Anne M. Hazeldine

The meeting commenced with a presentation recognizing Mr. Jenny McCarthy as a recipient of a state recognition program award for New Jersey educators, noting he is the first staff member from the district to receive this honor. Student reports included updates on fundraising efforts for the Class of 2028 senior year, the upcoming gift auction, celebrations for student achievement (Zero Conduct Party and Honorable Breakfast), and the induction of five new members into the National Honor Society. The Middle School reports noted conference dates and student accomplishments in sports, specifically wrestling. The Financial Committee report included the presentation of the annual audit from HFA, which yielded an unmodified opinion across all reports with no control deficiencies or findings, signifying a clean audit. Discussions also covered future budget seasons being pushed forward due to a new governor and the nature of user access levels in financial systems. Finally, the presentation concluded with a review of compensated absences reporting requirements, noting a significant increase in the disclosed liability figure due to accounting principle changes, which does not affect actual payout caps.

The meeting included a HIB presentation and discussion on personnel matters such as professional employment, staff transfers, long-term substitute teachers, and various leaves of absence. The board also discussed coach/advisor positions, additional athletic ancillary workers, district professional development, Title I grant personnel, and volunteer positions. Policy and regulation updates were reviewed, along with district H-I-B reports, a memorandum of agreement with law enforcement, the Keansburg School District Nursing Plan, and the NJQSAC District Performance Review. Curriculum title revisions, disposal of outdated equipment, acceptance of donations, in-state and out-of-state class trips were also discussed. The board approved bills, out-of-district tuition, home instruction, McKinney-Vento tuition, the budget calendar for 2026-2027, and the submission of the NJDOE Health and Safety Evaluation of School Buildings' Checklist. Additionally, the board discussed the Comprehensive Maintenance Plan, district food service program pricing, and the acceptance of several grants related to literacy and school violence prevention.

The meeting commenced with roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by announcements regarding emergency exits. Key agenda items included presentations recognizing several individuals for excellence in their roles: Miss Janna Rash as Educator of the Year, Diane Numei as Educator of the Year, Mr. Thomas Anderson as Educational Support Professional of the Year, Miss Angela Melie for Caruso Educator of the Year, Rebecca Domus as Instructional Support Professional of the Year, Miss Tara Kakowski as Bulier Teacher of the Year, and Bill Padone as Support Staff Member of the Year. District-wide awards were also presented, naming Mr. Thomas Anderson the District Educational Service Professional of the Year and Miss Tara Kakowski the District Educator of the Year. Additionally, Miss Danielle Myra was recognized as Kingsburg High School's Teacher of the Year. The board extended gratitude to the Kingsburg Board of Education members in observance of School Board Appreciation Month. Updates were provided on various student activities including the Bulger Middle School spelldown, eighth-grade promotion preparations, winter sports, an assembly on vaping dangers, drama club participation, a PTA dance, and trips to a theater and the County Superior Court. Student recognition included Titans of the Month and honor roll achievements.

The meeting addressed personnel matters, including the approval of substitute teachers and paraprofessionals, student observations, salary revisions for the Keansburg Afterschool Program, and the appointment of a K-12 Instructional Coach Coordinator and Part-Time Academic Loss Specialists. The board also discussed professional development opportunities and costs. Policy reviews were conducted, and general items such as the disposal of unusable equipment, in-state class trips, and cooperative agreements with other high schools were approved. The acceptance of donations for the Keansburg Early Learning Center was also approved. The Board Secretary's report for November 2025 was reviewed and accepted, along with appropriation transfers and approval of bills. The board also approved attendance at NJASA TECHSPO 26, home instruction for certain students, and the FY26 IDEA CCLC Supplemental Grant Application.

The Organization Meeting addressed several administrative and organizational matters. Key agenda items included reading the results of the School Board Election held on November 4, 2025, for both the three-year and two-year unexpired terms, followed by the administration of the oath of office to the newly elected and re-elected Board members. The meeting proceeded with the election of the Board President and Vice President. Furthermore, resolutions were considered to appoint an Attendance Officer for the 2026-2027 term, adopt the 2026 regular meeting schedule, authorize financial depositories, and adopt the mandatory Code of Ethics and approve the current governance manual.