Executive Session/Regular Meeting - 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 27, 2026 of the Township of Union Board of Education, at the DMK Black Box Theater, 1980 Morris Avenue, Union, New Jersey 07083.
The Board will open the meeting at 6:00 p.m. and go into executive (closed) session. The Board will return to the public thereafter.
TOWNSHIP OF UNION BOARD OF EDUCATION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA – October 27, 2026
1. Roll Call
2. Flag Salute
3. Mission Statement - Empower and Inspire Every Student, Every Day
4. Open Public Meetings Act Statement
In accordance with the provisions of the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act, the Township of Union Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be published by having the date, time, and place thereof published on the Board’s official Internet website, with a direct hyperlink to legal notices conspicuously placed on the website’s homepage, posted in the Administration Building at 2369 Morris Avenue, Union, New Jersey, filed with the Township Clerk, and mailed to all persons, if any, who have requested said notice.
5. Executive Session
6. Approval of Minutes:
-
September 8, 2026 – worksession
-
September 8, 2026 – executive session
-
September 15, 2026 – regular meeting
-
September 15, 2026 – executive session #1 and #2
7. Communications:
Use of Facilities:
REQUEST FOR USE OF JEFFERSON SCHOOL – UNION POLICE DEPARTMENT
Request from the Township of Union Police Department to use the cafeteria and the gym at Jefferson School for the Annual Mischief-Free Night on Friday, October 30, 2026 from 3:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
REQUEST FROM PTA – ANNUAL BONFIRE – UHS FOOTBALL FIELD
Request from the UHS PTA requesting the use of the UHS football field for their annual Bonfire on October 7, 2026 (5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.) (rain date October 14, 2026-6:00p.m.-7:00 p.m.).
REQUEST FROM VAUXHALL HISTORICAL SOCIETY – JEFFERSON SCHOOL
Letter from Vauxhall Historical Society requesting use of Jefferson School, the presence of the UHS ROTC, if available, to post colors and lead the Pledge of Allegiance, the use of the auditorium, a podium, a microphone and 7 chairs on stage, and the waiver of fees associated with the use of the facility, on Saturday, November 7, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to honor veterans from the Vauxhall community who have served in the military from WWI to present.
REQUEST FROM CENTRAL JERSEY ALLSTARS TO USE UHS GYMNASIUM
Request from Central Jersey AllStars to rent the Union High School Gymnasium on Sunday, November 15, 2026 from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 11, 2027 from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
REQUEST FROM TOWNSHIP OF UNION EDUCATION FOUNDATION – USE OF UHS FOYER
Request from the Township of Union Education Foundation to use the foyer of Union High School on November 16, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to conduct a ceremony to honor those who have purchased bricks in the Walkway of Honor and those who have been honored by recent purchase of bricks.
Letters of Resignation:
LETTER OF RESIGNATION – AGUILAR VILLALTA
Letter of resignation from Sayra Aguilar Villalta, 1st shift custodian-Hannah Caldwell Elementary School, effective September 9, 2026.
LETTER OF RESIGNATION – HAKTANIR
Letter of resignation from Hande Haktanir, paraprofessional-Jefferson Elementary School, effective September 1, 2026.
LETTER OF RESIGNATION – TAVAREZ
Letter of resignation from Jenny Tavarez, cafeteria/playground aide-Franklin Elementary School, effective September 1, 2026.
LETTER OF RESIGNATION – BLONDET
Letter of resignation from James Blondet, bus driver-Transportation Department, effective October 1, 2026.
LETTER OF RESIGNATION – ARRIETA
Letter of resignation from Samantha Arrieta, special education teacher-Jefferson Elementary School, effective January 31, 2027.
Letter of Resignation Update:
LETTER OF RESIGNATION UPDATE – ASHIKWEI
Letter of resignation from Marijoe Ashikwei, 5th grade teacher-Washington Elementary School, updated effective date October 23, 2026.
Letters of Retirement:
LETTER OF RETIREMENT – MALANGA
Letter of resignation, for the purpose of retirement, from Michael Malanga, music teacher-Jefferson Elementary School, effective January 1, 2027.
LETTER OF RETIREMENT – WHITE
Letter of resignation, for the purpose of retirement, from Daniel White, social studies teacher-Burnet Middle School, effective January 1, 2027.
LETTER OF RETIREMENT – WEBER
Letter of resignation, for the purpose of retirement, from Patricia Weber, elementary teacher-Battle Hill Elementary School, effective November 28, 2026.
LETTER OF RETIREMENT – GANGONE
Letter of resignation, for the purpose of retirement, from Palma Gangone, 12-month secretary-Special Services Department, effective January 1, 2027.
