The centerpiece of the recent Belleville School Board meeting was the tribute to Superintendent Dr. Richard D. Tomko. The meeting featured a series of commendations from various district groups, who praised Dr. Tomko for his leadership and the strides made during his tenure, such as promoting education, passing a referendum for school building repairs, and facilitating remote learning preparations. Dr. Tomko was presented with gifts, including a plaque and flowers, and the event was accentuated with musical performances and a video message. In his response, he emphasized the collective achievements of the community and the importance of prioritizing student well-being.

The board meeting also celebrated the district’s academic and athletic prowess. Students were commended for outstanding performances in numerous competitions, including the Anatomage competition, UCC bridge building competition, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow, and the New York New Jersey Port Authority High School challenge. Graduates from the Ralph Alan Medical Engineering Academy and the Criminal Justice Academy were honored with cords, and students who received the Seal of Biliteracy were acknowledged for their language proficiency.

Notably, the meeting addressed the selection of an interim superintendent, which sparked debate and concern among attendees. A citizen raised questions about the transparency of the selection process, given that the individual chosen is concurrently serving as Garfield’s superintendent. The urgency to initiate a comprehensive superintendent selection process to maintain district advancements was stressed. During the discussion, the superintendent provided an overview of the rationale for appointing an interim superintendent, attributing it to the limited timeframe for conducting a full search and the desire to keep the district on its current course. A vote on the interim superintendent took place, with some members abstaining.

Public participation highlighted concerns about the interim superintendent’s contract, district budget, and test scores. Dr. Tomko addressed these concerns, pointing out the district’s accomplishments. The Belleville administrators’ association and a member of the negotiating team expressed thanks for the professional negotiations. The meeting also reflected on the state monitor’s control over the tax levy, the anticipated vacancy of the superintendent position, and the importance of teamwork and respect within the district.