Clark School Board Welcomes New Administrator Amid Busy Meeting
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
09/03/2024
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Recording Published:
09/19/2024
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Duration:
14 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Union County
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Towns:
Clark, Garwood
- Meeting Overview:
The Clark School Board held a productive meeting, with developments including the introduction of a new administrator, a report from the Superintendent on recent professional development, and public comments on LGBTQ+ policies and a Supreme Court ruling.
Chris Marson, a long-time classroom teacher and coach at Arthur L. Johnson High School, was introduced as a new administrator. Marson expressed gratitude for the support received during his transition from a teacher to a supervisory role, emphasizing his excitement about continuing to contribute to the school in his new capacity. He acknowledged the bittersweet nature of leaving the classroom but looked forward to his new responsibilities.
Superintendent Edward Grande delivered an extensive report detailing the district’s recent professional development activities. Teachers returned to their schools for training sessions that included behavioral training, Reading Wonders training at elementary schools, and an artificial intelligence session led by Evan Abramson, Director of Technology for Morris Union Jointure Commission. Grande thanked the Valley Road PTA for their donation of various items and expressed optimism about the upcoming school year, with the first day of classes scheduled for the following day.
During the public comment period, two speakers addressed the board. Bill Draghi voiced his opposition to President Biden’s LGBTQ+ policies, referencing a recent Supreme Court decision to delay the implementation of these policies. Draghi argued that such policies were harmful and expressed support for former President Trump’s promise to overturn them if re-elected. Another speaker, Chris Marson, thanked the board and administrative team for their support in his new role as a supervisor, wishing the best of luck to all students and staff for the new school year.
The board also handled routine business, including the approval of minutes from the previous meeting and various personnel, curriculum, policy, and finance items. Several members abstained from specific votes, but all motions carried without significant controversy.
The meeting concluded with a brief mention of upcoming back-to-school nights scheduled throughout September, providing opportunities for parents and students to engage with their schools. The board expressed condolences for the passing of Rick Delmonaco’s father, a long-time administrator in the Rahway schools.
Edward Grande
School Board Officials:
Steven Donkersloot, Thomas Lewis, Lorraine j. Aklonis, Dino Bencivenga, Scott Bohm, Robert Brede, Megan Harrison, Kristen Hickman, Robert F. Smorol, Jr., Christine Guerriero (Garwood Representative)
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
09/03/2024
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Recording Published:
09/19/2024
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Duration:
14 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Highly Noteworthy
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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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