Minutes April 29, 2021 Page 1 of 35 BERKELEY HEIGHTS BOARD OF EDUCATION COMBINED CONFERENCE AND REGULAR MEETING AND PUBLIC MEETING TO ADOPT BUDGET MINUTES APRIL 29, 2021 CALL TO ORDER The Combined Conference and Regular Meeting and Public Meeting to Adopt Budget of the Berkeley Heights Board of Education was called to order on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at 6:30 PM in the Columbia Middle School Multipurpose Room and via the media platform Zoom by Board President, Mr. Reinstein. ROLL CALL A roll call indicated the presence of the following members: Mr. Hyman, Mrs. Young, Mr. Cianciulli, Mr. D’Aquila, Mrs. Penna, Ms. Reilly, and Mr. Reinstein. Also present were Dr. Varley, Mr. McKinney and Mrs. Felezzola. Mrs. Kirsch was absent. Mr. Mark Wenczel of Cleary, Giacobbe, Alfieri, Jacobs was also present. STATEMENT On January 7, 2021, this body by resolution adopted the schedule for this meeting. The time, date and location of this meeting were accurately set forth therein. On January 8, 2021, this notice was provided to all schools, all PTO Presidents, the BHEA President and posted at the Administration Building. On the same date a copy was emailed to the Public Library, TAP into Berkeley Heights, the Courier News and filed with the Municipal Clerk to file and post at Town Hall. The meeting will also be announced on the District Sign at Columbia School. ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION It was moved by Mr. D’Aquila and seconded by Mrs. Young that the Board of Education adjourn to Executive Session. Motion carried. WHEREAS, the provisions of the Open Public Meetings Act (N.J.S.A.10:4-1 et seq.) expressly provide that a public body may move into Executive Session and exclude the public from that portion of a meeting at which the public body discusses any of the nine areas set forth in N.J.S.A.10:4-12b; and WHEREAS, the Berkeley Heights Board of Education has determined it necessary to move into Executive Session to discuss the following subjects, all of which are included in the aforesaid exceptions: Substitute/Supplemental Personnel, Re-Employment of Non-Tenured Certificated Staff Members (Grades 9-12), Re-Employment of Non-Tenured Certificated Staff Members (Grades 9-12) Who Will Attain Tenure During the 2021-2022 School Year, Extra-Curricular Activities, Summer Employment of Guidance Office Secretary, Employment of Summer Technology Assistant, Re-Employment of Non-Tenured Certificated Staff Members (Grades PK- 8), Re-Employment of Non-Tenured Certificated Staff Members (Grades PK-8) Who Will Attain Tenure During the 2021-2022 School Year, Revised Employment Contracts for Paraprofessionals, Retirements; Student Matters.
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Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 1 of 35
BERKELEY HEIGHTS BOARD OF EDUCATION
COMBINED CONFERENCE AND REGULAR MEETING
AND PUBLIC MEETING TO ADOPT BUDGET
MINUTES
APRIL 29, 2021
CALL TO ORDER
The Combined Conference and Regular Meeting and Public Meeting to Adopt Budget of the
Berkeley Heights Board of Education was called to order on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at 6:30
PM in the Columbia Middle School Multipurpose Room and via the media platform Zoom by
Board President, Mr. Reinstein.
ROLL CALL
A roll call indicated the presence of the following members:
Mr. Hyman, Mrs. Young, Mr. Cianciulli, Mr. D’Aquila, Mrs. Penna, Ms. Reilly, and Mr.
Reinstein. Also present were Dr. Varley, Mr. McKinney and Mrs. Felezzola. Mrs. Kirsch was
absent. Mr. Mark Wenczel of Cleary, Giacobbe, Alfieri, Jacobs was also present.
STATEMENT
On January 7, 2021, this body by resolution adopted the schedule for this meeting. The time,
date and location of this meeting were accurately set forth therein.
On January 8, 2021, this notice was provided to all schools, all PTO Presidents, the BHEA
President and posted at the Administration Building. On the same date a copy was emailed to the
Public Library, TAP into Berkeley Heights, the Courier News and filed with the Municipal Clerk
to file and post at Town Hall. The meeting will also be announced on the District Sign at Columbia
School.
ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION
It was moved by Mr. D’Aquila and seconded by Mrs. Young that the Board of Education adjourn
to Executive Session. Motion carried.
