18:49The spotlight moment of the meeting was the recognition of the district’s Teachers of the Year. This accolade was awarded to exemplary educators from different schools within the Hammonton School District, acknowledging their outstanding contributions to teaching and student engagement. Kelly Salona of Hammonton High School, Alyssa Walsh of Hammonton Middle School, Adelisa Lions of Warren Soy Jr. Elementary School, and Courtney Thompson of the Early Childhood Center were each celebrated for their dedication and impact in their respective roles.

0:28Kelly Salona, a Hammonton High School alumna and veteran teacher, was lauded for her 22-year tenure marked by contributions to curriculum development and extracurricular activities. Salona expressed her gratitude, reflecting on her journey from student to educator and emphasizing the importance of building relationships with students. Her remarks highlighted her commitment to student welfare and collaboration in enhancing the educational environment.

18:49Alyssa Walsh was recognized for her versatility and advocacy for diverse student needs at Hammonton Middle School. Her colleagues praised her for creating an inclusive environment and integrating technology into her teaching. Walsh’s role extended beyond the classroom as she participated in the Instructional Leadership Team and the Journalism Academy.

Adelisa Lions, dedicated to bilingual education at Warren Soy Jr. Elementary School, was acknowledged for her compassion and initiatives to support multilingual learners. Lions organized bilingual parent nights and mentored new teachers, contributing to community engagement and the enhancement of the bilingual program.

34:31Courtney Thompson of the Early Childhood Center was celebrated for her contributions to preschool education and her role in transitioning the program to full-day classes. Her efforts in opening a new preschool wing and pursuing a master’s degree in school leadership were recognized, illustrating her commitment to educational advancement.

A local legislator and Hammonton High School graduate presented proclamations from the state of New Jersey to all four Teachers of the Year, emphasizing the significance of this recognition. The Hammonton Education Foundation representatives also played a role, highlighting their fundraising efforts to enhance educational resources, including $42,000 allocated for the Teacher of the Year awards.

0:28Beyond the teacher recognitions, the meeting included a detailed presentation of the district’s audit. The auditor reported no findings, control deficiencies, or compliance issues, noting a fund balance of approximately $18.1 million. This financial stability was a point of pride for the board, with the auditor expressing gratitude toward the business office staff for their cooperation.

1:01:43Infrastructure updates were also discussed, including the replacement of HVAC components at Hammonton Middle School and the approval of design and permit applications for paving the parking lot at Capella Field, aimed at improving safety and accessibility. The board further noted a $100,000 grant application for a new playground at the former Penny Park, supported by an additional $10,000 from the Hammonton Education Foundation for equipment.

34:31Superintendent Thomas Ramsay announced an upcoming collaboration with the New Jersey School Boards Association to develop a strategic plan for the district. This plan will serve as a roadmap for the next five years and will involve various stakeholders, including parents and community members, with specific meeting dates to be announced.

Board members took the opportunity to commend the teachers of the year and express gratitude to the Hammonton Education Association for their support. They highlighted achievements in athletics and student activities.

1:01:43Additional topics included the introduction of an AI policy to ensure safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence in schools, personnel matters with new hires, and discussions on recent weather-related school closures. A resident raised a concern about PFAS in artificial turf, prompting the board to consider further investigation to ensure safety.