North Brunswick School Board Celebrates Student Athletes and Retirees in Eventful Meeting
- Meeting Overview:
The recent North Brunswick School Board meeting was marked by a series of recognitions and celebrations, ranging from student-athlete achievements to retirements of long-serving staff members. Discussions also focused on policy updates, administrative changes, and program initiatives. The meeting emphasized the community’s accomplishments and contributions, with detailed acknowledgments of both students and staff.
One item at the meeting was the recognition segment led by Athletic Director Mr. Shamarell, who celebrated the unprecedented success of the school’s athletic program. Twenty-one student-athletes were set to sign with colleges. Among those honored were standout athletes such as Aiden Lucos from the boys’ volleyball team, who achieved the milestone of becoming the all-time kills leader at North Brunswick High School. The softball team’s Gabriella Melendez and Jordan Terabokia were also acknowledged for their impressive performances, with Terabokia setting a school record for strikeouts. Other notable mentions included tennis player Pavon Patel and baseball player Willie Peña, both recognized for their noteworthy accomplishments during the season.
The track and field team was another focal point, with Coach Mor detailing the achievements of athletes like Tyler, who won the group four state title in high jump, a first for the school. Coach Mor expressed his optimism for the team’s future, highlighting the potential of team members like Kyle, a promising pole vaulter. The recognition extended to other sports, including lacrosse, with Justin Biss, Ryan Martin, and Justin Frier Francis receiving first division honors, and the girls’ lacrosse team celebrating Coach Danielle Porzio’s final year after 12 years of service.
The meeting also included the acknowledgment of retirees, with Assistant Superintendent Mrs. Amy Kea leading the segment. Retirees like Barbara Shine, a teacher for students with disabilities, and Anna Tupe, a school nurse, were recognized for their decades of service. Superintendent Janet Ciarrocca received special recognition for her leadership and contributions over more than a decade, guiding the district through significant challenges and achievements. The board president praised her determination and compassion, emphasizing her role in passing important referendums and maintaining academic excellence.
In a touching tribute, Superintendent Ciarrocca honored retiring principal Anne Kingsley of John Adams Elementary. The audience responded with appreciation. Other retirees, such as Don Donna Martin and Ramona Talbert, were acknowledged for their years of service and impact on the district.
The meeting transitioned to policy discussions, including a public hearing on the acceptable use of computer networks and resources, which concluded with no public comments. The board also reviewed and approved previous meeting minutes and discussed various committee reports. The Business Operations Committee addressed financial matters, including facility upgrades and ongoing projects, while the Human Resources Committee focused on staff retirements and new hires.
The Education Committee provided updates on new initiatives, such as the appointment of a Title 4 fitness and wellness coordinator and the implementation of the science of reading program for K-3 students. The committee also highlighted a social emotional learning program called “Empower You,” aimed at middle school students’ personal growth. Additionally, a transition to bilingual instruction for fourth graders at Parsons was announced, along with plans for an extended school year services program for students with disabilities.
Student representatives shared recent activities, including a successful senior prom and a barbecue event for seniors. They expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided throughout the school year, contributing to a sense of community celebration. The meeting concluded with public comments, where the North Brunswick Township Education Association president expressed gratitude for the successful school year and congratulated the retirees, particularly acknowledging Superintendent Ciarrocca’s contributions.
Janet Ciarrocca
School Board Officials:
Hayley Toth -, Elesia James – Vice, Zaire Ali, Jason Carter, Coleen Keefe, Richard Liguori, Dr. Paragi N. Patel, Manpreet Singh, Steven Wen, Rosa Hock (Board Secretary)
-
Meeting Type:
School Board
-
Committee:
-
Meeting Date:
06/18/2025
-
Recording Published:
06/18/2025
-
Duration:
83 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
New Jersey
-
County:
Middlesex County
-
Towns:
North Brunswick
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 12/12/2025
- 12/12/2025
- 64 Minutes
- 12/10/2025
- 12/11/2025
- 77 Minutes
- 12/10/2025
- 12/11/2025
- 18 Minutes