The meeting began on a somber note with a moment of silence for Richard Cravello, after an initial delay due to the absence of a quorum. Superintendent Dr. Sue DeNobile then highlighted the school’s HIB Grades and Performance report, available online, in line with legal requirements.

Several resolutions recognizing the important contributions of educators and school staff were then unanimously passed. These included motions to acknowledge National Teacher Day, Special Education Week, and School Nurse Day, reflecting the board’s recognition of their integral roles in student wellbeing and success.

The meeting proceeded to address a range of personnel resolutions. James Riley, Ed.D., was named as Business Administrator/Board Secretary, Cara Hurd as Director of Curriculum & Instruction, Michael Alberta as Principal, Rebecca Garcia as Director of Special Services, and Rexhep Leka as Building & Grounds Supervisor. Superintendent’s Secretary/Board Recording Secretary role was awarded to Ellen Kobylarz.

Despite this progress, the meeting saw minor disagreements and abstentions during voting on certain issues. Resolutions P4 and P10 did not pass due to abstentions from board member Elaine Rainone, creating a lack of quorum for these particular votes. The board decided to revisit these resolutions in a future meeting.

Amid these personnel discussions, the board approved contracts for various roles and confirmed the employment of tenured personnel for the 2023-2024 school year. The hiring of part-time Para Professionals and playground assistants was also approved. Additionally, the board approved the immediate resignation of an employee and sanctioned a twelve-week New Jersey Family leave for another.

A major decision made during the meeting was the approval of the 2023-2024 academic year budget, which totaled $16,699,218, with a significant portion expected to be raised via a local tax levy.