WHEREAS, the provisions of the Open Public Meetings Act (N.J.S.A.10:4-1 et seq.) expressly
provide that a public body may move into Executive Session and exclude the public from that
portion of a meeting at which the public body discusses any of the nine areas set forth in
N.J.S.A.10:4-12b; and
WHEREAS, the Berkeley Heights Board of Education has determined it necessary to move into
Executive Session to discuss the following subjects, all of which are included in the aforesaid
exceptions: Substitute/Supplemental Personnel, Re-Employment of Non-Tenured Certificated
Staff Members (Grades 9-12), Re-Employment of Non-Tenured Certificated Staff Members
(Grades 9-12) Who Will Attain Tenure During the 2021-2022 School Year, Extra-Curricular
Activities, Summer Employment of Guidance Office Secretary, Employment of Summer
Technology Assistant, Re-Employment of Non-Tenured Certificated Staff Members (Grades PK-
8), Re-Employment of Non-Tenured Certificated Staff Members (Grades PK-8) Who Will Attain
Tenure During the 2021-2022 School Year, Revised Employment Contracts for
Paraprofessionals, Retirements; Student Matters.
Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 2 of 35
ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION (continued)
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Berkeley Heights Board of Education that it
does hereby move into Executive Session pursuant to N.J.S.A.10:4-12b to discuss the aforesaid
matters; and
IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that the aforesaid discussions shall be made public on a quarterly
basis or at such time as any litigated or personnel matters are concluded; or upon conclusion of
any negotiations or related discussions; or as otherwise specified; and
IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution shall take effect pursuant to law.
RETURN TO PUBLIC SESSION
It was moved by Ms. Reilly and seconded by Mrs. Penna that the Board of Education return to
Public Session. Motion carried.
FLAG SALUTE
Mr. Reinstein led the board and the public in the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
It was moved by Ms. Reilly and seconded by Mrs. Penna that the Board of Education approve
the minutes of the Combined Conference and Regular Meeting held April 8, 2021 and the
Special Meeting held April 14, 2021. Motion carried.
CORRESPONDENCE
The correspondence as listed on the agenda had been provided to the Board for their review and
information:
● Email from Ms. D. Amato; RE: New Plan
● Email from Ms. N. Nasto; RE: Thank You
● Email from Mr. W. Barter; RE: Superintendent’s Update
● Email from Mrs. G. Mahy; RE: Concerns about the possible return to full school day
with lunch
● Email from Ms. L. Kapuscinski; RE: Questions from 4/8 Public Presentation
● Email from Mr. V. Martinez; RE: Is the BH Board of Ed educating or indoctrinating the
students?
● Email from Ms. L. Coviello; RE: Support of BHEA Staff
● Email from Ms. R. Srikanth; RE: Bussing concerns in light of redistricting
● Email from Ms. V. Bansal; RE: Redistricting Concerns
● Email from Ms. D. Khanna; RE: Information requested for FDK proposal; Comparison of
parameters for scenarios 3,4,5
● Email from Mr. J. Sincaglia; RE: Redistricting
● Email from Mr. J. DeFrancesco; RE: Reimagining BHPS PK-5 Survey
● Email from Mr. J. Sincaglia; RE: Redistricting
● Email from Ms. S. Karpoff; RE: Redistricting plan feedback
● Email from Ms. D. Khanna; RE: Information requested for FDK proposal; Comparison of
parameters for scenarios 3,4,5
Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 3 of 35
CORRESPONDENCE (continued)
● Email from Ms. R. Sukhathankar; RE: Question about Redistricting from a Hughes
Parent
● Email from Ms. L. Kapuscinski; RE: Article Attached
● Email from Mrs. L. Cordo; RE: 3rd grader from Hughes
● Email from Ms. G. Ghai; RE: FDK and redistribution
● Email from Ms. L. Porous; RE: Questions on Plans for Redistricting
● Email from Mrs. A. Devanney; RE: BHPD & Redistricting Plan
● Email from Mrs. M. Hodge; RE: Art Display at the Board of Ed Office
● Email from Mrs. J. Cocuzza; RE: Redistricting/Realignment of our schools
● Email from Mr. P. Arts; RE: Town Hall
● Email from Mr. J. Sincaglia; RE: Redistricting
● Email from Mr. D. Agafonov; RE: My Input on Universal FDK & School Redistricting
● Email from Mrs. N. Nasto; RE: Thank you
● Email from Mr. J. Germansky; RE: Open questions relating to major restructuring of
district schools
● Email from Mr. J. Sincaglia; RE: Redistricting
● Email from Mrs. K. Coucci; RE: I Oppose redistricting and realignment of BHPS schools
● Email from Mrs. E. Manns; RE: Let the children stay
● Email from Mrs. E. Sidie; RE: Reconfiguration
● Letter from Dr. T. Foregger; Re: Redistricting
● Email from Mrs. K. Salerno; RE: Please Re-Think about Re-Imagining
● OPRA
4/14/2021 Sai Bhargavi Half-day K enrollment
numbers
No specific document
requested
4/14/2021 Sai Bhargavi Emails E. Biskaduros 12/20
to 2/28/21
No specific document
