the items, I would send a note to Katie or to the head of the committee and say, "Hey, I have an question on the bill list. Can you explain to me what connections means?" And Katie would tell me and then if I need and if it needed further if other board members were asking, I'm sure Katie would put a note on the agenda to amend it to say several board members have asked this question. I'm giving you the information now so y'all know, but I don't think we have to have a line item and put more work on Katie's plate because one member is asking for a description on every bill and we can't >> but there's a column that says check
094on it. Why can't we just more vague ones just say what it is? >> I'm not just to be clear I'm not questioning whether these things should get paid or not. I just don't know what they are. >> And I have a quick question on the codes Katie like so the connections is go one. So we figured >> they're GL codes for reconciliation. >> So exactly. So um I mean >> that's actually just a vendor code. >> That's when we when when we enter the vendor in the system and again this is a candy report from CSI. Um this is what they provide us for a bills list. >> Um so that that's the accounting software that we use. Um if again if there were any questions on particularly if there was you know $170,000
095bill and you want to know what we connections is technology company it's computers or something in globall um and um you know but we could explain what that is maybe we were replacing these switches maybe we were replacing Chromebooks maybe we were replacing >> and because we're going to the committee at home we don't have a committee chair anymore so we can't go to them so >> but then we would go to the BA once we got the agenda with the list if there was a question >> right we'd go through Rich >> Yeah And that becomes an awful lot for Rich to have to manage. We have questionification line item would be helpful. We would have questions. We would know >> Mr. Stern would like to interject. >> No, no. I I I just
096wanted two things. Yeah, >> Miss Yoto, you couldn't have said it better in terms of whatever a board member needs in order to feel comfortable making a vote prior to a board meeting is to an agenda item to an agenda item. Okay. Uh and you know hope you know that's that's what the discussion should be prior prior to the meeting. I also just want to uh uh emphasize that, you know, the North Hunter Indies does things the way you do them and and the conversation and the formality or informality is totally really up to the superintendent. But your comment about um going through the superintendent for new board members, for our community, etc. Dr. Burjax is the person who determines answers to all questions and who should in of among his staff should answer those
097questions. So for a purely like by the book method of getting information from staff that board members are interested in should always go exclusively through Dr. Bers >> always to >> so never to the ne well only if Dr. Burjax says to the board in this case right now maybe or whatever. >> He's not saying it. No, I don't I don't think I heard it otherwise, but >> I don't think we'll have Katie with us if we if he says we can go right to her. >> It just keeps things easier if it goes through Dr. Burg only. And then that's all up to that's your that's doc that's that's your superintendent's discretion, >> right? >> And the prevailing thought was like there's a column on here. It's a check on it. So that's going
098to help everybody. So, if I ask it, and there's four pages of bills here, and I sent it to the superintendent, and I said, I'm reading this, I would need like a brief description on probably three quarters of this, maybe slightly less. Um, that's a lot of work. I mean, so one way or the other, it's getting >> Why do you need an explanation on three quarters of the bills? >> I I don't know what this stuff is. >> I understand, but but you're not running but you're not hired to run the school. >> That's your opinion. >> Okay, that's that's an opinion. But you're not you're not employed by the school. You are a volunteer. You're a member. You are a member of a board. But we are not we don't employ Katie. We
099employ we employed Rich works for us. I can't even imagine that you would need an explanation of three4ers of the bills on this list. I would like to say hold on help here. >> Wait. Yeah. Can I intercede for a second? I think that like some of the things like Pmptonian food services obviously we know what that's being paid for. The electric companies we know that's being paid for. Um, you know, we have different things in here like, uh, well, hold on. I just had a couple of things. >> Guys, we're running a a corporation here. This is we're running we're managing two buildings. We're managing resources, facilities, and >> Jessica, that is your opinion. We're all putting our two cents in. And every time we try to speak, you speak over us because you
100are very strong about your opinion. But we don't have to agree with you. >> So are you, Nicole? So don't talk about me personally. We're you're interrupting you. No, I do not. >> Yes, you do not interrupt. >> Ladies, ladies, >> please. >> Ladies, >> so if I can interject, um, I can look into whether or not that is possible with the report. >> Oh, hold on. Hold on. I don't think everybody's listening. >> I was just going to say I'm No, I don't think everybody's listening to you. That's >> Brandon Rich, >> please. >> So, I was just going to say I can look into whether or not we can add that to the report and I'll get back to you. And and I would like to know, additionally, I'd like to know how