Requests for Leave:
REQUEST FOR LEAVE – RIBEIRO
Request for paid medical leave and unpaid medical leave from Maria Ribeiro, paraprofessional-Hannah Caldwell Elementary School, September 22, 2026-October 9, 2026 and October 13, 2026-November 9, 2026, respectively.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE – TOGLIA
Request for paid FMLA, unpaid NJFLA and maternity leave from Elyse Toglia, speech therapist-Union High School, January 11, 2027-February 12, 2027, February 15, 2027-May 18, 2027 and May 19, 2027-May 31, 2027.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE – TAYLOR
Request for paid medical leave and unpaid medical leave from Adrienne Taylor, bus aide-Transportation Department, September 1, 2026-October 2, 2026 and October 3, 2026-December 7, 2026, respectively.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE – MALANG
Request for paid FMLA from Lawrence Malang, security-Franklin Elementary School, October 29, 2026-December 15, 2026.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE – NEVLING
Request for paid/unpaid medical leave from William Nevling, paraprofessional-Battle Hill Elementary School, October 14, 2026-December 23, 2026.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE – McGRATH
Request for unpaid NJFLA from Brendan McGrath, computer and G&T teacher-Hannah Caldwell Elementary School, January 4, 2027-March 19, 2027.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE – LILOIA
Request for paid FMLA from Dana Liloia, 2nd grade teacher-Livingston Elementary School, November 9, 2026-November 20, 2026.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE – CARLIN
Request for paid FMLA and unpaid NJFLA from Donna Carlin, secretary-Central Office, September 21, 2026-September 30, 2026 and October 1, 2026-November 16, 2026, respectively.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE – PATRICCO
Request for paid FMLA and unpaid NJFLA from Elena Patricco, kindergarten teacher-Livingston Elementary School, April 5, 2027-May 14, 2027 and May 17, 2027-November 7, 2027, respectively.
Requests for Leave Update:
REQUEST FOR LEAVE UPDATE – SANTANGELO
Updated request for paid FMLA leave from Carrie Santangelo, special education teacher-Connecticut Farms Elementary School, September 1, 2026-October 2, 2026.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE UPDATE – CAPONE
Updated request for paid FMLA and unpaid NJFLA from Alissa Capone, 4th grade teacher-Hannah Caldwell Elementary School, October 12, 2026-November 23, 2026 and November 24, 2026-March 3, 2027.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE UPDATE – MITSAELIDES MICCICHE
Updated request for unpaid maternity leave from Maria Mitsaelides Micciche, ESL teacher-Battle Hill Elementary School, October 22, 2026-February 7, 2027.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE UPDATE – DAMATO
Updated request for paid FMLA from Patricia Damato, 3rd grade teacher-Battle Hill Elementary School, September 1, 2026-November 23, 2026.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE UPDATE – BARBIERI
Updated request for paid FMLA and unpaid NJFLA from Jessica Barbieri, coach teacher-Washington and Connecticut Farms Elementary Schools, September 1, 2026-November 8, 2026 and November 9, 2026-January 29, 2027, respectively.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE UPDATE – DASILVA
Updated request for paid FMLA, unpaid FMLA/NJFLA and unpaid maternity leave from Alexa Dasilva, special education teacher-Union High School, October 13, 2026-October 30, 2026, November 9, 2026-February 12, 2027, and February 13, 2027-April 5, 2027, respectively.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE UPDATE – GUNTHER
Updated request for paid FMLA and unpaid NJFLA from Kayla Gunther, 3rd grade teacher-Jefferson Elementary School, September 21, 2026-October 30, 2026 and November 9, 2026-February 11, 2027, respectively.
Requests for Intermittent Leave:
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – MAHMUTAJ
Request for paid intermittent FMLA from Aida Mahmutaj, paraprofessional-Connecticut Farms Elementary School, September 18, 2026-June 30, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE - SANTANGELO
Request for paid intermittent FMLA from Carrie Santangelo, special education teacher-Connecticut Farms Elementary School, October 5, 2026-June 30, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – SAHR
Request for paid intermittent NJFLA from Doreen Sahr, English teacher-Union High School, September 1, 2026-June 30, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – NAVARRETE
Request for paid intermittent FMLA from Angel Navarrete, special education teacher-Union High School, September 1, 2026-June 30, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – NARDO
Request for paid intermittent NJFLA from Rosemary Nardo, nurse-preschool, September 1, 2026-June 30, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – CORNACCHIA
Request for paid intermittent NJFLA from Jessica Cornacchia, math teacher-Burnet Middle School, September 1, 2026-June 30, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – LeBLOND
Request for paid intermittent NJFLA from Cara LeBlond, special education teacher-Battle Hill Elementary School, September 1, 2026-June 30, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – OLIVEIRA
Request for paid intermittent FMLA from Elisabete Oliveira, paraprofessional-Washington Elementary School, September 1, 2026-June 30, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – DeROSA
Request for paid intermittent FMLA from Anthony DeRosa, social studies teacher-Union High School, October 28, 2026-December 9, 2026.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – MAHMUTAJ
Request for paid intermittent FMLA from Aida Mahmutaj, paraprofessional-Connecticut Farms Elementary School, September 18, 2026-June 30, 2026.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – KRUSE
Request for paid intermittent FMLA from Tori Kruse, secretary-Central Office, September 1, 2026-June 30, 2026.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – BATISTA
Request for paid/unpaid intermittent leave from Sujely Batista, paraprofessional-Franklin Elementary School, October 12, 2026-June 30, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – BOYD
Request for paid intermittent FMLA from John Boyd, carpenter-Maintenance Department, November 1, 2026-October 31, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – MIDDLETON
Request for paid intermittent FMLA from April Middleton, school counselor-Union High School, October 1, 2026-June 30, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE – HRDINA-BROWN
Request for paid intermittent FMLA from Felecia Hrdina-Brown, preschool master teacher-Franklin Elementary School, October 7, 2026-June 30, 2027.
