MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING

OF THE

RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION

JULY 14, 2003

A regular meeting of the Board of Education was held on Monday evening, July 14, 2003 in the High School Library. Meeting was called to order by President Willis at 7:33 P.M. with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

On roll call the following members were present: Mrs. Ahmed, Mr. Casadonte, Mrs. Cevasco, Mr. Ferguson, Mrs. Monahan, Mr. Novosielski, and Mrs. Willis. Mr. Brancato arrived at 8:09 P.M. Mr. Gibney was absent for the entire meeting. Also present were Mrs. Conlon and Mr. Brown.

N.J. OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS LAW

The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Law was enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advance notice of and to attend the meeting of public bodies at which any business affecting their interests is discussed or acted upon. In accordance with the provisions of this Act, the Rutherford Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be published by having the date, time and place thereof posted on the bulletin board outside the Borough Clerk's Office, mailed to the News Leader, Herald, South Bergenite, and the Record newspapers, and filed with the Borough Clerk.

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT:

• Mr. Brancato gave an update on the status of negotiations.

• Pres. Willis announced that the next meeting will be held on August 11, 2003 at 7:30 P.M. in the H.S. Library.

MEETING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: (Agenda Items Only) 9:18 P.M.

Mrs. Helen Schneider commented on the Grading Policy.

Meeting was then closed to the public at 9:27 P.M.

NEW BUSINESS (Action to be Taken)

PERSONNEL: Motion by Mrs. Ahmed, seconded by Mr. Novosielski to move the following resignations, retirements, salary adjustments, reassignments, appointments, etc., pending approval from the State Department of Education, subject to the New Jersey Criminal Background Check and other legal requirements.

Approved.

Motion by Mrs. Ahmed, seconded by Mr. Brancato to approve Personnel Items #1-15.

EMERGENT HIRES 1. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to employ the following applicant(s) under the emergent hiring law as per the State Department of Education:

Dennis Mitchell – Custodial Helper

Alison Cevasco – HASP Counselor

Frank Herrmann – Lifeguard

Eduardo Suri – Volunteer Football Coach

DENNIS MITCHELL 2. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to employ Mr. Dennis Mitchell as a summer helper and substitute custodian effective 7/7/03 at the hourly rate of $10.00.

DOUGLAS DEMO 3. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to rescind the appointment of Mr. Douglas Demo as a leave replacement teacher and employ him as a permanent Spanish teacher at the high school effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $45,164 (step 6, level 5) pending further negotiations. This is a replacement for Mrs. Decker.

ELEM. CO-CURRICULAR 4. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to appoint Ms. Patricia Olivo as the Drama Club Advisor at Union School for the 2003-2004 school year at the annual stipend of $485.00 pending further negotiations.

MICHELLE SABIA 5. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to employ Ms. Michelle R. Sabia as a grade 1 teacher at Union School effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $39,137 (step 5, level 2) pending further negotiations. This is a replacement position for Ms. Ziemkiewicz.

HASP EMPLOYEES 6. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION for the HASP Program to employ the following at the salaries listed:

Jolyn Garner – Summer HASP Director – Salary $5,000 per month for the months of July and August 2003

Jolyn Garner – HASP Director – Salary $4,000 per month for 10 months September 2003 – June 2004 (inclusive)

Dawn Spiro – HASP Finance Administrator – Salary $1,000 per month for 12 months (July 2003 – June 2004, inclusive)

H.S. COACHING 7. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Mr. Eduardo Suri as a volunteer football coach for the 2003-2004 school year.

NELSON MENDEZ 8. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Mr. Nelson Mendez as an instructor in the Summer Band School at a salary of $1,000.

BARBARA CAPUTO 9. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Ms. Barbara Caputo, LPN as a 12-month one-on-one Personal Medical Aide effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $30,000 (pro-rated). This is a new position.

H.S. CO-CURRICULAR 10. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following personnel and stipends listed for the 2003-2004 school year, subject to the successful completion of duties and pending further negotiations. The Board reserves the right to cancel any activity in which sufficient students do not participate.

2003 Class Sponsors 12th Grade (2) Barbara Constantinople $1,215.00

Michael Stracco 1,215.00

2004 Class Sponsors 11th Grade (2) John Herninko 1,033.50

Debra Hoffmann 1,033.50

2005 Class Sponsor 10th Grade (2) Rufina Rodriguez 861.00

Timothy Ajala 861.00

2006 Class Sponsor 9th Grade (1) OPEN 833.00

Senior Play Director Christine Williams 1,803.00

Senior Play Music Director Patricia Olivo 1,523.00

Senior Play Choreographer Amy Justice 857.00

Stage Crew Director Michael Davidson 2,254.00

Vocal Ensemble (Special Chorus) Denis Mullins 918.00

Audio Visual Aids William Mains 2,945.00

Yearbook - Art & Literary Amy Butler 2,970.00

Yearbook - Business Judith DePasquale 1,694.00

R-Hi Newspaper Nancy Kenny 1,680.00

All School Play Director Michael Stracco 1,803.00

Forensics OPEN 1,722.00

G.O. Collector Audrey Blinstrub 2,458.00

Student Council Judith Leonard 2,549.00

Band Director Donald Baker 3,414.00

Band Front Director Sheri Wisk 1,284.00

Percussion Instructor OPEN 1,296.00

Drill Instructor Dave Goss 1,796.00

Math Team Alison Heinzel 991.00

National Honor Society Debra DeLia 416.50

Marisa Yoda 416.50

Academic Decathlon Jason Narozny 2,549.00

E.R.A.S.E. (2) Judith DePasquale 834.00

Judith Leonard 834.00

Popcert Director Dennis Mullins 1,803.00

Parent Education Coordinator Pamela Brillante 2,000.00

Classification I:

Art Club Constance Crowell 239.00

Biology Club Patricia Germain 239.00

Chemistry Club Mark Rojowski 239.00

French Club Bonnie Donnell 239.00

Gourmet Club Leonard Williams 239.00

Spanish Club Douglas Demo 239.00

Classification II:

Computer Club Michael Davidson 311.00

Drama Club Christine Williams 311.00

Foreign Language Honor Society Edwin Rentel/ 155.50

Bonnie Donnell 155.50

Health Career Club Judith DePasquale 311.00

Asian Club Mary Kotsopulos 311.00

Photography Club Steven Mett 311.00

Physics/Astronomy Club OPEN 311.00

Psychology Club Joseph Wells 311.00

Classification III:

Chess Club Len Baylor 383.00

FBLA Carol Drewes 191.50

Judith Leonard 191.50

Interact Club Rita O’Neill-Wilson 383.00

Key Club Pamela Brillante 383.00

Mock Trial Rufina Rodriguez 383.00

Pep Club Leonard Williams 383.00

SCRIBE Melissa Candurra 383.00

Ski Club Donald Baker/ 191.50

Leonard Williams/ 191.50

Varsity Club Robert Urbanovich 191.50

Frank Morano 191.50

Non-Stipend Positions

Harvesters Club OPEN

Costumes – Senior Musical Christine Williams

Newcomers Club Lynda Meredith

Future Politicians Nicholas Moccia

Rtv Club Alan Weber

Theology Club Alison Heinzel

Future Teachers of America Margaret Nastasi

Public Relations Lori Dernelle

S.A.D.D. Frank Stout

AP Exams Barbara Weissman

Future Problem Solvers Brenda Fargo

Repertory Christine Williams

Weight Room Advisors:

Nicholas DeBari

John DePalma

COACHING ASSIGNMENTS 11. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following coaching assignments for the 2003-2004 school year per agreement between the Rutherford Board of Education and the Rutherford Education Association pending further negotiations:

Head Football John DePalma $6,400 (1-4)

Assistants Frank Stout 3,974 (1-4)

John Herninko 3,974 (1-4)

Robert Urbanovich 3,974 (1-4)

Roger Kotlarz 3,974 (1-4)

John Zisa Volunteer

Ed Suri Volunteer

Basketball-Boys

Head Brian Gaccione 5,188 (1-4)

Assistants Ed Matheison 3,563 (1-4)

Frank Morano 3,563 (1-4)

Basketball-Girls

Head Nicholas DeBari 5,188 (1-4)

Assistants Marisa Yoda 3,563 (1-4)

Len Baylor 3,563 (1-4)

Baseball Head Mike Lauterhahn 4,610 (1-4)

Assistants Robert Urbanovich 3,258 (1-4)

Brian Gaccione 3,258 (1-4)

Dan Lauterhahn Volunteer

Softball Head Ismael Falcon 4,610 (1-4)

Assistants Kathryn Bertrand 3,258 (1-4)

OPEN 3,258 (1-4)

Head Soccer-Boys Edward Bosland 4,610 (1-4)

Assistant Peter Ayala 3,258 (1-4)

Paul Scutti 3,258 (1-4)

Head Soccer-Girls Marisa Yoda 4,610 (1-4)

Sara Behnke 3,258 (1-4)

Indoor Track

Boys Head Robert Hemmel 4,579 (10+)

Assistant Sherrianne Adamo 3,153 (1-4)

Indoor Track

Girls Head Edward Bosland 4,253 (1-4)

Spring Track-Boys

Head OPEN 4,253 (1-4)

Assistants John Herninko 3,258 (1-4)

Spring Track-Girls

Head Ed Bosland 4,610 (1-4)

Assistant Carlos Vieira 3,258 (1-4)

Cross Country

Head-Boys Robert Hemmel 4,579 (10+)

Head-Girls Kathryn Bertrand 4,253 (1-4)

Wrestling Head Jeffrey Rehain 5,525 (10+)

Assistant Michael Blanchard 3,563 (1-4)

Frank Stout 3,563 (1-4)

Volleyball Head Sherrianne Adamo 4,253 (1-4)

Assistants Tom Potor 3,302 (10+)

Brian Gaccione 3,028 (1-4)

Swimming Head Kenneth Berk 4,710 (5-9)

Assistant Kathryn Bertrand 3,258 (1-4)

Tennis-Boys

Head Ray Venezia 4,535 (10+)

Assistant Len Baylor 3,053 (1-4)

Girls Tennis

Head David Padilla 4,253 (1-4)

Assistant Len Baylor 3,053 (1-4)

Bowling Head David Padilla 3,205 (10+)

Cheering-Fall LuAnn Voza-Shoebridge 2,750 (5-9)

Cheering-Fall Amy Justice 2,648 (1-4)

Cheering-Winter LuAnn Voza-Shoebridge 2,750 (5-9)

Cheering-Winter Amy Justice 2,648 (1-4)

LESLIE A. CONLON 12. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION that the Addendum to the Employment Agreement between Leslie A. Conlon and the Rutherford Board of Education, for the period beginning July 1, 2002 through June 30, 2007 is hereby approved.

