The following members of the Board of Education were present:

Transcription

1 63 The Board of Education of the Township of Gloucester, County of Camden, convened in Workshop Session on Monday, April 14, 2014 at 7:03 P.M. in the Administration Building, 17 Erial Rd., Blackwood, NJ The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. Notices of this meeting were forwarded to the Inquirer, Courier-Post, Clerk of the Township, the district website ( and members of the Board of Education, and posted in the Board of Education Offices at 17 Erial Road, Blackwood, New Jersey. The following members of the Board of Education were present: Raymond J. Carr Dominic Gagliardi Joseph G. Gunn Felicia Reid William Fontanez Linda K. Gilch Ellen Reese Marianne Coyle Others Present: John Bilodeau Dan Long, Esq. Kathleen Forsythe Dr. Joanne Acerba John Wade, Esq. Kim Capone Lisa Ridgway And Others as listed Report of the Solicitor Mr. Wade announced that the board would move into executive session at the end of the meeting. The executive session would cover four items, concerning the terms and conditions of a custodian, hours of employment and health benefits, a grievance, and the possible acquisition of real property. Superintendent s Report Mr. Bilodeau discussed the revision of public comments. Mr. Bilodeau then introduced Dr. Acerba. Dr. Acerba gave an overview of the curriculum committee selection for the new math series. Dr. Acerba assured that board policy was followed for the selection of the textbooks. The committee determined that the elementary level would use the McGraw Hill My Math series and the middle school level would use the Glencoe math series. Mr. Bilodeau also gave an update on the QSAC plan of improvement. was approved and a July review is scheduled. The plan Dr. Acerba presented the elimination of summer school program and reallocation of the resources in non - Title I schools and the addition of a summer program in the middle schools. It would be recommended to the parents of students that the student take online classes at the Real Center, at the parents expense, and sit for the final exam at the Real Center. This would be available to students who are failing. Mr. Bilodeau stated that this would shift money to the elementary students who need the intervention. Mr. Bilodeau proceeded on with a list of items to cover. The first item was the purchase of a school bus from the Morris Plains school district. A used bus (2009) is available for sale and it still has eleven years of useful life. Mechanics have been in contact with the district and it has been determined that this is a good deal. If the board were to agree to this the district will obtain the bus. Another item for the board s consideration would be special needs vans. There are a number of vans that will be retired soon. Due to the limitations of the physical size of a bus, Mr. Bilodeau recommended purchasing Ford E350 vans (school bus yellow), mark the vans and add all of the safety that can be afforded. Board members questioned various aspects of the van, including passenger limitations and the potential for privatizing. Mr. Bilodeau answered the board s questions and stated that the purchase of vans would not be a move towards privatizing the routes.

