minutes of the lopatcong township board of education

April 9, 2013 FY13

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MINUTES OF THE LOPATCONG TOWNSHIP

BOARD OF EDUCATION MONTHLY BUSINESS MEETING

President Taggart called the meeting to order on April 9, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. Mrs.

Werner read the following opening statement: “Adequate notice of this regular meeting of the Lopatcong Township Board of

Education has been provided in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act by publication of the annual notice in the Express-Times. A copy of the agenda has

been filed with the Township Clerk and posted at both school locations”.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all present.

ROLL CALL

Present: Wade Caccese (arrived 7:05 p.m.), David Corrado, Ernest Gallant, Terry Glennon, Bruce Hall, Robert McFarlane (arrived 7:22 p.m.), Lee Rozycki and Bill Taggart, President

Absent: Ed Krusman

Others Present: Dr. William Caldwell, Interim Superintendent; Christine M. Werner,

Interim Business Admin./Board Secretary; Jeanene Dutt and Noelle Kondikoff, Principals, Rick Bonney, Asst. Principal; and approximately 10 members of the

public.

READING OF THE MISSION STATEMENT Dr. Caldwell recited the Mission Statement.

CORRESPONDENCE

There is no correspondence.

Minutes

Motion by Mr. Gallant, second by Mr. Corrado,

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board approve the minutes of the following meetings:

Date Meeting

January 3, 2013 Reorganization and Regular Monthly

Business Meeting

Executive Session

February 12, 2013 Regular Monthly Business Meeting

Executive Session

March 5, 2013 Regular Monthly Business Meeting

March 12, 2013 Special Meeting

Executive Session

March 28, 2013 2013-2014 School Budget Hearing

Roll Call Vote: 6 Yes; 0 No; 0 Abstentions

April 9, 2013 FY13

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SECRETARY/TREASURER REPORTS Motion by Mr. Gallant, seconded by Mr. Corrado that the Secretary/Treasurer’s

Reports submitted for the month ending February 28, 2013, which agree with each other and the bank, be approved and filed.

Motion carried on unanimous voice vote.

Mr. Caccese entered the meeting at 7:05 p.m.

FINANCIAL REPORTS CERTIFICATION Motion by Mr. Gallant, seconded by Mr. Hall, that;

Pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:23A-13.3(c)3, the Board Secretary certifies that no line account has encumbrances and expenditures, which in total exceed the line item

appropriation in violation of N.J.A.C. 6A:23A-16.10(a) and; pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:23A-13.3(c)4, we certify that as of February 28, 2013, after review of the monthly reports and upon consultation with the appropriate officials, to the best of

our knowledge no major line account or fund has been over expended in violation of N.J.A.C. 6A:23A-16.10(b), and that sufficient funds are available to meet the

district’s financial obligations for the entire fiscal year.


Approve Bill Lists Motion by Mr. Glennon, seconded by Mr. Gallant, that;

Be it, RESOLVED, that the bills list as submitted for the period March 14, 2013 –

April 9, 2013 be approved as recommended by the Interim Superintendent and Interim School Business Administrator.

Fund 10 – Current Expense $ 1,412,668.45

Fund 20 – Special Revenue $ 8,230.32

Fund 30 – Capital Outlay 0.00

Fund 40 - Debt Service 0.00

Fund 62 - Enterprise Fund (After Care) $ 2,892.56

Grand Total $1,423,791.33


Approve Food Service Fund Bill List

Motion by Mr. Glennon, seconded by Mr. Gallant, that;

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Food Service Fund bills list as submitted for February 2013 be approved as recommended by the Interim Superintendent and Interim

School Business Administrator.

Fund 60 – Enterprise Fund - Food Service $22,434.49


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PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS None

ACTION ITEMS

a. Education – Old Business

Motion by Mr. Hall, second by Ms. Rozycki,

R-235-13 Recognition of Merit Goal Achievement and Authorization of

Merit Payment – Superintendent Vicki Pede

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education duly recognizes that Mrs. Vicki Pede has achieved the merit goal as designated in her 2013-2014 employment contract

and has met the requirements of merit pay as it relates to the achievement of said merit goal and therefore will be paid in the amount of $2,800.00 on April 15, 2013.

Note: Dr. Rosalie Lamonte, Warren County Executive Superintendent has reviewed the merit pay submission and approved same for payment. See attachment.

