March 24, 2009 Board of Education (BOE) meeting Superintendent’s Report started with brief update on school construction. Dr. McCartney stated that a punch list agreement on the new primary schools has been reached between Gray Hawk and the SDA(School Development Authority). Phase I at the High School is on time while Phase II is approximately 6 weeks behind. Dr. McCartney then went on to say that budget presentations will be given at each school( check with the Parent’s Club for date and time at your student’s school) and at several community events. On March 31, 2009 at 6:30, the BOE will hold a public meeting on the budget. Taped presentations will start on April 2, 2009 on EHT TV, channel 2. QSAC will be revisiting on April 9^th to review the district’s plans to meet the standard needed (an 80 is required and Fernwood Middle School got an 79.7). Dr. McCartney expressed that objectives required by QSAC will be met without any problems.

            In the Public Portion, a cast member of the High School play “Anything Goes” requested the BOE sponsor an ad. President Galvin asked if the funds for a full page ad ($50) were available, inquired if any BOE members had a problem authorizing the ad, and committed the BOE for a full page ad. The play will be held on April 29, 30, May 1 and 2 at the High School. Another member of the audience announced a Special Needs Meeting to be held on March 25, 2009.

            Under Finance/Operations, the school business administrator was authorized to prepare and solicit bids for:

·         High School Track and Synthetic Turf Improvements

·         High School Bleacher Replacement

·         High School Light Replacement

·         High School Refreshment Stand and Restrooms

·         Bus tires

·         HVAC repairs and maintenance

·         Refrigeration repairs and maintenance

·         Electrical repairs and maintenance

·         Lawn cutting services

·         Transportation Service Vehicle

Bids for bus tires and repair contracts will be solicited with Middle Township BOE to obtain better pricing. Soliciting bids give the BOE a break down of costs and what will be entailed and doesn’t necessarily mean acceptance of those bids. 

            Under Curriculum, the revised 08/09 calendar for the 08/09 school year was approved. The changes include a snow day on 3/2/09, abbreviated day for students only at the High School on May 29, 2009 and the last day of school is now June 23, 2009.

            Personnel:

• Lauren Foschini, 5^th grade at Miller, revised maternity/child rearing leave from  12/15/08-5/18/09 to 12/15/08-4/1/09.
• Nalalie McCullen,  PE at Alder Middle School, revised maternity/child rearing leave from 3/22-5/4/09 to 3/9-5/4/09.
• April Crean, grade 5 at Miller, revised maternity/child rearing leave from 10/27/08-3/30/09 to 10/27/08-4/1/09.
• Triana Bruso, 6^th grade at Alder Middle School, medical leave of absence from 3/26-5/4/09.
• Karen Symanski, LDT/C at Alder Middle School, submitted letter of retirement, effective 10/1/09.