2 64 Mr. Bilodeau addressed the board again concerning the topic of School Resource Officers (SROs). The board had requested a meeting with members of the Township. Mr. Cardis, Business Administrator, wanted to meet at the township which was not well received by the board. The topic of the SROs and the contract for the services is still open. The board members expressed concern over the cost of the contract as it was presented with a higher amount than what was first discussed. Also another area of concern was the lack of a listing of duties and responsibilities for the officers. Other concerns that were addressed pertained to the length of contract, whether it was a ten month or twelve month contract. It was determined that the board needs more information from the township before approving the contract. Mr. Bilodeau explained a notice that he received from Ray Evans, Dept. of Emergency Management. Mr. Evans applied for two grants in order to provide an emergency generator for the C.W. Lewis Middle School. The school is a sanctioned shelter and the present generator for the building is not adequate. The opportunity exists for $60,000 in grant funds but the properly sized generator costs $110,000. The OEM grant would not sufficiently cover the cost of the generator and the board would need to add funds towards the purchase of the generator. Mr. Bilodeau stated that a decision was not needed this evening. The next item presented before the board by Mr. Bilodeau was a proposal by Mainstage concerning transportation. The Mainstage program would like to use two buses for a seven hour trip and only pay $200. Mr. Bilodeau stated that the district charges both the Latchkey program and the Township Recreation Center $75.00 per hour for busses. In the past the Mainstage program was provided busses and printing for free. Mr. Bilodeau wanted the opinion of the board on whether they would agree to the Mainstage proposal or charge the fee of $75.00 per hour for the busses. The board agreed that the Mainstage program should be charged $75.00 per hour for any transportation needs and there should be no further printing. Mr. Bilodeau presented the topic of Professional Services. It is required that the district have a school physician, auditor, and school solicitor. Any other professional services are not required. In conducting a transparent process Mr. Bilodeau explained the RFP process, the development of a rubric for the purpose of scoring the proposals, and the development of a required committee which will score the respondents. Mr. Bilodeau asked the board members for direction in how to proceed for the selection of the committee. Board members asked questions in order to clarify the role of the committee. Mr. Bilodeau explained that the committee evaluates the proposals, and then determines the successful selections to be presented to the board. The board determined that the Committee of the Whole and two administrators would be members of the evaluation committee. Mr. Bilodeau further clarified the process of procurement known as an Extraordinary Unspecified Service (EUS). State procurement law allows for the obtaining of Insurance and Insurance Consultants through this process. This method also allows for the awarding of multi-year agreements for up to five years. The district does not pay brokers directly; the insurance carriers are paid directly. The final item that Mr. Bilodeau discussed with the board was a request from the township and its engineering firm (Remington & Vernick) concerning a request to approve the application for a grant award under the Safe Routes to School program. Remington & Vernick applied for new sidewalk construction on Williamstown Road from W. Annapolis Drive to the J.W. Lilley School. Mr. Wade explained the process to the board, stating that the wording of the district s resolution can address the board s desire to retain the right to bus students. The town has authorized the payment; the district needs to authorize the applying for this grant. Mrs. Reid asked why another school was not chosen. Mr. Bilodeau stated that this year the grants were only for elementary schools. Mr. Bilodeau asked the board if there was any exception to placing this on the agenda. Public Comments Agenda Items None

3 65 Finance/Business/Budget Committee Mrs. Reese presented the resolutions of the committee that were scheduled to go before the board at the regular session meeting on April 28, Mr. Gagliardi questioned Resolution , asking if recognizing donations are common. Mr. Bilodeau responded that the board must recognize the donation. Mr. Wade asked if there was a beneficiary. Mr. Bilodeau explained the proposed use to the library. Mrs. Gilch questioned Resolution , asking for clarification on the course for Mr. Gray. Mr. Bilodeau explained that this was for the purpose of Mr. Gray s electrician s license. In order to keep the license current professional development is needed. Mrs. Reid questioned the same resolution; wanting to know which school Ms. Vallejo was at. Mr. Bilodeau stated that she was in J.W. Lilley. Dr. Acerba explained that this was Title I. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that bills itemized on List of Bills to be Paid in the amount of $ approved for payment, as presented to the Board. The bill list is available for distribution to the public and on file in the Business Office for public review. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Investment Report for March be approved as presented. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A: (c)4, the Board of Education certifies that as of the month of March, after review of the secretary's monthly financial report appropriations section as presented and upon consultation with the appropriate district officials, to the best of the Board s knowledge, no major account or fund has been over-expended in violation of N.J.A.C. 6A: (a)1 and that sufficient funds are available to meet the district s financial obligations for the remainder of the fiscal year, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A: (c)3, the Secretary's Report for the month of March be approved as presented and as certified by the Secretary of the Board that no budgetary line item account has obligations and payments which in total exceed the amount appropriated by the district Board of Education pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A: and 18A: and no budgetary line item account has been over-expended pursuant to violation of N.J.A.C. 6: (a)1. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of Education, in accordance with N.J.A.C. 18A:18A-45(c), approve the purchase of a 2009 Blue Bird school bus, in the amount of $42,500, from the Morris Plains Board of Education. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the attached Budget Transfers. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the expenditures for professional development workshops and travel, as per the attached listing. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve authorizing the Purchasing Department to bid the following Other Capital Project: Project HVAC Replacement Location Ann Mullen Middle School