Requests for Intermittent Leave Update:
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE UPDATE – DOWLING
Updated request for paid intermittent FMLA from Nikki Dowling, English teacher-Kawameeh Middle School, March 24, 2026-March 23, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE UPDATE – MESSLER
Updated request for paid intermittent FMLA from Scott Messler, physical education teacher-Union High School, February 2, 2026-February 1, 2027.
REQUEST FOR INTERMITTENT LEAVE UPDATE – KORZEN
Updated request for paid intermittent FMLA from Olga Korzen, 4th grade teacher-Connecticut Farms Elementary School, extension through December 9, 2026.
Employment Separation:
EMPLOYMENT SEPARATION – PHILIPPE
Employment Separation, Guytemberg Philippe, bus driver-Transportation Department, effective September 29, 2026.
Miscellaneous Communications:
LETTERS FROM TOWNSHIP OF UNION EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Letters from Township of Union Education Foundation regarding grants that were awarded to teachers for the 2026-2027 school year.
8. Comments from Public (on resolutions):
9. Superintendent’s Report:
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Superintendent’s Report
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Student Representative – Rachel Glover
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Report on NJDOE – School Self-Assessment for Determining District Grades (2025-2026) and School Grade Report
10. Education/Student Discipline Committee Resolutions:
Upon recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Education/Student Discipline Committee presents the following resolutions for the Board’s consideration:
E-1. Reported at October 13, 2026 worksession – Superintendent report of HIB (September 16-October 13, 2026).
E-1A. AFFIRM SUPERINTENDENT’S DETERMINATION OF HIB
Affirm the Superintendent’s determination of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB) for the periods September 16, 2026 to October 13, 2026, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
E-1-1. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT OF HIB
Superintendent’s Report of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB) for the period October 14, 2026 to October 27, 2026, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda (no vote required; for reporting purposes only).
E-2. APPROVE GRANTS FROM TOWNSHIP OF UNION EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Approve acceptance of grants from the Township of Union Education Foundation for the 2026-2027 school year, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
E-3. APPROVE SCHOOL NURSING SERVICES PLAN
Approve the 2026-2027 Nursing Services Plan, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
E-4. APPROVE CURRICULUM
Approve the following curriculum:
Advanced Ceramics
Advanced Drawing
Advanced Placement Cybersecurity
Ceramics and Sculpture
Computer Literacy 1
Computer Literacy 5
Computer Literacy K
Computer Science 6
Computer Science 7
Computer Science 8
Crafts
Digital Arts I
Digital Arts II
Drawing
G&T 2
G&T 3
G&T 4
G&T 5
General Art
Grade 6 Art
Grade 6-7 Music
Grade 7 Art
Grade 8 Art
Intermediate Dance II
Intro to Dance Styles and Techniques
Math Honors Calculus
Math Honors Pre-Calculus
Photo I
Photo II
Photo III
Social Studies Grade 1
Social Studies Grade 2
Social Studies Grade 5
Social Studies Grade K
Tech Ed I
Tech Ed II
TV Production I
TV Production II
TV Production III
TV Production IV
E-5. Agenda item approved at October 13, 2026 worksession (long-term suspension-student #286545).
E-6. APPROVE STUDENT ASSEMBLIES – WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Approve the following PBSIS assemblies at Washington Elementary School: (a) Ned Show to provide two educational assemblies – Never give up, Encourage others and Do your best on December 1, 2026 for grades K-5, at no cost to the district, (b) Singing Telegrams by Jeff, Inc. to provide two Brain Show educational assemblies on May 24, 2027, for grades K-5, at the cost of $2,500.00 [Account: Fund 20] and (c) Mr. J! to provide two schoolwide assemblies – high-energy mix of music, movement, social-emotional learning, and author reads-aloud from his children’s book Mr. J and the Tower that Fell on March 31, 2027, for grades K-5, at a cost of $1,495.00 [Account Fund 20].
E-7. APPROVE ADDENDUM TO KEAN UNIVERSITY INTERN AFFILIATION AGREEMENT
Approve Addendum Number One to the Intern Affiliation Agreement between Kean University, College of Education, and the Township of Union Public Schools, extending the agreement for an additional three (3) years, effective July 13, 2026 through December 31, 2029, in accordance with the information in the hands of each Board member.
E-8. APPROVE STUDENTS WHO ATTEND PUBLIC ACADEMIES TO PARTICIPATE IN ATHLETIC PROGRAM
Approve students who attend public academies, to participate in high school sports during the 2026-2027 school year, in accordance with NJSIAA rules.
11. Fiscal and Planning Committee Resolutions:
Upon recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Fiscal and Planning Committee presents the following resolutions for the Board’s consideration:
F-1. TREASURER’S REPORT
That the Treasurer’s Report dated September 30, 2026 be accepted.
F-2. SECRETARY’S REPORT
That the Secretary’s Report dated September 30, 2026 be accepted.
