001Now I call to order. April 14th, 2026. The April 14th, 2026 meeting of the Sayreville Board of Education. meeting of the Sayreville Board of Education. In accordance with the chap- with chapter 231, PL Law 1975, this public recogni- recognization meeting of the Sayreville Board of Education has been established by sending a copy of the public meeting notice to the Holmes New Tribune and the Star-Ledger. In addition, copies of the announcement of this meeting have all been sent to the borough clerk and a copy of the notice of the meeting has also been posted on the bulletin board outside of the office of the secretary to the board. Please rise for the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one
002nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Roll call, Ms. Bashaw. Mrs. Bloom Here. Mr. Callahan Here. Mrs. Hernandez Here. Mr. Maldonado Here. Miss Napolitano Here. Miss Pabón Here. Mr. Smith Here. Mr. Walsh Here. >> [laughter] >> Mr. Fernandez Here. Can you summarize executive session? Just got Discussion of student matters, personal attorney attorney attorney client priv- privilege. Any correspondence? None. Now we'll entertain a motion. Now I'll entertain a motion. To approve the minutes of the March 17th, 2026. To approve the minutes of the March 2026 meeting. So [snorts] moved. Seconded. Second. Ms. Bloom and Mr. Smith Roll call. Do a roll call. Mrs. Bloom Yes. Mr. Callahan Yes. Mrs. Hernandez Yes. Mr. Mal- Mrs. Maldonado Yes. Mrs. Napolitano Here. Miss Pabón Yes. Mr. Mr. Smith Yes. Mr. Walsh I have to abstain from
003the minutes as I was still a civilian at that time. Mr. Fernandez Uh yes. Mr. Walsh, your voice is kind of deep. Now for the best part of the meeting our student council representatives >> [clears throat] >> our student council representatives Ms. Coons and Ms. Callahan. Good evening, Board of Education members and administrators. My name is Morgan Coons, SWMHS Student Council Board of Education representative. I would like to begin with clubs and activities. The annual dodgeball tournament to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Cancer Society Foundation was a success. Congratulations to Maya Sandiford, Jada Roque, Jonathan Natlin, Gavin Brain, Braden Packowski, Brian Zangrillo, Chase Barnes, and Tyler Butka of the team Turbo Elite for winning the tournament. The Air Force Junior ROTC cadets competed in a drill competition with nine schools from across New
004Jersey. The guidance department took a group of juniors to visit The College of New Jersey. The prospective students had the opportunity to sit in on an admissions presentation and join a campus tour led by one of their student ambassadors. The admissions counselor answered questions regarding the college's admission process and the student ambassadors shared their current student experiences. Students in Miss Santella's computer science classes visited the Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken. Congratulations to Kate Burns from Mr. Taylor's filmmaking class whose short documentary film about the Bombers Beyond Cafe was selected as the winner of the New Jersey School Boards Association Student Film category for the New Jersey Documentary Short Film Award during the recent Garden State Film Festival. Congratulations to students Michelle Amir Ikram and Polly Martinez Navia who were honored last Thursday evening as
005Sayreville's 2026 Unsung Heroes during the Middlesex County School Boards Association and the Middlesex County of Association of School Administrators Unsung Hero Dinner in the cafeteria. Congratulations to senior Gavin Brain who was recently crowned Mr. Sayreville for 2026. Senior Cadence Concar and sophomore Nicholas Addicks performed during the recent Rutgers University Honor Band Concert. Students from 59 New Jersey high schools attended master classes and rehearsals with the Rutgers music faculty and band staff. They performed a sensational concert at the Nicholas Music Center after only one day of rehearsal. The winter guard team placed first in their category in a competition at Elizabeth High School. Moving on to sports the softball team defeated Woodbridge, East Brunswick, and Colonia high schools to start their season with a 3-0 record. The baseball team beat JFK High School to earn their
006first victory of the season. The boys lacrosse team defeated Steinert and West Wi- Windsor-Plainsboro high schools to start their season with a record of 2 and 0. The boys golf team earned match victories over Colonia and Woodbridge high schools to start their season with a 2-1 record. Thank you for your time and support. Thank you. Next presentation. Dr. Labby I know you have questions. Mr. Fernandez, I have some questions. Please go ahead. Morgan, as always It's great to see you. Especially your shining smile. However, I need to know However, I need to know did you play dodgeball? Did you play dodgeball? I did not play dodgeball. I can't play any sport that involves equipment. >> [laughter] >> We have that in common. Also, what did you think about the new New Jersey the NJGPA test?
