A significant portion of the meeting centered on the potential outsourcing of custodial services, a proposal that sparked considerable discussion among community members. Sharon Kenicho, a long-time Hillsdale resident and former custodian, was one of several who voiced opposition to the idea. She highlighted the extensive responsibilities of custodians, pointing out their dedication to maintaining the school environment. Kenicho’s remarks underscored the custodians’ role in setting up for various events and handling emergencies, such as leaks during adverse weather conditions. Her plea was for the board to recognize the custodians’ hard work and dedication, emphasizing their integral role in school operations.

Rob Ortiz, a Rivervale resident and parent, echoed Kenicho’s sentiments, expressing concerns about the impact outsourcing could have on maintenance quality and school safety. Ortiz emphasized the custodians’ relationships with the students and staff. He described custodians as “important stakeholders” whose presence directly affects the school environment’s quality.

The president of the Montail Education Association, Lori Morurell, also urged the board to reconsider outsourcing. She highlighted the familial bonds and community spirit that current custodial staff contribute to, warning that outsourcing could sever these connections. Morurell argued that outsourcing would disrupt the support and care custodians provide, negatively impacting the school community.

Kaitlyn Mafy, a social studies teacher, further reinforced the value of custodial staff by sharing that the superintendent praised their exceptional efforts in maintaining cleanliness. Mafy cautioned against privatizing custodial services. She argued that some values, such as community and loyalty, cannot be measured in monetary terms.

Debbie Horn and Nick Skerbo, both educators, added to the discussion by emphasizing the importance of relationships and community dynamics within the school. Horn stressed that custodians are part of the school fabric, and outsourcing could challenge the existing morale and spirit. Skerbo, quoting Woody Hayes, declared, “You win with people,” to illustrate the necessity of interpersonal connections for the school’s success.

In addition to the custodial discussion, the board recognized numerous student achievements. The board celebrated the accomplishments of student representatives Stephanie Young and Maline Woo, with Woo receiving the Dwight D. Eisenhower Leadership Award. Seniors Luke Bonor, Alexis Gardner, and Angelina Graham were honored for perfect attendance throughout high school.

Athletic achievements were also highlighted, with several students recognized for their performance in various sports. Rihanna Kiran was celebrated for becoming the Group Two State Champion in the discus throw, while Marcus Koshi earned the title of North Jersey Male Athlete of the Week. The “Control Alt Defeaters” team from Pasc Hills High School was commended for winning the Garden State Cyber Security Contest.

In the realm of arts and media, students from the advanced video production class were celebrated for winning the best film nationally in the 10-day film challenge with their project “Collateral.” Ty Gasperino and Ryan Giggliotti received recognition for their Crystal Pillar Award-winning short film “The Scholarship Score,” and Anastasia Cavaleno was acknowledged for her long-form documentary, “What War Took from Us.”

The board also recognized the joint production of “Legally Blonde” by Pasc Valley and Pasc Hills theater students, which won the Outstanding Established Production of a Musical at the Montclair State University Foxy Awards. Senior Camila Ambrocho received a special mention for the Outstanding Featured Ensemble Actress award.

Updates from the board included the announcement of the upcoming graduation on June 17th for both Pasc Hills and Pasc Valley. The interim superintendent, Dirk Phillips, reported on the Hills principal search, noting the receipt of 36 applications and the commencement of first-round interviews. Changes to board procedures were also mentioned, with executive sessions now scheduled at 7:00 PM before public sessions at 7:30 PM, aimed at improving attendee consideration.

The board discussed policy updates, including the decision to conduct guidance counseling exclusively by certified teaching staff and reaffirmation of the current policy on the seal of biliteracy. Routine matters and preparations for the next board meeting, set for July 15th, were also addressed.