01:02:26A significant highlight of the meeting was the recognition of the Pearl R. Miller Middle School’s baseball team, which claimed the county championship. Coach Contella shared insights into the team’s journey, noting their victory over higher-seeded teams such as Chester and East Hanover before triumphing against Floren Park with a close score of 4-3 in the final. The team’s success was attributed to a combination of strong parental support and the promising future of the Kinnelon baseball program. Coach Contella emphasized the importance of teamwork and the lasting memories created through shared experiences, with particular appreciation for the eighth graders transitioning to high school.

01:08:12In addition to baseball, the meeting celebrated the accomplishments of the girls and boys track and field teams. Both teams clinched victories in the Independence Division conference championships for the first time in the school’s history. Coaches Chs and Ghart detailed the achievements, highlighting individual champions such as Katherine Fritz in the pole vault and Joseph Mendy in the triple jump. The coaches praised the athletes’ dedication and acknowledged the support from parents and the athletic department, noting the increasing competitiveness in track events.

01:17:27The girls’ lacrosse team also received accolades for their performance in the Freedom Division, the state’s second-highest division. Despite a challenging season record, the team boasted several individual honors. Madison Mortimer was particularly recognized for her over 600 career saves. The team’s academic achievements were also highlighted, with all honored players maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

11:55Adjustmentsttention was also given to the community and students’ commitment to values and academic excellence. The Keel Koala Kindness Awards were distributed to students exemplifying respect and positive attitudes. The Continental Math competition and Math Olympiad recognized students’ dedication and achievements in mathematics, with participants ranking in the top national percentages.

01:41:20The meeting included a resolution honoring Salony Mattel for her service to the Kinnelon Board of Education. Her leadership and commitment to student perspectives were commended, fostering a better understanding between the board, administrators, and students. The board expressed gratitude for her contributions and extended best wishes for her future.

The meeting also addressed administrative matters, including a second reading of a policy concerning electronic device usage in schools. The policy outlined specific rules for cell phone use, prohibiting K-5 students from using phones entirely and allowing limited use for grades 6-12. The approval of the KA contract was noted as a positive development, alongside the introduction of Mr. Zeleleski as the new supervisor of K-12 student services.

01:52:00Concluding with board member comments, the meeting maintained a tone of celebration and appreciation for the achievements throughout the year. Members expressed gratitude for community support, highlighting a significant donation from the Laurel and Dr. William Welch Foundation for student scholarships. Reflections on the collaborative efforts between the board and staff emphasized excitement for the upcoming graduations and the positive educational environment fostered for students.