007Also, what did you think about the new New Jersey NJ- uh GPA test? NJGPA test? It wasn't too bad. But I survived it, so. I bet you did wonderful. I bet you did wonderful. I think I did well, too. >> [laughter] >> And finally And finally how is track practice going? How is track practice going? I'm recovering from an injury right now. I strained my hamstring. Oh, no. Oh, no. When do you think you'll be able to compete? When do you think that you'll be able to compete? Probably at early May, I should be back to like competing and racing. Hopefully I can be there to watch. Hopefully. Thank you, Morgan. >> Thank you. Thank you, Morgan. Thank you for a great presentation. Pray for a speedy recovery. Now for my favorite Callahan Good evening,
008Board of Education members and administrators. My name is Samantha Callahan, Sayreville Middle School Student Council Board of Education representative. Going into the eighth month of the 2025 to 2026 school year, we have many events going on throughout Sayreville Middle School. The PTO hosted an International Festival on April 10th at Sayreville Middle School. People hosted tables as well as performed skits and dances throughout the evening. The Student Council hosted a spirit week to kick off spring break. Members have volunteered their time to assist with the PTO events in Eisenhower PTO. They're looking forward to the upcoming Anything Goes Assembly in May. Eco started indoor planting to prepare the pollinator garden in the spring. The club continues to work on initiatives to inform their peers and their community members about climate change, such as a proposal for
009planting a climate change awareness mural at SMS, starting a food waste program, and presenting at the SMS Earth Day summit. Some of the group members attended the Rockers second annual climate change summit in March in partnership with the NJDOE climate grant, where they learned from their peers and professionals from local partner environmental groups. The National Junior Honor Society will have their induction on May 13th at 6:30 p.m. at Churchill Middle School. On Friday, May 29th, the SMS music department will host its biggest night of the year in the Jon Bon Jovi Performing Arts Center at 7:00 p.m. The highly successful and wildly popular SMS US competition is going to be a night to remember. The teachers and students have been collaborating and rehearsing to create truly memorable performances. Make sure to put May 29th on
010your calendars now. This is a night you will not want to miss. The community service club is planning for Take Your Child to Work Day activities on April 23rd. Now, onto the Churchill Middle School athletics. The boys volleyball team is currently 0 to 1 so far, but has three games this week against Barts, North Plainfield, and Herbert Hoover. The SMS girls lacrosse team is currently 1 to 1. They take on Crossroads this week. Good luck, Bombers. The track and field team had a successful first away meet on Thursday. Wednesday will be their first home meet. Thank you to all those who purchased clothing from their fundraiser. The softball team is currently 0 to 4, but they're looking forward to their car wash and clothing drive on Sunday the 19th. The SMS baseball team is off
011to a great start. Their gray team has a record of 3 to 0, and the blue team has a record of 2 to 0. Thank you very much for this opportunity to speak on behalf of the students at Churchill Middle School. >> [applause] >> Mr. Fernandez, I have questions. Mr. Fernandez. Thank you for that wonderful presentation. Uh Dr. Labbe, I know you have more questions. Mr. Fernandez, I have questions. Great job, Sam, as always. Thank you. So, what did you do at the school for spirit day? So, what did you do at the school for spirit day? Um on There was a twin day, so I twinned with one of my friends. And hm, I think uh one of the days was wear blue, so I wore blue. Oh, very cool. Are you going to
012be in duet? Are you going to be in duets? Um no, I cannot sing. >> [laughter] >> Are you sure? I'm looking for a partner. Are you sure? I'm looking for a partner. Uh I think I'm sure. >> [laughter] >> How is lacrosse season going? How is lacrosse season going? It's going good. Any goals? Any goals? Uh no, I play defense, so I haven't got to go shoot on the goal yet. Any hard checks? Any hard checks? Uh no. >> [laughter] >> Thank you, Sam. Great job. Thank you, Sam. Great job. Thank you. I'm glad you get your intelligence from your mom, even though you get your music talent from your father. I'm glad you get your intelligence from your mom, even though you get your music talent from your father. >> [laughter] [snorts] >>
013No. Say that's not nice, Mr. Fernandez. That's not nice, Mr. Fernandez. >> [laughter] >> I'm proud to start by announcing that the Churchill Bombers Polar Plunge team raised this record of $5,523 in support of the Special Olympics of New Jersey. This is an incredible achievement and a testament of the to the generosity and the spirit of our community. We are very proud of everyone involved. Tonight, the Bombers Beyond Cafe is also hosting its resource fair from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Hopefully, many of you have had the chance to stop by, grab a delicious freshly brewed coffee, and support the cafe before racing over here for what I'm sure will be the best Board of Education meeting ever. Also, this Thursday, Bombers Beyond Cafe will be hosting the MCUA Kindness Rocks event. I encourage everyone
014to bring a rock and paint something inspiring. It's a simple but meaningful way to spread positivity pos- positivity throughout our community. And now you, Miss Maldonado. Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to congratulate the Churchill Middle School competition cheer team with winning first place at the state championship. This is an amazing achievement. Great job. Congratulations to SWMHS student Kate Burns for winning a documentary award at the Garden State Film Festival. Great job to Kate and her teacher, Mr. Taylor. What an incredible accomplishment. I would also like to congratulate Miss Doreen Consolmagno for receiving the Compassionate Counselor Award. Thank you for making such a positive difference for students in our schools. Say that's it for me, Mr. President. Back to you. That's it for me, Mr. President. Back to you. Thank you. That's by far
