Clark School Board Approves Equity Plan and Honors Long-Serving Members and Students
- Meeting Overview:
The Clark School Board meeting focused on the adoption of a new three-year comprehensive equity plan and recognized both exemplary students and long-serving board members. Notable discussions included reimbursement policies for high school courses, community donations, and tributes to retiring educator and board member Tom Lewis.
14:28One item at the meeting was the approval of a new comprehensive equity plan, developed over three years, aimed at ensuring equal opportunities for all students. The board acknowledged Dr. Austin and her team for their dedication to crafting this initiative.
In addition to the equity plan, the board approved a policy regarding the reimbursement of college course costs for students at Arthur L. Johnson High School. Students are eligible for reimbursement if they achieve an A or higher, applicable to up to four courses during their high school tenure. This policy is designed to encourage academic excellence and support students in pursuing advanced educational opportunities.
02:14The meeting also celebrated contributions from the community. The Frankie Henley and Valley Road School PTAs were recognized for their donations, which included summer reading books and a $1,000 contribution to educational opportunities, in collaboration with Exxon Mobile and P&J Fuel, Inc. These donations are instrumental in enriching the educational resources available to students.
The board took time to honor students and faculty members for their achievements and service. Valedictorian Christa Steiner was recognized for her academic accomplishments and leadership roles, including her presidency of the National Honors Society and co-presidency of the student council. Salutatorian Braden Weber was commended for her involvement in cancer research initiatives and dedication to community service. Both students received applause for their contributions to school life and the community.
06:08Recognition was also given to long-serving board members. Steven Donkersloot, Thomas Lewis, and Lorraine Aklonis received milestone awards for their years of service, marking ten, twenty, and thirty years, respectively. Ms. Aklonis expressed gratitude for the collaborative board environment and acknowledged Superintendent Edward Grande’s support.
04:55The board further acknowledged student board representative Aiden Maza for his articulate reporting and balancing of responsibilities with his academic workload. His role in bridging communication between the student body and the board was highlighted as exemplary.
24:28Tributes were paid to retiring board member and educator Tom Lewis, celebrating his 52 years of dedication to education. A plaque was presented to him by student athletes from Arthur L. Johnson High School, recognizing his contributions to Union County athletics. Board members and community members shared personal anecdotes, emphasizing Mr. Lewis’s impact on the educational community and his mentorship of younger educators.
28:36Public comments during the meeting included concerns raised by Bill Draggy regarding the board’s policies on transgender students and parental rights. He advocated for a policy that prioritizes parental authority in such matters, along with concerns about sexual health education. The board confirmed a stance that aligns with parental input in these areas.
Edward Grande
School Board Officials:
Steven Donkersloot, Thomas Lewis, Lorraine j. Aklonis, Dino Bencivenga, Robert Brede, Megan Harrison, Kristen Hickman, Thomas J. Maye, Robert F. Smorol, Jr., Christine Guerriero
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
06/23/2025
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Recording Published:
06/24/2025
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Duration:
38 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Union County
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Towns:
Clark, Garwood
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