MOUNT OLIVE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES – REGULAR MEETING DECEMBER 16, 2013 1.
OPENING ACTIVITIES The Mount Olive Township Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, December 16, 2013 at the Mount Olive Middle School, 160 Wolfe Road, Budd Lake, N.J. In the absence of the Board President, the Board Vice-President, Mrs. Ouimet, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. with the following announcement: “The notice requirements of the “Open Public Meetings Act” of the State of New Jersey have been satisfied by the inclusion of the date, time and place of this meeting in the notice of regular meetings adopted by this board on January 7, 2013. Such schedule and notice of meetings is posted at the Municipal Building, the Mount Olive Library, the Board of Education offices and the six schools, was submitted to the Daily Record for publication on January 8, 2013, and was filed with the Clerk of Mount Olive Township on January 8, 2013. I direct this announcement be entered into the minutes of this meeting.” Roll Call
Also in attendance:
2.
Present:
Mr. Amianda Mrs. Cohen Mrs. Colligan Mr. Halbur Mrs. Ouimet Mr. Robinson Mr. Strillacci Mr. Werner
Absent:
Mr. Giordano
Dr. Reynolds, Superintendent Ms. Conroy, Business Administrator Mr. Roselle, Board Attorney
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Mr. Werner moved to approve the open and closed session minutes of the following meetings: Work Session Meeting – November 11, 2013 Regular Meeting – November 25, 2013
#2.1 #2.2
Seconded by Mr. Halbur. Board Discussion: Mrs. Colligan clarified a statement she made at the November 11th Board meeting regarding her surprise over the number of students who had no knowledge of D-Day and what Veteran’s Day represents. Mrs. Colligan clarified that she was referring to the students that she teaches at Dover High School and that her statement did not reflect the Mount Olive community. Roll Call: Ayes Mr. Amianda Mrs. Cohen Mrs. Colligan Mr. Halbur Mrs. Ouimet Mr. Robinson Mr. Strillacci Mr. Werner 3.
Noes None
Abstentions None
COMMUNICATIONS AND PETITIONS (BOARD/SUPERINTENDENT) There were no communications and/or petitions acknowledged by the Board or the Superintendent.
4.
REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
4.1
STUDENT LIAISON’S REPORT – No Report
4.2
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
4.2.1 FALL SPORTS AWARDS Mr. Dave Falleni, High School Athletic Director, celebrated the accomplishments of the 2013 Fall sports program, presenting awards to the following student athletes in recognition of their individual and collective successes. Girls Soccer Sarah Fasino
1st Team All NJAC American Division 1st Team All Morris County
Nicolette Thorkildsen
1st Team All NJAC American Division 1st Team All Morris County Volleyball
Sydney Summerville
1st Team All NJAC American Division Field Hockey
Ariadana Camayo
1st Team All NJAC American Division 2nd Team All Morris County Football
Alec Oriolo
1st Team All NJAC American Division
Connor Mears
1st Team All NJAC American Division
Ethan Weiss
1st Team All NJAC American Division
Zachary Heeman
1st Team All NJAC American Division Boys Soccer – Individual Honors
Christopher Grillo
1st Team NJAC American Division 2nd Team All Morris County 3rd Team All State
Jeffrey Schafer
1st Team NJAC American Division 3rd Team All Morris County
Anthony Cerda
1st Team NJAC American Division 1st Team All Morris County 2nd Team All State
Ryan Peterson
1st Team NJAC American Division 1st Team All Morris County 1st Team All State Boys Soccer – Team Champions
Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference Champions – American Division Coach Dan Gryzwacz Hugo Almeida Griffen Conway Matthew Geiger Nicolas Hars Jonathon Liamero Jared Miele Peter Previte Napat Sutthasingwong Timothy Watral
Coach Dave Silverstein Alex Anton Jonah Conway Brian Gonzalez Matthew Inglese Devin Mathura Ryan Peterson Brian Quinn Matthew Tervo
Regular Meeting 12/16/13
Coach Andrew Kaspereen Anthony Cerda Adam Gartside Christopher Grillo Kendall Joseph Daniel Mendez Thomas Petrocelli Jeffrey Schafer Guilherme Tiago 2
Boys Cross Country Maxwell McVicar
1st Team All NJAC American Division Girls Cross Country - Individual Honors
Sarah Masukewicz
1st Team All NJAC American Division 1st Team All Morris County – Coaches Association 1st Team All Morris County – Star Ledger
Mariah Christian
1st Team All NJAC American Division
Sarah Christian
1st Team All NJAC American Division