Roll Call Vote: 6 Yes; 0 No; 1 Abstention (President Taggart)

a. Education – New Business

Motion by Mr. Gallant, seconded by Mr. Glennon in consideration for the approval of resolutions R-265-13, R-266-13, R-267-13, R-268-13, R-269-13, and R-270-

13 as follows:

R-265-13 Permission to Hire Staff

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education hereby authorizes it’s Interim

Superintendent to take appropriate action to effectuate any necessary emergent hires in order to address any unanticipated resignations and/or retirements that may occur between today and the date of the next Board meeting so that the

District’s schools are appropriately staffed to provide instruction during the 2012-2013 school year. Any such emergent hires are subject to ratification and approval

by the Board at its next regularly scheduled meeting on May 14, 2013.

R-266-13 Approval of Additional Hours – Ms. Emma Weeks

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the

Interim Superintendent, approves additional hours for Ms. Emma Weeks to provide educational services to Student #, not to exceed 12 hours/week, at a salary rate of $15.30/hour for the period April 8, 2013 through May 10, 2013 as needed.

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R-267-13 Approve Administrative Internship/Practicum Program Request – Kevin Osifchin

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the Interim Superintendent, approves the Administrative Internship/Practicum Program

of Mr. Kevin Osifchin at the Lopatcong Middle School for the period of April 2013 through June 2013. This program is though the University of Scranton.

Note: Mr. Osifchin will work under the direction of Mr. Bonney, Assistant Principal.

Mr. Osifchin previously completed an Administrative Internship under the

direction of Mrs. Noelle Kondikoff at the Lopatcong Elementary School.

R-268-13 Approve Employee Request for One Day Leave Without Pay – Sue

Yount

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the Interim Superintendent to approve withholding pay for Friday, May 31, 2013 from

Instructional Aide, Sue Yount, per her request.

R-269-13 Approve Home Instruction Services for Student #143173

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the Interim Superintendent, approves Bergen County Special Services School District to

provide Home Instruction services for Student #143173 for the period beginning 02/04/13 through June 30, 2013* at $60.00/hour, not to exceed 10 hours per

week.

*Pending medical release from physician. A brief discussion ensued. It was noted that Student #143173 has been hospitalized in Bergen County due a health related condition; home instruction services will be provided by Bergen County Special Services school district.

R-270-13 Approve Tuition Contract for Student #165261 – The Children’s Home for the Period February 4, 2013 – June 30, 2013


Interim Superintendent, post approves the tuition contract for Student #165261 with The Children’s Home for the period February 4, 2013 – June 30, 2013,

calculated at a per diem rate of $295.46/day for 88 days, totaling $26,000.48 for tuition expenses for said period.

Mr. McFarlane entered the meeting at 7:22 p.m.

Roll Call Vote: 7 Yes; 0 No; 1 Abstention – Mr. McFarlane

April 9, 2013 FY13

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Motion by Mr. Gallant, seconded by Mr. Corrado in consideration for the approval of resolutions R-271-13, R-272-13, R-273-13, R-274-13, R-275-13, R-276-13,

and R-277-13 as follows:

R-271-13 Approve Professional Services Contract with AJL Physical and Occupational Therapy for 2012-2013 School Year

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the Interim Superintendent, post approves the professional services contract with AJL

Physical and Occupational Therapy Contract to provide consulting services and professional services in the area of Physical and/or Occupational Therapy per the listed fee schedule:

Physical Therapy Services ………………………………….. $94.00 per hour

Occupational Therapy Services ………………………….. $94.00 per hour

Other Billable Fees: (Chart review, teacher/parent consultation/conferences,

and documentation.

Physical Therapy Evaluation ………………………………. $350.00

Occupational Therapy Evaluation ……………………… $350.00

R-272-13 Approve NJ Provider Equipment Agreement with Xerox State and Local Solutions, Inc. to provide an Automated e-Care Child Care System


Interim Superintendent, approves the NJ Provider Equipment Agreement with Xerox State and Local Solutions, Inc. to provide an automated e-Care Child Care System which provides timekeeping and recording of attendance of State authorized child

care attendees as well as to provide the State’s reimbursement for the subsidized attendees to child care providers for the 2013-2014 school year.

Note: Xerox State and Local Solutions / Norwescap provides for payments made on behalf

of children who attend the district’s aftercare program and whose tuition is eligible for a subsidy payment through the State of New Jersey. It will be at no cost to the district.

R-273-13 Approve Substitute for 2012-2013 School Year

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the Interim Superintendent, approve the substitute listed below for the 2012-2013 school year as attached.