4 66 Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does accept a donation in the amount of $ to the Chews Elementary School (Library) from The Vanguard Group. Supply/Purchasing Committee Mr. Carr presented the resolutions of the committee that were scheduled to go before the board at the regular session meeting on April 28, Mrs. Reid questioned Resolution , wanting to know what the difference was between this resolution and Resolution Mrs. Ridgway explained to Mrs. Reid that annually the district must approve renewal of national cooperative purchasing agreements just as State Cooperative purchasing (Resolution ) is renewed. Resolution WHEREAS bids were advertised, opened, and read on February 27, 2014 for the purpose of purchasing paper all types(ifb# ) for the school year, and WHEREAS the following vendors were determined to be the low apparent bidders in conformance to the specifications, Vendor Lindenmeyr Munroe Amount - $ Vendor Paper Mart, Inc. Amount - $ 3, Vendor W.B. Mason Co, Inc. Amount - $13, Vendor Contract Paper Group, Inc. Amount - $81, NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Board awards purchase orders to the vendors, with the pricing to be honored for the school year. Resolution WHEREAS, bids were advertised, opened, and read on February 27, 2014, IFB# ,for the purpose of purchasing as needed Cartridge/Toner/Ribbons, and WHEREAS, the following vendors were determined to be the low apparent bidders in conformance to the specifications, Vendor Rasix Computer Center, Inc. Amount - $ 3, Vendor W.B. Mason Co., Inc. Amount - $66, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education award the purchasing of cartridges/toner/ribbons from W.B. Mason Co., Inc., and Raxis Computer Center, Inc., on an as needed basis from the budget. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve district bus transportation services for the Gloucester Township Recreation Department s summer camp in the amount of $75.00 per hour. (Please note the Recreation Dept. trips are limited to 4 per summer.)

5 67 Resolution WHEREAS, the Gloucester Township Board of Education, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 5: (c), may by resolution and without advertising for bids, purchase any goods or services under the State of New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Program for any State of New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Program for any State contracts entered into on behalf of the State by the Division of Purchase and Property in the Department of the Treasury; and WHEREAS, the Gloucester Township Board of Education has the need on a timely basis to purchase goods or services utilizing State contracts; and WHEREAS, the Gloucester Township Board of Education intends to enter into contracts with the Referenced State Contract Vendors through this resolution and properly executed contracts, which shall be subjected to all the conditions applicable to the current State contracts; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Gloucester Township Board of Education authorizes the School Business Administrator, Assistant School Business Administrator, and Purchasing Supervisor to purchase certain goods or services from those approved New Jersey State Contract Vendors on the list that is on file in the Purchasing Department, pursuant to all conditions of the individual State contracts; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the governing body of the Gloucester Township Board of Education pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:30-5.5(b), the certification of available funds, shall either certify the full maximum amount against the budget at the time the contract is awarded, or no contract amount shall be chargeable or certified until such time as the goods or services are ordered or otherwise called for prior to placing the order, and a certification of availability of funds is made by the district School Business Administrator; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the duration of the contracts between the Gloucester Township Board of Education and the Referenced State Contract Vendors shall be from July 1, 2014 to June 30, Resolution WHEREAS, the Gloucester Township Board of Education recognizes that digital literacy will be an enhanced special area of instruction for the school year, and WHEREAS, in an effort to provide students with digital literacy resources, the Board intends to purchase Chromebooks for all eleven schools, and WHEREAS, in response to the PARCC needs assessment for student computers the district will be purchasing six hundred chromebooks for direct student use, now THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board approve issuing a purchase order to CDWG (Vernon Hills, IL), in the amount of $171,186 to purchase GB 2GB Chromebooks including the Google Management licenses. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the awarding of a contract for transportation, Route #OFD36 as follows: Quote #14-25 to and from Ann Mullen Middle School, to Rydus Inc. at the rate of $ per diem with an adjustment cost of +/- $1.50.