requested
4/14/2021 Sai Bhargavi Emails 1/1/20 to 4/14/21 on
20 different subjects
No specific document
requested
4/15/2021 Vic Martinez School Budgets 2001 to
2020 Sent
4/15/2021 Tony Knuth Dr. Varley's Contract Sent
4/17/2021 John Miques Racial breakdown of
schools Sent
4/19/2021 Doug Grober Cost estimates for option 3,
4 & 5
No specific document
requested
4/19/2021 Dipti Khanna
Architect estimate FDK &
cost estimates for Scenario
3, 4 & 5 Sent
4/20/2021
Laura
Kapuscinski Varley emails to BHPD re:
4 topics 2/21 to 4/8 Sent
4/20/2021 Sai Bhargavi Enrollment information -
half & full day K No responsive document
Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 4 of 35
4/21/2021 Todd Najarian Number of surveys sent Sent
4/22/2021 Sai Bhargavi Varley emails with specific
subjects 1/1/20 to 4/21/21 In-progress
4/22/2021 Dipti Khanna Emails from BHBOE to
BHBD In-progress
4/22/2021 Dipti Khanna MV Headers re:specific
topics 1/20 to 4/21 In-progress
4/22/2021 Bobbie Peer
Emails & correspondence
between BHPD, BOE &
admin 7/19 to present Denied-Overly broad
4/23/2021 Dipti Khanna
Performance goals,
financial payments &
evaluations of MV Sent
4/23/2021 Vic Martinez
Reserve account journal
entries & budget
documentation Sent
4/23/2021 August Santore
Emails to/from MV and
board members and admin
Re: FDK/Redistricting In-progress
4/23/2021 Sai Bhargavi 48 Months of transfers Sent
4/26/2021 Vic Martinez Staffing level reports from
MKM from 2001 to 2020
No specific document
requested
4/28/2021 Sai Bhargavi Budgets and Audits 2015-
2016 to 2019-2020 In-progress
4/28/2021 Charles Santore
Cost analysis and
comparisons for scenarios
2&3 Sent
4/28/2021 Charles Rudolph Purchasing records 6/30/20 to
● Spring sports are now fully in season, with all teams up and running.
● Baseball has a 4-1 record with a huge win against Westfield yesterday.
● Softball is 3-1 and has their softball showdown this Saturday at 11 with Summit,
Chatham and Watchung Hills.
● Boys lacrosse is playing Crawford today and are currently 2-2.
● Girls lacrosse are 3-2 and both losses were by only two goals.
● Boys tennis has their county tournament with a singles match moving on to day two.
● Track has had two dual meets and will be hosting the Union County meet the on the 12th
and 13th; GLTV will be live-streaming this event.
● Lastly, golf playing in the upper division placed 6th in their conference where Chris
Caccamo led the team with 90 and Thomas Burke followed with 91. Go GL!
Thomas Burke reported the following:
● As the weather steadily improves signaling the end of the school year and the
beginning of summer, it also means that clubs prepare for their final events of the
year.
● Interact recently made over 1,200 sandwiches for Market Street Mission and will
be helping pack and sort food next Saturday at the Hillside Food Bank.
● The Understanding Asian Cultures club held a meeting last week sharing
information on the holiday of Ramadan and how to support those celebrating the
event.
● Given that April is Genocide Awareness Month, numerous events were organized
to celebrate it. Ms. Toporek of the Highlander Newspaper Club led a roundtable
discussion “WHAT IT MEANS TO NEVER FORGET: Being the Grandchild of a
Holocaust Survivor.”
● Model United Nations also celebrate Genocide Awareness Month by organizing
events such as weekly acts of kindness, sharing narratives of genocides that have
occurred, and hosting guest speaker Greg Serian, a second-generation survivor of
the Armenian Genocide, who will share the story of his grandmother’s struggle to
survive the Armenian genocide.
● As we transition in May, the Student Ambassadors are helping celebrate Staff
Appreciation Month by making mini-gifts such as soaps and lotions to place in
faculty bathrooms, lounges, and the main office. They have also shared a Thank
You Gram Google Form where students can write thank you messages to their
teachers.
● Lastly, the GL Hilltop Players have been hard at work on their production of
CLUE!, a classic comic murder mystery. The student actors and Mr. Miceli have
been working with GLTV and Mr. Voorhees to create a unique video production
over Zoom. They hope to have the play ready for the weekend of May 20-23 and
are discussing additional ways to make the show accessible to the Berkeley Heights
and Mountainside communities. Expect finalized dates and ticketing information
soon!
● Despite the end of the year closing in, students are seizing all of the remaining
moments to participate in meaningful events.
Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 6 of 35
Mrs. Penna asked the students of their experience being back to school every day, especially
Emily and the seniors. The seniors are scared to return back to full day, they have senioritis, but
are happy to be back at school and with their friends at the end of the year. Thomas added that
with AP exams coming up, it is helpful all being in to best prepare for the exams.