015the best. Thank you. It is by far the best. Vice President comments all year. And now I'm proud to present G thanks. And now I'm proud To present Miss Coglianese. To present Miss Coglianese. Good evening, Dr. Labbe, Mr. Naster, Mr. Glockamora, Miss Bashawda, Dr. Aggelis, Miss Burt, Mrs. Grossman, and Dr. Burns, and members of the Board of Education. My name is Ella Yavner, and I'm here tonight representing Mrs. Coglianese, principal of Samsel Upper Elementary School. I would like to thank you for giving us the opportunity to be the to be part of the evening's Board of Education meeting. Over the past few months, we have we have had the opportunity to learn about the roles and responsibilities of being a Board of Education member or administrator. administrator. Tonight, we we are excited to join members
016of our community in making decisions about our school system. We would like to thank our families, friends, and teachers for coming out to support us tonight. Thank you for taking your time to be here tonight. I would also like to thank the Board of Education members who have volunteered their time for students and teachers. >> [applause] >> Thank you for an excellent presentation. Now, board discussions. Now, board discussions. Governance Committee, Mr. Napolitano. The BOE Governance Committee met before spring break and reviewed revisions of to the secretary to the middle school principal job description, which will be presented for approval at tonight's meeting. The committee also discussed legal updates, and including proposed legislation and that could provide financial relief to districts experiencing significant property tax increase due to health insurance costs. Thank you. Now, the student
017achievement. Now, the student achievement. >> Mr. Callahan. Mr. Callahan. On Tuesday, March 24th, the Board of Education Student Achievement Com- Committee met to review several curriculum updates and initiatives. The commit committee reviewed revisions to the CP Biology curriculum guide and a new special education work-based learning cur- curriculum guide. curriculum guide. Both of which are being presented at for approval at the April 20 eighth meeting. The committee was also informed of a revised NJSLS testing schedule, reducing the delayed opening days at the high school from five to three, which is also being presented for approval tonight. Lastly, an update was provided on giant on grant activities, including the climate change con- continu- con- continuation and Perkins grants with a NJDOE visit scheduled at Samsel School on April 22nd to review student work related to climate change.
018Thank you. Very impressive presentation. Thank you. That was a very impressive presentation. Now, the finance and infrastructure. Miss Pabone. Last Tuesday, the finance and committee met. During the meeting, we discussed the recently approved 2026 through 2027 school district budget. After that, Mr. Kolmansberger provided an update on the referendum project punch lists. He reported that the ceiling patching and caulking work at the middle school was completed. Likewise, he informed the committee that the window sashes at Wilson were installed. In addition, he reported to the committee that the conditioned fresh air units were installed uh on the roof of the middle school on March 20th. Therefore, the air conditioning in boys and girls locker rooms rooms there is fully operational. Finally, he told the committee that JCP&L disconnected the old transformer at Slover and connected the new
019one to the new switch gear on March 30th. Hence, outside of some minor punch list items, the work there is finished, too. On the other projects not related to the referendum, Mr. Kolmansberger reported on the progress that Shortlands is making the to finance finish the solar canopy completion project at the high school. Additionally, he reported that the electronic school signs at SMS, SUES, and Eisenhower have been installed and that the sign at Arleth should be installed by next the week's end. As soon as it is, the company will begin to connect them, probably starting with the sign at the middle school. Similarly sim- Sim- similarly. Sim- just ask if the windows are >> [laughter] >> Similarly Yes, you got it, girly. He informed the committee that the air conditioning for the uh sports lab at
020the high school is being installed this week. Finally, he told the committee that we recently had spent about $15,000 to report to repair a clogged sewage line underneath the high school. Very good. Mr. Fernandez, I have a comment. Thank you for the excellent presentation. Fernandez, I have a comment. Mr. Kolmansberger? I want to personally thank you. I want to personally thank you. For the air conditioning. For the air conditioning. Mr. Fernandez, I have a comment. Mr. Fernandez, I have a comment. Go ahead. Is it true that the work on the sewage line Is it true that the work on the sewage line >> at the high school at the high school stunk? stunk? >> [laughter] >> Yes, it did, indeed. I don't have any knowledge of that. If and I also want to add And
021I also want to add If everyone saw when they came to the meeting If everyone saw when they came to the meeting today they trenched the electrical wire they trenched the electrical wire for this electronic sign here at Samsel. for the electronic sign here at Samsel So, within the next couple of days >> So, within the next couple of days our electric sign our electric sign >> will be working. will be working. Great job, Jimmy and his team. Say, now I'm on the Middlesex County School Board. Now, on the Middlesex County School Board. Miss Bloom. The next meeting of the Middlesex County School Board Association will be on May 20th at the Pines Manor in Edison. Be sure to register. I will be there. Mr. Fernandez. Before we move to something >> Yes. Before we
022move to something else I have to discuss something. I have to discuss something. It's been on my mind. Must you? I certainly must. I certainly must. Go ahead. We all know We all know that recently that recently a law was passed a law was passed that banned that banned >> the use of cell phones the use of cell phones >> in schools. I have an opinion on I have an opinion on that. >> Will you allow me Will you allow me to share it? Yes. In my opinion, I dislike the cell phone ban in Sayreville school year of 2026 2027. I dislike it for a variety of reasons. One of them is what if there was an emergency, not a drill, but a real emergency? Then the students would like to contact their guardians at
