Belmar School Board Renews Superintendent’s Contract Amidst Educational Initiatives and Assessment Concerns
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
10/17/2024
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Recording Published:
10/18/2024
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Duration:
26 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Belmar, Lake Como
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting, the Belmar School Board renewed Superintendent Jimmy Alvarez’s contract and highlighted various educational initiatives, improved test scores, and concerns regarding state assessment imbalances. The board unanimously agreed to a new term for Alvarez, retroactively starting July 1, 2024, and concluding July 1, 2029. Concurrently, the board discussed strategies to address recent state assessment challenges faced by the district.
The Superintendent’s contract renewal was a focal point. Despite an opportunity for public comment, no opinions were expressed, and the board members voted unanimously in favor of the resolution. Following the vote, gratitude was expressed for the board’s support. The Superintendent emphasized a personal connection to the district, describing it as a “home away from home.”
Alongside the contract discussion, notable improvements in student performance were reported. The Latino American Association of Monmouth County honored the school for its achievements, particularly in standardized test scores. Math scores improved significantly, with increases from the 30s to the 40s and upper 40s, reflecting successful community engagement and educational initiatives.
Another topic was the New Jersey Single Accountability Continuum (NJ QAC) performance review. The district narrowly missed the required score of 80, achieving 78.4 due to the weight of science scores. Changes in state regulations meant the district would have passed under new rules, but the timing left them subject to previous standards. A plan for improvement, due by December 9, will focus on ongoing initiatives.
The meeting also highlighted educational programs such as the “Week of Respect,” fostering collaboration with the local library to sustain the fishing club, and the introduction of a STEM Lego initiative supported by the Parent-Teacher Organization. The Superintendent suggested a Lego drive to collect donations for younger students. These initiatives aim to diversify student experiences beyond digital activities.
Additionally, the meeting covered operational approvals. The board discussed travel for professional development, field trips, and plans to continue partnering with the Visiting Nurse Association for support services. A financial report confirmed no overspending, with a bills resolution of $294,000 approved for October.
The meeting also celebrated student achievements. The PSATs were administered to 9th through 11th graders, and a college fair with about 60 colleges took place. The National Honor Society’s trunk or treat event and an upcoming beach cleanup by the environmental club were highlighted. The new elementary school gym, featuring a Boston-patterned floor, was noted for its aesthetic appeal, and a blood drive at the high school was announced. Additionally, the field hockey and tennis teams’ division victories were recognized.
In correspondence, it was mentioned that a board member was absent due to a family bereavement, and condolences were expressed. Public comments included appreciation for the Superintendent’s contract renewal, and upcoming events such as a lip sync event, Halloween show, and parent-teacher conferences were shared before the meeting concluded with unanimous agreement.
Mr. Alvarez
School Board Officials:
Cherie Adams, Aileen Fahy, Antoinette Raucci Aumack, Kimberly Chek, Rebecca Herbert, Michele Lomas, Jennifer Nicolay, Paul Olenick
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
10/17/2024
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Recording Published:
10/18/2024
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Duration:
26 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Belmar, Lake Como
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