Mr. Reinstein thanked the students for their feedback. He continued the meeting thanking
everyone who participated in the discussion of FDK and the realignment, including the
superintendent, administration, staff, parents and guardians and students. He continued that, in
her Superintendent’s report this evening, Dr. Varley will share her recommendation for Full Day
Kindergarten and the realignment of our elementary school structure. Dr. Varley has kept true to
her commitment and is recommending the scenario that 64% of the parents and 58% of the
teachers indicated was their preference. Our parent community and teaching staff are in
agreement on our path forward. The recommendation not only includes the results of the survey
it contains a few updates.
Mr. Reinstein continued that transportation is an area where we received a great deal of
feedback. Transportation and traffic safety are important components of our implementation
plan, and we are actively addressing them because "getting it right" is the only option. He
continued, sharing that we have a two-part going-forward plan to address transportation. Part 1
is a Traffic Engineering Evaluation. On the agenda tonight is an external firm who will assess
the traffic and pedestrian activity at each school; including a field study of roadways and
driveways, observations of the on-site circulation at both drop off and pick up, and analysis of
access driveways, pick-up areas, parking areas and pedestrian routes. Part 2 will address Safe
Routes to School components where we will work with the BHPD and their traffic safety officers
to review walking routes, sidewalks, paths, railroad crossings, location of crossing guards, and
other considerations to ensure student safety. Our goal is to have both the traffic engineering
report and the safe routes to school assessment complete by May 31. We want to move
expeditiously; however, we will not rush the data gathering, analysis or presentation of the
findings. This timeframe will allow adequate time to make any/all of the recommendations and
communicate any changes to families before the start of the school year. Given our highly competent Transportation Director and our strong and ongoing relationship
with the BHPD, we are also confident we will put the required resources in place to ensure that
every child is safe walking to school when the new structure is implemented. To proactively
answer a question that will be asked “yes, we can move forward with a recommendation tonight
without having the complete transportation and traffic results. We have adequate time to
perform the analysis, make the recommendations that the professionals suggest and communicate
to the affected families”.
Additionally, as discussed at the last town hall meeting, we will offer subscription busing for
those families that wish to pay for the service. To ease the transition, we will be offering a one-
year subscription busing subsidy to all K – 5 families.
Mr. Reinstein continued, sharing that those who attended the past three public meetings over the
past few weeks would have heard some people voice opposition to the proposed realignment
plan. They cited everything from how the process was conducted, the research behind the
recommendation, the inability to answer ALL questions and their view that the Board is holding
public meetings, but isn’t truly listening. Everyone is certainly entitled to their opinion.
Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 7 of 35
At those same meetings you heard fewer people voice their support for the Superintendent’s
recommendation. Is that because the community is so one-sided against the recommendation?
No, not at all. In his role as the Board President, he hears feedback from ALL parents and
community residents, and much of that comes outside the few hours a month we sit at board
meetings. Both he and the Superintendent, and sometimes the entire Board hear from residents
who aren’t comfortable speaking at a public meeting, nor engaging on social media. He read a
letter from the correspondence that was sent to the Board that captures ‘the side that you don’t
hear at public meetings’.
In closing, Mr. Reinstein shared that the district plans to move forward with FDK because it's the
right thing to do. It makes sense, not to mention that so many have consistently asked for it as
well. We agree that an outstanding town like ours should not be one of only 40+ school districts
in the state that do not provide this important benefit to our community. Change is necessary,
and we are FULLY committed to ALL of the stakeholders particularly the teachers/staff,
parents/guardians and their children to ensure that FDK implementation and the realignment of
our elementary schools is executed in the most seamless way possible. As elected board
members, our responsibility is to ultimately take an objective view that benefits ALL of the
students in our community and establishes an optimal learning environment for the future. We
believe we are doing that. Mr. Reinstein then turned the meeting over to Dr. Varley to provide
her recommendation.
REPORT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT
Dr. Varley welcomed and thanked everyone for attending the meeting. She stated that at the
meeting, the Board of Education will be voting on the proposal for FDK and the necessary
realignment of our elementary schools as well as approving the proposed budget for the 2021-
2022 school year. The proposed budget includes the addition of Full Day Kindergarten teachers,
supplies, and other supports. It also includes a counselor and a school social worker to support
our students in their transition back to, what we all hope will be, a normal school year in the Fall.
Dr. Varley responded to a specific question received about 5th graders remaining at Woodruff.
We have examined the numbers and determined that we would need a minimum of 18 students.
This number is very fluid because it is impacted by special education and support considerations
that we cannot not know until we see the specific students who choose to remain.
Dr. Varley continued that when we began the proposal for FDK and realigning the elementary
schools, we knew it would be a contentious issue. We knew that no matter what change we
proposed, and no matter how we proceeded, we knew that there would be people who would be
upset. Knowing that we did our best to produce the best possible plan for the children of
Berkeley Heights, we also knew that no matter how meticulously we planned, there would be
things we did not think of. She thanked everyone who gave feedback through town hall
meetings. The public input has been invaluable in making the proposal stronger and more
comprehensive. We have listened to everyone in both of these sessions and through all of your
emails, and have worked as best we can to answer your questions and address your areas of
concern while maintaining the integrity of the proposal. She is confident that the FDK and
realignment proposal provides the best educational opportunity for our current and future
students.
Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 8 of 35
REPORT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT (continued)
Before she began with the presentation, Dr. Varley took a moment to address the direction and
the tone that the process has descended to. When the Board of Education tasked her to develop a
plan for Full Day Kindergarten, it became quickly apparent that the best solution would be to
realign the elementary schools and she knew that it would become a contentious issue. People
are passionate about their elementary schools; she understands that, both as a professional
educator and as a mother. While she understands that people are deeply passionate about the
subject, what she was unprepared for were the many personal attacks. Reasonable people can
disagree, but personal attacks are unnecessary. To take the most recent example of many, she
has been repeatedly and publicly called a liar.
This attack is based on emails and responses surrounding the traffic study. Specifically, she
responded to an email message on April 12th commenting on two discussions she had previously
had in 2020 with the BHPD. When she worked on, and ultimately posted a Facebook response,
she referred to a more recent meeting with the BHPD that had occurred on April 14th. She
apologized, and stated that she should have been more clear that these were two different sets of
conversations that occurred at two different times. She takes full responsibility if this was not
clear, but it was also not a lie.
Dr. Varley reiterated that reasonable people can disagree. If people want to disagree with the
plan- please do so - we have used these discussions to make a better proposal. If people want to
attack me personally to attack the plan - you have the right to do so - but it is uncalled for and it
will not make a better proposal and will not help the district move forward. She then turned the
meeting over to Mr. Reinstein to recognize our volunteers.
Recognition of Community Members who Facilitated COVID Vaccination Appointments
for District Staff Members.
Mr. Reinstein celebrated the group of volunteers who helped secure vaccines for the community,
and for our staff in the district. He recognized Deborah Varnerin, Daniella McDonald, Krista
Saturnia, Gia Meredith, Cheryl Harris, Ritu Chandra, Tammy Sanders, Jill Chhowalla and
Jennifer Battista. It is the work of people like them that make this community a great place to
live. He thanked them on behalf of the board, stating many were up during the middle of the
night to get these appointments.
Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 9 of 35
REPORT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT (continued)
Realignment of Schools Recommendation for the Elementary Schools
Dr. Varley began the presentation reviewing the parent summary of the survey. There were 656
total votes that were received from the eligible families. Of that number, there were 442 viable
votes, as some were eliminated due to multiple duplicate entries, as well as non-registered
students. Of the 751 families that were eligible to vote, 442 took part, showing 59%
participation in the voting process. She shared by school the summary of the two choices:
School Scenario 4 Scenario 5
MKM 74.3% 25.7%
Mountain Park 62.9% 37.1%
Hughes School 61.1% 38.9%
Woodruff School 34.6% 65.4%
Dr. Varley also shared the staff member votes, showing that 58% of the staff were in favor of
Scenario 4, and 42% in favor of Scenario 5.
Based on the feedback from the community and the staff, and in the best interest of the students
of Berkeley Heights Public Schools, she recommended the creation of two K-2 schools - William
Woodruff and Mary Kay McMillin) and two 3-5 schools - Thomas P. Hughes School and
Mountain Park School, beginning in the 2021-2022 school year.
Dr. Varley reviewed the changes made based on parent feedback, which include: 3rd and 4th
grade Hughes students living on or off Plainfield Avenue will continue to attend Hughes School
instead of transitioning to Mountain Park; subscription busing for 2020-2022 school year will be
offered to any student who doesn’t qualify for state-mandated busing. For one year, the district
will provide a 50% subsidy for K-5 students only to ease the transition, and the subsidy will be
reviewed at the conclusion of the year.
Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 10 of 35
REPORT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT (continued)
Dr. Varley continued, stating that additional analysis to be completed includes a transportation
study. This will be a two-part approach to be completed by May 31, and the scope will include
MKM, Hughes, Woodruff and Mountain Park. There will be a traffic engineering evaluation
with the outside traffic consultant, and review of Safe Routes to School with the BHPD and their
traffic safety officers to review walking routes, paths, crossing guards and other considerations
for student safety.
Mrs. Young asked about the cost for subscription busing. Is there a minimum number for this to
be viable? Mrs. Felezzola responded that we would try to fit students onto buses that are already
going to the schools. If there is a need, we will add buses. We will look at picking up children
from one family together and dropping off at two different schools as they have different start
times. A survey will be going out tomorrow.
Mrs. Young also commented that there should have been a comments section on the survey
along with the selection to get a holistic view.
Mrs. Penna asked about subscription busing and the potential cost. Mrs. Felezzola replied that
the current fee is $1,000.00 per child, which is our costs, and would be shared amongst everyone.