101much time it would take either Katie or her >> people to do that amount of work to add that. Exactly. I don't want to waste her time. >> That's what that's what I'll do is I'll analyze that and I'll get back to >> and and there it is. When the superintendent says that he will get back to you to see if that's feasible. >> That's the answer to your question right there. >> Perfect. >> End of story. End of story. Yes. Thank you. >> Good idea, Rich. >> Thank you for answering the question. also going to suggest maybe only the top 10% amounts that we're you know maybe the bigger bills that we don't know what they are that those might be the ones we might >> so maybe that would make it less time
102you know if not >> I don't need to know maybe why a$132 is being paid to someone I assume that's legitimate >> but you know if if you know >> a $200,000 bill is going out and it's not for the food services maybe we do want at least one time an explanation and then the next time we see on the bill we know and we just >> can we look into what the possibilities are software again if software can do it it's easy right I thought I guess if you can and has to be like a manual thing then we start talking about threshold we start talking about what >> Andrew I think that's a great idea >> threshold and some of these I think once you put as you said to Brandon once you
103probably put a comment in there or a brief description it might just be the same going forward >> like you're never going to change it again but just some of these just we don't know I don't know And just a gentle reminder again, you have four new board members coming on board who are are are going to be oblivious. And it might have been something that's been here 10 years and there we're all familiar. It's it's, you know, switches. It doesn't matter. But there's four new board members and it's going to take some patience and some time. So, we all it's stressful and we all have our moments, but we need to remind ourselves to be cordial, respectful of others opinions. We have an answer. Let's move forward. Uh, can I have a motion and
104a second to approve agenda items 13.1 through 13.5? >> Second. >> Tara and Brendan, please. >> That was Dan, actually. >> Oh, sorry, Dan. >> Apologize. Brenda, I was looking at Brendan. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any nays or abstensions? >> Um, yes to 13.1 13.2. 2 no to 13.3 13.4 and 13.5. >> I'm going to ask you to repeat that one more time. >> Okay. Yes to 13.1 and 13.2. No to 13.3 4 and 5. >> And I am >> was everybody else. >> Oh, I was sorry. And I am yes to 13.1 13.2 two, no to 13.3 through 13.5. >> Phil, would you have something you'd like to add? >> Madam, um, just something uh to consider. It might be very helpful after the organizational meeting, maybe not at that meeting,
105but at subsequent meetings, just to orient the board and the community at a at a committee of the whole meeting, just th this is what we're looking at. This is what the agenda is. When we talk about the bills list, this is what this is. just like, you know, uh some onboarding, some public onboarding, if you will, might might go a long way toward also, you know, orienting everybody. And since the community might be listening to more discussion about how the sausage is actually being made, that might also be, you know, might be helpful in that regard. >> That's all. >> Thank you. >> So, Kim, I'm going to abstain from 131. 132. No. On 133. Abstain from 134. Abstain from 135. >> Abstain on 131 and two. No. On 133. And abstain from four
106and five. >> Correct. >> Do we now have all the votes? >> We do. >> Okay. And just just to be clear, >> Miss Allen, Miss Celino, were no on three to five, which includes the financials. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Can I ask a clarifying question since I'm new to this uh weighted vote? And what does an abstension count as? Is that a no? >> So you take that out of the equation. >> So the denominator is lower in that. Thank you. >> So if you abstain, the other votes have higher weight. Well, they don't have higher weight. They just That vote doesn't count towards anything. It's a wasted vote. >> All right. Thank you. I appreciate that. That Yeah. >> We just triggered some kind of report, right? >> Didn't we just have
107this? Isn't the state now going to audit us? >> County has to notify. >> Yeah. >> Wait a second. We had similar issues last month. So, why is it suddenly going to be >> Why is will this suddenly go to the just to whomever? Was that because there were more abstensions last month? >> It's just a rule. If somebody votes no, >> it's it's >> it triggers a a report to the count. >> But they were abstensions not >> Well, Katie wasn't Katie wasn't here last >> and I believe the rule is that it is just for the month report secretary's report and transfer. >> Correct. It's not for >> board members vote no on that. We have to give us we have to tell the county office that they voted no. >> Right. My