ANTHONY LA TORRE, SR. 13. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the appointment of Mr. Anthony LaTorre, Sr. as a utility man in the Maintenance Dept. effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $40,305 (step 9, class b pro-rated). This is a replacement for Mr. Wilke.

DEBORAH COURTNEY 14. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to employ Ms. Deborah Courtney as a special education teacher in the Resource Center Program effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $44,811 (step 8, level 3) pending further negotiations. This is a new position.

SOCIAL STUDIES 15. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to employ _______________ as a social studies teacher at the high school effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of ______________________. This is a replacement for Ms. Everson.

Roll Call Vote Personnel Items #1-#15:

Motion by Mrs. Ahmed, seconded by Mrs. Cevasco to approve Personnel Items #16 and #17.

LYNN DECKER 16. Motion to accept the resignation of Mrs. Lynn Decker, Spanish teacher at Union School, effective July 2, 2003.

PATRICIA DGUCK 17. Motion to accept the retirement of Mrs. Patricia Dguck, substitute caller, effective June 20, 2003.

Approved.

CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION:

Motion by Mr. Novosielski, seconded by Mrs. Cevasco to approve Curriculum and Instruction Items #1-#2.

NJ CHILD ASSAULT 1. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to apply for participation in the NJ Child Assault Prevention Program for the 2003-2004 school year and to apply for funding through the regional training office.

OUT-OF-DISTRICT 2. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the

PLACEMENTS following out-of-district placements (names on file in the office of special services) for the 2003-2004 school year:

Student No. Transportation

2000085 SBJC – Maywood $30,340.80 Yes

2000111 SBJC – Lodi 30,340.80 Yes

2000290 SBJC – Lodi 30,340.80 Yes

2000199 SBJC – Lodi 30,340.80 Yes

2000466 SBJC – Maywood 30,340.80 Yes

2000420 SBJC – Maywood 30,340.80 Yes

2000387 SBJC – Maywood 30,340.80 Yes

2000331 SBJC – Maywood 30,340.80 Yes

2000392 SBJC – Maywood 30,340.80 No

2000482 SBJC – Maywood 30,340.80 Yes

2000421 ACES Program 35,700.00 Yes

2000113 ACES Program 35,700.00 Yes

2000410 Douglass Center 65,255.61 No

2000380 Holmstead 32,113.00 Yes

2000018 Ridgefield HS 41,573.00 Yes

2000035 Washington South 42,600.00 Yes

2000036 Ridgefield HS 41,573.00 Yes

2000039 Children’s Institute – Verona 36,180.00 Yes

2000043 Sage Day – Rochelle Park 33,800.00 Yes

2000053 Essex Valley School 32,287.00 Yes

2000049 Sage Day – Boonton 33,800.00 Yes

2000062 CP Center 48,745.00 Yes

2000334 Essex Valley School 32,287.00 Yes

2000069 Learning Center Exceptional Children 34,331.40 Yes

2000399 Lake Drive School 43,000.00 Yes

2000076 SBJC – Lodi 30,340.80 Yes

2000320 CP Center – Clifton 47,072.00 Yes

2000092 ECLC 27,752.40 Yes

2000103 Barnstable 31,900.00 Yes

2000400 Essex Valley School 32,287.00 Yes

2000136 Lake Drive School 43,000.00 Yes

2000137 Lakeview School 33,416.00 Yes

2000152 Sage Day – Rochelle Park 33,800.00 Yes

2000170 Ridgefield HS 41,573.00 Yes

2000174 Life Skills – Wood-Ridge 35,000.00 Yes

2000345 SBJC – Maywood 30,340.80 Yes

2000183 SBJC – Maywood 30,340.80 Yes

2000206 Ridgefield HS 41,573.00 Yes

2000244 Phoenix Center 39,780.00 Yes

2002541 Euclid School TBD No

2002499 Sage Day – Rochelle Park 33,800.00 Yes

2002529 Sage Day – Boonton 33,800.00 Yes

2000282 ACES Program 35,700.00 Yes

2002561 SBJC – Maywood 30,340.80 Yes

Roll Call Vote Curriculum & Instruction Items #1-#2:

FINANCE:

APPROVAL OF BILLS: 1. Resolution by Mr. Brancato, seconded by Mrs. Cevasco.

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION that the bills listed below be approved.

Accounts Payable 6/30/03 $161,400.07

Void Check (53,341.24)

7/14/03 385,797.46

$493,856.29

Roll Call Vote Finance Item #1:

POLICY:

AWARDS FOR ACHIEVEMENT 1. Resolution by Mrs. Cevasco, seconded by Mr. Brancato.

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following revised Policy #5126 Awards for Achievement on second reading:

BOARD OF EDUCATION PUPILS

RUTHERFORD 5126/page 1 of 2

AWARDS FOR ACHIEVEMENT

General

The board of education believes that pupil achievement should be recognized at all levels in a manner appropriate to the pupil's accomplishment.

The board directs the chief school administrator/designee to develop criteria and procedures for presenting awards to pupils for scholarship and outstanding accomplishments in the arts, athletics and citizenship.