Alexandra Christian
1st Team All NJAC American Division 1st Team All Morris County – Coaches Association 2nd Team All Morris County – Star Ledger Girls Cross Country – Team Champions
Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference Champions – American Division State Sectional Champions – North I, Group III Mr. Falleni announced that Coach Mike Behre was named the 2013 Girls Cross Country Coach of the Year and was selected by the Daily Record as the 2013 Fall Season Coach of the Year. Coach Mike Behre Alexandra Christian Sarah Masukewicz Lindsay Schafer
Coach Bill Romano Mariah Christian Micaela Poggi
Sarah Christian Erin Schafer
In conclusion, Mr. Falleni commended all of the coaches and parents for their commitment and dedication to the students and to the athletic program. 4.2.2 FIRST QUARTER REPORT Dr. Reynolds delivered a comprehensive power point presentation outlining the academic progress of the Mount Olive School District for the first quarter of the 2013-2014 school year. The Superintendent commented on the following topics: Pros and cons of the new Journeys Series Language Arts program Ongoing teacher training programs Comparison of student benchmarks by building Gains and concerns of recently implemented technology initiatives Update on the K-Excel Program, a full time kindergarten for at-risk students Review of the Stronge Teacher Evaluation Program New school improvement plans for the middle school and the elementary schools. The successful reintroduction of middle school sports programs Double-block schedule of English/Language Arts at the middle school Grade Distributions Following his report, Dr. Reynolds and Mr. Peter Hughes, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, engaged in a question and answer session with members of the Board. 4.3
PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORT Mr. Werner reported on the Personnel Committee meeting of December 16, 2013. (Summary attached)
4.4
CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION COMMITTEE REPORT Mrs. Colligan reported on the Curriculum and Instruction Committee meeting of December 9, 2013. (Summary attached) Mr. Halbur questioned the proposed changes to the Physics First curriculum, recalling that the curriculum was recently revised to include 9th grade students. The Superintendent affirmed that Regular Meeting 12/16/13
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the Physics First curriculum was implemented in the 9th grade class 2-3 years ago as a replacement for Earth Science for the purpose of continuity. However, an evaluation of the program has revealed that the curriculum might not be appropriate for some of the 9th grade students at the lowest level. Consequently, the science department is considering a return to an integrated science program for a portion of the 9th grade class. However, the Superintendent emphasized that the Physics First curriculum would still be offered to the majority of the 9th grade class. 4.5
BUSINESS COMMITTEE REPORT – No Report
4.6
POLICY COMMITTEE REPORT – No Report
4.7
PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATION LIAISON REPORTS Mt. Olive PTA – Mr. Robinson declared that the Mt. Olive PTA Christmas dinner was an enjoyable event. However, Mr. Robinson revealed that some of the parents raised issues regarding the Amplify program, conveying that he had asked the parents to submit a written list of their concerns to the Board for consideration. Mr. Robinson also commented on the proposed board goal to expand the district’s career readiness program, suggesting that it might also be worthwhile for the Board to assist age appropriate special education students in securing employment.
4.8
BOARD PRESIDENT’S REPORT Vice-President Ouimet honored outgoing board members, Sheryl Colligan and Daniel Amianda, thanking them for their service to the Mount Olive School District. On behalf of the district, Mrs. Ouimet presented Mrs. Colligan and Mr. Amianda with framed certificates commemorating their tenure on the Board of Education. Mrs. Colligan and Mr. Amianda each expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the Board for the support they provided throughout their years of service on the Board of Education. Each member of the Board, in turn, extended farewell wishes to Mrs. Colligan and Mr. Amianda, thanking them for their commitment and dedication to the students and the Mount Olive School District and wishing them well in their future endeavors.