Mrs. Penna asked about the traffic study, and Mr. Reinstein said that after being approved
tonight, the company will be ready to go. Dr. Varley is also ready to meet with the BHPD.
Mr. Cianciulli asked for clarification on the cost. If children are going on the same route, will
there be a family cost instead?
Ms. Reilly asked when the survey and application will be sent. Mrs. Felezzola responded that
the application will be going out tomorrow.
Mr. Reinstein confirmed that the cost of $60,000 for transportation is the cost of a route, not a
bus.
Ms. Reilly asked about crossing guards at the railroad tracks. Mrs. Felezzola responded that
there is one on Plainfield Avenue, and we would look at Snyder. Ms. Reilly also asked about
the upkeep of the walking paths, whose responsibility is it to keep them clear and walkable. Mrs.
Felezzola responded that the paths are joint ownership. The schools work together with the
township to keep paths clear and maintained.
Mrs. Young asked who covers the cost of the crossing guards, would the district cover this? Mr.
Reinstein responded that the district would.
Mr. Cianciulli asked about the paths being cleared from snow, who will ensure this? Mrs.
Felezzola responded that the schools try to keep those clear.
Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 11 of 35
LIAISON REPORTS
Mrs. Young attended UCSBA meeting. These are educational opportunities for our board
members. There were elections as well, and everyone was voted in again. One of the
discussions was the way forward, planning for the reopening of schools in September. Where is
that plan for our district? Governor Murphy's budget also was addressed. Ms. Reilly asked if
this means we will get additional state funding? Mrs. Felezzola said we should get additional
funding again.
FACILITIES REPORT Mrs. Felezzola reported that there are several resolutions on the agenda pertaining to facilities.
We are approving the use of the GL track and field for a summer camp. Approving the
installation of security cameras at the GL snack shack. We are appointing an engineering firm to
perform a traffic study at our schools. Initial scope is to concentrate on the elementary schools
but we will also be completing a traffic study at CMS & GL. Our goal is to optimize the flow
into and out of the schools, the engineers will look at schools in relation to the neighborhood
streets, school access, parking & pedestrian accommodations. They will observe drop off and
pick up & study the impact of this on surrounding roads.
There was a bid opening for the construction of the classroom toilets at MKM & WW and we
will be awarding those contracts in preparation for FDK.
Mrs. Young and Mrs. Penna asked about the need for the camera at the snack shack. Mrs.
Felezzola responded that the shack was vandalized, so with technology evolving, we will now be
able put cameras up and receive information through wifi.
Ms. Reilly asked about rethinking how lunch will be served next year? Dr. Varley responded
that the principals have met with the BHEA representatives to talk about the lunch plan. Mrs.
Felezzola responded that the food service company is rethinking how it will be serving lunch as
well.
CITIZENS HEARING
Mrs. Ramya Kasthuri, Berkeley Heights, shared that the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
initiatives encouraged BOE members to speak up and shut down negative comments. Board
members who were silent last week showed that it invites the idea that DEI goals are open to
attack. This is required by NJ law. Ms. Reilly apologized.
Mrs. Emily Ramos, Berkeley Heights, followed up on Mrs. Kasthuri, and her support of DEI. It
is important that kids go to school where there is no fear of harassment or trauma. The work is
not easy, but is confident it will lead to a more welcoming school district. She encourages the
board to speak out as well. Mrs. Young agrees wholeheartedly, that we need to make a stand and
make a comment. She was stunned and speechless at the last meeting. After thought and
consideration, she knows she has to speak up, being an African American woman in this
community. She will do her part going forward. She appreciates all the work that is being done.
Mrs. Penna will also speak up more in the future. Mr. Reinstein added that we will continue to
bring DEI topics to our meetings, making this a priority. Mr. D’Aquila echoed that silence was
also out of shock and anger.
Minutes
April 29, 2021
Page 12 of 35
Mr. Todd Najarian, Berkeley Heights, presented a petition of 461 signatures, of residents
protesting the redistricting process. It is against the nine week planning process that left families
out of the decisions. It will dismantle current neighborhood schools. It demands that the BOE
restart the process with family input. He continued that the data is not convincing. The town
hall settings were not true family input. Walking to school is not preserved for Woodruff
families. The BHPD should have completed a survey. Why wasn’t the town and BHPD
notified? He asked Mrs. Young if she was aware that the transition of Hamilton Terrace school
was a three-year process. FDK and redistricting should not have been combined. Mrs. Young
responded she was not aware that it was a three year process, and that she would be sharing her
thoughts later.
Mr. Bret Sayer, Berkeley Heights, shared that on May 4th, it will be the two-year anniversary of
Annie Young passing away. She was a star, a leader and competitor. She loved playing at CMS.
