Development News for Hazlet, New Jersey

Board Clarifies Vacation Payout Amendment for Administrators

During the public comment section, a resident inquired about an amendment to the employee agreements for the superintendent, assistant superintendent, and business administrator concerning payment for unused vacation days. The board president clarified that the amendment allows for elected vacation days to be paid out to a 403b instead of cash, a change that saves both the district and the employee FICA taxes. This amendment had already been approved by the county office and previously by the board.

Fourth Grade Class Presents Cross-Curricular Project on Lenape Lapi History

The presentation showcased a cross-curricular project by Mrs. Car's fourth-grade class at Rarity Valley School, focusing on the history and native inhabitants of New Jersey, specifically the Lenape Lapi people. The project integrated literacy, social studies, and research, culminating in student presentations of their findings, including vocabulary, food sources, lifestyle, housing, and historical interactions with settlers. The students also created visual representations such as illustrations, drawings, and models of longhouses and wigwams. The presentation highlighted the legacy of the Lenape Lapi, including contemporary tribal nations and town names derived from their language, and demonstrated their cultural retention through festivals and educational programs. The project also involved hands-on activities in the makerspace, replicating Native American patterns. Finally, the students performed a reader's theater production based on a Lenape Lapi story about the origin of maple syrup.

District Announces Retirement of Mr. Joseph Anabali, Hires Replacement

The board acknowledged the upcoming retirement of Mr. Joseph Anabali, whose last day will be December 31st. The board expressed that he will be missed severely due to his significant contributions over the past decade. The board has hired a replacement, Mrs. Tiffany Beer, who was present at the meeting.

Routine Approvals and Administrator Contract Clarification During Board Meeting

The meeting agenda included several routine approvals, such as minutes, financial reports, and the superintendent's consent agenda, which contained personnel items including the approval of Tiffany Beers as assistant superintendent. The board also addressed a query regarding an amendment to administrator contracts concerning unused vacation days, clarifying it allows payout to a 403b to save FICA taxes.