5.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ACTION ITEMS Before proceeding with the action items, Mrs. Ouimet opened the meeting to the public for any comments and/or questions regarding the action items only. Seeing none, this segment of the meeting was promptly closed.
5.1
MONTHLY EXPENDITURES AND FINANCIAL REPORTS Mr. Werner made a motion to approve, on the recommendation of the Superintendent, the following action items:
December 16, 2013 Bill List #5.1.1
Approve the December 16, 2013 bill list in the amount of $522,833.46.
December 13, 2013 Regular Payroll #5.1.2
Approve the December 13, 2013 regular payroll in the amount of $3,503,866.70.
Monthly Treasurer’s Report #5.1.3
Approve the Treasurer’s Report for the month of November 2013.
Monthly Board Secretary’s Report #5.1.4
Approve the Board Secretary’s Report for the month of November 2013.
Monthly Transfer Report #5.1.5
Approve the Transfer Report for the month of November 2013.
Monthly Certification of Funds #5.1.6
Motion to certify that no major account or fund has been overexpended in violation of N.J.A.C. 6A:23-2.11(b) as of November 30, 2013 and that sufficient funds are available to meet the district’s financial obligations for the remainder of the fiscal year. Regular Meeting 12/16/13
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Seconded by Mr. Strillacci. Board Discussion: None Roll Call: Ayes Mr. Amianda Mrs. Cohen Mrs. Colligan Mr. Halbur Mrs. Ouimet Mr. Robinson Mr. Strillacci Mr. Werner 5.2
Noes None
Abstentions None
PERSONNEL ACTION ITEMS Mr. Werner made a motion to approve, on the recommendation of the Superintendent, the following Personnel action items:
Appointment of Math Teacher #5.2.1
Approve the appointment of Nicholas DeVenezia, Teacher of Mathematics at Mount Olive Middle School, at step two (2) BA - $51,539 (prorated) effective January 6, 2014 for the remainder of the 2013-2014 school year, replacing Meredith Scardelli. (Budgeted)
Appointment of Van Driver #5.2.2
Approve the appointment of Marie Niculcea, Van Driver in the Transportation Department at step one (1) - $21.95 per hour on the Van Drivers’ Salary Guide, four (4) hours per day, five (5) days per week, effective January 2, 2014 for the remainder of the 2013-2014 school year, replacing Rita Flynn. (Budgeted)
Appointment of Certified Instructional Assistant #5.2.3
Approve the appointment of Corinne Sylvester, certified Instructional Assistant at Sandshore School at step eight (8) $14.87 per hour on the Aide Salary Guide, twenty (20) hours per week, effective January 6, 2014 through May 2, 2014. (Budgeted)
Temporary Appointment of Part Time Certified Teacher Aide #5.2.4
Approve the temporary appointment of Donna Colasurdo, part time certified Teacher Aide at Tinc Road School to work an additional six (6) hours per week, at current step, effective January 2, 2014 through April 30, 2014. (Budgeted)
Temporary Appointment of Part Time Teacher Aide #5.2.5
Approve the temporary appointment of Corinne Kilkeary, part time Teacher Aide at CMS Elementary School to work an additional six (6) hours per week, at current step, effective January 2, 2014 through April 30, 2014. (Budgeted)
Temporary Appointment of Part Time Certified Instructional Assistant #5.2.6
Approve the temporary appointment of Lianne Vivian, part time certified Instructional Assistant at Mt. View School to work an additional four (4) hours per week, at current step, effective January 2, 2014 through April 30, 2014. (Budgeted)
Appointment of Student Achievement Team Leaders #5.2.7
Approve the appointment of the following professional staff to the Student Achievement Team Leader positions at the stipend amount of $9,000 for the 2013-2014 school year: Susan Pasqualone Barbara Hohmann Valarie Moore Regular Meeting 12/16/13
English/Language Arts Mathematics Special Education 5
Appointment of Geography Club Advisor #5.2.8
Approve the appointment of the following staff to the Mount Olive Middle School Extra Pay for Extra Service position of Geography Club at the stipend amount of $1,250 (shared) for the 2013-2014 school year: Joshua Lindeblad and Matt Hansen
Appointment of Gifted and Talented After School Coordinators #5.2.9
Approve the appointment of the following staff to the Gifted and Talented After School Coordinator positions at the stipend amount of $1,250 for the 2013-2014 school year: Kristy McFarlane Margaret Maute Laura Campione
Additions to List of Substitute Teachers #5.2.10
CMS Elementary School Mt. View School Tinc Road School
Approve the following additions to the list of substitute teachers for the 2013-2014 school year: Name
Crs/Degree
Institution
Melissa Grosenstein Ashley Lopez
B.A. 60 crs
William Paterson Univ. Rider University
Appointment of Monthly Substitute Teacher #5.2.11
Approve the appointment of Kevin Mulcahy, substitute teacher on a month-to-month basis at Mount Olive High School effective December 17th through December 20, 2013 at the rate of $100 per day of service, replacing Meghan Breheney.