The chief school administrator shall review and advise the board on acceptance of proposed trophies, prizes, scholarships or other awards from nonschool donors. Any such proposed award shall be free from bias as outlined in the district's affirmative action policies.

Criteria regarding eligibility and selection for awards shall be disseminated annually to all pupils and parents/guardians.

Academic Recognition

The board directs the chief school administrator/designee to establish criteria and procedures for placing pupils in grades 6 through 12 on academic honor rolls.

To be eligible for a Board of Education Scholastic Award students must meet the criteria of Maximum Honors or a 3.70 or higher weighted grade point average.

Athletic Participation

The board wishes to recognize the achievements of pupils who give many hours of their time to represent the school in interscholastic athletics. Requirements for awards in each sport shall be decided by a committee composed of coaches, athletic director and principal.

Service Participation

School service groups shall be recognized for participation in order to emphasize the importance of good citizenship in school life as outlined in the course of study.

Award of Scholarships or Prizes

The Board of Education will permit the award of scholarships or prizes to deserving pupils provided that the information regarding pupils is released only in accordance with Board policy on pupil records, the manner of selection of the recipient is approved by the principal, and the nature of the prize or award is approved by the principal.

Adopted:

Legal References: N.J.S.A. 18A:36-20Discrimination; prohibition

N.J.S.A. 18A:71-27Higher education; scholarship funds; establishment; administration

Roll Call Vote Policy Item #1:

Motion by Mrs. Cevasco, seconded by Mr. Brancato to approve Policy Items #2 and #3 on second reading.

COMMENCEMENT ACTIVITIES 2. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following revisions to Policy #5127 Commencement Activities on second reading:

BOARD OF EDUCATION PUPILS

RUTHERFORD 5127/page 1 of 3

COMMENCEMENT ACTIVITIES

The board endorses graduation activities and ceremonies. The date of graduation shall annually be recommended by the chief school administrator and approved by the board.

Graduation shall not occur prior to completion of the required 180 days of pupil instruction.

Guidelines for Graduation Year Activities/Graduation Procedures/Ceremonies

No pupil will be permitted to participate in graduation ceremonies unless all graduation requirements have been met.

Pupil participation in graduation year activities will require conduct of the highest caliber in all school situations.

Criteria for exclusion from these activities shall include but not limited to:

A. Recurring inappropriate behaviors

B. Consistent involvement in disciplinary action(s);

C. Suspension;

D. Collaborative evaluation by the staff.

E. Unexcused absences from rehearsal

F. Not clear of all school obligations

The final decision shall be made by the chief school administrator.

Pupils and parents/guardians shall be given advance notification of these criteria.

No pupil shall be barred from participation in graduation ceremonies for arbitrary or discriminatory reasons. A pupil who may be prevented from participation and his/her parents/guardians shall be so notified in advance and no later than two days prior to he close of the school year.

When a pupil or his/her parents/guardians experiences financial hardship and is unable to pay the costs of participation in graduation ceremonies, the board shall assume the costs of the following items:

A. Rental or purchase of cap and gown;

B. One year book;

C. Other, as may be determined by the board.

Financial hardship shall be defined by eligibility standards for free and reduced price meals under the state school lunch program.

The board reserves the right to deny participation in graduation activities when extreme circumstances warrant it. Such denial shall be treated in the same manner as a suspension and the pupil so affected shall be afforded the rights of review provided in policies of this board.

The board reserves the right to withhold a diploma and transcripts until all fines are paid.

Awarding of Diplomas

A board member shall present a copy of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States and the amendments thereto, and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey and the amendments thereto to each pupil upon graduation from elementary school.

The president of the board of education and/or another designated member of the board shall award the diplomas. Board members and former board members shall be afforded the opportunity to award diplomas to their own children.

Commencement Speakers

The first commencement speaker will be the Valedictorian. Should the Valedictorian choose not to speak the next in line would be the Salutatorian. Should the Salutatorian choose not to speak, the selection will proceed in the line of ascension.

In case of tie for Valedictorian those tied shall all have the opportunity to speak.

The second speaker will be the class president.

Adopted:

Legal References:N.J.S.A. 18A:7C-5.1 Boards of education prohibited from excluding students from graduation ceremony or from obtaining yearbook for inability to pay fees

N.J.S.A. 18A:11-1 General mandatory powers and duties

N.J.S.A. 18A:36-18 Books containing organic laws at graduation

N.J.S.A. 18A:54-20 Powers of board (county vocational schools)

N.J.A.C. 6A:8-5.1 et seq. Implementation of Graduation Requirements

Ballato v. Long Branch Board of Education, 1990 S.L.D. (August 20)

Lee v. Weisman, 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992)

American Civil Liberties Union v. Blackhorse Pike Regional Board of Education, 84 F.3d

1471 (3d Cir. 1996)

CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE 3. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following revisions to Policy #5131 Conduct/Discipline on second reading:

BOARD OF EDUCATION PUPILS

RUTHERFORD 5131/page 1 of 3

CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE

The board believes that an effective instructional program requires an orderly school environment and that the effectiveness of the educational program is, in part, affected by the behavior of pupils.

The board of education expects pupils to conduct themselves in keeping with their level of maturity, with a proper regard for the rights and welfare of other pupils, for school personnel, for the educational purpose underlying all school activities, and for the care of school facilities and equipment.