6 68 Resolution WHEREAS, the Gloucester Township Board of Education, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:34-6.2(b)(3), may by resolution and without advertising for bids, purchase any goods or services under any National contracts entered into on behalf of the U.S. Communities Government Purchasing Alliance ( U.S. Communities ); and WHEREAS, the Gloucester Township Board of Education has the need on a timely basis to purchase goods or services utilizing U.S. Communities Government Purchasing Alliance contracts; and WHEREAS, the Gloucester Township Board of Education intends to enter into contracts with U.S. Communities through this resolution and properly executed contracts, which shall be subject to all the conditions applicable to the current National contracts; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved, that the Gloucester Township Board of Education authorizes the School Business Administrator, Assistant School Business Administrator, and Purchasing Supervisor to advertise according to Local Finance Notice to purchase certain goods or services from those approved U.S. Communities Vendors, pursuant to all conditions of the individual National contracts; and Be It Further Resolved, that the governing body of the Gloucester Township Board of Education pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:30-5.5(b), the certification of available funds, shall either certify the full maximum amount against the budget at the time the contract is awarded, or no contract amount shall be chargeable or certified until such time as the goods or services are ordered or otherwise called for prior to placing the order, and a certification of availability of funds is made by the School Business Administrator; and Be It Further Resolved, that the duration of the contracts between the Gloucester Township Board of Education and U.S. Communities shall be according to law, LFN and any amended law forthcoming. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon passage. Special Services Committee Mrs. Reid presented the resolutions of the committee that were scheduled to go before the board at the regular session meeting on April 28, No comments were presented by the board. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education approve the following Tuition Students for the school year as per the list below: Name School Amount N.D. GCSSSD-One on One Aide $16,363 J.C. GCSSSD $14,516 Out of County Surcharge $ 1,267 Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Gloucester Township Board of Education does not require private schools for the disabled (PSD) to whom Gloucester Township students are sent to charge students for reduced/paid meals provided as part of their educational program in compliance with the NJ Department of Agriculture s Child Nutrition program regulations. As of this date, for the school year this resolution includes the following schools: Archway(Atco), Archway(Washington Twp.), Bancroft, Bancroft(Hopkins Lane), CDC, Creative Achievement, Devereaux Foundation, Durand Academy, Garfield Park Academy, Hampton Academy, Hollydell, Kingsway Academy, LARC, Pineland Learning Center, Sawtelle Learning Center, Somerset Hills, St. John of God, St. John of God(PSD), Yale(Nokomis, Southeast, Southeast Audubon, Southwest, Williamstown). Should students be placed at another location, said school will be automatically added to this list.

7 69 Instruction/Curriculum Committee Mrs. Gilch presented the resolutions of the committee that were scheduled to go before the board at the regular session meeting on April 28, Mrs. Reid questioned if there has been posting yet for the position mentioned in Resolution Dr. Acerba responded that the resolution is for the approval of the job description, no posting has been issued. Mrs. Reese wanted to know if this was the position taken out of the budget. Mrs. Reid stated that the position removed from the budget was the data specialist. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education approve the updated listing of attached Field Trip Locations for the school year. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the job description of the Digital Literacy position. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby acknowledge receipt of intent of Home Schooling the students listed below for the school year. AD JF OF Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education approve the tuition for the following homeless student, to Cherry Hill Public Schools. Name Amount GT $10,989 Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education approve the tuition for the following homeless student, to Winslow Township School District. Name Amount AG $10,151 RD $10,151 FS $ 9,265 Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education approve the tuition for the following homeless student, to Township of Franklin Public Schools. Name Amount DH $ 9,413 KH $10,104 Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education approve the tuition for the following homeless student, to Clementon Board of Education. Name Amount JS $11,720

