Minutes for April 12, 2010History icon Archived Minutes

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A regular business meeting of the Board of Education was held this day in the Board of Education Administration Building, Mt. Horeb Road. The following is a record of that meeting.

I. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 7:03 p.m. by the Board President, Mrs. Monahan.

OPEN PUBLIC MEETING STATEMENT - Mrs. Monahan read the following Statement:

In accordance with the provisions New Jersey Open Public Meetings Law, the Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be posted in the Board Office and in the Township Office, mailed to the Courier News and Echoes Sentinel, and filed with the Clerk of the Township of Warren.

II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Mrs. Monahan led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance.

III. ROLL CALL

Present: Roberta Monahan, Dave Ricci, Tony Sardis, Mildred Spiller, Gina Voorhees, and Kathleen Winter

Absent: Dr. Gregory Przybylski arrived at 7:55 p.m.

Sue Burman arrived at 7:55 p.m.

Patricia Toubin

Also Present: Dr. James Crisfield, Superintendent, Peter Daquila, School Business Administrator/Board Secretary, members of the staff, and public

IV. PRESENTATION
None

Mrs. Voorhees left the meeting to attend a negations session.

V. MINUTES

Mrs. Spiller moved the following:

RESOLVED, the Board of Education approves the minutes, of the following meeting:

March 25, 2010 public and private session

The motion was seconded by Mrs. Winter and approved by 3-1-1 roll call vote. (Mr. Ricci abstained. Mr. Sardis voted no.)

Mrs. Spiller moved the following:

RESOLVED, the Board of Education approves the minutes, of the following meeting:

March 31, 2010 public and private session

The motion was seconded by Mr. Ricci and approved by 3-1-1 roll call vote. (Mrs. Winter abstained. Mr. Sardis voted no.)

VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND INFORMATION

Fire Drills

The superintendent reported the following fire drills had been held.

ALT

Central

Mt. Horeb

Woodland

Middle

March10, 18

March 5, 9

March 11, 19

March 8, 16

March 12, 19

Mrs. Voorhees returned from the negotiations session.

VII. PRESIDENT'S REMARKS

None

VIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS

Mrs. Spiller thanked Mrs. Monahan for the wonderful job she has done as board president this past year.

IX. DISCUSSION

Nutrition Update (Guidelines for Parents and Revised Policy/Regulation)

Dr. Crisfield provided an update on the district Nutrition Guidelines. The policy has been adjusted to reflect changes and clarifications that were recommended by the principals and nurses.

The board discussed the nutrition update.

Board of Education Self Evaluation

The topic will be discussed later in the meeting.

X. PUBLIC COMMENTARY (including opportunity to speak about items for Board Consideration/Action)

Note on public input at BOE meetings: Board Policy #9322, adopted on April 14, 2008, provides for and encourages public participation in Board of Education meetings. Such participation is governed by the following rules:

1. A participant must be recognized by the presiding officer and must preface comments by an announcement of his/her name and place of residence;

2. Each Statement made by a participant shall be limited to three minutes' duration (limit may be adjusted at the discretion of the presiding officer as circumstances dictate);

3. No participant may speak more than once on the same topic until all others who wish to speak on that topic have been heard; and

4. All Statements shall be directed to the presiding officer-no participant may address or question Board members individually.

The portion of the meeting during which participation of the public is invited shall be limited to fifteen minutes (limit may be adjusted at the discretion of the presiding officer as circumstances dictate).

Dr Przybylski arrived at this point in the meeting 7:55 p.m.

Mrs. Burman arrived at this point in the meeting 7:55 p.m.

Barbara Totenkoff, 27 William Penn Drive, asked why certain classes have 2 full time teachers.

Dr. Crisfield responded that this is usually IEP driven.

She asked if volunteers can replace some of the office positions in the school and if all these positions are needed.

Dr. Crisfield and Mrs. Monahan responded

She also asked if the board is exploring options to generate revenue. She asked about the charges for the weekend use of the schools and if the district is collecting enough funds.

Mr. Daquila and Mrs. Monahan responded.

Mrs. Totenkoff referred to Mr. Bramnick's comment about the raises being based on performance and if this happens in the district.

Mrs. Monahan responded that for union members raises are per contract and non union raises are based on performance.