The board of education believes that standards of pupil behavior must be set cooperatively by interaction among the pupils, parents/guardians, staff and community, producing an atmosphere which encourages pupils to grow in self discipline. Such an atmosphere must include respect for self and others, as well as for district and community property.

The best discipline is self imposed, and pupils must learn to assume and accept responsibility for their own behavior, and for the consequences of their misbehavior. Staff members who interact with pupils shall use proactive disciplinary action and place emphasis on the pupils' ability to grow in self discipline.

The chief school administrator shall develop general guidelines for pupil conduct on school property and shall direct development of detailed regulations suited to the age level of the pupils and the physical facilities of the individual schools. Board policy requires each pupil of this district to adhere to the rules and regulations established by the administration and to submit to such disciplinary measures as are appropriately assigned for infraction of those rules. The chief school administrator shall provide to pupils and their parents/guardians the rules of this district regarding pupil conduct and the sanctions which may be imposed for breach of those rules. Provisions shall be made for informing parents/

guardians whose primary language is other than English.

The regulations shall:

A. Require that pupils conform to reasonable standards of socially acceptable behavior; respect the person, property and rights of others; obey constituted authority and respond to those who hold that authority;

B. Establish the degree of order necessary to the educational program in which pupils are engaged.

Pupils who display chronic behavioral problems may be referred to the child study team for possible identification as disruptive or disaffected. Such referrals shall be in strict accordance with the due process regulations prescribed by the administrative code.

A pupil whose presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property, or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process, may be suspended or expelled, following due process.

Any pupil who commits an assault (as defined by N.J.S.A. 2C:12 1) upon a board member, teacher, administrator, volunteer or other employee of the board of education shall be suspended from school immediately according to procedural due process, and suspension or expulsion proceedings shall begin no later than 30 calendar days from the date of the pupil's suspension.

Substance Abuse

In accordance with statute and code, penalties shall be assigned for use, possession and distribution of proscribed substances and drug paraphernalia. The penalties shall be graded according to the severity of the offense. Infractions shall be reported to the local law enforcement agency in accordance with the district's memorandum of agreement. Confidentiality shall be protected in accordance with federal and state law.

Firearms Offenses

Any pupil who is convicted or adjudicated delinquent for possession of a firearm or a crime while armed with a firearm or found knowingly in possession of a firearm on any school property or on a school bus or at a school-sponsored function shall be immediately removed from the school's regular education program for a period of not less than one calendar year. The chief school administrator may modify this suspension on a case-by-case basis. Each pupil so removed shall be placed in an alternative educational program or on home instruction and shall be entitled to a hearing before the board. The hearing shall take place no later than 30 days following the day the pupil is removed from the regular education program and shall be closed to the public.

The principal shall be responsible for the removal of such students and shall immediately report them to the chief school administrator. The principal shall also notify the appropriate law enforcement agency of a possible violation of the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice.

The chief school administrator shall determine at the end of the year whether the student is prepared to return to the regular education program, in accordance with procedures established by the Commissioner of Education.

Teaching staff members and other employees of this board having authority over pupils shall take such lawful means as may be necessary to control the disorderly conduct of

pupils in all situations and in all places where such pupils are within the jurisdiction of this board.

Adopted:

Legal References: N.J.S.A. 2A:4A-60 et al. Disclosure of juvenile information; penalties for

disclosure

N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1 Assault

N.J.S.A. 2C:33 19 Paging devices, possession by students

N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5 Unlawful possession of weapons

N.J.S.A. 18A:6 1 Corporal punishment of pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:11 1 General mandatory powers and duties

N.J.S.A. 18A:25 2 Authority over pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1 et seq. Discipline of pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq. Substance abuse

N.J.S.A. 18A:54 20 Powers of board (county vocational schools)

N.J.A.C. 6:8 2.1 Reporting requirements

N.J.A.C. 6:8-2.2 School-level planning

N.J.A.C. 6:29 6.1 et seq. Substance abuse

See particularly:

N.J.A.C. 6:29 6.3(c)

N.J.A.C. 6:29-10.1 et seq. Safe and drug free schools

N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.8 Discipline/suspension/expulsion

N.J.A.C. 6A:24-4.1(i)7 Implementation of Whole School Reform

Model

New Jersey State Board of Education Resolution, September 3, 1980, encourages development of local written policy on pupil conduct.

New Jersey State Board of Education Resolution, September 4, 1985, urges boards to consider expectations for pupil behavior developed by statewide advisory panel, and to develop and adopt appropriate expectations of behavior for district pupils.

20 U.S.C.A. 1415(k) Individual with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997

Bethel School District No. 403, v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986)

Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier 484 U.S. 260 (1988)

Honig v. Doe, 484 U.S. 305 (1988)

Manual for the Evaluation of Local School Districts (August 2000)

A Uniform State Memorandum of Agreement Between Education and Law

Enforcement Officials (1999 revisions)

Roll Call Vote Policy Item #2 and #3:

GRADING SYSTEM 4. Resolution by Mrs. Cevasco, seconded by Mr. Casadonte.

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following revised Policy #R6147.1 Grading System on second reading:

BOARD OF EDUCATION INSTRUCTION

RUTHERFORD R6147.1/page 1 of 3

GRADING SYSTEM

It is the policy of the Board of Education that all grades be determined on the basis of fairness and nondiscrimination. It is the responsibility of the teacher to determine a grade for each pupil in his/her class to furnish reasons, supported by evidence, to substantiate any grade given.

