Cynthia Apalinski

The organization meeting commenced with the call to order and the administration of the Oath of Office to the newly elected board members following the November 4, 2025 election. Key agenda items included the election of the new President, Ms. Thomas, and the Vice-President, Dr. Berghammer. The Board adopted Roberts Rules of Order as its official parliamentary procedure manual and approved the Board of Education's Rules and Regulations and the selection of official newspapers for legal advertisements. Furthermore, the current School Curriculum and Textbooks were adopted, and John A. Serapiglia, Jr. was approved to serve as Board Secretary and Custodian of Records. The Order of Business for 2026 was approved, detailing the structure of future meetings including committee functions (Education, Personnel, Finance, Buildings/Grounds/Security, Planning/Policy). The Board also approved the calendar for all 2026 meetings and passed a resolution approving travel expenditures for members to attend training programs hosted by the New Jersey School Boards Association and Union County School Boards Association. A revised policy regarding the eligibility of resident/non-resident students was also adopted.

The meeting began with opening remarks recognizing the December holidays and compliance with the open meeting act, including notice postings in June, January, and December 2025. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the swearing-in ceremony for a new board member, Rempy Kalia, followed by farewell remarks and presentations honoring a departing board member, Saskia Carillo, who served for three years. The President's report included thanks to staff, the attorney, technicians, construction personnel, custodians, and several named individuals for their contributions throughout the year. The board also proceeded with the motion to approve the minutes from the regular board meeting held on November 20, 2025.

The meeting commenced with the required statement regarding adequate notice under the Open Public Meetings Act. Key discussions included the Board President's report, which emphasized student pride in uniforms, the struggle students face, and the critical need to address bullying with serious consequences. Public comments covered concerns regarding the cost of transportation for fundraising/sponsorship trips and a discussion on library material policy, affirming the freedom to read as a human right. Student representative Anais Matoss provided highlights covering student life, including the 1 Million Book Giveaway initiative, the Halloween parade, arts enrichment via the fall play, and career education field trips, noting the successful College Instant Decision Day where students earned significant scholarships. District highlights covered a decrease in student enrollment compared to the start of the school year, staffing needs (including 10 par professionals and various certified teachers), and ongoing initiatives to grow local talent ("growing our own"). Security updates included two behavioral threat assessments and a successful crisis drill utilizing the bilingual LENS communication system.

The strategic plan for Linden Public Schools outlines a vision for an educational environment that fosters innovation, appreciates diverse voices, and helps individuals uncover their unique potential. Its mission is to empower learners by developing essential skills, preparing them to be future-ready individuals. The plan is structured around five strategic priorities: Student Learning and Academic Excellence, Personalized Pathways to Student Success, Staff Excellence & Professional Growth, Fiscal Stewardship and Operational Excellence, and Community and Stakeholder Partnership. These priorities aim to enhance educational outcomes, support staff development, ensure responsible resource management, and strengthen community engagement.

The meeting included discussions on various topics, such as the ROC Navy Ball, after-school tutoring, in-district training, and NJSLA adaptive testing dates. There were approvals sought for professional development, student participation in the inter-district school choice program, family engagement events, and a student safety data system presentation. A partnership with Project Best for vision screenings and another with the American Health Association were discussed. The board also reviewed financial matters, including donations, bus evacuation drill reports, and contracts for services like Naviance core and assessment. Construction updates were provided, including new bleachers at McManis Middle School and ongoing bathroom projects at various schools. The board also discussed space issues throughout the district and testing for vapor intrusion around a building.