He is formally asking the board to name the upperfield after her and asked for a formalized
dedication. Mr. Reinstein reiterated that it was a tremendous loss, and we will figure out the best
way to move forward with this.
Mr. Michael Bozzone, Berkeley Heights, felt that personal attacks were not his intention. He
thanked Dr. Varley for the kindergarten roll-out. He is disturbed by the George Floyd case, but
still thousands were killed in Chicago. He doesn’t care about skin color. We need diversity of
thought. He was slandered on Facebook. He cares about the community; he is a man of dignity.
He wants diversity of thoughts. The country is not racist; it is a class issue. We need to raise
socio-economic status. Ms. Reilly commented she doesn’t agree with his position. His views
are out of sync with the community.
Mr. Doug Grober, Berkeley Heights, presented copies of petitions to have a binding referendum
for redistricting. We are not addressesing FDK. Voting tonight and voting no does not stop
FDK. Redistricting should be put to vote. The community needs to have their input on a fair
process.
Mr. Charles Santore, Berkeley Heights, asked Dr. Varley to share the results from Florham Park
schools, including test results. Why was scenario 3 not included in the survey. Option 3 is the
least costly option. A 1-5 model is successful in neighboring towns. Mr. Reinstein responded
that scenario 3 is not physically able to be done. There would be additional costs for staff and
scheduling concerns, including lunch and physical education sharing one room. Dr. Varley
replied to the comparison model in Florham Park, K-2 and 3-5, but not the reason we went in this
direction. Florham Park test scores are vastly improving, but not up to Berkeley Heights scores.
We looked at many models, it is best practice, developmentally appropriate, and financially
achievable.
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April 29, 2021
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Mr. Michael LeBlond, Berkeley Heights, is not a fan of this plan. He thanked everyone who is
involved. Parents of Berkeley Heights are involved now and have to stay involved. They have
to hold the BOE accountable. He stated that the data from the traffic study survey won't be
accurate due to COVID. The Woodruff area children will have to cross railroad tracks and walk
on Snyder Avenue. Why are we taking bids on a project that hasn’t been approved? Mr.
Reinstein responded that the traffic study will adjust for pre-Covid and earlier data. We will
review the recommendations from the BHPD, especially regarding the railroad tracks. We will
make sure the students can walk safely. Mrs. Felezzola responded that regarding the building
bid, the results are valid for 60 days, it allowed us to move forward quickly if the plan is
approved.
Mrs. Loraine Anderson, Berkeley Heights, echoed Mr. Sayer’s comments about Annie Young
and her legacy. Many of her classmates visit the garden at Hughes. These students will be
moving to CMS next year.
Mrs. Toiya Facey, Berkeley Heights, applauds the district for the DEI initiative. Inclusion means
all children belong. The district respects differing views; these comments reinforce this.
Children will tell you that there are issues in the schools.
Mr. George Devanney, Berkeley Heights, shared his personal experience and his thoughts of
taking a step back. He advocated that the board members vote no, the plan is ot fully thought
out. We are all stakeholders. We should be at the table from the beginning. He asked the board
to vote no on redistricting. He also confirmed the impact of Annie's legacy, it had a regional and
far-reaching impact.
Mrs. Sai Bhargavi, Berkeley Heights, referred to the Code of Ethics for BOE members. Is this a
violation of the Code of Ethics that not all stakeholders were considered? How were two town
hall meetings enough? She wanted to hear from the BOE. There is a lack of empirical data for
scenario 3. How is it safe that students cross railroad tracks? There is a lack of comprehensive
traffic study. Did we consider moving back to 4 K-5 schools? The $6 million, she wants
clarification. Was it evaluated? Why is this being crammed down their throats? Are BOE
members confident this is the correct plan. Mr. Reinstein responded that the board did not
violate the Code of Ethics. The two town hall meetings gave residents multiple hours to ask
questions. Empirical data was shared many times. Scenario 3 has $500,000 additional costs.
Students cross railroad tracks at Plainfield Avenue and we are aware that this has to be
addressed. We will work with professionals regarding their recommendations. We can’t share
space to accommodate K-5. The $6 million figure is for adding on to MKM. The transition to
MKM was over 3 years. Dr. Varley said she asked many who were in the district when
Hamilton Terrace was transitioned, and there was not a vote on the 3 three transition. Ms. Reilly
added that there was no community vote on changing MKM. De-regionalization required a vote.
Mrs. Dawn Bernstein Berkeley Heights, stated that there are people who are not speaking out
who are also not in support of the changes. How many people participated in the survey? Mr.
Reinstein responded that 442 families responded to the survey; 59% of the families in favor of
scenario 4. The number on the petition may include others than those in the K-4 population.
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April 29, 2021
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Mrs. Melissa Santora, Berkeley Heights, that other states are approving universal Pre-K, would
we have to redistrict again if NJ requires it? Does this plan take into consideration the 1,000
units that are being built? Does the plan include the increase in population? Mr. Reinstein
responded that we had a demographer come in and look at all the proposed housing. By
rebalancing the schools, we will have more space in the schools to accommodate universal pre-K
and the expected growth.