023home to keep them aware of their safety. Also, if we didn't have our cell phones and our bus got delayed for some reason, I think our guardians would like to have our contact information would most likely want to be informed of the situation and expect their arrival to be later than usual. Most parents have trackers on our cell phones, so if anything happened to us, then they would see our location and contact the authorities. These are some of the reasons why I dislike the cell phone ban in the town of Sayreville in the school year of 2026 to 2027. What do you think, Miss Bashawda? My thoughts on the cell phone ban in school starting 2026 and 2027 school year is that I think it's the right thing to do. The pros are that students
024will pay attention to school and will focus on the task. If they are on the phone, the possibilities of what they could be doing are endless. Another reason that the cell phone ban is effective is because many students could improve their grades and understand the topics that are taught in school. The final reason is cyberbullying. When students are on the phone, they might see something inappropriate or something that could influence them negatively. If we ban cell phones, all of the possibilities will not occur in school, leading me to my vote. I think we should acknowledge the cell phone ban. What do you think, Mr. Nester? What is What What are my opinions on the cell phone ban 2026 through 2027 school year? I believe that this law is very important. I think that it is
025important because it can improve kids' education and let them actually learn without using any electronics to cheat. However, this law may have a negative effect on students' safety. I believe it is unsafe because students would be unaware if someone was texting them insults during the day. They may get hurt or feel unsafe, but never know until they got home. This would make it hard for them to show proof to a trusted adult. It can encourage other students to cyberbully and make them feel anonymous. Students would also have no way of communicate communicating with their guardians if there is an emergency. I believe cell phones should not be allowed in school, but kept in a locker or book bag. It may be annoying to explain to a student why they should not have their cell phones,
026so they should have strict rules they can follow instead of just banning them completely. I also believe that they should ban all electronics like watches instead of just banning cell phones only. Students might get the idea to cheat using other electronics. This is what what I believe as a fifth grade student. What do you think, Mr. Glockman? I disagree with the cell phone ban in New Jersey because it does not solve one of the real issues. Instead of just taking phones away, the state should focus on teaching us a health healthy and safe interaction with technology. Also, if we hide these devices at school, they could give our parents the idea to give us reduced screen time at home. During those screen time windows, it it would be hard to fit appropriate studying apps. The
027state should take more time focusing on how this can affect our grades. A total ban feels like a step back when we should be moving forward. These are my thoughts on the New Jersey cell phone ban. What do you think, Mr. Callahan? In my opinion, I think the phone ban in the 2026 to 2027 school year is good and bad in some ways. Three reasons I think the cell cell phones are good is because they can lower the risk of getting distracted in class, teachers can teach smoothly, and boost social skills instead of watching your phone in class. But banning cell phones isn't so good sometimes, either. Three reasons banning cell phones is bad because it can cut off access to direct messages to parents and guardians during emergencies, restricted learning tools, and punish students
028that are responsible with phones. But the main reasons for a cell phone ban being good is that it lowers the risk of cyberbullying to students from other students and decreases distractions. The main reasons cell phone ban is bad is because These are my thoughts on this banning cell phone ban ban in school. What do you think, Miss Bloom? My thoughts on the ban are that when the phone ban is put in place, it would affect many people. Phones have been used for information and a lot of other things. If an emergency was happening, it would be useful to have it to communicate with anyone else. Phones can also be used as a calm down resource in lunch or any other place allowing it. Without phones, some students would be upset and wouldn't be able to
029reach their parents just in case the teachers couldn't. Phones can be a huge distraction, too, so I agree with their decisions. Phones can also be used as cheating, but with heavy regulations and restrictions, they could be a major use in everyday school work. That's what I think about the ban. What do you think, Ms. Multonado? My thoughts on on the cell phone ban in school starting in 2026-2027 school year are mixed feelings. I see both benefits and problems in this decision. The obvious benefits of having a cell phone with students provide them a way to connect with their parents in case of any emergencies of any other situations that need their attention. It also allows students to stay connected with their friends. Phones are essential for receiving any state broadcast messages. On the other hand,
030if the students carry their cell phones, they will be distracted with the phone next to them. Students can also cheat using phones on tests and assignments. Students tend to cyber bully if they carry their phones to the classrooms. These factors affect mental health. Moreover, the phones are expensive products and hence there is always a risk of losing them. Without having phones in schools, students will tend to have more in-person chats with their friends and socialize with teachers as well. Students will focus on their studies and will learn more in school. Not having phones in school will make a habit of spending time outside with family friend family friends and show students that having fun and learning in life is better than spending on spending hours on your phone and don't doom scrolling. In conclusion, I
