Board Members pose for a photo with Jose Rodriguez
*Photo by Katherine Massopust
9/7/17 Board of Education Meeting
By: Katherine Massopust
PERTH AMBOY – The 9/7/17 Board Meeting began at 5:30 p.m. with public comments on agenda items only. No one came up to speak. There was a brief recess until 6:04 p.m.
Board President Ken Puccio asked for a moment of silence for the 16th anniversary of 9-11-01. He also thanked everyone including the PSA and AFT and everyone for all the hard work that they do. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Vivian Rodriguez thanked everyone including staff, administers, teachers, and students.
Board Member Jose Rodriguez announced that he was resigning from the Board of Education. Rodriguez who also had served in the U.S. Air Force for 35 years has moved to Puerto Rico. Rodriguez stated, “Thanks for helping me achieve my goals over the past 2½ years. I thank Ken Puccio, Milady Tejada, Obi Gonzalez and Derek Jess for all the times I called you. I’m sad to leave. I knew the district in the district was in bad shape. I learned how bad it was. One of the best things here was hiring Dr. David Roman as Superintendent. He has taken the school system to achieve that goal (of a district of distinction). It probably will take more than 5 years. Thanks for the help. You will make this district the best in the State of New Jersey. You need to give Dr. David Roman the tools he needs. I want to thank Former Board President Sam Lebreault who taught me a lot. I give thanks to him for that.”
Board Vice President Milady Tejada stated, “I have the honor to run with Jose Rodriguez. I knew more about Leslie (Jose’s wife) back then. I feel very proud he (Jose Rodriguez) is a part of our team.”
Board Members Tashi Vasquez and Junior Iglesia made some remarks expressing their enthusiasm for the upcoming school year.
Board President Ken Puccio then added, “On Tuesday, I wish everyone good luck. It takes a very special person to serve on the Board. Some of us are retired; some are still working. I want to recognize Jose (Rodriguez). I found Jose Rodriguez is a hard working Board Member. We learn from you. Thank you for all those hours. All of us know what we are getting into (when running for the BOE). You are the hardest working people I have ever seen. Without you, we wouldn’t operate. Everyone is on the same page and works together.”
After the business portion of the meeting, no one spoke at the public portion. Board Member Obi Gonzalez and Superintendent Dr. David Roman were not present. The meeting ended at 6:28 p.m. to loud applause.