She also asked about the Marshall Plan and the merits of using or not using this approach.

Dr. Crisfield will research this issue and report back.

She asked that the district verify items that are wanted and items that are needed in order to control spending.

Mrs. Totenkoff commented on last meeting's discussion on guidance and noted that Mr. Sardis had a good comment on guidance. From personal experience the 4 guidance counselors are needed in the elementary schools and provide a valuable resource. She noted that all programs should be reviewed and evaluated before cuts are considered.

She commented about the changes in the nutrition policy and asked for clarification on which times can be brought into school.

Dr. Crisfield responded.

Dan Picaro, Mountain View Rd. asked about the potential cut of courtesy busing. He also asked about the bidding procedure for transportation and other items regarding the contractor.

Mr. Daquila responded to the multiple questions.

Mr. Picaro asked why the district continues with the current vendor and does not re-bid.

Mr. Daquila and Mrs. Monahan responded

Patricia Zohn, Mountain View Rd., complemented the board on their hard work and great job on the budget.

XI. ITEMS FOR BOARD CONSIDERATION/ACTION

Mr. Sardis asked to pull agenda items B.1 & B.3. He asked if these services are needed. He also asked if a competitive bidding process is being followed. The board discussed if the series of a program manager are needed and the coordination that will be provided.

Mr. Sardis asked for clarification on agenda item B.3 as to why the budget is being voted on tonight.

Mrs. Monahan responded.

Mrs. Winter asked a question about agenda item B.4. and Mr. Daquila responded.

On motion by Mrs. Spiller, seconded by Mrs. Winter, the consent agenda (items A.1 & 2, B.2 & 4, C.1-8, and D.1.), was approved by unanimous 6-0 roll-call vote.

On motion by Mrs. Burman, second by Dr Przybylski, agenda item B.3. was approved on 7-1 roll call vote. (Mr. Sardis voted no.)

A. Education

A.1. Out of Zone Request for the 2009-2010 School Year

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves the out of zone request for the following student:

a) One fourth grade student (ID#2006235) to remain at Mt. Horeb School for the 2010-2011 school year.

A.2. Home Instruction

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves the extension of home instruction for the following students:

a) One student (ID#0120576) for one hour per day of educational services at St. Clare's Hospital, effective March 25, 2010 through April 16, 2010. The cost to the district will be $833.

b) One Student (ID#0120637) for ten hours per week of home instruction, effective April 1, 2010 through June 23, 2010. The cost to the district will be $4,400.

B. Finance/Operations/Transportation

B.1. Health Insurance Broker (Pulled for discussion & Amended)

RESOLVED, the Board of Education approves the following changes to its health insurance brokers effective July 1, 2010:

Appointment of Willis HRH of Florham Park, NJ as the Board's School Employee Health Benefit Plan (SEHBP) Program Manager for the district's medical and prescription insurance program.

Willis HRH is authorized to act on behalf of the Board in all matters related to the district's SEHBP medical and prescription insurance coverage for the period of the July 1, 2010 to at least 12/31/2010 and up to June 30, 2011, effective April 13, 2010, for a rate not to exceed $30,000.

Willis HRH responsibilities will include - but are not limited to - coordinating the transition to the SEHBP, ongoing enrollment services, assist with employee claims, enrollment, billing and coverage issues and other services as required.

All appropriate Board of Education staff are authorized to take such action and affect such documentation as necessary to implement this change.

B.2. Travel Approval

Whereas, in accordance with State of New Jersey School District Accountability Act (A-5) and the Warren Township Schools' policy number 4133 - Travel and Work Related Expense Reimbursement, travel by school district employees and Board of Education members must be approved in advance.

Now Therefore Be It RESOLVED, the Warren Township Schools Board of Education approves the following expenses for faculty, staff, administrators, and board members for seminars, conferences and workshops. The expense includes travel costs, if applicable:

June 2010

  • Susan Cooper, Middle - National Academic 7/8 Grade Quiz Bowl, Arlington, Va. $ 250

All of the above travel has been approved by the Superintendent and the Board of Education. The School Business Administrator shall track and record these costs to insure that the maximum amount is not exceeded.

