Bogota School Board Discusses Grants, Band Uniforms and Field Construction Amid Technical Glitches
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
11/14/2023
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Recording Published:
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Duration:
59 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Bergen County
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Towns:
Bogota
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting, the Bogota School Board tackled several topics, from significant grant awards to the need for new band uniforms and the construction plans of the school’s field. Superintendent Damian Kennedy announced the receipt of two hefty grants totaling over half a million dollars. Parents and board members voiced concerns over a range of subjects, from the mobile-unfriendliness of the school’s website to the need for an upgrade of the marching band’s uniforms.
Superintendent Kennedy, in his report, highlighted the receipt of a $479,000 grant from the US Department of Justice for school violence prevention and a $76,000 New Jersey high impact tutoring grant for third and fourth graders. The funds, he said, would be used for security measures, including enhancements to surveillance systems, upgrades to communication equipment, and improvements to vestibules. However, Trina Rivera Olivo expressed concerns about the use of funds for vestibules, worried that the additional security measures would make students feel policed or restricted. The Superintendent responded by emphasizing the importance of secure entrances to prevent potential threats.
The need for new band uniforms was another issue. A parent argued that new uniforms would give the band a fresh look, fostering a sense of belonging and pride. This sentiment was echoed byother parents of band members, with Jackie Terti highlighting the band’s significant presence in the community and Susan Harper calling the current uniforms extremely old and overdue for an upgrade. In response, Superintendent Kennedy acknowledged the band’s impact on the community and the importance of their request, showing openness to the proposal.
The board also discussed the construction of the school’s field. Concerns were raised about potential impacts on graduation, leading to suggestions of alternative locations for the event. A forthcoming presentation by the planning board was deemed crucial for moving the project forward. Susan Cruz emphasized the need for clear communication, particularly in matters concerning the removal and replanting of trees.
In addition to these topics, the board also addressed various other subjects. These included the mobile-unfriendliness of the school’s website as raised by citizen Susan Harper, the successful organization of a Halloween party by Dr. Lash, the achievements of the fall sports teams, and the upcoming start of winter sports. The meeting concluded with the board expressing pride in community involvement and the achievements of its students.
Damian Kennedy
School Board Officials:
Frank Miranda, Bisi Ruckett, Idalia Alvarez, Marco Navarro, Susan Cruz, Robert Alvarez, Trina Rivera Olivo, John Ortega, Jose Chavez
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
11/14/2023
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Recording Published:
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Duration:
59 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Bergen County
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Towns:
Bogota
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