108understanding though is that last month I believe it was there were fin monthly financials provided and there were no as well as extensions. That'll have to follow. >> Yeah, I believe >> I believe >> there was a no >> in the >> message basically to >> minutes we approved >> to the uh county is there are members of the board who don't believe the monthly reports are correct and that's the issue. That's why they want to know about it. Mhm. >> Could I ask another clarifying question? Um, and I think this is towards uh Phil. Difference between a no and abstension. My understanding is abstensions were say for instance, I know you were absent last month, so you abstained from meetings because you weren't there. So you don't, you know, were supposed to abstain, but
109what's the difference between an abstension and a no? >> Not much. Okay. Because if you need a majority of the full membership irrespective of whether we're talking about a weighted vote or whatever for personnel item for example and someone abstains that means that the the vote is not going to be an abstension is not going to count towards the needed whatever that number is needed to be. >> Okay. I mean, it's it's a little less consequential for a vote requiring just a simple majority or a majority of those present and voting. >> Right. But for those votes that stat that are required by statute to be a majority of the full membership and there's a whole bunch of requirements under 18A for for those folks especially personnel items for example the abstension is for those
110purposes identical to a no. >> Oh >> does that >> Yeah. And an abstension I thought was only supposed to mean when you had a conflict of interest that you or I know or is that a recusal? >> Okay. Thank you. >> Last month we had >> I know I'm looking at the minutes. >> Last month I'm reading the minutes and we had on 16.1 through 16.7. Um Nicole voted yes to uh but abstained from 165 through 167. Uh, Lordy voted yes but abstained from 161 to 164 and 165 through 167. Reyes voted yes but abstained from 165 and 167. So, no one voted no last month. I voted yes. >> Yes, she did. >> She did. There's the no. >> I know it's not recorded. >> It says abstained from 16. >> No, it's
111actually there. It's there. I saw >> it. It says Nicole said yes to 161 to 164. abstain from 161 165 to 167 >> and then there is >> that's the section for the finances >> nobody said no last we have any minutes we can review that >> because I also don't see anything about it but the nothing about the audit >> the audit was vote the audit didn't doesn't have to be reported that that was voted no on but the but the be but the bill list and the uh approval to move funds is what triggers the action. So if there was but if there were no nos on that last month, it would not have had to be reported because there were extensions. >> That's correct. But we're going to look into >> But
112now there's no so that triggers an investigation or something. >> A reporting. >> Yeah. Which could trigger an investigation. >> Well, >> I mean ultimately and it also shows I mean guys, it's very disappointing that the the the lack of faith and confidence that this shows our BA >> and you all need to hear that. >> I agree. It is a it is so disgusting. >> So 8 8.1 So 8.1 there was a vote um on the annual comprehensive financial reports, auditors, management reports and that was a no. >> Right. I said that you voted no on that. >> No. >> But you didn't vote no on the financial. I I I just want to advise the board that um it is it is difficult sometimes to realize that that complimenting staff is >> technically
113it it's a it's it's a great thing to do, right? But um unless and until a staff member who is being discussed in any way, >> positively or negatively, has been provided with what's called a rights notice, which allows that staff member, to have agency in whether or not it's being discussed in public or executive session. I I just I I just urge the board to remember that um we to my knowledge no rice notices had been um given for tonight's meeting and uh while there's no doubt in my mind of of the positive um intention of any comment you know that's being made uh without a rice notice let's just keep these comments away from anything that could be construed is evaluative about any staff. >> Thanks. >> I want to make one more
114comment. I've been had a period of time when I started where I had a lot of reservations about this section and I just will encourage you to do what I ended up doing which is talk to the field agent for the school uh NJSBA. I won't try to tell you what they told me but if it was a helpful discussion to walk through these particular items >> sorry just to clarification about what so you can understand the bill is that >> or how the bills are handled. Yes, exactly. >> Okay. I mean, just one since we're still adding comments on this, I can tell you that in companies, the most senior level people in a company will approve the payment of PO, whether it's $10 or millions of dollars. So, there is no reason why
115this is the district's budget that we shouldn't have the ability to have the information and then decide on what we need information for on the bill list. It's not a matter of trust. But we want but if we have a bill list a week and a half to two weeks prior to a meeting which we always do. >> Okay. This meeting was a little bit different because it's >> but the bill list has been on there. >> It was on there >> prior to the meeting. >> If there's a question about an individual bill list and we're going to vote and you're going to take that list and vote no on it. Shouldn't that have been asked prior to the meeting? >> You know, I don't want it. First of all, >> well, first of