Substitute Teacher Certification/Credentials Criminal Background Check

Status

Ryan Duffy NJ Substitute Teaching Certificate

Completed

HIB Training Completed

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R-274-13 Volunteers for 2012-2013 School Year

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the Interim Superintendent, approves the volunteers for the 2012-13 school year as presented pending the receipt of the appropriate documents from each volunteer.

Volunteer Name Reason Attended Form

Jack Buckley Substitute 02/25/2013 Yes

Lori Ciesla Teacher for a Day 03/18/2013 Yes

Ryan Duffy Substitute 03/15/2013 Yes

Bruce Hall Teacher for a Day 03/18/2013 Yes

Traci Poane Teacher for a Day 03/18/2013 Yes

R-275-13 Acknowledge Selections by 2013-2014 Teacher of the Year

Committee and Honor LTSD Staff Members


Interim Superintendent, acknowledges the selections by the 2013-2014 Teacher of the Year Selection Committee and honor the following staff members:

Elementary School: Krista Wayne

Middle School: Kathleen Knarr Note: The Warren County Association of School Administrators will hold a luncheon in

honor of individuals named Teacher of the Year on May 3, 2013 at the Hawke Point Golf

Club.

R-276-13 Approve Field Trips

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the Interim Superintendent, approves the following field trips:

Gr/# of Students Destination Date Bus Company Cost

Grade 5-8

Stacy Conner

March of Dimes Walk

Dorney Park

Allentown, PA

04/28/13 N/A N/A

LTSD Jazz Band

Mr. Rudolfo Crevani

Phillipsburg HS

Phillipsburg NJ

05/11/13 N/A N/A

Grade 6, 7 & 8

Solar Car Competition

Dr. Rick Maisto

Blairstown, NJ 05/13/13 TBD

B&K Dalrymple

Funding:

Current Exp.

Grade 4

Music Students

Ms. Bonnie Ruesch

Lopatcong Middle

School

Spring Concert

Rehearsal

Lopatcong, NJ

05/20/13 TBD

B&K Dalrymple

Funding:

Current Exp.

April 9, 2013 FY13

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Grade 3

Music Students

Ms. Bonnie Ruesch

Lopatcong Middle

School

Spring Concert

Rehearsal

Lopatcong, NJ

05/21/13 TBD

B&K Dalrymple

Funding:

Current Exp.

R-277-13 AMEND Resolution R-211-13 Salary Rate of Long Term Substitute

MS Social Studies Teacher – Jessica M. Skultety

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the Interim Superintendent, approve the appointment of Jessica M. Skultety, LMS,

Social Studies Teacher, Long-term Substitute for Tracy Ruane, Maternity Leave Replacement, $237.75/diem, effective for the period April 17, 2013 – June 24,

2013*; and further move to approve a two-day transition period, April 15 - 16, 2013, at the per diem rate of $256.81 AMEND $237.75/diem; and move to

approve applicant’s attestation that she has not been convicted of any disqualifying crime pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:6-7.1 et seq., N.J.S.A. 18A:39-17 et seq., or N.J.S.A. 18A:6-4.13 et seq.

* Tentative Last Day of School.

Discussion: A brief discussion ensued regarding the hourly rate stated. Mrs. Werner responded.

Roll Call Vote: 7 Yes; 0 No; 1 Abstention – Mr. Hall #R-274-13

b. Facilities and Technology

There were no Facilities and Technology matters presented for discussion this

evening.

c. Finance

Motion by Mr. Gallant, seconded by Ms. Rozycki in consideration for the approval of resolutions R-278-13, R-279-13, and R-280-13 as follows:

R-278-13 Approve Budget Transfers

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the Interim Superintendent, approves the transfer of uncommitted funds within the 2012-2013 school year budget as attached.

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R-279-13 Acceptance of Donation –Viola (Lewis Model 2520-14 no: 1302)

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon recommendation by the Interim Superintendent, accepts the donation of a Viola – Lewis Model 2520-14 no:

1320 from Mrs. Jaclyn Laddomada, Lopatcong resident. The estimated value of this donation is $1,500. The Lopatcong Board of Education hereby accepts the aforementioned donation with gratitude and

authorizes the Interim Superintendent to send a letter of gratitude on behalf of the Lopatcong Township

Public Schools in accordance with Board Policy #7230.