F-3. CERTIFY TREASURER’S AND SECRETARY’S REPORT
F-4. APPROVE APPROPRIATION TRANSFERS
Approve appropriation transfers in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
F-5. APPROVE LIST OF CONTRACTS/PURCHASE ORDERS
Approve the attached list of contracts and/or purchase orders (copyrighted materials and licenses) pursuant to the requirements of N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-5 (bid exceptions to requirement for advertising) and 18A:18A-10(a) (purchase through State agency; procedure), in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
F-6. APPROVE DISTRICTWIDE TRAVEL AND RELATED EXPENSES
Approve districtwide travel and related expenses pursuant to the requirements of N.J.S.A. 18A:11-12, N.J.A.C. 6A:23A-7 and Board Policy File Code 6471 and in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
F-7. Agenda item approved at October 13, 2026 worksession (student field trips).
F-7A. APPROVE DISTRICTWIDE STUDENT FIELD TRIPS
Approve districtwide student field trip destinations and purposes pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:23A-5.8, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
F-8. APPROVE LIST OF 2026-2027 STATE CONTRACT APPROVED VENDORS
Approve the amended list of the 2026-2027 State Contract Approved Vendors pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-10(a) (purchase through State agency; procedure) to facilitate schools’ purchasing, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
F-9A. APPROVED LIST OF CONTRACTS/PURCHASES (STUDENT ACTIVITY)
Approve the attached list of contracts and/or purchases pursuant to the requirements of N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-5(21) (paid by funds raised by or collected by students), in accordance with the information appended to the agenda:
|
School |
Account Name/Account # |
Vendor/Description |
Amount |
|
Kawameeh Middle School |
41/musical production |
Music Theatre International (UTBOE) – buy play rights for KMS musical Annie Jr. |
$3,290.00 |
|
Union High School |
3230/boys’ baseball |
UTBOE – boys baseball apparel for all three levels of baseball |
$9,544.45 |
|
Union High School |
2140/Track |
UTBOE – for NJSIAA Track Entry Fees |
$1,332.00 |
|
Burnet Middle School |
2021/Theater Club |
Group Sales Box Office – tickets for student attendance at & Juliet |
$4,000.00 (not to exceed) |
|
Burnet Middle School |
2021/Theater Club |
US Coach Ways – transportation to & Juliet |
$1,300.00 (not to exceed) |
|
Livingston Elementary School |
2011/1st grade |
Turtle Back Zoo – 1st grade field trip |
$1700.00 |
|
Union High School |
2033/Marching Band |
Major Printing – competition season T-shirts |
$1,190.00 |
|
Union High School |
2221/Chromebook fines |
UTBOE – for student Chromebook fines |
$10,803.00 |
|
Union High School |
2201/School ID Fines |
UTBOE – for student ID fines |
$19,309.00 |
|
Union High School |
2209/Library Fines |
UTBOE – for student library fines |
$1,132.99 |
|
Union High School |
46/Key Club |
Kiwanis International – membership dues |
$4,200.00 (not to exceed) |
F-9B. APPROVE FUNDRAISERS
Approve the following fundraisers, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda:
|
Event Name |
Date |
Purpose |
|
Chocolates/Candy Grams |
October 28, 2026-June 30, 2027 |
BMS/8th grade – to raise funds for 8th grade dance, trip, awards and graduation |
|
Coffee Corner |
October 28, 2026-June 30, 2027 |
BMS/Special Olympic Club – to raise funds for club activities, equipment and uniforms |
|
Snack Sale, candy grams, bake sale, flower sale, March Madness, Drink Sale |
October 28, 2026-June 30, 2027 |
BMS/PBSIS – to raise funds for PBSIS events and rewards at school store |
|
Thank-A-Teacher Gift Card Sale
|
November 1, 2026-November 30, 2026 |
Connecticut Farms/1st grade science – to raise funds to hatch ducks in classrooms and science experiment materials |
|
T-shirt Sale |
October 28, 2026-November 30, 2026 |
Connecticut Farms/1st grade science – to raise funds to hatch ducks in classroom |
|
Pretzel Sales |
October 28, 2026 |
Washington/PBSIS – to raise funds for prizes and incentives |
|
School Store |
December 1, 2026-June 15, 2027 |
Washington/Student Council – to raise funds for St. Jude and CamyStrong |
|
Valentine’s Telegrams, Read-A-Thon, Bake Sale, Flower Petals, light up hallways |
December 1, 2026-June 15, 2027 |
Washington/Student Council – to raise funds for St. Jude and CamyStrong |
|
Alumni Basketball Game |
November 13, 2026 |
UHS/Boys basketball team – to raise funds for end of season dinner, summer league and fall league |
|
Schoolwide Reading Challenge |
October 15, 2026 -November 30, 2026 |
Hannah Caldwell/Student Activities – raise funds to purchase more books for vending machine; school wide celebration |
|
Ice Pop sale, snack sale, candy sale, chocolate charms sale, You’ve Been (classroom, office, locker decorating), Talent Show, Guessing Jar, Squishy Raffles |
October 1, 2026-June 23, 2027 |
BMS/Student Council – to raise funds for end of year Talent Show |
|
Online Clothing Fundraiser |
11/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
UHS/Baseball – to raise funds for baseball program, end of year awards/party, training sessions |
|
Online Fundraiser – Leading Edge |
11/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
UHS/Baseball – to raise funds for baseball program, end of year awards/party, and training session |
|
Sponsorship Banners |
11/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
UHS/Baseball – to raise funds for baseball program, end of year awards/party and training session |
|
Community Performance Festival |
11/7/2026-11/14/2026 |
UHS/Marching Band – to raise funds to offset costs for band camp, props, flags for competition season |
|
Bake and Candy Sale |
11/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
UHS/Step Team – to raise funds to purchase uniforms and cover ups |
|
Double Good Popcorn |
11/13/2026 |
UHS/Step Team – to raise funds for uniforms, cover ups, etc. |
|
Pie a Player |
11/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
UHS/Senior Class – to raise funds for Class of 2027 end of year activities/senior trip |
|
Playbill ad/Patron package sales |
11/1/2026-4/1/2027 |
