Vineland School Board Addresses Superintendent Contract Amendment and Graduation Proficiency Assessment Results
- Meeting Overview:
The Vineland School Board convened to discuss amendments to the superintendent’s contract, the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment results, and the appointment of new staff members. The meeting included detailed reports from several committees and addressed public concerns about school placements.
A key topic of discussion was the amendment to Superintendent Alfonso Llano’s contract. Due to restructuring within the central administration, the proposed amendment included a salary adjustment and the removal of a car allowance. A public hearing was held, during which the amendment was discussed and subsequently approved, though some board members abstained from voting. The restructuring aims to streamline administrative functions and potentially enhance the district’s operational efficiency. The board’s decision underscores the ongoing adjustments within the district’s leadership to better manage resources and responsibilities.
Another presentation came from Mrs. Demari, Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction, who provided a analysis of the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJ GPA) results for the class of 2025. All 11th-grade students are required to take the NJ GPA, with a cut score of 720 necessary for graduation. Demari highlighted that 71.2% of students did not meet the math readiness requirement, although this represented a 7.2% improvement from the previous year. In contrast, the English Language Arts (ELA) readiness rate was 58.9%. Efforts are ongoing to improve students’ performance, including better communication with families and providing alternative assessment options such as the SAT, PSAT, or a portfolio appeal for those who do not meet the initial threshold.
The finance committee reported on significant grants totaling $5.3 million and addressed transportation issues, including unsuccessful bids for vans, which led to negotiations with local dealerships. The facilities committee discussed ongoing projects such as roof replacements and technology upgrades, along with the installation of feminine hygiene product dispensers in girls’ bathrooms.
Staffing levels within the transportation department were also reviewed, revealing that out of 143 budgeted driver positions, 137 were filled. The committee noted several driver resignations but confirmed that preparations for the upcoming school year, including the acquisition of new vehicles, were well underway. This preparation is important for ensuring smooth operations when the new academic year begins.
During the meeting, the board recognized several new appointments. Mr. Wolf was welcomed as the new director of security and expressed his eagerness to enhance school safety by leveraging technology and personnel. David KW was introduced as the new math supervisor, thanking the board and community for their support. Nicole Oceanic, the new principal of Sergeant Dominic Pill Middle School, shared her long-standing connection with the school and her dedication to its future.
A contentious discussion emerged over the approval of a contract for the board solicitor. Concerns were raised about the qualifications of the attorney being considered, with one board member pointing out that the attorney had only two years of experience and had recently graduated from law school. This member argued that other bids included more seasoned candidates with greater experience in education law and at a lower hourly rate. Despite these concerns, the board proceeded with the vote, resulting in some members abstaining or voting against the contract.
Public comments also brought attention to individual concerns, such as a parent expressing frustration over their daughter’s school placement, with Wallace School being the only option presented. The board assured the parent that someone from the administration would reach out the following day to address the issue.
Alfonso Llano
School Board Officials:
Kimberly Codispoti, Cedric Holmes, Inez Acosta, Robert Buono, Nicholas Fiocchi, Eugene Medio, Dennis Rivera, F. John Sbrana, Alix Silva
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
08/07/2024
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Recording Published:
08/07/2024
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Duration:
47 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Cumberland County
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Towns:
Vineland
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