The grading practices and policies in grades 6-12 are as follows:

1. The grading system consists of twelve letter grades as follows:

A+ B+ C+ D+ F

A B C D

A- B- C-

In equating daily/quarterly averages to the twelve-grade format, the following percentage equivalents shall apply in every department, but this does not preclude normal distribution of grades (curving of test results) in a particular set of tests to insure fairness to students as it applies to validity and reliability:

97 and above A+

93 – 96 A 73 – 76 C

90 – 92 A- 70 – 72 C-

87 – 89 B+ 67 – 69 D+

83 – 86 B 63 – 66 D

80 – 82 B- Below 63 F

77 – 79 C+

The first number of the range is the minimum number to achieve the grade and the number averages shall not be rounded up.

2. Work graded by teachers throughout the marking period may be graded either with letter grades or with numerical equivalents. The simultaneous use of both is prohibited.

3. Report card grades must be recorded in letter grades for each marking period. Numerical grades given throughout a marking period must be averaged and converted to the appropriate letter grade/value.

4. Final Examinations at the high school will count as 1/5 of the final grade.

5. The following grade point average equivalents shall apply in determining the final grade for a course:

A+ 4.3 B+ 3.3 C+ 2.3 D+ 1.3 WF 0.0

A 4.0 B 3.0 C 2.0 D 1.0 WP 1.0

A- 3.7 B- 2.7 C- 1.7 F 0.0 NF 0.0

A student must achieve a final grade point average of 1.0 in order to achieve the minimum passing average.

In grades 6-8, when a final grade point average is at mid-point (1.5, 2.5, 3.5), the grade for the last marking period will determine the direction of the final grade.

6. In grades 9-12, a pupil receiving three marking period grades of “F” – one of which results in a final failure – will be prohibited from attending remedial summer school for said course. A pupil with 3 or more F’s may, however, attend summer school for said subject as a new course. One semester courses are not affected by this section of this policy. A student who fails physical education with 3 F’s may not attend a remedial summer school.

7. Pupils have the right to see their grades, if they so request, at a time convenient to the teachers. Pupils are to be informed by their teachers of the grading system at the beginning of the course.

8. A marking period grade must include homework (checked, graded, or discussed) to count as 20% of the marking period, as well as tests and quizzes. (Grades 9-12 only.)

9. A marking period grade may include projects, papers (ex. – research), laboratory performance, preparedness, effort, and class participation.

10. A marking period grade shall not include penalties for attendance, tardiness or behavior. Absences and approved school functions shall not count against a grade as long as the work which can be made up is made up within the appropriate amount of time.

11. Pupils who cut a class are to receive a zero for all work missed and shall not have the option to make up missed work.

12. In addition to the letter grades of A, B, C, D, F and their numerical equivalents, the following grades shall be recognized:

I = Incomplete

N = for LEP students only with administrative permission

WP = Withdrew passing

WF = Withdrew failing

NP = Noncredit passing

NF = Noncredit failing

Au = Audit

X = Excused

13. The SA grade (grade 6-8 only)

a. SA – indicates work below grade but recognized effort

and achievement equivalent to the child’s present capabilities.

b. The teacher planning the utilization of the SA grade shall do this in consultation with guidance and/or Child Study Team and/or the building administrator.

Adopted: August 11, 1986

Revised:

Roll Call Vote Policy Item #4:

CLASS RANK POLICY 5. Resolution by Mrs. Cevasco, seconded by Mr. Casadonte.

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following revised Policy #R6147.12 Class Rank Policy on second reading:

BOARD OF EDUCATION INSTRUCTION

RUTHERFORD R6147.12 page 1 of 2

CLASS RANK POLICY

Effective with the incoming freshman class, September 2003, the GPA and class rank shall be calculated as follows:

A. All courses shall be included

B. All students shall be included

C. The weighted rank shall be used for all purposes.

D. Class Rank is the student’s placement in the class according to Weighted Grade Point Average (Wt.G.P.A.). Wt.G.P.A., is calculated by using the final letter grade point numeric average equivalents in each course, and then multiplying the numeric grade equivalents times the course credits. The sum of the grade equivalents/course credits is then divided by the total credits producing the Wt. GPA.

Before doing final calculations, 0.5 is added to all final numeric equivalents in Honors and 1.0 is added for Advanced Placement courses for grades B- and higher.

The following areas shall be taken into account to calculate GPA:

1. final grades received

2. number of credits attempted

The following is an example of the method used to compute the GPA and rank:

Divide total credits into total numeric quality points to determine GPA.

3.346

35 )117.125

AP COURSES (*add 1) HONORS COURSES (*add 0.5) REGULAR

A = 5* A = 4.5* A = 4

B = 4* B = 3.5* B = 3

C = 2 C = 2 C = 2

D = 1 D = 1 D = 1

F = 0 F = 0 F = 0

WP = 1 WP = 1

WF = 0 WF = 0

E. Honors and advanced placement courses shall be so designated on transcripts.

F. If a student's record includes courses marked in a nontraditional fashion, e.g. Pass/Fail, the grade point average shall be based on those courses with traditional marks only.

G. All failing marks, as well as passing marks, shall be used in the calculation of the GPA.

H. Class rank will be computed at the end of the school year based on the final grades beginning in the ninth grade.

I. For the purpose of commencement only, the student receiving the highest GPA shall be designated Valedictorian and the student receiving the next highest GPA shall be designated Salutatorian.