UHS/UHSPAC – to raise funds for UHSPAC productions |
|
Snack Sale |
11/1/2026-4/1/2027 |
UHS/UHSPAC – to raise funds for competition trip and UHSPAC productions |
|
Concessions |
12/11/2026-12/13/2026 |
UHS/UHSPAC – to raise funds for fall and spring UHSPAC productions |
|
Fall Play – 8 Minutes Left |
10/28/2026-12/13/2026 |
UHS/UHSPAC – to raise funds for fall and spring UHSPAC productions |
|
Bake/Snack Sale |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
UHS/Cheerleading – to raise funds for uniforms, senior day gifts |
|
Chipotle Fundraiser |
10/20/2026-10/31/2026 |
UHS/Cheerleading – to raise funds for new uniforms |
|
Bake Sale and Plant Sales |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Environmental Action Club – to raise funds for supplies, dirt, seeds, chemicals for garden towers |
|
T-Shirt Sale |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Esports – to raise funds to buy t-shirts for players for competitions |
|
Bake Sales |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Esports – to raise funds for players to purchase shirts for competitions |
|
Bake Sales |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Girls Who Code – to raise funds for supplies, coding games, robots to code, etc. |
|
Dine to Donate – Chipotle |
11/14/2026 |
KMS/musical production – to raise fund for musical production expenses |
|
Dine to Donate – Panera Bread |
12/18/2026 |
KMS/musical production – to raise funds for musical production expenses |
|
Staff Dress Down Days |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/musical production – to raise funds for musical production expenses |
|
Bake Sale |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/musical production – to raise funds for musical production expenses |
|
Pizza and Soda Sale |
12/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds to support student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Faculty/Staff Rooftop Sleepover |
12/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Clear, drawstring backpack sale |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Movie Night |
12/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Pretzel/hot chocolate sale, cookies/hot chocolate sale, donuts/lemonade/ice tea/ice pop sale |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Car Wash |
12/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Talent Show/Dance-A-Thon |
12/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Photo Backdrop Pics/Photo Scavenger Hunt |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Sponsorship/Donations – Hearts for |
11/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Holiday, Candy, Birthday Grams |
11/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Pajama Days/Spirit Week Special Days |
10/28/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Pasta Night/Karaoke Night |
12/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Penny Wars/Guessing Game Jars |
12/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Turkey Trot/Cupid Shuffle, Battle of the Bands, Color Wars/Color Run, Rock paper scissors day |
11/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
|
Bake Sale |
11/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
KMS/Student Council – to raise funds for student council events, student council apparel and 8th grade dance |
F-9C. ACCEPT DONATIONS
Accept the following donations:
|
From |
For Use By |
$/Item |
|
Union Suffragettes Girls Softball League |
Special Services Department – for picnic at Rabkin Park |
$500.00 |
|
Teamwork Unlimited Foundation |
Special Services Department – for picnic at Rabkin Park |
Food ($500.00) |
|
Lauren Kohn |
UHS WBL/Life Skills program |
4 sit to stand electric tables (approximate $2,000.00) |
F-10. APPROVE 2026-2027 OUT-OF-DISTRICT STUDENT PLACEMENT LIST
Approval be given to amend the 2026-2027 out-of-district student placement list (173-month of October), in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
F-11A. APPROVE ANNUAL MAINTENANCE BUDGET AMOUNT WORKSHEET (M-1)
Approve the Annual Maintenance Budget Amount Worksheet (M-1) pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:26A, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
F-11B. APPROVE COMPREHENSIVE MAINTENANCE PLAN REPORT
Approve the Comprehensive Maintenance Plan Report (FY26, budgeted FY27 and Planned F28), in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
F-12. APPROVE CONTRACTS – COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED
Approve School Contract with the State of New Jersey, Department of Human Services, Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, for educational services for a student in the district for the 2026-2027 school year, in accordance with the non-public information appended to the agenda.
F-13. Agenda item removed for further information/discussion at October 13, 2026 worksession (vending machine).
F-14. APPROVE KID CLAN SERVICES – OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SERVICES
Approve Kid Clan Services to provide occupational therapy services for the 2026-2027 school year (not to exceed $25,000.00) [Acct Fund #11-000-216-320-01-19-7043], in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
F-15. APPROVE KID CLAN AMENDMENT – ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Approve amendment to Kid Clan (originally approved 6/16/2026) for the following additional two services: (a) BRIEF Evaluation - $375.00 and (b) FBA Assessment - $120.00/hr. – not to exceed 10 hours, for the 2026-2027 school year (not to exceed $25,000.00) [Account Fund #7074/11-000-219-320-01-19], in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
F-ATTY. For informational purposes only – vote not required. List of legal services paid as of September 15, 2026 for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
12. Grievance/Negotiations/Legal Committee:
Upon recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Grievance/Negotiations Committee presents the following resolution for the Board’s consideration:
L-1. APPROVE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
Approve Settlement Agreement, in accordance with the non-public information appended to the agenda.