031agree with both sides of this decision. What do you think, Mr. Fernandez? I think that the new law banning cell phones in public school districts in New Jersey is fair and very much needed. Cell phones should not be allowed in classrooms for many reasons as it has proved to be a distraction for the students. Using cell phones in school also increases cyberbullying and anxiety and reduces students' attention span and their engagement during class. Phones in school make it harder for the students to make it harder for the students to concentrate and reduce their ability to listen, learn, and remember things. For example, students sometimes sneak out their phone from their backpack to check emails, watch videos, play games, and take pictures during school hours. When some students watch videos on their phones, they show to
032other students in the classroom. It is a big distraction to them and to the other students. They end up wasting their time when they should be finishing their assignments. What do you think, Ms. Napolitano? In my opinion, I think the cell phone ban has both pros and cons. Some of the pros are that children can focus more on classwork than on their phone. It cannot disturb the class if it rings. It can increase attention span, less chances of losing the phone, less time wasted, and it can also help make more friends in person rather than online. A con can be that in case of an emergency, the student will not be able to contact a parent. Overall, I think the cell phone ban is a good idea and personally, I think a student does not
033need a phone before the age of 18. What do you think, Ms. Hernandez? In my opinion, the phone ban is good and bad for many reasons. Reasons for the phone ban being good are some students use their phone to cheat on tests. Another reason is that the phone ban is distracting for teachers as they're trying to teach and to students who are trying to learn. Some distractions might be phones ringing, playing games, and texting each other. Some reasons the phone ban is bad is that their parents may not be able to reach the student. If there are after-school programs that get canceled, they will not be able to contact their parent. If there is an emergency in the school, they will not be able to reach out for help. These are some of the reasons
034the phone ban is good and bad. What do you think, Ms. Pabone? That is a great question, Mrs. Hernandez. In my opinion, the cell phone ban in schools is not the best policy. If there was ever an emergency, you will not be able to use cell phones. Also, if you have after-school programs and they cancel, you need to tell your adults. Students will have access to school-approved programs on their devices if computers are not working. Some children may need devices to assist with disabilities. In conclusion, students should be allowed to have cell phones in school. What do you think, Mr. Smith? My thoughts on the phone ban for 2026-2027 is I feel students should be uh allowed to bring their cell phones to school. The reason is if there's emergency like a fire, the students
035can get in touch with their parents quickly. What would make the most sense is having phone lockers or phone cubbies for the phones in the classroom. That's why it doesn't disturb them during class and they can quickly get it in an emergency. What do you think, Dr. Aguiles? To me, the 2026-2027 phone ban will have a negative result on staff members and students. The phone ban can teach students how to be sneaky and to lie about not using it during class. It doesn't teach them anything how to how to manage their time and not and how to manage their time and when the right time is to use it. A lot of people also rely on their phones or devices. Not being able to use it can find can it can make them anxious or
036worried. Even if students don't have phones, they can always find a way to entertain themselves and distract themselves like talking to friends, doodling, playing with supplies, or even just daydreaming. For those for these reasons, it won't help people won't help with making sure they pay attention. So, I believe that the 2026-2027 ban is not a good idea. It only helps students be sneaky, make them feel stressed, and won't keep them focused. What do you think, Dr. Burns? My thoughts about banning cell phones is we should not ban cell phones in school. What if you get lost and you need to text your parent or guardian? What if you have after-school, but you forgot to tell your guardian? Also, what if your bus was late and your parent your parents or guardians don't know. This is
037why we should not ban cell phones in school. What do you think, Mrs. Grossman? I believe cell phones should be completely banned in schools. During class, they are a major distraction that makes it harder for students to focus and learn. The problems don't stop in class. They continue on the bus or in the hallways. Phones can lead to conflicts, bullying, and serious privacy violations such as students recording others without permission. I understand some students argue that phones are useful for emergencies or contacting parents, but schools can already contact children's the children's parents directly when needed. For these reasons, I feel extremely strong that schools should ban cell phones entirely. What do you think, Mrs. Burt? I think this I think the cell phone ban starting in the 2026-2027 school year year can be helpful and
038challenging for students. On one hand, removing phones during the school day can help students stay focused, pay better attention in classroom, and reduce distraction from social media or texting. This could also improve grades and help teachers manage classrooms more easily. On one hand, some students and parents may feel concerned about safety and communications, especially in emergencies. It is important that schools create clear rules and allow limited access when truly needed. I also think students should be taught respons- responsible phone use, not just have their phones taken away completely. Overall, the phone ban could be a great idea if schools balance discipline with understanding school needs. What do you think, Mr. Colesman's Burger? I think that it is both a good and bad idea to ban cell phones in schools starting in the 2026-2027 school year.
