A mother’s plea for action against severe bullying of her son at Caruso School took center stage at the meeting. The parent expressed frustration with the school’s lack of response despite the issue being brought to the attention of the principal and vice principal. The parent recounted an incident where her son was physically assaulted, stating that the school’s response was inadequate and demanded action against the perpetrator. The incident, according to the parent, occurred on school grounds, which she felt should prompt the school to take responsibility.

The board, led by Superintendent Kathleen O’Hare, responded to these concerns by assuring the parent of an investigation into the matter. They informed her about a form available on the school’s website to officially request a review of the situation and a separate form to request records. The board emphasized that they would indeed take action if the criteria for bullying were met. They also promised to address a separate incident where the parent could not locate her son in the after-school program.

In between the exchanges about bullying, the board navigated through other agenda items. Superintendent O’Hare recommended approval for several personnel-related decisions including retirements, resignations, professional and non-professional employment, long-term substitute teachers, transfer of nonprofessional staff, and leaves of absence. These were unanimously approved by the board members present, including Judy Ferraro, Kenneth Cook, Michael Mankowski, and others.

The board also discussed policy and regulation items, including changes related to sick leave, religion in schools, threat assessment, evaluations, attendance policies, homeless children and youths, and privacy rights. These, too, were unanimously approved by the members.

Amidst the concerns about bullying, the board discussed educational grants. The superintendent clarified that the dual enrollment grant application with Brookdale was intended to cover costs for students to participate in the program. The board also received funding for a high impact tutoring grant targeted towards third and fourth-grade students. Superintendent O’Hare highlighted the competitiveness of these grants and the importance of securing additional resources for the district.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the high school and middle school representatives to report on recent events and activities. These included the success of the homecoming event, the start of winter sports, the efforts of the National Honor Society in organizing annual food drives, and upcoming events like the winter pep rally and spirit week. College acceptances were also announced, with the student council and classes planning fundraising activities.

As the meeting concluded, the board members expressed gratitude and wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. They thanked the voters for supporting the board and highlighted their donation to Project Paul. One member also praised the student representatives and students’ achievements in college admissions and career choices. They encouraged parents to bring their concerns to the board and reiterated their well wishes for the holiday season.