116all, it doesn't EVEN BETH, YOU AND I AREN'T GOING TO BE HERE AFTER THIS, so it's it's really >> doesn't matter. You provide a comment, so why can't I? >> No, absolutely. I agree. >> So, let Jessica let let Beth make a comment. >> Well, Beth and I were talking. >> So, so all I'm saying is that I think that we have the right to be able to question it and I agree that it should be done in advance to the extent possible. This I think is an oddball meeting because we moved to committee of the whole and it was a shorter window. So it is what it is. But I think that you know it needs to be clear that that as board members this is we are approving payments and therefore if we
117have questions we should have the right to be able to ask for it. >> And I I am not saying we shouldn't. I'm just saying there's time and place. >> Okay. Moving forward uh community relations and student affairs. Uh we do not have uh any items action items. Um do we have any topics? Anything we'd like to discuss? Anything? >> We heard about a ton of stuff happening in our schools. >> It's always refreshing to hear what's happening in school. >> Really good. >> And this time you didn't duplicate. >> Yeah. >> I know. I know. >> You know what I think? >> They steal your thunder. brought up the um end of the season survey we talked about last month um on doing a a pulse. So I just wanted I know we did
118this fall is done and it was the end of the season but are we have we started that or not yet? >> We haven't started yet. We're looking at >> how to do it. Okay, great. >> So we're going to try to do at least one or two of those pulses in the winter surve season and then maybe >> do those surveys also like for choir and band and marching band or is it just sports or I believe it includes all the big activities like that, not schedule B's. >> Okay. >> Um, just a comment, there is a survey that was put out recently and I I think that there was a reminder to go out to I think it was to parents. I don't remember now. I'm not remembering what it was about. It
119was a it just went out to all parents. >> You talked about the authentic learning survey. >> That might be it. So, really just a reminder to so that if you know people haven't submitted it, when is the deadline? >> Yeah, the deadline is passed. And that's that's the data I reported on in my >> Yeah. >> report. >> Oh, it wasn't athletics though. Okay. >> No, this No, I reported on was the AI. >> Got it. Okay. Okay. >> That was actually >> Sorry about that. >> No, that's okay. >> Yeah. Okay. >> I just thought >> Yeah. >> And can I make a comment to regarding those the surveys? um some some board members don't have students in the district and I think when we we talk about the surveys and moving from
120committee now to board committee as a whole um is there any way for the board members to see we used to see on and off those surveys just to see what the type the questions are and you know so we have an idea of what those surveys entail >> they do every board member >> copies to us you're not letting them let us know >> well I wasn't getting a lot of stuff so I She applied to you. >> I know she did. Yes. >> Um >> but yes, we have all the board members on the parent list so that you know what's going out to parents if you don't have students. >> Yep. >> Excellent. Uh Tara, uh delegates report >> uh delegate committee we I reported out last time, but for Hunter County,
121we had our December 1st roundt. Um and Katie Blue was one of our panelists. It was outstanding. Um it was a VA round table talking about the budget and um it was really well attended and I wanted to note that um our four incoming board members all attended as well. So that was fabulous. So they've gotten a jump start on you know the process what it entails us being a board member and working with the BA. So it was a fabulous evening and Dr. Burgess was there and Brian and um we had a great turnout. the most crowded one I've ever seen. >> Great. The BAS, you know, they they bring the people out. So, >> the BAS did, but it was great. And then the follow-up questions, um, it was just great to lay
122out so it's not a mystery. Um, and so it was fabulous. So, um, I encourage everyone, our next one is virtual, so you don't have to leave your pajamas in living room and hot go, but um, the next one coming up will be our unsung heroes. Um, you always that one's fabulous and I I recommend everyone to go out and then I look forward to seeing both North and Boys the last bunch of years. >> Yeah, I haven't seen the nominations come out yet. >> Yeah, I haven't seen that yet. >> Usually, >> when is that one? >> That's going to be in March. That'll be down at the the K school in um but it's great. And then I'm trying to encourage um our communities because some of our K8s um haven't submitted unsung
123heroes. So, I'm hoping that Boyce and North have been um and I'm hoping that all of our sending districts will nominate and um have a student represented in the ceremony. So, so if you know anybody on your local school boards, just remind them that you know the principles if they could. It's just a great way to acknowledge some of our students that don't get acknowledged. >> So, >> I got two questions for you. >> Sure. >> Very hard. >> They're hard questions. Oh, sure. >> How How was the food at the event? >> Actually, it was really good. >> Better than Mountain View. >> No, I like Mountain View. >> Okay. I tell you not to answer. >> I don't know who did, but it was it was pretty good for being in a library.
