Mathew Benderoth

The meeting involved discussions following an executive session concerning confidential matters, attorney-client privilege, student matters, and personnel issues. Student representative updates covered the conclusion of fall sports and the start of winter sports, including basketball and wrestling, noting the success of the boys' division one championship and the girls' state semifinalist team. Student council activities included fundraisers (Chipotle and Panera Bread) and selling holiday grams. Board liaison reports touched upon legislative updates during the lame duck session, a presentation on the Evolve technology security system from Middle Sex County districts, and potential legislation regarding charter school reform, pilot revenue sharing, and district flexibility. A public comment raised concerns regarding contract approvals performed without prior board authorization, specifically citing administrative code requirements for pre-approval of expenditures. A personnel transfer was announced for Mr. John Keelia, effective July 1, 2026. Following public comment portions, the board adopted a resolution to meet in a second executive session.

This document details the Middlesex Borough Public School District's plan for utilizing ARP ESSER funds. Key priorities include implementing prevention and mitigation strategies to ensure safe in-person learning, addressing the academic impact of lost instructional time through evidence-based interventions such as extended day programs and targeted instruction with platforms like iReady, and making necessary facility upgrades to enhance air quality and sustainability. The plan also commits to engaging in meaningful consultation with stakeholders to address the academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs of all students, particularly those disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, while ensuring equity and inclusivity.

The meeting began with the recognition of the District Student of the Month, Angelisa Martinez, a seventh grader from Moger Middle School, noted for her academic excellence and kindness. Following this, District Employee of the Month, Mrs. Tammy Bloom, was honored for her consistent reliability and support for colleagues and students. The Board President delivered a statement addressing public concerns and misinformation regarding Class 3 officers, district budget increases, student performance data, and the structure of board meetings, emphasizing the protection of financial integrity and personnel confidentiality. The Superintendent announced the opening of preschool registration for 'baby blue jays,' including expansion to four additional classrooms next year, offering free education. Reports from liaisons included updates from the Middle Sex Public Library Board regarding room renovations and literacy programs, and legislative updates concerning school board resolutions and pending education bills. The Student Representative provided updates on high school sports, noting the bowling team's undefeated season, details of the winter spirit weekend pep rally, and progress on visual arts projects, including those related to Black History Month.

The meeting commenced with the administration of the oath of office to newly elected board members, including Mr. Jeremiah KS, Mr. Martin Quinn, and Miss Justine Decker. Following this, the board conducted elections for the offices of president and vice president. Key procedural actions included the adoption of the New Jersey School Boards Association Code of Ethics. The board also approved the annual meeting schedule for 2026, setting meetings for the third Wednesday of each month, and ratified annual organizational items such as bylaws, policies, regulations, official newspapers, and official depositors. Finally, the board considered and approved action items 3.06 through 3.08.

The meeting commenced with roll call and the introduction of the Spanish interpreter. Noteworthy presentations included the designation of Nora Luciano as the District Student of the Month, recognition of Gina Collins and May Mia Singleton as District Employees of the Month, and a formal proclamation recognizing January 2026 as School Board Recognition Month. Reports covered updates on the Middle Sex Public Library receiving a LIFT grant for early literacy services, legislative updates including pending resolutions and a civility initiative rollout, and a student report highlighting high school activities such as sports team records, student council fundraisers, and school focus initiatives like 'Character Strong' and a kindness challenge at Washington School. Announcements included budget preparation activities for the upcoming fiscal year and upcoming events like 'Breaking Down the Walls' and the winter listening room. The board also opened public comment where a resident inquired about the creation and posting of a specific principal position approved in prior minutes.