039I think that it is a good idea because a lot of adults give their children phones around the ages 9 to 10 and then they get attached to their phones. This makes them less social with family and friends. So, by banning cell phones, kids will be more social during bus rides and lunch. I also think that the ban is a bad idea because if there is an emergency, a parent is more likely to answer if their child calls. Also, in some cases, a child may need to call a parent to remind them about a club or if a bus is late. As an example, when a bus is late, it is very effective effective to call a parent from the child's phone because they are more likely to answer. This is my perspective on the
040cell phone ban. What do you think, Mr. Tola? My thoughts on the cell phone ban in the school year 2026-2027 is a good idea. Some reasons why the ban is a good idea is students will focus on what the teacher is teaching instead of being distracted on their phone like playing games or watching videos. Another reason is students use their cell phone to cheat on assignments and tests by searching up the searching up the test answers on their phone. This is bad because the students might get the answers correct, but the teacher thinking the student understand what is taught, but the student doesn't understand. Finally, students might also text friends who are also in school, distracting them as well. These are my thoughts on the cell phone cell phone ban in the school year 2026
041to 2027. What do you think, Mrs. Coglianese? My thoughts about phones not being allowed in school. I disagree and agree. Here's why. Cell phones have been the main source of communication with a lot of people. Cell phones shouldn't be used when only needed. Students should not use them during class because it can be distracting and interrupt learning. There is a do not disturb feature that should be on during school hours. Cell phones can be helpful for after school like on the bus so kids can contact their parents if necessary. They are also helpful for safety since parents can track their children and know they're okay. If students are responsible and follow rules, cell phones could be a responsible tool without causing problems. Thank you, Mr. Fernandez. I don't know about anybody else, but I'm glad
042I had got that off my chest. See the trouble you caused? As always. Thank you, everyone, for your insightful comments. Thank you, everyone, for your insightful comments. Now you open the floor. So now open the floor. Now I open the floor to the public participation. to the public participation. On agenda items only. On agenda items only. Seeing none, I close public. And now on to you, Dr. Labby. Thank you, Mr. Fernandez. As always, I'll try to be brief. On the finance on the finance and infrastructure portion of the agenda, which can be found on pages two, three through four among other motions in item number two, we are asking you to accept a grant from the Middlesex County Office of Culture and Heritage in the amount of $2,000 to be used for transportation costs for
043the Samsel Upper Elementary School field trip to East Jersey Old Town and Cornelius Low House Museum. In item number three, which can be found on page two, we are also asking you to approve the use of Sayreville War Memorial High School culture and climate change and funds in the total amount of $3,575 to pay the registration fee for 44 Sayreville War Memorial High School Health Occupation Students of America, also known as HOSA. Six students and two advisers or chaperones can attend the HOSA Future Health Professionals State Leadership Conference on April 11th and April 12th, at the Union County Vocational Technical High School in the amount of $50 per student and a total cost of $2,200. As well as for the purchase of 1,000 Air Force Junior ROTC patches in the amount of $1,375. Likewise, in
044item number six on page four, we are asking you retroactive to retroactively approve transportation of for 20 Sayre- for 20 Sayreville High School's Health Occupation Students of America, HOSA members and three faculty members to Union County Vocational School, Scotch Plains, New Jersey, where the students will compete in the New Jersey HOSA State Leadership Conference on Saturday and Sunday of April 11th and April 12th, 2026. Mr. Mr. Kolmansberger? Mr. Kolmansberger? Did I miss anything that you would like to Did I miss anything that you would like to say? We are currently in the process of updating the school signs to new LED signs, starting with the middle school, SVS, Arleth, and Eisenhower. In addition, the referendum projects are still going on. We are nearing the completion of the solar panel projects with the high school being
045completed very soon. We are recently finished updating several bathrooms and creating a new parking lot at Eisenhower School. As you can see, we are very busy with our big projects in addition to the day-to-day operations of completing countless work work orders, as well as cleaning the schools and maintaining the buildings so they are safe and clean for all students and staff. Thank you. What do you think, Mr. Nester? Would you like to add anything? Attention preschool and kindergarten parents at Our online registration is currently open for Project Before Preschool School and Kindergarten registration. Please visit the Sayreville Public Schools website for further information. On or about April 13th, online registration for Camp XL will be open. Please visit the Sayreville Public Schools website for further information on our extended school year program. Our spring unified
046basketball season is underway with our March Madness tournament held at Arleth Elementary School, Samsel Upper Elementary School, Sayreville Middle School, and Sayreville High School. Thank you to our student athletes for their hard work and competitive but caring spirit. Next up is our summer unified track and field season. Be on the lookout for season announcements for preschool, elementary, middle, and high school teams. We are hoping to compete against a team once again for an from a neighboring town. Let's go, Bombers. Finally, please come out and support our very own Bombers Beyond Cafe and our Bombers Beyond Apparel Store and Community [snorts] Hub, which is located at 132 Main Street in Sayreville. You can enjoy a good cup of coffee and some baked goods in a warm atmosphere that embraces and includes people of all abilities. Thank
047you, Mr. Nester. Are there any questions or comments on these finance and infrastructure motions? Mrs. Babone? Oh, Mrs. Babone. Thank God nobody's retiring today. Actually, Actually, we had to move them to the next agenda. We had to move them to the next agenda. Any questions? Any questions? Mr. Nester. Mr. Nester? I'll meet you at Bombers for for a coffee. I'll meet you at Bombers for a coffee. Sounds good. Does anyone Does anybody else want to make a playdate? Say seeing none. Seeing none. Next in this item in item number one on the student achievement portion of the agenda, which can be found on page four, we are asking you to approve the long-term suspension of a student. In addition, on number two, which can be found on page five, we are asking you to approve