8 70 Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education approve the following Resolution for the C.C.E.L. Interschool Athletic Program: The Board of Education of the School District of Gloucester Township, County of Camden, State of New Jersey, herewith enrolls the Glen Landing School, the C. W. Lewis School and the Ann Mullen School as members of the Camden County Elementary League to participate in the approved interschool athletic program sponsored by the C.C.E.L. This Resolution is to continue in effect until or unless rescinded by the Board of Education and shall be included among those policies adopted annually by the Board. In adopting this Resolution, the Board of Education adopts as its own policy and agrees to be governed by the Constitution Bylaws and Rules and Regulations of the Camden County Elementary League. The School District hereby indemnifies and holds harmless the Camden County Elementary League, officers, directors, agents and employees of and from any claim, action, cause of action, liability, and lawsuit. Administrative responsibility - The League must rely upon the voluntary compliance by its member schools in enforcing the standards set forth in the Bylaws and Constitution. Toward that end, the principal in each member school has the affirmative obligation to report to the Camden County Elementary League any violations of these standards. The fact that a school has disclosed that there has been an eligibility violation will not relieve the affected school of sanctions that may be imposed against it, pursuant to Article XIII of the Bylaws, including the forfeiture of games or events. However, the failure to disclose a violation may be grounds for imposing additional sanctions upon the offending school. Policy/Planning Committee Mrs. Gilch presented the resolutions of the committee that were scheduled to go before the board at the regular session meeting on April 28, Mrs. Reese asked if there was any discussion concerning the pecking order for calendar days to be removed. Mr. Bilodeau stated that there was January 2 nd (administrative closing Columbus Day) and April 8 th (Veteran s Day). Mr. Bilodeau stated if the district goes beyond six days of unforeseen closing days then discussions will be held well before concerning the days to be removed. Mr. Bilodeau also explained that Election Day is not a required day. Mr. Bilodeau further discussed the changes that will take place in regards to polling locations. Mr. Bilodeau worked with the Township Clerk, Police Chief, and the Board of Elections to make multiple changes in order to strengthen the security in our schools. Mrs. Reid also noted a misprint on the HIB report under race. Mr. Bilodeau stated that he would have it changed. Mr. Bilodeau asked the board members if they received the HIB report, all members stated in the affirmative. Mr. Bilodeau then stated that letters may be sent home. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby adopt the School Calendar as per the attached. Resolution WHEREAS, the Superintendent is required to report all alleged HIB incidents to the Board of Education pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15c, WHEREAS, the Superintendent has provided the Board of Education with the results of the investigations of all alleged HIB incidents reported to the Superintendent from March 1, 2014 through March 31, 2014, and WHEREAS, that the Board of Education has had an opportunity to review and ask questions relative to the incident reports submitted. BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education affirm the determinations made by the Superintendent, Building Principal, and School Anti-Bullying Specialists on the incident reports submitted.

9 71 Personnel Committee Mrs. Coyle presented the resolutions of the committee that were scheduled to go before the board at the regular session meeting on April 28, Mrs. Reid congratulated Kim Hamilton on her retirement. Mrs. Reid also questioned Resolution , wanting to know who is overseeing the K-8 Digital Literacy Curriculum Team. Dr. Acerba stated that it would be both she and Mr. Mecke. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the attached list of Substitutes and Non Contracted Employees for the school year. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the following Employee Retirements, effective as noted. NAME POSITION LOCATION DATE Gale Barnwell Cafeteria Mgr. Erial 6/30/14 Nick Kush Custodian JWL 5/01/14 Linda Osman Para II LF 6/30/14 Kim Hamilton Bus Driver Transportation 6/30/14 Thomas Pavone PM Custodian JWL 8/31/14 Gloria Fulginiti Teacher Union Valley 6/30/14 Carol Candidi LDT-C Special Svc. 6/30/14 Mary Frangipani Teacher Erial 6/30/14 Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the following terminations, effective as noted. Name Position Date E.C. One to One Aide 3/21/14 Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the following Non-Instructional Appointments for the school year: NAME Position Location Step/Salary Date Robin Welker Bus Driver Transp. Step 1-$14,000 4/1/14 Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the attached list of personnel staffing for the K-8 Digital Literacy Curriculum Team for the school year. Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the following resignations, effective as noted. Name Position Date Valerie Voigt Cafeteria Helper-3 4/14/14 Julie Grade Paraprofessional 4/22/14 Resolution BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education does hereby approve the following Employee Transfers/Reassignments, effective as noted. NAME FROM TO STEP/SALARY DATE S. Adams Bus #44 Bus #28 1 -$16,116 4/1/14 Chews