124>> I think it was their food service company. >> Oh, was it in house? Yeah, it was actually really good. >> Yeah. And >> that lemon chicken at Chalet was really >> Yeah. Oh, they do a great job. That one will be our April I think our April meeting back. But they did the three Rs school boards did and that they had a great turnout countywide for new school board members and then a lot had stayed after but it was we we covered the whole state. We even had people there from South don't get um so that was nice. >> Yeah. >> And then u Brian had great suggestion. So if I should have it can you send me pass along the contact information. I'm going to reach out to >> Oh yeah. >> Yeah.
125So thank you. Great. We'll do it. >> Okay. So, seeing coming to this point would be at personnel and we would there's nothing at this to discuss. Um we don't have any job descriptions outside of that. So, personnel will be in executive session. Um at this time, um I'd like to call for a motion and second to adopt resolution 121625-2 for an executive session to discuss matters reflected in the attached resolution. The board expects to be in exact session for approximately 1 hour and upon return to public session action will be taken. All in favor? >> So any move in a second? >> I'm telling you losing my marbles. >> Motion was Dan and Tara. >> All in favor? any of Um, I have a motion and second to re reconvene public session. >> Second,
126>> Beth and uh Tara. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any names or abstensions? >> I now need a motion and a second to approve agenda items 19.1 through 19.2 to include hand carries if provided. So moved. >> Second. >> Nicole and Beth. >> And can we have a roll call vote? >> Yeah. No. >> Any disc I I would assume we just had that, but >> yeah. >> Mr. Chapman. >> Yes. >> Miss. >> Yes. >> Miss. >> Yes. >> Mr. Lord. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mciser. >> Yes. >> M. Reus. >> Yes. Mr. Sp. >> Yes. >> Mission. >> Yes. >> Selena. >> Yes. >> I'd like to the record to uh point of order. I'd like to note that I'd like to make a uh change to my vote for 13.1
127through 13.5. >> Okay. I am yes to 13.1 13.2 and abstain 13.3 through 13.5 point of order. I would like to do the same. >> Would you like to tell me what your vote? >> Yes. 13.1 would be 13.1 and 13.2 would be yes. 13.3 through 13.5 would be abstain. Um, any old and new business? >> That's crickets. >> That's Yeah, that's crickets. >> Well, that'll look different as when you have committee as a whole. So, >> I guess >> true. Oh, wait. But Tara has something. >> Oh, I just on new business because this is a work in progress here. So, and there's been some wonderful suggestions made, but um going forward on to Dan's point on how long the finance facilities took. Um I look forward to working the the logistics and the
128agenda so we have it um going forward in a timely manner and um very productive. So, I'm looking forward to it. So, I know it's new to everybody. So, all suggestions and input on how we can get a board of the whole to work fluidly. um is going to be great and I think it' be great for the district and I know Angela's not here but I know she was our champion on trying to do board of poll um so I'd like to make it successful um and again we can always vote on it but I'm I'm looking forward to to trying this out. Quick suggestion in especially if you're if you're uh acting as as a committee of the whole is all comments and questions go through the board president. Then you get recognized
129by the board president >> as a way to just keep things because that way the board president is able to keep things flowing >> and there not being any extraneous. Yeah, just something to think about. >> Thank you. >> And also to to uh tack on tap on that. Um Dan had um or I think we had a conversation about um chairs. You still can have committees. You'll still have, you know, committees for negotiations. You might have an ad hoc committee for something and you would have a chair and then the chair would report out. So, but um I I definitely think come January uh your first meeting, you know, you make those decisions to set some parameters as um we were talking about having a regulation like you're going to want more time for
130finance. >> You know, you're going to pick and ch you know, especially during budget season or other. So, but those meetings could run three, four, four hours. So, just a preparation. They may not. You may have a great working lobbyist in January. >> Yes, >> I think you will. Um, as seeing there's no um other old and new business, can I have a motion second to adjurnn? >> Second. >> Tara and Jessica. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any nays or abstensions? >> Okay, everybody have a good evening. >> Happy holidays. Thank you to everyone.