Ron Barbarulo, a long-standing member of the Fair Lawn School Board, was warmly bid farewell by board members, students, and the community alike. Barbarulo’s contributions to the district were praised in a series of heartfelt tributes, with many acknowledging his deep commitment to student welfare and community involvement. In return, Barbarulo expressed his admiration for the students’ community initiatives and thanked them for their efforts. He emphasized the importance of the students’ contributions to the community and acknowledged the impact of their initiatives.

During the meeting, student representatives from Memorial Middle School, TJ Middle School, and Fair Lawn High School reported on various activities and initiatives at their respective schools. These included a toy drive, a volleyball tournament supporting the American Red Cross, and an upcoming food drive. Their reports highlighted the positive impact of these activities on the community, and the board members expressed their appreciation for the students’ dedication and contributions.

Superintendent Dr. Rui Dionisio presented his entry plan, focusing on building trusting relationships within the Board of Education, as well as fostering open communication with faculty, staff, students, and parents. He emphasized the importance of understanding the district’s strengths and areas for improvement. The plan is set to guide the district for the next 100 school days, centering on three district goals: Career and Technical Education, student well-being, and academic support systems.

In regards to student safety and inclusivity, Dr. Dionisio addressed a recent incident involving a student hit by a motor vehicle after school hours, commending local police for their traffic safety efforts. He also provided an update on the consideration of incorporating Hebrew into the curriculum, though noted the current timing may not allow for implementation in the next school year.

As part of the meeting, public comments were made in recognition of Barbarulo, thanking him for his dedication and support to the community. Mark Spindel, another board member, also expressed his appreciation for Barbarulo’s leadership and his commitment to working collaboratively for the benefit of the district. Lisa Yourman, a former board member, joined in praising Barbarulo’s dedicated service to the community.

The meeting also included discussions on potential improvements in the district. Board members expressed concerns about the condition of playgrounds and the rising cost of concrete. They also discussed the challenges of shared services with the town due to prevailing wage requirements. One member sought clarification on the district’s vision for Career and Technical Education (CTE), prompting a debate on the definition and scope of CTE.