L-2. APPROVE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
Approve Settlement Agreement, in accordance with the non-public information appended to the agenda.
13. Operations/Technology Committee Resolutions:
Upon recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Operations/Technology Committee presents the following resolutions for the Board’s consideration:
O-1. APPROVE SECURITY DRILL/BUS EVACUATION REPORTS
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:41-1 and P.L. 2009, Chapter 178, approve the following security drill for the month of September and, if applicable, bus evacuation reports for the 2026-2027 school year, in accordance with the non-public information appended to the agenda.
O-2. APPROVE REQUEST FOR USE OF JEFFERSON SCHOOL – UNION POLICE DEPARTMENT
Approve request from the Township of Union Police Department to use the cafeteria and the gym at Jefferson School for the Annual Mischief-Free Night on Friday, October 30, 2026 from 3:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
O-3. APPROVE DISPOSAL OF VEHICLES
Approve disposal of the following items which are deemed no longer operational or serviceable by the district: (a) 2007 Blue Bird Bus #55 (VIN #1BABGCKA57F238973) and (b) 2012 Chevy Express Van #2 (VIN #1GB0G2BA7C1151286).
O-4. APPROVE REQUEST FROM CENTRAL JERSEY ALLSTARS TO USE UHS GYMNASIUM
Approve request from Central Jersey AllStars to rent the Union High School Gymnasium on Sunday, November 15, 2026 from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 11, 2027 from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
O-5. Agenda item approved at October 13, 2026 worksession (PTA Annual Bonfire-UHS football field)
O-6. APPROVE REQUEST FROM VAUXHALL HISTORICAL SOCIETY – JEFFERSON SCHOOL
Approve request from Vauxhall Historical Society requesting use of Jefferson School, the presence of the UHS ROTC, if available, to post colors and lead the Pledge of Allegiance, the use of the auditorium, a podium, a microphone and 7 chairs on stage, and the waiver of fees associated with the use of the facility, on Saturday, November 7, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to honor veterans from the Vauxhall community who have served in the military from WWI to present.
O-7. APPROVE SUBMISSION OF ANTICIPATED FACILITY REQUESTS
Approve submission of the Anticipated Facility Request for the 2026-2027 school year to the New Jersey Department of Education (Union County Office), in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
O-8. APPROVE SUBMISSION OF ALTERNATE METHOD OF COMPLIANCE
Approve submission of the updated alternate method of compliance in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:26-6.3 and/or 6.4 for toilet room facilities for early intervention, pre-kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms (2026-2027 school year) for Connecticut Farms, Franklin and Livingston Elementary Schools, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
O-9. APPROVE REQUEST FROM TOWNSHIP OF UNION EDUCATION FOUNDATION – USE OF UHS FOYER
Approve request from the Township of Union Education Foundation to use the foyer of Union High School on November 16, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to conduct a ceremony to honor those who have purchased bricks in the Walkway of Honor and those who have been honored by recent purchase of bricks.
O-10. APPROVE SCHOOL SECURITY DRILL STATEMENT OF ASSURANCE
Approve School Security Drill Statement of Assurance for the 2025-2026 school year, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
T-1. APPROVE RECYCLING OF EQUIPMENT
Approve list of equipment for recycling, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
14. Personnel Committee Resolutions:
Upon recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Personnel Committee presents the following resolutions for the Board’s consideration:
P-1A. Agenda item approved at October 13, 2026 worksession (new hires).
P-1A-1. PERSONNEL ACTIONS – NEW HIRES
Personnel Actions-New Hires be approved in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
P-1B PERSONNEL ACTIONS – EXTRA PAY
Personnel Actions-Extra Pay be approved in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
P-1C PERSONNEL ACTIONS – TRANSFERS
Personnel Actions- Transfers be approved in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
P-2. APPROVE SUBSTITUTE STAFF AND REMOVALS
Approve substitute staff and removals for the 2026-2027 school year.