R-280-13 Approve Employee Travel and Expense Reimbursement Forms


Interim Superintendent, approves employee travel and expense reimbursement forms as attached.


d. Policy

Motion by Mr. Hall, seconded by Mr. Glennon in consideration for the approval of

the replacement resolution R-281-13 as follows:

R-281-13 Second Reading of Revised Policies

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon the recommendation of the

Interim Superintendent and the Policy Committee, approves for the second reading and adoption of the following revised policies:

POLICY – revisions:

Number Title

2468 Independent Education Evaluations

5843 After/Childcare Program

6163 Advertising on School Grounds


April 9, 2013 FY13

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Administrator’s Report

Dr. Caldwell stated that the Superintendent vacancy advertisement was in the NJ Star Ledger on Sunday, April 7, 2013.

Dr. Caldwell reviewed the March 2013 HIB (Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying) Report as follows:

School Incidents Reported Confirmed Incidents of

HIB Lopatcong Elementary School 1 0

Lopatcong Middle School 3 2

Dr. Caldwell reported the March 2013 suspension incidents:

School In School Suspension

Incidents

Out of School Suspension

Incidents Lopatcong Elementary School 0 1


Dr. Caldwell stated that both the Lopatcong Elementary School and the Lopatcong Middle School held monthly fire drills and security drills per NJDOE regulations.

Dr. Caldwell reported that completed status of the following security matters:

1. Panic arms have been installed at the Lopatcong Elementary School. 2. Silent Emergency Alarm has been installed at the Lopatcong Elementary

School. 3. Key Fob System has been installed at the Loptacong Elementary School.

Dr. Caldwell noted that the Lopatcong Police department will hold emergency simulation exercises in the district on Saturday June 1, 2013 and June 8, 2013. A

brief discussion enused. Dr. Caldwell stated that both Mr. Bonney, Vice Principal and Mr. Fleming, Facilities Manager have worked closely with the Lopatcong Police department to ensure the safety and security programs Mrs. Pede had initiated last

December were now going to be brought to fruition.

Dr. Caldwell stated that there is a need for the Education Committee to meet, suggesting the committee members consider meeting on Monday, April 15, 2013 or Wednesday, April 17, 2013. A brief discussion ensued. Dr. Caldwell also requested

that a Special Meeting be called prior to the end of the month to attend to additional business matters. The consensus of the Board members present was to

meet on April 23, 2013. President Taggart requested that Mrs. Werner advertise the meeting accordingly.

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Dr. Caldwell noted that this is Mrs. Werner’s last meeting here in Lopatcong. Dr. Caldwell thanked Mrs. Werner for her services to the district. Mr. Taggart stated

thank you and the Board of Education affirmed their appreciation for her service. Dr. Caldwell requested that Mrs. Werner, Mrs. Woicekowski, Mr. Taggart and he

meet for transition purposes and an exit conference. Mrs. Werner stated she would be happy to do so. Mrs. Werner stated that working in Lopatcong School District has been a pleasure.

Dr. Caldwell stated that there is a need for the Board of Educaiton to meet in

Executive Session later this evening.

VI. Legislative Representative Report

Ms. Rozycki reported on the current NJ School Boards legislative issues;

Two current proposals—Senate Bill 1191 and Assembly Bill 3627—would severely restrain school boards' ability to

save taxpayers' money and preserve educational programs. The legislation would restrict the subcontracting of non-instructional services, such as transportation, cafeteria, maintenance and clerical work. S-1191 passed the Senate on

March 18; A-3627 is in position for a vote by the full Assembly.Legislative Report

Senate Approves Subcontracting, Arbitration Bills

The state Senate on Monday passed by a 22-15 vote a bill that would limit the ability of school districts and higher education institutions to enter into subcontracting agreements for services such as busing, custodial or cafeteria services.

The bill, S-1191, would make subcontracting much more difficult by making such decisions a mandatory subject of

negotiations. The bill also places significant obstacles in front of school boards that have not yet subcontracted services, but desire to do so. S-1191 would impose onerous, pro-union requirements such as extensive notice and comment periods, as well as transitional employment for affected employees, which appear intended to preclude school districts from privatizing food or custodial services altogether, regardless of whether such a decision makes sense from a managerial or fiscal standpoint.

NJSBA opposes the bill. In 2009, the Association performed a survey into subcontracting. Approximately 40 percent of school districts responded, reporting savings through subcontracting that totaled at least $34.3 million annually.

‘Big Brother’ Laptop-Snooping Bill Signed into Law

Gov. Chris Christie on Monday signed into law the "Anti-Big Brother Act," a measure requiring schools to notify parents whenever laptops or other electronic devices can track or view children through remote cameras.