048the incorp- the incorporation of handwriting Cursive Success and Can Do Cursive program published by Learning Without Tears in grades three through five. Miss Grossman, can you please add any Can you please share more information about this program? Yes, Dr. Labby. We are asking the board to approve the use of textbooks to be used in grades three, four, and five for teaching students how to read and write in cursive. The New Jersey Department of Education is requiring all districts to teach read- reading and writing in cursive starting in the 2026 through 2027 school year. Thank you, Miss Grossman. Dr. Burns? Dr. Burns? Do you have anything >> Do you have anything that you want to share? Our program is built upon the tools of Mind Curriculum, which is learning through play, language development, and social emotional
049growth. We are proud to provide classrooms where children were active are actively engaged, curious, and support- ive. We are especially excited to share that our district has recently been awarded a $12 million grant to far further expand the street the strengthen our preschool program. The fund this funding will allow us to continue building on our success by it enchanting classroom resources supporting professional professional development and ensuring that all students have access to high quality early childhood experiences. Fascinating insight, Dr. Burns. Miss Burt, do you have anything you want to share? Miss Burt, do you have anything do you want to share? I'll give a update on the climate change grant at Samsel. The Liberty Science Center trip occurring on April 9th April April 10th and I mean April 8th, 9th, and 10th. It was It
050was a fun experience and I really liked the butterfly house. You got to pick up butterflies and I really liked the um I forgot what it's called. It's okay. You want to talk about the butterflies in it? Okay. And then move on to the Our amazing and Okay. amazing and everybody knows that. And And in Finis Tate Middle School and fifth grade students and teachers will be celebrating Earth Day on April 22nd by host hosting a climate change summit. During this event, students will present and display highlights from the climate change research that they have engaged engaged of education and the community members will be joining us at the Samsel to par to participate in our climate climate change summit. >> [snorts] >> And then lastly, we'll host our climate change observatory board meeting on
051May 19th, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. That sounds very cool, Miss Burt. Great job as always. Great job as always. So now you can say on the governance. On the governance portion of the agenda, which can be found on page 5 through 7 in item number one, we are asking you to approve the March 17th, 2025 through April 13th, 2026 HIB report including any investigations and or recommendations for action provided by the superintendent. Mr. Glockamorra. Mr. Glockamorra. Do you want to add anything? Do you want to add anything? The technology department is happy to inform you that we have fixed the audio problems from the last Board of Education meeting live stream. We are also waiting on guidance to revise the cell phone policy for next school year. Thank goodness. Are there any questions or comments
052on the student achievement or governance motions? Seeing none. None. Finally among other motions on the personnel portion of the agenda, which can be found on pages 7 through 14 in item number in items number 7 through 8 which can be found on pages 10 and 11, we are asking you to appoint certificated staff for the 2025 to 2026 and the 2026 to 2027 school years. Likewise, in item number nine, which can be found on page 11, we are asking you to appoint non-certificated staff for 2025 to 2026 school school school approve a school year. Furthermore, in item number 10 on pages 11 through 12, which we are asking you to approve the transfer of non-certificated We are asking you to approve the transfer of non-certificated staff for this school year. Lastly, in item number 14,
053which can be found on page 13, we are asking you to appoint instructional staff to work the summer learning acceleration program on an as-needed basis based on enrollment. Would you like to add any more information on this, Miss Grossman and Dr. Aggelis? Of course. Of course. You want to go first? Yeah, go ahead. We are asking for approval of staff members to work the learning acceleration program for this summer. This program is to support students in grade 1 through 5 in English language arts and mathematics. Qualifying students will be invited next month to register. The program will run July 6th through August 6th here at the UAS. Aggelis, anything to add? Good evening. This year, we have worked hard to fill all of our classroom vacancies as we prepare for the upcoming year. We will
054be having a direct career fairly early in May to find educators, cafeteria workers bus drivers, bus aids, and paraprofessionals to fill our future vacancies. We also work break We are also working on working to hire substitutes available to cover classes when our employees are absent. We continue to work to make all certain positions are filled on a daily basis. Thank you, Dr. Aggelis and Miss Grossman. Are there any questions or comments on the on these or any other personnel motions in the agenda? As I see none. Seeing none. None. Mr. Fernandez, that concludes my superintendent's report. I have a comment. I have a comment. First, I want to thank you for the for the presentation. First, I want to thank everyone for their presentation. And Dr. Labby. And Dr. Labby. I must say I must
055say that it's the most articulate that is the most articulate professionally presented and professionally presented you have ever given. You have What? You have given all year. You have given all year. Thank you. Do any other board members have comments? I do. Can I really say something? Miss Babone. Um I would just like to say to all the uh children who are representing um the BOE members that you represent us very well. You spoke just like me, had few mispronunciations. I can't say nothing right correctly. Yes, she did say that. I only call him Jimmy cuz I can't say Yes, I can. And Silover. I don't know how I say it right. But I just want to say thank you so much, kids. You really make us proud and I wish you the best success
056as you all of you have potential to be BOE members, to be leaders in our community and I wish you all the best. Thank you for that. I have news to the community. We are proud to announce that Maya Memorial High School has been recognized as Middlesex County's 2025 to 2026 outstanding student. This honor highlights the hard work and dedication to of our students. A reminder to all parents, you are always welcome to attend the Board of Education meetings to learn about school updates and share your thoughts. Mr. Fernandez, I would like to discuss something. Go ahead. Could we do half-day Fridays? I second that. >> [laughter] >> I'll talk to Dr. Labby about it. That's a hard no. >> [laughter] >> Okay. Mr. Fernandez. I have a comment. Yes. >> I have a comment.