10 72 Resolution The Board of Education does hereby approve the following Leaves of Absence, effective as noted. NAME POSITION REASON DATES N.P. Teacher Maternity Sick Days 3/12/14 4/7/14 (amended) Without Pay (4/8/14 5/16/14) J.D. Teacher Maternity Sick Days-4/22/14-6/30/14 (amended) T.T. Teacher Medical Sick Days 3/31/14 6/30/14 C.F. Teacher Medical Sick Days 3/21/14-5/16/14 (amended) C.R. Para II Medical Sick Days-3/7/14 3/17/14 (amended) M.S. Bus Driver Medical Sick Days-2/27/14-4/1/14 FMLA-Without Pay-(4/2/14-4/11/14) D.S. Custodian Medical Sick Days-1/13/14 3/21/14 (amended) L.R. Counselor Medical Sick Days-4/11/14 4/25/14 M.W. Para II FMLA Without Pay 3/21/14 3/21/15 Intermittent K.C. Teacher Medical With Pay-5/21/14 6/5/14 P.O. Teacher FMLA Without Pay 5/20/14-5/23/14 S.S. Teacher FMLA Without Pay 4/8/14 5/6/14 M.M. Teacher Medical-FMLA Sick Days-2/27/14& 1/2 day- (extended) 2/28/14 Without Pay (1/2 day 2/28/14)(3/3/14-5/23/14) C.V. Teacher Medical Sick Days-2/7/14-4/30/14 (extended) T.M. Teacher Medical Sick Days-3/31/14-4/25/14 N.D. Teacher Maternity Sick Days- 1/6/14-3/6/14 (amended) FMLA Without Pay (3/7/14-4/17/14) J.S. Custodian Medical Sick Days-1/27/14-5/21/14 FMLA-Without Pay (5/22/14-8/15/14) D.L. Teacher Medical FMLA Without Pay-4/4/14-4/4/15 (Intermittent) J.G. Para Personal Without Pay-3/25/14-4/1/14 K.L. Latchkey Medical Sick Days-4/17/14-5/5/14 T.R. Custodian Medical Sick Days-3/12/14-4/17/14

11 73 Public Comments Cheryl Redd questioned the Digital Literacy Curriculum Team and the job description for the Digital Literacy position. Ms. Redd wanted to know if they were the same. Dr. Acerba stated that the curriculum is being written, the teachers will be teaching the curriculum. Ms. Redd also wanted to know when the curriculum would be ready. Dr. Acerba stated that the curriculum would be complete by July Kim Hamilton questioned the proposed calendar. Ms. Hamilton wanted to verify that the holiday days are still a part of the calendar; this is something that the support staff needs to see on the calendar. Mr. Bilodeau agreed with Ms. Hamilton. Ms. Hamilton also questioned the bus purchase. Mr. Bilodeau explained the process of purchasing the 54 passenger bus from another public entity. Ms. Hamilton then expressed the need to purchase more vans; wanting to have larger vans purchased than the small vans being discussed. Ms. Hamilton was concerned over the perceived safety issues that might arise. Mr. Gagliardi asked if it were possible to install safety items aftermarket. Mr. Bilodeau stated that safety items could possibly be added. Mr. Bilodeau further stated that other districts have been using the vans and the vans are subjected to the same inspection cycle as a school bus. Mr. Bilodeau invited Ms. Hamilton to assist in the developing of the specifications for the vans. Ms. Hamilton stated that she would love to assist. Wendy Williams stated that her son rides in the van and the vehicle stinks. Ms. Williams has spoken to the transportation supervisor and has been told that there is a shortage of vans. Ms. Williams s son has been on a number of different vans and buses. Ms. Hamilton explained to Ms. Williams that when a bus breaks down the transportation department needs to change the vehicles. Angel McDermott addressed questions that she has been receiving concerning summer school. Ms. McDermott wanted to know if the parent has to send their child to a program. Dr. Acerba stated that a student is allowed to be placed one time in middle school. An eighth grader must pass math and language in order to be placed in high school. Ms. McDermott also commended the calendar, especially the month of November. Mr. Bilodeau went into further detail concerning the election process and the improved safety measures that will be realized in the schools. Sean Hengst questioned payment to the police department and wanted to know what the police actually do in the schools. Mr. Bilodeau asked Mr. Hengst if he was asking for information concerning the School Resource Officers (SROs). Mr. Hengst affirmed that he was questioning the SROs and he wanted to know where these officers were located. Mr. Bilodeau responded that the district has two roving SROs who cover every building in the district. Mr. Bilodeau gave a brief description of how the SROs came to be in the district. Mr. Gagliardi wanted to know if the SROs had a set routine in district when there are no incidents. Mr. Bilodeau answered that the SROs have offered many advantages concerning safety issues and are available immediately when incidents happen. Chip Pildis questioned whether the SROs are also DARE officers. Mr. Bilodeau stated that the DARE officers are not SROs. Mr. Pildis also asked about Parent/Teacher Conferences as they were not listed on the calendar. Mr. Bilodeau stated that the conference will still occur twice a year. The conferences were not on the calendar as an oversight and will be added. Mr. Schmidt addressed the board expressing his displeasure that an OPRA request he sent to the custodian of records was not complete but when his lawyer sent a second he was able to receive the requested documents. Ms. Forsythe stated that she provided the information on board attorney recommendation. Mr. Schmidt wanted to know what the status was on Mr. Pearce s prosecution. Mr. Gunn stated that the board did not have any information. Mr. Schmidt mentioned that there were board members who were playing with their phones; he would like to see this practice outlawed by resolution. The board members individually stated that there were family reasons for having their phones on the table. Mr. Schmidt then asked for the names of the SROs in district. Mr. Bilodeau responded that they were Campagna & Belcher. Mr. Schmidt then proceeded to address a recent meeting where four board members did not explain why they voted the way they did. Mr. Schmidt then gave credit to the board members who did explain why they cast their votes the way that they did.