The new law requires school districts that furnish a student with a laptop, cell phone or other electronic device to provide written or electronic notice to the parent that the device may record or collect information on the student's activity, or the student's use of the device if it is equipped with a camera, a global positioning system, or another feature capable of recording or collecting information.

http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2012/Bills/S1500/1191_U2.HTM

http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2012/Bills/A4000/3627_R1.HTM

http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2012/Bills/S1500/1191_U2.HTM

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NJSBA Raises Concerns on Anti-Bullying Law

During testimony at the third and final public hearing of the New Jersey Anti-Bullying Task Force on April 11 at the Highland Regional High School in Blackwood, NJSBA raised concerns that local school districts are facing with the new law.

New anti-bullying guidelines created by the New Jersey Department of Education would require districts to conduct a self-evaluation of their anti-bullying efforts – including evaluations of issues such as prevention programs for students, staffing in the schools, and investigations into the number of bullying incidents, proven or otherwise. Each school will receive ratings, which are expected to be made public in the fall. The grading system is designed to force districts to review their processes and seek improvement where needed.

Ms. Rozycki also noted that there is legislation introduced by the Senate in February 2013 regarding daily recess periods for students in grades K-5 which is currently in the amendment phase. Ms. Rozycki stated that in the 2013-14 SY, students will be provided 20 minutes for recess, not to be scheduled immediately before/after physical education classes and that students shall not be denied the recess in any instance other that violations of HIB. A brief discussion ensued.

Information from Phillipsburg Board of Education Representative Mr. Taggart reported that the new PHS project has been rebid and is currently on

Governor Chris Christie’s desk for approval. Mr. Taggart noted that the lowest bid received was that of EPIC Management.

Mr. Caccese again stated that he was concerned with the new PHS building and the entrance to/exit from being there is only one road in/out from the building and this

in relation to the safety and security of the staff and students who will be housed in the new PHS building, and in particular with regard to an emergency situation,

potential evacuation situation, etc. Mr. McFarlane stated that under the circumstances as discussed, this is a very important safety issue and should be discussed with the Phillipsburg Board of Education and the AOR in terms of these

safety issues/concerns. President Taggart stated that he would bring Mr. Caccese’s and Mr. McFarlane’s concerns to the attention of the Phillipsburg BOE and Architect.

Mr. Caccese stated that being that Lopatcong Township provides for emergency services and one road in and one road out will not be conducive to providing appropriate emergency services should there be an incident requiring several

emergency services to be provided. Discussion ensued. Mr. Caccese stated that Administration should put the PBOE on notice regarding its concern(s) as stated.

President Taggart stated that he will bring this concern/consideration before the Phillipsburg Board of Education Buildings and Grounds Committee whose Chairperson will provide a committee report/place notice of the concern to the

Phillipsburg Board of Education. Mr. Glennon inquired if the new PHS building’s windows would bullet proof glass in/on the windows to address safety and security

concerns. President Taggart stated that while Phase I has been completed, there are many things regarding the new PHS building that still have to be addressed that will be part of Phase II.

Committee Reports Ad Hoc Mr. McFarlane stated there is nothing to report this evening.

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Education

Ms. Rozycki stated that a copy of the minutes of the Education Committee meeting held on March 26, 2013 has been distributed and provided the highlights /overview

of meeting:

1. 2013-2014 LTSD Calendar has been completed. (Similar to/follows that of

Phillipsburg School District.) 2. Request of Parent to permit their child to attend both am/pm sessions of

Kindergarten; tuition will be charged. 3. Purchase of CST Software program consideration; IEP Direct (Purchase will

be budgeted in the future.)

4. School Report Card (NJDOE) is now called the School Performance Report and includes a component that provides for a comparison to like school

districts throughout the State of NJ. 5. After Care Program overview. Dr. Caldwell stated that he is closely

monitoring the district’s After Care Program. A brief discussion ensued.

Mr. McFarlane stated that the written report provided by Dr. Caldwell is a great; it

is a welcome addition to the BOE’s package noting that it provided much information, including an overview and a status report of the district’s current

educational, policy and financial matters. Ms. Rozycki stated that Dr. Caldwell will discuss the 2013-14 school district

calendar with the LEA. Ms. Rozycki requested that Education Committee members should provide their availability as to meeting with Dr. Caldwell on either Monday,

April 15, 2013 or Wednesday, April 17, 2013 to discuss current education matters/considerations, personnel matters, as well as, staffing matters and education programs as it relates to the 2013-2014 school budget.

