Woodbridge School Board Tackles Insurance Queries and School Operations Amidst Community Concerns
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
02/15/2024
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Recording Published:
02/16/2024
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Duration:
42 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Woodbridge
- Meeting Overview:
In the latest Woodbridge School Board meeting, a pointed discussion regarding the Board’s insurance coverage emerged as a prominent issue, with John Woodbridge seeking clarity on the insurance company and agent responsible for the School Board’s policy. This matter was part of a broader agenda that focused on school operations, student achievements, and community engagement. Superintendent Joseph Massimino and various committees presented numerous items for consideration, addressing policy, finance, extracurricular activities, and personnel among other topics. The meeting also included announcements of upcoming community events and a debate on the implications of property tax increases for funding new school construction.
The inquiry into the school board’s insurance arrangements became a focal point as John Woodbridge pressed for details on the entities providing insurance services. He advised that for a detailed breakdown, an individual inquiry or an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request could be made. This exchange underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of the Board’s operations and finances.
Superintendent Joseph Massimino submitted 14 items to the Board, which included a comprehensive superintendent’s report detailing student registers, fire reports, suspension reports for both elementary and secondary schools, bomb threat reports, and attendance officer reports. These reports provide a sweeping view of the administrative and safety aspects of school operations within the district.
The committees, led by respective board members, presented a total of 98 items, encompassing a wide range of issues from finance and insurance to safety, security, and extracurricular activities. The Communication Policy and Planning Committee, under Nazam Mohammed, the Extracurricular Activities and Technology Committee, chaired by Akshar “AJ” Sidana, and the Finance and Insurance Committee, led by Jonathan Triebwasser, contributed to the agenda. Joseph Velez’s Safety and Security Committee, as well as the Buildings and Grounds Committee, and the Personnel Committee, chaired by Frank DellaPietro III, proposed vital recommendations impacting the district’s operations and staff management.
Community events and initiatives were also a part of the meeting’s announcements. Marie Anderson spoke of the Wood Township School District’s Black History Month celebration and the Independent ENT Club of Colonia’s black history celebration. The Woodbridge School District’s engagement with the community was further evidenced by Susan Bourdin’s update on the virtual President’s Council meeting and the snow day reflections in the school calendar. Frank DellaPietro III brought attention to the kindergarten registration and the Middlesex County Regional College fair, while Nazam Mohammed highlighted the Ford’s community health fair.
Public comments brought to light the community’s concerns, particularly regarding property tax increases and the allocation of funds with respect to new school constructions. A resident’s concerns prompted responses from board members and Superintendent Massimino, who explained the budget constraints imposed by the state and the rising costs necessitating increased funds.
The meeting also recognized student achievements with a report from Alexa Roacha, the student representative from Colonial High School.
Joseph Massimino
School Board Officials:
Daniel Harris, Susan Bourdin, Marie Anderson, Frank DellaPietro III, Jenny Perez, Nazam Mohammed, Akshar “AJ” Sidana, Jonathan Triebwasser, Joseph Velez, Nicole Lanigan (Board Secretary)
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
02/15/2024
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Recording Published:
02/16/2024
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Duration:
42 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Woodbridge
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