|
Name or Employee ID # |
Position |
Rate |
|
Antwan Jones |
Sub-custodian |
$16.00/hr. |
|
Marcus Percell |
Sub-custodian |
$16.00/hr. |
|
Kahrice Harrison |
Daily substitute |
$160.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
Jenna Ortiz |
Daily substitute |
$160.00/per day |
|
Jenny Lau |
Daily substitute |
$170.00/per day |
|
Genevieve Trocolor |
Daily substitute |
$170.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
Errico (Rick) Angiuoni |
Daily substitute |
$160.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
Nawazish Syed |
Daily substitute |
$170.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
Rosinerva Casilla |
Daily substitute |
$160.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
Anthony Pagano |
Daily substitute |
$160.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
Margaret Smith |
Daily substitute |
$160.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
Isabella Marano |
Daily substitute |
$160.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
Chris Garrigan |
Daily substitute |
$160.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
Karen Steiner |
Daily substitute |
$170.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
Eric Robinson |
Daily substitute – Security Officer |
$38.24/hr. (pending documentation) |
|
Amy Cool |
Daily substitute |
$170.00/per day (pending documentation) |
|
|
|
|
|
#13830 |
Daily substitute |
Removal of substitute staff |
P-3A. ACCEPT LETTERS OF RESIGNATION/RETIREMENT
Accept letters of resignation/retirement from the following staff, with regrets:
|
Name |
Position |
Location |
Eff. Date |
Reason |
Years of Service |
|
Retirements: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Michael Malanga |
Music teacher |
Jefferson |
1/1/2027 |
Retirement |
28 yrs. |
|
Daniel White |
Social Studies teacher |
BMS |
1/1/2027 |
Retirement |
38 yrs |
|
Patricia Weber |
Elementary teacher |
Battle Hill |
11/28/2026 |
Retirement |
28 yrs. |
|
Palma Gangone |
12-month secretary |
Special Services Dept |
1/1/2027 |
Retirement |
4 yrs. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Resignations: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sayra Aguilar Villalta |
1st shift custodian |
Hannah Caldwell |
9/9/2026 |
Resignation |
7 mos. |
|
Hande Haktanir |
Paraprofessional |
Jefferson |
9/1/2026 |
Resignation |
7 mos. |
|
Jenny Tavarez |
Cafeteria/playground aide |
Franklin |
9/1/2026 |
Resignation |
1 yr. |
|
James Blondet |
Bus driver |
Transportation Dept. |
10/1/2026 |
Resignation |
3 yrs. |
|
Samantha Arrieta |
Special Ed teacher |
Jefferson |
1/31/2027 |
Resignation |
1 yr. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Resignation Update: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Marijoe Ashikwei |
5th grade teacher |
Washington |
Updated 10/23/2026 |
Resignation |
9 mos. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Employment Separation: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Guytemberg Philippe |
Bus driver |
Transportation Dept. |
9/29/2026 |
Separation of employment |
3 yrs. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
P-3B. APPROVE LEAVES
Approve leaves for the following staff:
|
Name |
Position |
Location |
Eff. Dates |
Reason |
|
Intermittent Leave: |
|
|
|
|
|
Aida Mahmutaj |
Paraprofessional |
Connecticut Farms |
9/18/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
Carrie Santangelo |
Special Ed teacher |
Connecticut Farms |
10/5/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
Doreen Sahr |
English teacher |
UHS |
9/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid intermittent NJFLA |
|
Angel Navarrete |
Special Ed teacher |
UHS |
9/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
Rosemary Nardo |
Nurse |
Preschool |
9/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid intermittent NJFLA |
|
Jessica Cornacchia |
Math teacher |
BMS |
9/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid intermittent NJFLA |
|
Cara LeBlond |
Special Ed teacher |
Battle Hill |
9/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid intermittent NJFLA |
|
Elisabete Oliveira |
Paraprofessional |
Washington |
9/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
Anthony DeRosa |
Social studies teacher |
UHS |
10/28/2026-12/09/2026 |
Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
Aida Mahmutaj |
Paraprofessional |
Connecticut Farms |
9/18/2026-6/30/2026 |
Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
Tori Kruse |
Secretary |
Central Office |
9/1/2026-6/30/2026 |
Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
Sujely Batista |
Paraprofessional |
Franklin |
10/12/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid/unpaid Intermittent FMLA |
|
John Boyd |
Carpenter |
Maintenance Dept. |
11/1/2026-10/31/2027 |
Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
April Middleton |
School Counselor |
UHS |
10/1/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
Felecia Hrdina-Brown |
Preschool master teacher |
Franklin |
10/7/2026-6/30/2027 |
Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Intermittent Leave Updates: |
|
|
|
|
|
Nikki Dowling |
English teacher |
KMS |
3/24/2026-3/23/2027 |
Updated Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
Scott Messler |
PE teacher |
UHS |
2/2/2026-2/1/2027 |
Updated Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
Olga Korzen |
4th grade teacher |
Connecticut Farms |
Extension through 12/9/2026 |
