PERTH AMBOY – There was a demonstration of the Perth Amboy Federation before the 5/4/16 Board of Education Meeting. Teachers, staff and other employees all stated the need for a contract. Again they marched into PAHS Auditorium to make their feelings known.
The PAHS Auditorium was packed. There were four presentations at the Meeting. Student Ashley Marmalejos was honored for being the Middlesex County CAP Poster Winner. The Governor’s Educator of the Year and Governor’s Teacher/Educational Services Professional Recognition Awards were presented as were the Gifted and Talented Teachers for Grade 3, 4 and 5 Certificates. There also was a presentation by Board Secretary Derek Jess on the proposed Budget Report for the 2016-2017 School Year.
The meeting began at 6:05 p.m. In 2014, all High School level Performing Arts Classes were moved from the East Campus to the PAHS Main Campus. The PAHS East Campus became a building for 9th Grade Bilingual Students in 2015. On Page 27 Section D-34 on the Agenda there was an item stating that the position of District Supervisor of the Performing Arts is being dissolved. This position is currently being held by Meghan Reeves.
The possibility that Reeves will not be back for the 2016-2017 school year prompted students many of which were a part of the cast of PAHS’ annual school play, “The Addams Family” to state their feelings about Reeves.
The first person to speak in favor of Ms. Reeves was Music Teacher, Heidi Peterson. “We are educators first. In the past two years, I’ve developed a rapport with Ms. Reeves. I do love my job. My students are awesome. My colleagues and I support our Supervisor, Ms. Reeves. We’ve had the best times since George Schneck and Anita Dowd (past supervisors of the arts). There are classes for music, art and theater, Acting I & II. There is a chapter of National Honor Society for Music, a room for a live orchestra for musical theater.” Peterson continued to speak about the success of the Arts Programs.
Around 15 students came up and spoke in defense of Ms. Reeves who was present at the Meeting. The Students cited their concerns about the future of the arts in Perth Amboy. One student stated how his speaking skills improved due to his involvement in the arts. “Without these programs and classes, I never would get into college. Without these classes I had, I would not have gotten a scholarship. The Arts Program helped me grow. They’re important.”
Another student stated his feelings, “The Visual and Performing Arts are one of the most successful programs. Pride and Honor is what we have achieved. It’s rooted in dedication to fine arts.”
Another Student stated, “Arts have impacted us as a family. We have new things such as a dance room that’s phenomenal. We’ve had issues in the past. Ms. Reeves saw something in me that no one else did. I was Wednesday Addams in “The Addams Family.” There’s one person (I know) – he wakes up early in the morning to be with his teachers. We live for the arts.”
Another student said, “I am a dancer. I come with a purpose.”
Another student stated, “She (Ms. Reeves) plays a key role in the department. I’m here. See outside that department as well. I’m taking an AP test in Calculus tomorrow and I’m speaking here tonight because art is important and unique to the school district.”
Another student, Samantha said, “Without her (Ms. Reeves) support, what we have will be impossible. I’m very dedicated to the performing arts. Her support and drive – she’s not only a Vice-Principal to the Arts – she has compassion and patience. She calls me “Cinnamon Rolls.” Getting rid of someone like Ms. Reeves would be one of the biggest mistakes the High School has seen.”
Another student said, “Ms. Reeves is the best person for the job. Growing up, I was told science was the way. When I came to Main Campus, Ms. Reeves was Vice Principal. I never wanted to do anything with science and math. Ms. Reeves supported me and pushed for things. Her contract should be renewed.”
Another student came up to speak, “It’s awesome she’s (Reeves) is here for us. She’s someone here to come for us. I had problems – someone was following me here. She helped me. Why would you take someone away like that? A lot of teachers are leaving this district because they have bills. They don’t know where the money is going. We have so many things. Now we’re here. Let’s help our staff to give them the contract they deserve.”
Another student, Mikael spoke, “I came here from Puerto Rico. Through the help of the Board of Education and Ms. Reeves I have such an array of studies. Choir has given me an amazing drive. Ms. Reeves needs to stay. You’re basically taking this all away from us. Choir and dance classes have made us an amazing family.”
Another student said, “I came into school to be a write. Then I took Choir. I knew I had to stay. I love to sing. You’re taking part of our family. She (Reeves) has done so much for us. These students are here because of her to ensure us no classes are being taken away.”
Another student, Alexis said, “It takes heart to care for your students and talk to them when they need it. I was scared to come to PAHS. I came and I’m like, “Wow!” It’s not what you think! For her to leave, it would be taking away our school. It may not be a big thing for you.”
Another student, Diego said, “Art has to stay. Without it, I wouldn’t be here. I want Ms. Reeves to stay. There’s none like her in the world.”
Former Student Leana, Class of 2015 stated, “Not having Ms. Reeves makes no sense. I have love for the arts. It’s not fair. Ms. Reeves was an advocate for that. She’s the one who spoke about me and all my accomplishments. She’s the first Administrator to help me on a professional level. It’s what you do that matters. You have to focus on the little things.”
Student Madeline, a senior at PAHS said, “We have gotten so many things to help us succeed thanks to Ms. Reeves. We spoke out – students alone.”
Student Myana said, “I have witnesses. Because of Ms. Reeves, she has pushed for things – a dance studio – an AP Music Program – many incredible things. Bring Ms. Reeves back for the 2016-2017 year.”
Student Ashley said, “Personally, she’s amazing – the costumes for the play were amazing. I waited 3 years for a dance studio and acting studio. She’s great. I was in the play. It was the most fun I ever had. She inspires me. How many people’s voices were for her?”
Resident Stanley Sierakowski stated, “I don’t know Ms. Reeves. I don’t know any of the students. The way these students speak, it would seem to me the retention of Ms. Reeves – not as Vice Principal – it’s more creative to let her go somewhere else. It would be a disservice to the students. She inspires them. My professor said a long time ago, “You have ideas in life.” If the students are right, do what you can to retain her. She doesn’t have to lose being of Vice Principal. Retain her where she can have a rapport with the students personally.”
Another Student said, “How many kids are attending college? One practical art class – a class that didn’t matter in the beginning. She (Reeves) personally inspired me. It’s part of life now. You indirectly are (taking away the arts). My heart, soul, mind – my life could have gone on in two ways. She had a huge impact on my life. She is the one who broke the limitations.”
Superintendent Dr. David Roman reassured all the students and everyone present that the art program including upper level classes will remain intact and it’s just the structure of the Supervisory positions that were being changed. “We’re talking about a Vice Principal position. Art will remain.”
During the Meeting, the Executive Session took place between 9:39 p.m. and the Board returned at 12:04 a.m. The meeting was adjourned at 1:21 a.m.
