The meeting then transitioned into a celebration of staff members from various schools.

Jodi Liberty was honored as the Support Staff Member of the Year for her dedication, positivity, and compassion, while Michelle Morone, a teacher at Bowne-Munro Elementary School, was recognized as the Teacher of the Year for her enthusiasm, commitment, and focus on student success. Kevin Pascal, the lead school security officer at Bowne-Munro, was acknowledged for his trustworthiness and dedication to safety. Other staff members from different schools were also recognized for their exceptional dedication to education and the school community, including Kevin Steinbeck as a dedicated support staff member at Central Elementary and Miss Klein for her leadership at various school committees.

The meeting also celebrated Katherine Kavari as Lawrence Brook Elementary School’s teacher of the year, Gina Denado as Memorial School’s teacher of the year, Ellen Leno as an exceptional instructional assistant, Michelle Reebo for her 27 years of dedication at Warnsdorfer Elementary School, and Allison Scony as Hamershold School’s teacher of the year. Additionally, East Brunswick High School’s Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Morgan Barton, was praised for her dedication to student growth and success, and Sula Cfus was recognized for her extraordinary culinary skills and commitment to her work.

The board also highlighted the critical work of staff members like Lauren Kaufman, Mr. Mike Lasher, and Mrs. Roda Omar. Each was celebrated for their unique contributions, ranging from engaging teaching methods to support for students and colleagues. Staff members who have reached significant service milestones of 25 and 40 years were also acknowledged, with the board expressing gratitude for their long-standing commitment to the community.

Beyond the commendations, a key topic of discussion was the district’s substitute teacher rates and the effectiveness of the company responsible for providing qualified substitutes. Mrs. Reese inquired about the chart for substitute staffing and the various base pay rates, prompting Mrs. Tibit to explain the rates and the breakdown of payments between the substitute and the staffing company.

The board also discussed the success of recent events, including the unsung heroes student recognition dinner where two students received awards, the Churchill PTA’s TGIF for seventh and eighth graders, and the year-end celebration for the Adult School program. Additionally, the board considered nominating East Brunswick staff for the NJSBA’s annual Super Unsung Hero program.

The meeting concluded without public comments and with the board moving to a closed session to discuss specific matters listed on the agenda, after removing items two and three from the public agenda. The motions were moved and seconded, with the board proceeding without further discussions on the evening’s agenda items.