Updated Paid intermittent FMLA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Leave Updates: |
|
|
|
|
|
Carrie Santangelo |
Special Ed teacher |
Connecticut Farms |
9/1/2026-10/2/2026 |
Updated Paid FMLA |
|
Alissa Capone |
4th grade teacher |
Hannah Caldwell |
10/12/2026-11/23/2026 And 11/24/2026-3/3/2027 |
Updated: Paid FMLA and Unpaid NJFLA, respectively |
|
Maria Mitsaelides Micciche |
ESL teacher |
Battle Hill |
10/22/2026-2/7/2027 |
Updated: Extension of unpaid maternity leave |
|
Patricia Damato |
3rd grade teacher |
Battle Hill |
9/1/2026-11/23/2026 |
Updated Paid FMLA |
|
Jessica Barbieri |
Coach teacher |
Washington and Connecticut Farms |
9/1/2026-11/8/2026 and 11/9/2026-1/29/2027 |
Updated Paid FMLA and unpaid NJFLA, respectively |
|
Alexa Dasilva |
Special Ed teacher |
UHS |
10/13/2026-10/30/2026, 11/9/2026-2/12/2027, and 2/13/2027-4/5/2027 |
Updated Paid FMLA, unpaid FMLA/NJFLA and unpaid maternity leave |
|
Kayla Gunther |
3rd grade teacher |
Jefferson |
9/21/2026-10/30/2026 and 11/9/2026-2/11/2027 |
Updated Paid FMLA and Unpaid NJFLA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Leaves: |
|
|
|
|
|
Maria Ribeiro |
Paraprofessional |
Hannah Caldwell |
9/22/2026-10/9/2026 And 10/13/2026-11/09/2026 |
Paid medical leave and Unpaid medical leave, respectively |
|
Elyse Toglia |
Speech Therapist |
UHS |
1/11/2027-2/12/2027, 2/15/2027-5/18/2027, and 5/19/2027-5/31/2027 |
Paid FMLA, Unpaid NJFLA and maternity leave, respectively |
|
Larry Sabel |
School bus driver |
Transportation Dept. |
-- |
Request for FMLA withdrawn by employee |
|
Adrienne Taylor |
Bus aide |
Transportation Dept. |
9/1/2026-10/2/2026 and 10/3/2026-12/7/2026 |
Paid medical leave and unpaid medical leave, respectively |
|
Lawrence Malang |
Security |
Franklin |
10/29/2026-12/15/2026 |
Paid FMLA |
|
William Nevling |
Paraprofessional |
Battle Hill |
10/14/2026-12/23/2026 |
Paid/unpaid medical leave |
|
Brendan McGrath |
Computer and G&T teacher |
Hannah Caldwell |
1/4/2027-3/19/2027 |
Unpaid NJFLA |
|
Dana Liloia |
2nd grade teacher |
Livingston |
11/9/2026-11/20/2026 |
Paid FMLA |
|
Donna Carlin |
Secretary |
Central Office |
9/21/2026-9/30/2026 and 10/1/2026-11/16/2026 |
Paid FMLA and Unpaid NJFLA |
|
Elena Patricco |
Kindergarten teacher |
Livingston |
4/5/2027-5/14/2027 and 5/17/2027-11/7/2027 |
Paid FMLA and Unpaid NJFLA |
P-4. APPROVE STUDENT TEACHERS AND INTERNSHIPS
Approve student teachers and internships for the 2026-2027 school year, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
P-5. APPROVE DISTRICT COMMUNICATION LIAISON – CORREIA
Approve Victor Correia as the communication liaison to local law enforcement agencies for the 2026-2027 school year, at no cost to the district.
P-6. APPROVE ATTENDANCE AT VARIOUS MEETINGS
Approve the following (a) district case managers - Michaela Whiteman-Land, Natalie Mauriello, Dina Tyson, Alyssa Thompson, Dana Delguercia, Sarah McCulloh, Daniel Seugling and/or Christina Shpunder; (b) district teachers – Lauren Kohn, Jennifer White, John Trzeszkowski, Dana Meixner and/or Janine Pascucci and (c) Special Services Supervisors – Stefannie Buthorn and/or Joseph Seugling to attend/visit the meetings/locations as part of transition, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
P-7. APPROVE ATTENDANCE AT NATIONAL PRINCIPAL’S CONFERENCE
Approve Sharon Drayton, Principal, and Gina McDowell, Vice Principal, to attend the National Principal’s Conference in Tampa, Florida (February 6-9, 2027) for a total cost not to exceed $3,300.00 per person.
P-8. APPROVE ATTENDANCE AT VARIOUS MUJC MEETINGS
Approve district personnel to attend meetings at Morris Union Jointure Commission (MUJC), at no cost to the district, for the 2026-2027 school year, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
P-9. APPROVE JOB DESCRIPTION – DISTRICT LIBRARY MEDIA SPECIALIST
Approve Job Description – District Library Media Specialist, in accordance with the information appended to the agenda.
15. Policy Committee:
16. Residency Committee Resolutions:
Upon recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Residency Committee presents the following resolutions for the Board’s information:
R-1. REPORT OF STUDENTS TRANSFERRED TO DISTRICT OF RESIDENCE FOLLOWING RESIDENCY INVESTIGATIONS
For informational purposes only (no vote required): The following residency investigations were completed, and the listed students were transferred to the appropriate district of residence:
|
Student No. |
School |
Grade |
|
305047 |
Union High School |
9th |
|
316017 |
Burnet Middle School |
8th |
|
350767 |
Jefferson Elementary School |
4th |
|
399018 |
Jefferson Elementary School |
Kindergarten |
|
350583 |
Hannah Caldwell Elementary School |
4th |
|
358101 |
Hannah Caldwell Elementary School |
4th |
|
308249 |
Union High School |
9th |
|
380809 |
Hannah Caldwell Elementary School |
1st |
|
350919 |
Hannah Caldwell Elementary School |
4th |
17. Approval of Bills:
Upon recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, that the Board concur with the bills listed in the permanent bound register appended to these minutes and be ordered for payment.
18. Unfinished Business:
19. New Business:
20. Comments from Public:
21. Executive Session (if necessary):
22. Adjournment:
NEXT MEETING:
Worksession Meeting - November 10, 2026 - 7:00 p.m.
Administration Building, 2369 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ 07083