Mr. Tony Knuth, Berkeley Heights, did not fill the survey out as he didn’t agree with either
option. Originally, the board said scenario 3 was not developmentally appropriate, but tonight
said it was not financially responsible. Mr. Reinstein responded that there are several reasons
why it was not appropriate.
Mrs. Dipti Khanna, Berkeley Heights, said the current model is not developmentally appropriate.
How will you measure the success of the new models? Will the schools be reconfigured if there
is new research? The BOE provides oversight and governance, but these meetings are showing
you as a defender instead of asking questions. You appear to have a bias already for the plan.
Dr. Varley responded that it will take a couple of years to see changes in the data. We don’t
realign schools on a whim, we are addressing FDK and equity in services. Mr. Reinstein added
that the board does provide oversight. The superintendent and administration run the schools,
the BOE ensures that the schools are well run. He has to facilitate the board meetings as the
president, he fields the questions and answers when he can. It does not impede him from being
impartial. Ms. Reilly added that she has been very involved in the process. She has been
engaged and has pushed back as necessary.
Mrs. Stephanie Karpoff, Berkeley Heights, supports the diversity efforts. She also supports Mr.
Sayre and his recommendations for the fields for Annie. She pleaded with the board that if they
agree with the plan, to roll it out over several years. Covid has impacted the students.
Mrs. Carolyn Sayer, Berkeley Heights, appreciates the board’s support to rename the field for
Annie. “Play for Annie” is an important motto. Mr. Reinstein responded that there is no
maximum level of ways to support Annie.
Mr. Jess Germansky, Berkeley Heights, supports the comments and DEI initiatives. The
environment at the other town hall meetings seemed to stifle board member’s comments. It is
important to hear from all board members. The options on the survey were not valid. He asked
for statistics on the totaling of comments. He asked about structures of peer groups. Many have
K-5 in the same building. Only about 10% change schools between grades 2 and 3. He urged
board members to vote against this. You can’t vote for FDK and not vote for redistricting.
Mr. Lee Timmermann, Berkeley Heights, asked the board to consider letting the students living
behind the hardware store move to Hughes with their peers. Mr. Reinstein replied there are 17
students; they will review the information.
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April 29, 2021
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Mr. Tom Foregger, Berkeley Heights, sent a letter to the board regarding reconfiguration and
summarized the major findings. What peer reviewed research was used, especially in light of the
information he sent. Mr. Reinstein responded that all of the board members received his email.
Dr. Varley responded that they looked at literature reviews and conversations with experts. Most
districts don’t have the ability to restructure.
Mrs. Renee Ciesla, Berkeley Heights, asked if the superintendent's recommendation is approved,
how will the cost of crossing guards be covered. How will we deal with children who don’t get
vaccinated? She pleaded that the decision be put off. She also supports renaming the field for
Annie Young. Mr. Reinstein responded that there are ebbs and flows in the budget. It is critical
to have safety. We will adjust as necessary. Dr. Varley added that we currently have
unvaccinated students who attend the schools. The DOH and CDC have not put out anything
new, and she presumes that exemptions will remain.
Mr. Munjal Shah, Berkeley Heights, has two requests. Why does every top private school have
K-5 in the same building, and what percent of US public schools have K-5 in the same building?
Woodruff families voted differently. Take them into consideration. Dr. Varley responded that
we don't have the ability to house K-5 in our building based on State mandates, especially
regarding PE. It would impact student schedules. Mr. Reinstein knows that the school
configuration at Woodruff changed more than Mountain Park and Hughes.
Mrs. Stephanie Ziar, Berkeley Heights, echoed the comments about the survey data. The survey
was biased and not valid.
Mrs. Santora said there were 751 eligible families to vote on the plan. The board stated they
need 55%. The results were manipulated to support the recommendation. Mr. Reinstein
responded that the decision was going to be based on 55% of the votes that came in.
Mrs. Nancy Imbalzano, Berkeley Heights, appreciates what the district has done regarding DEI.
Systemic racism has impacted families. She is a market researcher. These surveys should have
had more options. She doesn’t know why people didn’t vote. The survey was biased. Change is
hard. 20% is a lot of people changing. What support are we giving the staff to deal with the
changes? Dr. Varley responded that they have discussed the next steps and will work to define
the transition plans for students and staff.
Minutes
April 29, 2021
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PRESENTATION OF PROPOSED 2021-2022 BUDGET
All Board members.
A. ADOPTION OF PROPOSED 2021-2022 BUDGET It was moved by Mr. Hyman and
seconded by Mr. Cianciulli that the Board adopt the following resolutions:
WHEREAS, on March 18, 2021, the Berkeley Heights Board of Education approved the