Special Board of Education Meeting 6/25/14

By Katherine Massopust –

PERTH AMBOY – During the public portion of the Special Board of Education Meeting on 6/25/14 there were speakers who gave their thoughts and feelings about the hiring of Roberto Reyes as a Vice-Principal of Perth Amboy High School.  The comments mainly referred to advice Reyes made to students recommending science and math classes to students. This advice was considered by many students as “trying to squash their dreams.”

Parent Mel Knight was one of the many speakers at the podium, “I did not see what took place. I ask the Board to ask him to continue. I am “born again.” We believe in forgiveness. So many things we need to address. Students need the opportunity to flourish. If this is truly a misunderstanding, then he should not be penalized.”

Math Teacher Ramon Ortiz then spoke, “I’ve been here since 1977 teaching math and trying to teach students. I can now see the situation clearly. For the first time we have the High School Administration that sincerely cares for our students. Whether it’s a profession or a trade, we’re here to prepare children for the future. I would like to see these Perth Amboy students represent us here one day. Critical thinking schools; make students stay in school for 9 periods; a childhood learning center is needed. Let’s exercise our mission and the teachers, staff and administrators – let’s work together.”

A teacher of Spanish I-II-III-IV PreAP and AP spoke: “I think when you are a teacher you can do things. My students say to me – when they need things – I am there; they need me – I am here. Don’t lie! Don’t Cheat! I care about my students. I love my students. I’m proud of my students. I am proud of my school.”

One student commented: “For the last 2 years we have gone through a period of sadness. Our focus shifted. We forgot many students come from broken homes. School was my second home. It’s our obligation to listen.”

Parent Luz Malave stated, “Due to lack of trust at PAHS our school is dysfunctional. Our home is completely broken. They are no longer able to call school a home. Our students are special. We are in need of intervention.”

One High School Senior said, “I know there has been a disconnection. I’m not going to bash the administration and say nothing good happens. But bad things happen. I beg you if you choose to keep people in their title – watch them closely. You forgive but you never forget. There’s a strict uniform search. I know this policy. I was pulled out. Why does this coincide when a bunch of children decide to speak out? I respect each and every one of these people.  You give respect and you get it. Why should I respect someone who doesn’t respect me?”

Student Vanessa Jimenez spoke, “My mom makes less than $30,000 a year. Just because one person doesn’t like art and music – one person sat me down that I never saw before. I love music. Next year I’m going to college. Music makes me happy. If it wasn’t for music I wouldn’t be happy. I’m not attacking him personally. What does he do with other students that don’t do math and science.?”

Another man said, “There is a lot of dysfunction going on. Every subject is important. If Mr. Reyes committed a mistake – don’t hijack the meeting.”

Another PAHS Senior spoke, “One day I was in English Class. Mr. Anderson mentioned that PAHS got rated near the bottom. His mission – go from worst to first! As a Junior I had to fight for our debate team. In any administration our leaders are to blame. I tell teachers things I didn’t tell my own parents. You are supposed to help us.”

Another student spoke, “I’m enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. After training with the Marines, I’ve learned that there is someone in charge. As far as lack of leadership, if you do something wrong, there is no proper detention. Mr. Anderson was principal at one time. He would ask: “Why I’m not in uniform.” You got caught. I’ve never realized how hard it was. You (the Board) are only as strong as your weakest person.”

One teacher spoke: “This is the first time I’m teaching A.P. Nobody told me to do this in High School (take A.P. Classes). We want to give the right info. In High School, in every class I was happy. I went to college and took remedial courses. I went to some students and asked: “What are you doing this summer? – Nothing? Why not take pre-calculus?” Those two students enrolled in the summer program. We’re not taking away the art program. I’m not here to point fingers. Let’s work together. It’s for your benefit. Take the challenge. If you can do it – do it!”

Another senior said, “You are the one to do your schedule. If you want to be a Senior – no one can stop you. You are the one who made your way.”

Another Student, Rosemary said, “My mom works 2 jobs and makes less than $30,000. My mom doesn’t know what I’m doing here. Students are here to be future leaders of this school. We are the future citizens of Perth Amboy. It’s sort of tough. This isn’t just about the art program. It is a perfect example our students had their feet stepped on. I don’t’ know exactly who to look up to. If students say something’s wrong – you should pay attention to them.

Rosa Behr said, “It was mean and malicious.  There are people with good intentions. I remember one day Mr. Roberto Reyes came with the desire to work for Perth Amboy. I told him: “You should be a physicist the way he talked to the students; the way they should be talked to. He’s only here 3 months and you’re judging him. When you hurt people, I’m very, very sad the way he’s being treated. We should work together.”

The Board then went into closed session. When they returned the Board offered their advice to the students who spoke. Board Member Maria Garcia spoke first: “Not all of us are the same. We have to respect each other.”

Board Member William Ortiz said, “Students were persisting that the Administrators were squashing their dreams. I don’t think anyone should say what their pursuing is a worthless cause. It is your right to tell us what we are doing wrong. Always speak your mind. I’m a former marine, myself.”

Board Member Milady Tejada said, “We are not only here to make decisions. I’m a parent and I know how passionate we are. I feel that at this time what the intention is.  As parents you have to make tough decisions. I’ll listen to you what is for the best.”

Board President Obi Gonzalez said, “There was a movement to eliminate the Honor’s Courses. We worked not to eliminate Honors and A.P. because they were under-enrolled and art and music classes were over-enrolled. In faith, we ask counselors to understand how important it is at a University. If you can fit your courses along with your dream courses. You should look at what the college of your choice requires. Your college transcript has to show that you are a good student. You can have a good GPA and get the whole picture right. I wish you the best of luck.”

Board Member Ken Puccio said, “In High School you start your life. At age 13 you don’t know what to do with your life. I know a kid that was a knucklehead. Now he owns his own barbershop. You have to have the desire to succeed in the path you’ve chosen. Some of us did sit in your seat. There’s nothing wrong with speaking your mind and following your dreams. I wish you all luck. The most academically rigorous schools are military institutions. You have to be involved in extracurricular activities – either varsity or intramural. High School not only prepares you academically but for life! – Good luck!”

During the public portion, Principal of Richardson School R. L. Anderson made his remarks, “My original intention was to come up here to speak – to chastise the Board as a collective. I like that the Board went back to business and addressed these young adults. The Board responded to this group. They spoke to the kids. They (the kids) are the best evaluator.”

Board President Obi Gonzalez said, “I support your counselors. They are overloaded. I believe in our counselors. We’re on the same team to make a better school.”

Everyone voted “Yes” to keep Reyes except for Board Members William Ortiz and Maria Garcia who voted “No.” Board Member Dianne Roman was not present.