Oradell School Board Honors Educator of the Year Jamie Kowana
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting of the Oradell School Board, Jamie Kowana was honored as Educator of the Year for 2023-2024, highlighting a session that also recognized staff for their years of service and discussed important updates on school events, committee reports, and administrative matters.
The commendation of Jamie Kowana stood out as a notable moment. Kowana, who was celebrated for her contributions and dedication, expressed gratitude for the recognition. Commendations also came from colleagues and family members.
Another moment involved the recognition of a board member who received the Janet Ison Award. This distinction is given for exceptional commitment to education.
The Superintendent’s report provided an overview of various school events, notably mentioning the sixth-grade field day, the art show, and the Odyssey of the Mind team’s participation in a competition in Iowa. The report also touched upon critical operational aspects such as staffing and preparations for the upcoming school year.
Administrative items addressed included the acceptance of a HIB (Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying) report, a procedural necessity for ensuring the school district adheres to regulations and maintains a safe environment for students.
The Buildings and Grounds Committee’s report on infrastructure improvements was also notable, with details on the repaving of the basketball court and plans for the addition of artwork to the resurfaced area.
The meeting moved forward with the approval of various field trips. Financial items were also addressed.
A delegate report shed light on resolutions discussed at a broader level, including revisions to bylaws and policies on education. An emphasis was placed on the promotion of local decision-making, a principle that supports the autonomy and specific needs of the Oradell School District.
The Personnel Committee took time to honor long-serving teachers and custodial staff, recognizing their dedication and the important roles they play in the day-to-day operations and success of the school district.
Public relations efforts were also reviewed, with a report on the successful distribution and analysis of a survey. This initiative is part of the board’s ongoing efforts to engage with the community and gather feedback on its performance and the public’s expectations.
The meeting paused to acknowledge Memorial Day, including an upcoming ceremony to honor veterans.
In a closing move, the board entered a closed session to discuss matters related to personnel, legal issues, student affairs, and special education. These closed sessions are standard practice, allowing the board to address sensitive topics that require confidentiality.
Megan N. Bozios
School Board Officials:
Dorothy Watson-Nichols, Gregory Derian, Peter Iappelli, Alena Acosta, James Del Greco, Jaime Downey, Christopher Nutland, Mary-Katherine Norian, Rita Walker, John Walsh
-
Meeting Type:
School Board
-
Committee:
-
Meeting Date:
05/22/2024
-
Recording Published:
05/22/2024
-
Duration:
48 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
New Jersey
-
County:
Bergen County
-
Towns:
Oradell
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 12/09/2025
- 12/09/2025
- 79 Minutes
- 12/09/2025
- 12/10/2025
- 178 Minutes
- 12/09/2025
- 12/09/2025
- 182 Minutes