12 74 Cheryl Redd stated that on May 1 st there was a K-5 curriculum meeting for parents explaining the computer literacy. Ms. Redd wanted to know whether a meeting would be held for the middle school as well. Dr. Acerba stated that there would be a parent night for middle school in either September or October. Sean Hengst questioned why there was not a week long spring break scheduled on the calendar. Mr. Bilodeau stated that the district has not done that before. Mr. Hengst stated that the district he works for (Haddon Heights) uses days from their week long spring break if they needed to make up days. Mr. Bilodeau stated that this could be an option but it would force the calendar deeper into June. It is better to end earlier in June due to temperature issues in most of our buildings. Denise Horgan asked what chromebooks are. Mr. Bilodeau stated that this is a technology purchase for all eleven buildings in our school. This enables the district to place technology in the hands of all of our students. Dr. Acerba reminded the public that as of 2015 the students have to test on the technology. Chip Pildis questioned whether 600 was enough chromebooks. Dr. Acerba stated that this is a number we can work with at the present. Mr. Bilodeau stated that 600 was not enough, this is just a start. The state projected 750 but we think the 600 will work with the use of computer labs. Tanya Brown stated that at a council meeting there was a mention of Zillow. The school districts in Gloucester Township rated a 6 or lower out of a score of 10. Ms. Brown would like the district to fight the ratings or hire someone to help with the public relations. Ms. Brown thought if the district ran a campaign it would help people move into the district. John Schmidt asked for clarification on who came into the district in order to collect the documents pertinent to Mr. Pearce. Mr. Wade stated that he contacted the chief of police who then sent officers to the superintendent s office for the documents. The chief then sent the documents to the county prosecutor. Tom Crone addressed the board to remind them they are servants of the people and under the authority of the people. Mr. Crone compelled, demanded answers of the board members who voted for Mr. Owens to state why they voted for him. Mr. Crone stated that he does not respect each and every one of the board members. Mr. Crone s spoke for five minutes, Jennifer O Donnell was recognized by the board and she yielded her five minutes to Mr. Crone. Tome Crone wanted to know why the board solicitor sits at the board table. Mr. Wade stated that the school district has asked him to sit at the table. Mr. Crone then stated that under the authority of the people he fired Mr. Wade. Mr. Crone questioned the second solicitor that is sitting in the audience. Mr. Wade stated that the solicitor in the audience is in a training situation and the district is not billed for his time. Mr. Crone then stated that the board was bound by their oath and as it is his right he would continue to remind them that they are servants to the will of the people. Board Member Comments Mrs. Gilch congratulated Mrs. Reid on becoming a certified board member. Mr. Gagliardi addressed Mr. Wade concerning Mr. Pearce. Mr. Gagliardi wanted to know if there was any billing incurred due to Mr. Pearce and if the board can void or vacate the votes cast by Mr. Pearce. Mr. Wade stated that the county office said that the votes are firm. Mrs. Gilch stated that she brought this up in conversation with NJSBA and the response was that the votes stand. Mr. Wade relayed different scenarios that have happened concerning de facto board members and the votes cast stayed. Mr. Gagliardi asked if the board could go after Mr. Pearce civilly instead of through the prosecutor s office. Mr. Wade stated that this could be a timely process, noting the period of time the incident at Triton High School took. Mrs. Reese congratulated Mrs. Reid. Mrs. Reese also stated that she spoke to NJSBA. There is a legal and ethical concern. The ethics component would be handled through the ethics commission.