Approval of Monthly Substitute Teachers #5.2.12
Approve the following substitute teachers on a month-to-month basis for the month of January, 2014 at the rate of $100 per day of service as follows: Substitute Teacher Kevin Mulcahy Janine Carratura Brittany Dungan Lynne Mowbray Joy Sylvester Lisa Cooper
Employment of Sunset Academy Staff #5.2.13
Approve the employment of the following certificated staff for Sunset Academy at $42.00 per hour for the 2013-2014 school year: (Budgeted) Diane Rochotte Laura Krystyniak
Approval of Assistant Wrestling Coach #5.2.14
School Assignment Mount Olive High School Mount Olive Middle School CMS Elementary School Mt. View School Sandshore School Tinc Road School
High School Mathematics Middle School Language Arts
Approve the following coaching recommendations at Mount Olive Middle School for the Winter 2013-14 Season: (Budgeted) Sport Wrestling
Level Asst
Name Jared Luciani
Yrs Exp 0
Stipend $2,082.00
Appointment of Cafeteria Worker #5.2.15
Approve the appointment of Deborah Grapes, Cafeteria worker at Sandshore School at step one (1) - $12.01 per hour on the Cafeteria Salary Guide, 4.25 hours per day, 5 days per week, effective January 2, 2014 for the remainder of the 2013-2014 school year, replacing Ashwini Walmiki. (Budgeted)
Appointment of Certified Instructional Assistant #5.2.16
Approve the appointment of Sean Kelley, Certified Instructional Assistant at Mount Olive Middle School at step eight (8) $14.87 per hour on the Aide Salary Guide, twenty (29) hours per week, effective January 2, 2014 through May 2, 2014. (Budgeted)
Seconded by Mr. Strillacci. Regular Meeting 12/16/13
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Board Discussion: Mr. Halbur observed that action item #5.2.9 included positions for only three of the four elementary schools, inquiring if a Gifted and Talented Coordinator would be appointed for Sandshore School. Mr. Hughes replied affirmatively, declaring his expectation that another coordinator would be appointed in January. Roll Call: Ayes Mr. Amianda Mrs. Cohen Mrs. Colligan Mr. Halbur Mrs. Ouimet Mr. Robinson Mr. Strillacci Mr. Werner 5.3
Noes None
Abstentions None
CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION ACTION ITEMS Mrs. Colligan made a motion to approve, on the recommendation of the Superintendent, the following Curriculum and Instruction action items:
Professional Service Resolution #5.3.1
Approve the following professional service resolution for the 2013-2014 school year, effective July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014. WHEREAS, the Mount Olive Township Board of Education requires the services of professionals to provide individual services for classified students in accordance with their I.E.P.; and WHEREAS, the Public Schools Contracts Law (N.J.S.A: 18A-1 et seq.) requires the awarding of a contract for professional services by resolution of the Board of Education at a public meeting and allows that such award may be made without public advertising for bids: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mount Olive Township Board of Education that the following professionals be awarded contracts for the 2013-2014 school year, effective July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014: Name Liberty Healthcare Services Mt. Laurel, NJ
Service LPN Nursing Service
Contracted Amount $360 per day
American Tutor, Inc. Parsippany, NJ
Educational Instruction
$58 per hour
Approval of Nursing Services #5.3.2
Approve for the 2013-2014 school year, Bayada Nurses, Morris Plains, NJ to provide nursing service on an as needed basis to out of district student #567 while attending the Regional Day School, Morristown, NJ at $44.50 per hour for LPN nursing services and $54.50 per hour for RN nursing services. Classification: TBI Total estimated cost: TBA (Budgeted)
Approval of Nursing Services #5.3.3
Approve for the 2013-2014 school year, Liberty Healthcare Services, Mt. Laurel, NJ to provide LPN nursing service to out of district student #567 while attending the Regional Day School, Morristown NJ from December 2, 2013 to June 25, 2014 at $360.00 per day for approximately 131 days. Classification: TBI Total estimated cost: $47,160.00 (Budgeted)
