Pamela Baykal

The work session involved discussions regarding a calendar change due to an upcoming special election, announcements concerning staff retirements, a review of financial items and addendum materials, and information regarding a registrar stipend. The board also convened in an executive session to address personnel matters, legal issues, bullying incidents, and contract negotiations.

The board addressed various personnel matters, including rescinding days without pay, accepting resignations and retirements, and approving new appointments for both certificated and non-certificated staff. Additionally, the board approved student mentor assignments, classroom observations, the appointment of substitute personnel, and various stipends for staff. Finally, the board authorized a change in training level and the corresponding salary adjustment for a teacher.

The board convened for a public work session and a regular board of education meeting. The agenda included standard procedures such as the flag salute, roll call, and statements regarding public meetings. Additionally, the board planned to enter into an executive session to discuss sensitive matters, including personnel issues, legal concerns, harassment, intimidation and bullying reports, and contract negotiations.

The board reviewed various district operational and academic items. Discussions included the acceptance of safety drill reports, personnel resolutions, and updates on HIB incidents, spring track officials, and a corrective action plan for chronic absenteeism. Special education matters involved the submission of a corrective action plan for the Special Education Medicaid Initiative and the approval of the Summer Learning Academy extended school year programs. Financial actions were significant, featuring the adoption of the tentative 2026-2027 school district budget, approval of payroll and bill payments, authorization of financial reports, and the ratification of an asbestos abatement contract. Additionally, the board addressed the revision of a job description, field trip approvals, transportation software and subscription fee structures, and the second reading of a student eligibility policy.

The purpose of this meeting was to organize the Board of Education and consider matters recommended by the Superintendent of Schools. Key actions included the report on the Annual School Election held on November 4, 2025, which resulted in Carita Shelkin being elected for a three-year term, followed by the administration of the Oath of Office. The Board organized by electing Mr. Scerbo as President and Ms. Cooper as Vice President. The members acknowledged and agreed to abide by the School Board Association Code of Ethics. Additionally, the Board designated official publications, meeting schedules, banking depositories, authorized signatories for warrants, approved fund transfer authorizations, appointed representatives to the New Jersey School Boards Association, established liaison appointments across various committees, confirmed the Custodian of Records, authorized purchasing agent limits, reaffirmed Board Policies, and approved the readoption of all current written curriculum.