B.3. 2010-2011 Warren Township School Budget Pulled for discussion

RESOLVED, the Board of Education approves the 2010/2011 Warren Township Budget and approves the budget for submission to the voters on April 20, 2010 as follows:

The proposed budget includes sufficient funds to provide curriculum and instruction which will enable all students to achieve the Core Curriculum Content Standards and is in compliance with N.J.S.A. 18A and N.J.A.C Title 6 and 6A.

The Anticipated Enrollment for the school year 2010/2011 is 2,220 students.

Appropriations: Budget

General Fund $37,396,816

Summer School 151,060

Capital Outlay 26,425

Capital Reserve 1,000

Withdrawal from Capital Reserve 200,000

Special Revenue 500,000

Debt Service 977,270

TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS BUDGET: $39,252,571

Revenues:

Tax Levy - General Fund $36,600,302

Tax Levy - Debt Service 684,394

SUB-TOTAL: $37,284,696

State Aid $ 349,398

State Aid - Debt Service 292,874

SUB-TOTAL: $ 642,272

General Fund-Surplus $ 372,501

Debt Service 2

Miscellaneous Revenue 253,100

Withdrawal from Capital Reserve 200,000

Federal Funds Anticipated 500,000

SUB-TOTAL: $ 1,325,603

TOTAL REVENUE BUDGET: $39,252,571

As per NJAC 6A:23B-1.2(b), the proposed budget provides for a maximum expenditure amount that may be allotted for travel and expense reimbursement. The 2010/2011 budget includes a maximum travel appropriation of $75,000. The School Business Administrator shall track and record these costs to insure that the maximum amount is not exceeded. Included in the 2010/2011 budget is a maximum regular business travel amount of $1,500 per employee.

B.4. Award Contracts: Tile Abatement and Floor Replacement at Central School and Mt. Horeb School

WHEREAS, on April 6, 2010, the Board of Education received bids for the Tile Abatement and Floor Replacement Projects at Central School and Mt. Horeb School:

  • The Gillespie Group, East Brunswick, NJ $311,635.00
  • Netrix Inc., Paterson, NJ $513,000.00
  • W.D. Snyder, Kenilworth, NJ $998,000.00

Upon the Architect's recommendation the bid should be awarded to The Gillespie Group since it is the lowest responsible bidder and;

WHEREAS, the contract amount between the individual projects is

  • Central School Tile Abatement and Floor Tile Replacement Project $ 89,475
  • Mt. Horeb School Tile Abatement and Floor Tile Replacement Project $122,160
  • Central School Hall Repair and Tile Replacement Project $100,000

Total Costs $311,635

Now Therefore Be It RESOLVED, the Board of Education awards the contract for the Tile Abatement and Floor Replacement Projects at Central School and Mt. Horeb School to The Gillespie Group of East Brunswick, NJ.

C. Personnel/Student Services

C.1. Amendment on Salary Guide

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves the following amended placement on the teachers' negotiated salary guide:

a) Lauren Regal Mt. Horeb School, BA+15 to MA (remaining at step 5-6), effective April 1, 2010.

C.2. Resignation (Attachment 1)

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves the following resignations:

a) Cynthia Howell, Special Education Teacher, Mt. Horeb School, for the purpose of retirement, with appreciation for the 27 years of her service to the children of Warren, effective June 30, 2010.

b) Diane Staph, Science Teacher, Middle School, for the purpose of retirement, with appreciation for the 39 years of her service to the children of Warren, effective June 30, 2010.

C.3. Substitute Teachers

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves the following Substitute Teachers for the 2008-2009 school year:

a) Ridhima Bajaj

b) Michele Freda

c) Gopika Kapadia

C.4. After School Club - 2009-2010 School Year

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves the following after school club for the 2009-2010 school year and the instructors for each club at the negotiated stipend rate.

Angelo L. Tomaso School

a) Girls On The Run - advisor Jill Andrews to take the place of Ann Marie Vernese who was approved on December 14, 2009 at a stipend of $715.

C.5. Per Diem Deduct Request

a) Anthony Gagliano, Classroom Paraprofessional, Middle School one day per week for 16 weeks for student teaching at Middle School, effective September 1, 2010 through December 30, 2010.

C.6. Out of District Consultant

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves Dr. Tom Boyle for 2.5 hours per week of direct behavior consultation in the ABA class beginning April 12, 2010 through the end of the school year. The cost to the district will be $5,500.