Regular Meeting 12/16/13
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Approval of Physical Therapy Services #5.3.4
Approve AJL Therapy for Kids, West Caldwell, NJ to provide 30 minute additional physical therapy service to out of district student #746 from November 2, 2013 to June 26, 2014 at $45.00 per session for an estimated 31 sessions. Classification: AUT Total estimated cost: $1,395.00 (Budgeted)
Approval of Bedside Instruction #5.3.5
Approve St. Clare’s Hospital, Boonton NJ to provide beside instruction to student #210574 from November 12, 2013 to November 29, 2013 at $54.00 per hour for approximately 13 hours. Classification: OHI Total estimated cost: $702.00 (Budgeted)
Approval of Educational Instruction #5.3.6
Approve American Tutor, Inc., Parsippany, NJ to provide educational instruction to regular education student #10623 from November 27, 2013 to December 30, 2013 at $58.00 per hour for approximately 46 hours. Total estimated cost: $2,668.00 (Budgeted)
Approval of Educational Instruction #5.3.7
Approve Education, Inc. Plymouth, MA, to provide educational instruction to regular education student #210611 from November 11, 2013 to November 29, 2013 at $49.00 per hour for approximately 30 hours. Total estimated cost: $1,470.00 (Budgeted)
Approval of ABA Consulting Services #5.3.8
Approve MNC Consulting, LLC, Sparta, NJ to provide ABA consultation to student #500261 from September 4, 2013 to June 24, 2014 for approximately 36 hours at $40.00 per hour. Classification: AUT Total estimated cost: $1,440.00 (Budgeted)
Approval of Occupational Therapy Services #5.3.9
Approve Barbara Dziublenski, Long Valley, NJ to provide occupational therapy service to appropriate Chester M. Stephens students from December 2, 2013 to June 24, 2014 for approximately 280 hours at $60.00 per hour. Total estimated cost: $16,800.00 (Budgeted)
Approval of Agreement for CTEP Marking Model Pilot Program #5.3.10
Approve the subcontract agreement between Middlesex County College and the Mt. Olive Township Board of Education for the CTEP Marketing Model Program of Study Pilot Program for the period September 1, 2013 through August 15, 2014.
Approval of Professional Development Programs #5.3.11
BE IT RESOLVED that the Mount Olive Township Board of Education approves the following staff member(s) to attend the following professional development program(s) as deemed appropriate and approved by the Superintendent of Schools, subject to State Payment Guidelines as established by the Department of Treasury and guidelines as established by the Federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB): Estimated Expenses $195
Name Lisa Graham
Conference “Reaching Your Reluctant Readers”
Date 12/19/13
Location Edison, NJ
Kathy Steinert Chris Knudsen
Powerschool District Certification Online Training
TBA
Budd Lake, NJ
$4,800
Gail VanEkren Brian Holton
National American Association of Physics Teachers’ Workshop
1/4-1/7/14
Orlando, FL
$4,000
Dr. Larrie Reynolds Peter J. Hughes
TECHSPO 2014
1/301/31/14
Atlantic City, NJ
$1,170
Regular Meeting 12/16/13
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Seconded by Mr. Robinson. Board Discussion: Mr. Halbur questioned the cost for the online training and certification for the Powerschool program, as cited in action item #5.3.11, and inquired if any other district personnel are trained in the Powerschool program. Dr. Reynolds replied that the Powerschool training provides our in-house personnel with the proper certification to maintain the Powerschool program, conveying that there is currently only one person in the district with this training. Roll Call: Ayes Mr. Amianda Mrs. Cohen Mrs. Colligan Mr. Halbur Mrs. Ouimet Mr. Robinson Mr. Strillacci Mr. Werner 5.4
Noes None
Abstentions None
BUSINESS ACTION ITEMS Mr. Halbur made a motion to approve, on the recommendation of the Superintendent, the following Business (finance and facilities) action items:
Approval of Energy Management System Contract #5.4.1
Approve a contract with Enernoc of Boston, MA for an Energy Management System and DemandSmart Curtailment Services beginning June 1, 2014 and ending May 31, 2016 at no cost to the Board of Education.