Facilities and Technology

Mr. Glennon stated that there is nothing to report this evening. Finance

Mr. Gallant stated that the Finance Committee had recently discussed a School Choice student matter/application to attend the LTSD in 2013-2014. Mr. Gallant

stated that the LTSD received the application after the deadline and did not feel the children should be accepted at this time; Mr. Gallant provided a brief overview of the 2013-14 School Budget corrections/changes including the loss of the PHS

Abbott Parity State Aid and Debt Service fund balance which provided for tax relief to the local taxpayer for the 2013-14 school year. A brief discussion ensued.

Negotiations Mr. McFarlane stated that LEA 2012-2015 Agreement is expected to be ratified in

May 2013.

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Policy President Taggart stated that RFP’s for various professional services will be solicited

for the 2013-2014 school year. Mrs. Werner stated that she could provide Ms. Woicekowski and Dr. Caldwell with sample RFP documents to be utilized when

securing proposals for professional services if desired. Mr. Hall stated that having been participated in the teacher substitute program was

interesting and fun noting that one student stated that “he could cut in line” when standing in line for lunch. Mr. Hall also stated that, in terms of the food service

operation, the number of participants has declined and expressed concern regarding same.

Dr. Caldwell referenced this evening’s Teacher of the Year Honorees, Krista Wayne and Kathleen Knarr, stating “CONGRTULATIONS” to the honorees and highlighted

each’s wonderful qualities. Dr. Caldwell stated “We are fortunate to have teachers of this caliber, which was evident by what their peers wrote about them. Congratulations to both of these individuals!” Dr. Caldwell noted that both teachers

have been notified accordingly and are featured on the LTSD website.

Mrs. Dutt, Mrs. Kondikoff and Mr. Bonney described the manner of which each candidate was announce and honored. Much discussion ensued. Dr. Caldwell

stated that the way and means of announcing the award was well done. Dr. Caldwell stated that he will write a formal resolution to honor both Ms. Wayne

and Ms. Knarr at the next Board of Education meeting scheduled on May 14, 2013.

Other Items of Emergent Nature None

Other Public Comments Mr. Taggart opened the second public session this evening at 7:53 p.m.

Lori Ciesla stated that while the LTSD’s 2013-14 School Calendar is aligned mostly with Phillipsburg School District, it is not an exact match. Dr. Caldwell briefly

commented that it cannot match exactly for various reasons but that it is extremely closely aligned. President Taggart stated that Phillipsburg School District will vote

on its 2013-14 School Calendar at its next meeting. A Lopatcong Elementary School neighbor expressed concern regarding an uprooted

tree which is leaning over the driveway behind the school an inquired as to whose responsibility this tree/safety concern is. A brief discussion ensued. Dr. Caldwell

stated that he would speak with Mr. Fleming, Facilities Manager to review the situation and rectify the matter (cut down the tree/branches and clean up the debris) at the next opportunity.

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EXCUTIVE SESSION

WHEREAS, the Open Public Meetings Act authorizes Boards of Education to meet in

executive session under certain circumstances

WHEREAS, the Open Public Meetings Act requires the Board to adopt a resolution at a public meeting to go into private session; now therefore,

BE IT RESOLVED by the Lopatcong Township Board of Education, that it is necessary to meet in executive session to discuss certain items involving:

Matters which, if publicly disclosed, would constitute an unwarranted invasion of individual privacy, and specifically Student matters.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any discussion held by the Board which

need not remain confidential will be made public as soon as feasible. The minutes of the executive session will not be disclosed until the need for confidentiality no longer exists.

FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Education will return to open

session to conduct business at the conclusion of the executive session. Motion by, Ms. Rozycki and second by, Mr. Glennon to go into executive

session at 8:00 p.m.

Regular Session Reconvened at 8:14 p.m.

Motion by Mr. Caccese, second by Mr. McFarlane to approve the following ADDENDUM new business item:

R-282-13 Recognition and Acceptance of the Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Report for March 2013

Be it, RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon the recommendation of the

Interim Superintendent, recognizes and approves the Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying report as of March 2013 as summarized below:

School Incidents Reported Confirmed Incidents of

HIB Lopatcong Elementary School 1 0


Be It Further Resolved, that the Lopatcong Board of Education approves the remedial and disciplinary action taken by the building principals.


April 9, 2013 FY13

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Adjournment Motion to adjourn by Mr. McFarlane and seconded by Ms. Rozycki at 8:15 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Christine M. Werner Interim Bd. Secretary/B.A. Mr. William Taggart, President

minutes of the lopatcong township board of education

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