C.7. Family Medical Leave Request

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves a family medical leave request for Patricia Toscano, Classroom Paraprofessional, Mt. Horeb School, effective April 12, 2010 through April 23, 2010 (unpaid, no benefits). Returning April 26, 2010.

C.8. Job Descriptions (on file in the Superintendent's office)

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves the following stipend job descriptions dated April 12, 2010:

a) After School activities Coordinator

b) Athletic Coach

c) ASAP (Academic Skills Assistance Program) Coordinator

d) Co-Curricular Advisor/Instructor

e) ELL (English Language Learner) Coordinator

f) Energy Educator/Manager

g) Language Arts Coordinator

h) Lunchroom Supervisor

i) Student government Advisor

j) Teacher In Charge

k) Team Leader - Middle School

l) Webmaster

m) World Language Coordinator

n) Yearbook Club Advisor

D. Policy

D.1. Policy 3542.1 - Local Wellness/Nutrition (Attachment 2)

RESOLVED, that the Board of Education approves the first and only reading of revised policy number 3542.1 - Local Wellness/Nutrition (and its accompanying regulation).

XII. OLD BUSINESS

Mrs. Voorhees asked the board to reconsider the health instructor position and including the position in the budget. Mrs. Monahan asked for a majority consensus to reinstate the health instructor. Mrs. Winter, Mrs. Monahan, Mrs. Voorhees, Mrs. Spiller, and Mrs. Burman voted yes. Mr. Ricci, Dr Przybylski and Mr. Sardis voted no.

The board agreed to the change in the budget.

XIII. NEW BUSINESS

None

XIV. PUBLIC COMMENTARY

None

XV. EXECUTIVE SESSION:

At 8:45 p.m. Dr Przybylski moved the following:

WHEREAS, the Open Public Meetings Act, N.J.S.A.10:4-11, permits the Board of Education to meet in closed session to discuss certain matters, now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, the Board of Education adjourns to closed session to discuss:

matter rendered confidential by federal or State law

pending or anticipated litigation or contract negotiation and/or matters of attorney-client privilege

a matter in which release of information would impair the right to receive government funds

material the disclosure of which constitutes an unwarranted invasion of individual privacy

a collective bargaining agreement and/or negotiations related to it

a matter involving the purchase, lease, or acquisition of real property with public funds

protection of public safety and property and/or investigations of possible violations or violations of law

specific prospective or current employees unless all who could be adversely affected request an open session

deliberation after a public hearing that could result in a civil penalty or other loss

and be it

FURTHER RESOLVED, the minutes of this closed session be made public when the need for confidentiality no longer exists.

The motion was seconded by Mrs. Burman and approved by unanimous voice vote.

On motion by Mrs. Spiller, seconded by Dr Przybylski, the board reconvened in open session at 9:45 p.m.

The board discussed agenda item B.1. and the length of service that is needed by the broker.

On motion by Mrs. Burman, seconded by Mrs. Spiller, the board voted on agenda item B.1, which failed on a 1-6-1 roll call vote. (Mrs. Winter voted yes. Mrs. Spiller, Mrs. Burman, Dr Przybylski, Mr. Ricci, Mrs. Voorhees, and Mrs. Monahan voted no. Mr. Sardis abstained.)

On a proposed amended motion by Mrs. Voorhees, seconded by Dr Przybylski, the board approved agenda item B.1., on a 5-2-1 roll call vote. (Mr. Ricci and Mrs. Winter voted no. Mr. Sardis abstained.)

At 10:15 the board went into executive session on motion by Dr Przybylski, seconded by Mrs. Spiller.

On motion by Mrs. Voorhees, seconded by Mrs. Winter, the board reconvened in open session at 10:25 p.m.

The board discussed the Board Self Evaluation. Mrs. Spiller informed the board of the information that is being distributed as part of the self-evaluation.

The items will be discussed and determined as part of the board goals.

At 10:45 the board went into executive session on motion by Mrs. Voorhees, seconded by Mrs. Burman

On motion by Dr Przybylski, seconded by Mrs. Burman, the board reconvened in open session at 10:48 p.m.

XVI. ADJOURNMENT: On motion by Dr Przybylski, seconded by Mrs. Burman, the meeting adjourned at 10:50 p.m.

Minutes recorded by:

Peter Daquila