Approval of Website Maintenance Service Contract #5.4.2
Motion to approve JAM Graphics to perform maintenance services for the Mt. Olive School District website at a cost of $3,800, paid in eight (8) monthly payments in the amount of $475 from November 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014.
Accept Tuition Student #5.4.3
Accept one student (#8142291206) from the Newton School District, Newton, NJ, to attend the Preschool Disabled Program at the Mt. View School for the remainder of the 2013-2014 school year, effective December 3, 2013 at an annual tuition rate of $13,776, prorated, plus all expenses for a one-to-one aide and related services as required by IEP, tuition subject to State audit.
Budget Transfers #5.4.4
Approve the following budget transfers for the 2013-14 school year: From: 12-000-252-730 Technology-Equip over $2,000
To: 12-120-100-730 Instructional Equip over $2,000
Amount $9,200
12-000-252-730 Technology-Equip over $2,000
12-000-261-730 Bldgs. & Grounds-Equip over $2,000
$13,350
Seconded by Mr. Robinson. Board Discussion: Mr. Halbur suggested that action item #5.4.1 be amended to include a contract end date of May 31, 2016. Mr. Robinson questioned the cost of the contract cited in action item #5.4.1. Mr. Halbur replied that there is no cost to the Board of Education. Consequently, the Board attorney suggested that the phrase “at no cost to the Board of Education” be included in the motion. Regular Meeting 12/16/13
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The following roll call vote was recorded on action items #5.4.1 through #5.4.4, as amended: Roll Call: Ayes Mr. Amianda Mrs. Cohen Mrs. Colligan Mr. Halbur Mrs. Ouimet Mr. Robinson Mr. Strillacci Mr. Werner 5.5
Noes None
Abstentions None
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION ITEMS Mrs. Cohen made a motion to approve the following Administrative action item:
Adopt 2013-2014 Board Goals #5.5.1
Adopt the following board goals for the 2013-2014 school year: Broaden the existing internship program to include vocational opportunities for students Investigate integrated STEM courses (iSTEM) and predefined specialized programs Investigate efficiencies in the business office process (utilize the computerized accounting system to its maximum capabilities) Continue practice of tracking graduates Investigate the implementation of a community service requirement as a graduation requirement Raise participation in the PSAT exam Expand our career readiness program Investigate the feasibility of re-organizing the elementary schools by grade/program Reach a decision regarding the sale and/or use of the Administration Building Pursue revenue generating measures in the Transportation Department (maximize earning potential)
Seconded by Mr. Robinson. Board Discussion: Mr. Strillacci reiterated his objection to bullet #5 and bullet #8, specifically questioning the impetus behind the board goal to investigate the feasibility of reorganizing the elementary schools. Dr. Reynolds recalled that a member of the Board proposed this goal during the goal setting session, conveying that he is unaware of any current issues that would necessitate a change in the present school structure. Mr. Halbur commented on the process the Board used to determine the proposed goals, expressing his understanding that the committees were to discuss the goals that pertain to their area. Mr. Halbur expressed his own reservation with bullet #1, suggesting that the full Board should discuss each item in depth in order to identify those goals the Board would like to pursue. The Board engaged in a lengthy debate regarding the objective of the board goals and the process by which specific goals are identified and adopted. Several Board members expressed their opinion on the matter, debating the intent of the board goals and the manner by which they should be discussed and adopted. After several minutes of deliberation, Mrs. Ouimet suggested that the Board delay adoption of the goals pending further review. Consequently, Mrs. Cohen withdrew her motion to approve administrative action item #5.5.1 and Mr. Robinson withdrew his second, thereby removing the motion from consideration. Mr. Werner suggested that the goals be listed individually on a future agenda to facilitate their adoption. Members of the Board concurred with this suggestion. Regular Meeting 12/16/13
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6.
