01:51:49Jacqueline Castellano was selected as the District Teacher of the Year by a committee comprising teachers, administrators, and community members. Her selection was based on an evaluation of her biography, teaching philosophy, and educational leadership qualities. Castellano, known for her leadership and contributions to the district, focuses on increasing student ownership of learning through goal setting and rigorous assignments. Her initiatives include designing lesson plan templates and collaborating with organizations like Ocean Medical Center and the New Jersey Sharing Network to enhance STEM and AP biology courses. Her principal described her as a visionary educator and an inspiring mentor.

In her acceptance speech, Castellano expressed gratitude towards her family, colleagues, and the community, emphasizing the support she has received throughout her career. She acknowledged her daughter’s birthday coinciding with the event, reflecting on the personal sacrifices that often accompany a teaching career. Castellano shared her journey from working in a hospital blood bank to becoming an educator, inspired by her own freshman honors biology teacher. She underscored the importance of adaptability and creating a safe, inspiring classroom environment. Former students’ testimonials highlighted her impact, illustrating her role in guiding them toward careers in nursing and science.

02:02:01Following the recognition ceremony, the meeting transitioned into a brief intermission, allowing award recipients to take photographs with family members. On resumption, the board proceeded with various administrative matters, including the approval of meeting minutes and reports from the facilities and finance committees. The facilities committee detailed ongoing projects, such as HVAC updates at Lake Riviera and Veterans Memorial Middle School, scheduled for summer completion. The finance report discussed the 2025-26 budget, approved by the county office, and pending applications for tax levy incentive aid. Mention was made of user fee recovery cost schedules and updates on advertising for stadium banners.

51:15During the meeting, the Brick School Board also highlighted notable student achievements. The Brick Memorial Mustangs baseball team clinched their first Shore Conference Championship. The chorus’s performance at Carnegie Hall and the Mustang band’s participation in the National Memorial Day parade in Washington, D.C., were celebrated as well. In sports, the girls lacrosse team was noted for its strong performance, with individual players reaching significant career milestones.

The meeting also recognized several educators and educational service professionals across the district. Teachers and staff were honored for their dedication, with each honoree sharing insights into their educational philosophies. These educators emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with students, fostering emotional support, and creating nurturing learning environments.

47:40One notable donation was a book vending machine valued at $6,839, provided by the Lanes Mill PTA for Lanes Mill Elementary School. The board expressed gratitude for the PTA’s efforts in fundraising for this resource, recognizing its importance in enhancing educational experiences outside the district’s budget.