13 75 Motion to Executive Session Marianne Coyle made a motion, second by Raymond Carr that the Board of Education does hereby enter into Executive Session to discuss matters pertaining to personnel, potential litigation, and individual privacy. Roll Call Vote 8 Ayes 0 Nays The Board moved into executive session at 9:43 P.M. WHEREAS, while the Sen Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act (N.J.S.A 10:4-6 et seq.) requires all meetings of the Gloucester Township Board of Education to be held in public, N.J.S.A 10:4-12(b) sets forth nine (9) types of matters that may lawfully be discussed in Executive Session, i.e. without the public being permitted to attend, and WHEREAS, the Gloucester Township Board of Education has determined that six (6) issues are permitted by N.J.S.A 10:4-12(b) to be discussed without the public in attendance shall be discussed during an Executive Session to be held on April 14, 2014 at 7:00 P.M., and WHEREAS, the exception to public meetings set forth in N.J.S.A 10:4-12(b) is listed below, and next to the exception is a box within which the number of issues to be privately discussed that fall within that exception shall be written, and after each exception is a space where additional information that will disclose as much information about the discussion as possible without undermining the purpose of the exception shall be written. 1 1 (4) Any collective bargaining agreement, or the terms and conditions of which are proposed for inclusion in any collective bargaining agreement, including the negotiation of terms and conditions with employees or representatives of employees of the public body (5) Any matter involving the purchase lease or acquisition of real property with public funds, the setting of bank rates or investment of public funds where it could adversely affect the public interest if discussion of such matters were disclosed. 4 (8) Any matter involving the employment, appointment, termination of employment, terms and conditions of employment, evaluation of the performance, promotion or disciplining of any specific prospective public officer or employee or current public officer or employee employed or appointed by the public body, unless all individual employees or appointees whose rights could be adversely affected request in writing that such matter or matters be discussed at a public meeting. WHEREAS, the length of the Executive Session is estimated to be 60 minutes after which the public meeting of the Board shall immediately adjourn. Discussion was held concerning personnel positions in the district and the alignment of staffing. Concerns over new certifications and test requirements were discussed. A matter involving the purchase, lease or acquisition of real property with public funds, the setting of bank rates or investment of public funds where it could adversely affect the public interest if discussion of such matters were disclosed was discussed. Discussion was held concerning the Principals and Supervisors contract, concerning the right to a compressed summer work schedule. Discussion was held concerning a matter of personnel concerning an employee in district.

14 76 A status update was given to the board concerning a personnel matter from the February 24, 2014 executive session. The Board reopened the public meeting at 10:30 P.M. Motion by Felicia Reid, second by Dominic Gagliardi that the meeting be adjourned. The meeting was adjourned at 10:32 P.M. Roll Call Vote Ayes 8 Nays 0 Lisa Ridgway Secretary to the Board