PUBLIC COMMENTS Mrs. Ouimet again opened the meeting to the public for any comments and/or questions relating to the Mount Olive School District. Mr. Tim Kelly commended the School Resource Officers for the outstanding job that they do, encouraging the Board to continue to support this very important position in our schools, especially given the increase in school violence the past 10 years. In addition, Mr. Kelly expressed his appreciation to all of the Board members, specifically thanking Mr. Amianda for his longstanding service to the school district and the Mount Olive community. A parent came forward to question the Board’s rationale to reduce the hours of the aides in the district, citing a recent newspaper article which declared that the proposed reductions would have a negative impact on special education students. Dr. Reynolds assured the parent that student services would not be reduced regardless of the outcome of the current debate. The Superintendent took exception with what was published in the local paper before conveying that he could not discuss the matter any further, as negotiations are ongoing. The parent expressed concern that part-time aides would not provide the same level of care as a full-time aide and would disrupt the continuity of the caregiver-student relationship. Dr. Reynolds explained that the district currently employs approximately 150 part-time employees, declaring that they all do an outstanding job for the students. The Superintendent reiterated that the district would continue to provide all of the services required in a student’s IEP. In closing, the parent expressed concern that the Board would consider cuts to the special education program, while funds are being appropriated to implement other new programs and services.
7.
BOARD COMMENTS Each Board member, in turn, extended wishes for a happy holiday season to all in attendance. Reflecting upon the past year, Mr. Robinson commended his fellow Board members and the administration for their proactive approach to education and their dedication to the school district. Mr. Halbur wished Mrs. Colligan and Mr. Amianda good luck in their future endeavors and congratulated all the student athletes on a job well done. Mrs. Colligan also congratulated the student athletes and the coaches on their achievements and thanked the parents for their ongoing support. In conclusion, Mrs. Colligan praised the teachers for their tireless efforts on behalf of the students. Mr. Strillacci thanked the Board, Dr. Reynolds and the administration for their hard work, specifically acknowledging the efforts of Mr. Peter Hughes, who has impressed him greatly since his arrival. Mr. Strillacci also wished Mr. Amianda good luck as he continues his commitment to the Mount Olive community as a member of the Township Council. Mr. Werner expressed his hope that the students and staff take the next few weeks to rejuvenate and return in January with renewed vigor. Mr. Amianda declared that he would miss working with the members of the Board and the administration. Mrs. Ouimet commended the student athletes and the athletic staff, congratulating them on their recent achievements. Mrs. Ouimet thanked Dr. Reynolds for his first quarter presentation on student achievement. Mrs. Ouimet declared that Mr. Amianda and Mrs. Colligan would be missed as members of the Board of Education. Mrs. Ouimet urged the district to continue the practice of hosting a bagel breakfast for honor roll students. Mrs. Ouimet thanked Principal Stansberry for his efforts surrounding the annual alumni panel.
Regular Meeting 12/16/13
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Finally, Mrs. Ouimet thanked Dr. Reynolds for his commitment to the arts, acknowledging the many programs the district is able to offer that surrounding schools can not due to budget constraints. The Superintendent updated the Board on the status of the Department of Education’s ROD Grant program for school facilities projects in regular operating districts. The Superintendent conveyed that the person in charge of Mt. Olive’s application recently passed away, which has put our projects on hold. Consequently, the Superintendent proposed that the bids be solicited in advance of the State notification of award, explaining that the district must act now to secure favorable bids and to ensure that the projects can be completed over the summer. Dr. Reynolds noted that the architect would not be paid for the bid specifications unless the projects are approved. As there were no objections from the Board, Mrs. Ouimet authorized the Superintendent to proceed with the bid process. 8.
CONFIDENTIAL SESSION - None
9.
ADJOURNMENT At 8:45 p.m. Mrs. Ouimet made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Mr. Halbur, and unanimously carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Lynn Jones, Board Secretary
Regular Meeting 12/16/13
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