057Go ahead. The Sayreville Board of Education believes it is important for students to have a voice and to learn about leadership. Programs like Let the children lead give students the opportunity to practice public speaking, learn how our school district works and grow in confidence. It is a great example of how our schools encourage students to get involved and become future leaders in our community. I'm very grateful for a chance to represent Miss Maldonado tonight and to show that students can lead, too. >> [applause] >> Yes, I know. See none. now I'll entertain a motion to approve the agenda. Now I'll entertain a motion to approve the agenda. So moved. >> Second. Mrs. Fernan- Second. Mr. Callahan? Second. Roll call, Mrs. Prashad. Roll call. Mrs. Bloom? Yes. Mr. Callahan? Yes. Mrs. Hernandez? Yes. Mrs. Maldonado? Yes.
058Mrs. Napolitano? Yes. Mrs. Pabón? Yes. Mr. Smith? Yes. Mr. Walsh? Yes, except on uh I have to abstain on uh C1 governance. Yes, and all other items. Mr. Fernandez? Yes. Now I'll open the floor to public comments. Now I shall open the floor to public comments. See, please state your name and your address. Please state your name and your address. Valentina Arango Correa, 2 Hoffman Avenue, South Amboy, New Jersey, Sayreville Township. Um I'm a one of the parent leaders of Sayreville Proud. Um that's the district CPAC, that's the special education parent advocacy group. So I just wanted to take the opportunity that there's so many students and parents here and just welcome you all I'll just uh say if you could join us for some meetings or reach out. The Gmail is [email protected]. So thank
059you. Thanks, guys. Thank you for what you do. Thank you for your partici- participation and thank you for all you do. Anyone else? Can we ask Mr. Fernandez? Can Mr. Fernan- Can we ask anyone else? Miss Mr. Fernandez? Mr. Fernandez? Can we Yes. Can we resume making closing comments? Can we resume making closing comments? Right after I close public. Uh Now I close public. I now close public. Say thank Thank you. I believe Mr. Tola I believe Mr. Tola would like to make a closing comment. would like to make a closing comment. Good evening, members of the Sayreville Board of Education and central administration. My name is Arabelle Appertu and I am here tonight representing Mr. Tola, vice principal of the Samsel Upper Elementary School. I would like the students who have participated in the
060Let the Children Lead program to know how proud I am of their hard work and dedication to our school and the Borough of Sayreville. Within these students lies the future of our community. I would also like to thank all the staff members that came out tonight to support their students. Their dedication is just one of the many things that make them amazing educators. Thank you again for your partic- participation and support in this in this special evening. I'd like to say I'd like to say This is the one time of This is the one time of year where collectively where collectively this entire board this entire board presents presents articulately articulately and the collective IQ and the collective IQ >> raised. is significantly raised. Thank you. Thank you. To all the parents To all the
061parents and all the students and all the students and all our teachers and all our teachers who make today possible. who make today possible. Any other comments from our board members? Any other comments from our board members? Mr. Fernandez? Yes. We would like to thank >> Dr. Dr. Arango Correa Arango Correa who just came to the podium who just came to the podium as our special education parent advisory parent advisory group leader leader for her time and effort that she puts in on behalf of the special services services community. We're almost done. The purpose of our proud group is two-fold. has two parts. The first is for parents to advise the director of special services on what's working and what needs improvement. But the second reason we have a proud group is for fun activities
062for our parents of children of all abilities. So please get involved if you have the time. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Mr. Naster? I agree that our director doesn't need help. that our director doesn't need help. Also, I agree with the comments and want to second it the great job that proud is doing. >> [clears throat] >> Any of the board any of the other board members have comments? Can I step out of character for a second and I really want to thank all of our parents for all the incredible job you do with your children every day. Our teachers, our administrators, our support staff, our custodians, our security, our technology department, all of you, our maintenance, all of you who make our schools work and make events like this in- incredibly important um and
063help develop these young adults that we see before us today. You truly, truly are the best of our school and represent us and our community and our district and credit incredibly well. And I must say that by far this is the best job I've ever done as president of the Board of Education. >> [snorts] [applause] >> I would agree. Anyone else? Miss Pabón? Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity to be up here as one of the board members and to speak about the whole um this whole town. So thanks. I want to thank each and every one of my board members. It takes incredible courage It takes incredible courage to come to come into public to come into public and speak. and speak. Most adults can't do what you just did today.
064Most adults can't just do what you did today. Especially as eloquently as you have. Thank you. Thank you. Mr. Fernandez? Mr. Fernandez? I would like to thank my family and Mr. Tola and Miss Calganese for making this happen. I am super grateful to be up here and I am so happy that I've been chosen. There were a lot of people who were picked to do this, but most of all, all of us are up here. We're the ones who were the best well, everybody did the best they could, but basically like they picked us and I am so grateful to be here and once again I wanted to thank everybody for being here and everybody for watching me and everybody who's on the TV television watching us and again I just want to thank you.
065HI. >> [applause] >> MR. FERNANDEZ? GO AHEAD. Go ahead. I would like to thank everyone here for coming to this special day and I'm very grateful for taking this position. Thank you. >> [applause] >> I like your voice. Watch. Watch. Anyone else? Anyone else? See, seeing none, I'll entertain a motion to close the meeting. Seeing none, I'll entertain a motion to close the meeting. So moved. Second. All in favor, aye. Say all in favor, aye. All in favor, aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. That was it. Good job. >> [applause]