J. In order to be eligible for designation as valedictorian or salutatorian, a student must attend at least six semesters of high school including the two of senior year.

K. Any student who transfers into the high school after completing more than six semesters in another high school shall not be eligible for designation as valedictorian or salutatorian.

Adopted: September 8, 1975

Revised: December 10, 1984

Revised: July 8, 1996

Revised:

Roll Call Vote Policy Item #5:

HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION 6. Resolution by Mrs. Cevasco, seconded by Mrs. Monahan.

OR BULLYING BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following revisions to Policy #5131.1 Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying on first reading:

BOARD OF EDUCATION PUPILS

RUTHERFORD 5131.1

Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying

A safe and civil environment in school is necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards. Harassment, intimidation or bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate its students in a safe environment. Since students learn by example, school administrators, faculty, staff and volunteers should be commended for demonstrating appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate harassment, intimidation or bullying.

The board prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying against any pupil or staff member will result in the disciplinary sanctions included in policies on suspension and expulsion and conduct/discipline.

“Harassment, intimidation or bullying” may be defined as any gesture or written, verbal or physical act that is reasonably perceived as being motivated either by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic, that takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function or on a school bus and that:

A. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, will have the effect of harming a pupil or damaging the pupil’s property, or placing a pupil in reasonable fear of harm to his/her person or damage to his/her property; or

B. Has the effect of insulting or demeaning any pupil or group of pupils in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.

The Board of Education expects students to conduct themselves in keeping with their levels of development, maturity and demonstrated capabilities with a proper regard for the rights and welfare of other students and school staff, the educational purpose underlying all school activities, and the care of school facilities and equipment.

Standards for student behavior should be set cooperatively through interaction among the students, parents/guardians, staff and community members, producing an atmosphere that encourages students to grow in self-discipline. The development of this atmosphere requires respect for self and others, as well as for district and community property on the part of students, staff and community members.

The Board of Education believes that the best discipline is self-imposed, and that it is the responsibility of staff to use disciplinary situations as opportunities to help students learn to assume and accept responsibility for their behavior and the consequences of their behavior. Staff members who interact with students shall apply best practices designed to prevent discipline problems and encourage students’ abilities to grow in self-discipline.

Based on broad community involvement (i.e., the use of a process that includes representation of parents/guardians and other community representatives, school employees, volunteers, students and administrators for the purpose of providing input regarding the development and content of the policy that is based on accepted core ethical values), the Board of Education shall develop general guidelines for student conduct and shall direct development of detailed regulations suited to the age levels of the students and the mission and physical facilities of the individual schools. Board policy requires all students in the district to adhere to the rules and regulations established by the school district and to submit to such disciplinary measures as are appropriately assigned for infraction of these rules.

Any school employee, pupil or volunteer who has witnessed, or has reliable information that a pupil has been subject to harassment, intimidation or bullying must report the incident to the appropriate school official designated by the administration. The board shall not tolerate an act of reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying.

In determining the appropriate response to students who commit one or more acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying, school administrators should consider the following

factors: the development and maturity levels of the parties involved, the levels of harm, the surrounding circumstances, the nature of the behaviors, past incidences or past or continuing patterns of behavior, the relationships between the parties involved and the context in which the alleged incidents occurred. Concluding whether a particular action or incident constitutes a violation of this policy requires a determination based on all of the facts and surrounding circumstances. It is only after meaningful consideration of these factors that an appropriate consequence should be determined, consistent with the case law, Federal and State statutes, regulations and policies, and district policies and procedures. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for students who commit acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion.

Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for students who commit an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion, as permitted under N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1, Discipline of Pupils.

At each school, the principal or the principal’s designee is responsible for receiving complaints alleging violations of this policy. All school employees are required to report alleged violations of this policy to the principal or the principal’s designee. All other members of the school community, including students, parents, volunteers and visitors are encouraged to report in writing a written report. Oral reports also shall be considered official reports. Reports may be made anonymously, but formal disciplinary action may not be based solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

The principal and/or the principal’s designee is responsible for determining whether an alleged act constitutes a violation of this policy. In so doing, the principal and/or the principal’s designee shall conduct a prompt, thorough and complete investigation of the alleged incident.

Some acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying may be isolated incidents requiring that the school respond appropriately to the individuals committing the acts. Other acts may be so serious or parts of a larger pattern of harassment, intimidation or bullying that they require a response either at the classroom, school building or school district levels or by law enforcement officials.

In considering whether a response beyond the individual level is appropriate, the administration should consider the nature and circumstances of the act, the level of harm, the nature of the behavior, past incidences or past or continuing patterns of behavior, and the context in which the alleged incident(s) occurred. Institutional (i.e., classroom, school building, school district) responses can range from school and community surveys, to mailings, to focus groups, to adoption or research-based bullying prevention program models, to training for certificated and non-certificated staff, to participation of parents and other community members and organizations, to small or large group presentations for fully addressing the actions and the school’s response to the actions, in the context of the acceptable student behavior and the consequences of

such actions and to involvement of law enforcement officers, including school resource officers.

The school district prohibits reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a person who engages in reprisal or retaliation shall be determined by the administrator after consideration of the nature and circumstances of the act, in accordance with case law, federal and state statutes and regulations and district policies and procedures.

Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a student found to have falsely

accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or bullying range from positive

behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a school employee found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or

bullying shall be disciplined in accordance with district policies, procedures and agreements. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a visitor or volunteer, found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or bullying shall be determined by the school administrator after consideration of the nature and circumstances of the act, including reports to appropriate law enforcement officials.

The policy shall be disseminated annually to all school staff, students and parents, along with a statement explaining that it applies to all acts of harassment, intimidation and bullying that occur on school property, at school-sponsored functions or on a school bus. The chief school administrator shall develop an annual process for discussing the school district policy on harassment, intimidation and bullying with students. The chief school administrator shall provide annually to students and their parents/guardians the rules of the district regarding student conduct, and the policy shall appear in all publications of the school district’s comprehensive rules, procedures and standards of conduct for schools within the school district, including the student handbook. Provisions shall be made for informing parents/guardians whose primary language is other than English.

The rules shall:

A. Describe student responsibilities, including the requirements for students to conform to reasonable standards of socially acceptable behavior; respect the person, property and rights of others; obey constituted authority; and respond to those who hold that authority;

B. Address appropriate recognition for positive reinforcement for good conduct, self-discipline, good citizenship and academic success;

C. Explain student rights; and

D. Identify disciplinary sanctions and due process.

Staff members are encouraged to develop strategies for student self-discipline and to apply best practice for positive behavioral interventions. Through student training and dialogue with students and staff the district can clearly distinguish, for example, “friendly teasing” and “rough and tumble play” from harassment, intimidation and bullying. Through discussion the district will help students and staff discern between “telling” or responsible “reporting” (which is intended to keep someone from getting hurt) of acts of harassment, intimidation and bullying from “ratting” or “tattling.” The district uses experiential learning techniques, such as role play situations and other demonstration and modeling strategies in its information activities for students and staff.

Implementation

The chief school administrator shall ensure that the rules for this policy are applied consistently and uniformly, and that all disciplinary sanctions are carried out with necessary due process. The chief school administrator shall incorporate information regarding the Board’s policy against harassment, intimidation or bullying into the District’s employee inservice programs.

The board shall review all related policies on a regular basis.

Adopted:

Legal References: N.J.S.A. 2A:4A-60 et al. Disclosure of juvenile information; penalties for

disclosure

N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1 Assault

N.J.S.A. 2C:33 19 Paging devices, possession by students

N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5 Unlawful possession of weapons

N.J.S.A. 18A:6 1 Corporal punishment of pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:11 1 General mandatory powers and duties

N.J.S.A. 18A:25 2 Authority over pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1 et seq. Discipline of pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq. Substance abuse

N.J.S.A. 18A:54 20 Powers of board (county vocational schools)

N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4 Harassment

N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq. Law Against Discrimination

N.J.S.A. 18A:36-20 Discrimination; prohibition

N.J.S.A. 18A:38-5.1 No child to be excluded from school because of race, etc.

N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.1 et seq. Programs to support student development

N.J.A.C. 6:8 2.1 Reporting requirements

N.J.A.C. 6:8-2.2 School-level planning

N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.8 Discipline/suspension/expulsion

N.J.A.C. 6A:24-4.1(i)7 Implementation of Whole School Reform

Model

New Jersey State Board of Education Resolution, September 3, 1980, encourages development of local written policy on pupil conduct.

New Jersey State Board of Education Resolution, September 4, 1985, urges boards to consider expectations for pupil behavior developed by statewide advisory panel, and to develop and adopt appropriate expectations of behavior for district pupils.

20 U.S.C.A. 1415(k) Individual with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997

Bethel School District No. 403, v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986)

Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier 484 U.S. 260 (1988)

Honig v. Doe, 484 U.S. 305 (1988)

Manual for the Evaluation of Local School Districts (August 2000)

A Uniform State Memorandum of Agreement Between Education and Law

Enforcement Officials (1999 revisions)

Saxe v. State College Area School District, 240 F.3d

200 (3r Cir. 2001)

Davis v. Monroe County Board of Education, 526 U.S.

629 (1999)

Recommended Guidelines for School Personnel for the Management

Of Student Sexual Harassment in Schools (New Jersey Department of Education and Human Services, New Jersey Attorney General, February 22, 2000)

Roll Call Vote Policy Item #6:

Policies For Discussion on August 11, 2003: (No Action Taken)

6010 Goals and Objectives

6111 School Calendar

6112 School Day

6114 Emergency and Disaster Preparedness

6115 Ceremonies and Observances

6121 Nondiscrimination/Affirmative Action

6122 Articulation

6140 Curriculum Adoption

6141 Curriculum Design/Development

6141.2 Recognition of Religious Beliefs and Customs

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS:

Mrs. Conlon announced that construction bids will be received on Thursday, July 17, 2003 at 3:00 P.M., and that a special meeting will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2003 at 5:00 P.M. in the Borough Hall for the purpose of awarding bids.

MEETING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: (Any Topic) 9:58 P.M.

A question was raised regarding negotiations.

Meeting was then closed to the public at 10:06 P.M.

ADJOURNMENT: Motion by Mr. Ferguson, seconded by Mr. Casadonte that the meeting be adjourned at 10:07 P.M.

Approved.

Respectfully submitted,

Robert Brown

School Business Administrator/Board Secretary