PERTH AMBOY – Dr. Vivan Rodriguez Retires
*Photo by Katherine Massopust
6/16/22 BOE Meeting
By: Katherine Massopust
PERTH AMBOY – The meeting began by Board President Ken Puccio stating that Board Vice-President Tashi Vazquez, and Board Members Stacy Peralta, and Stephanie Márquez-Villafañe would be attending the meeting remotely.
Student Representative Charlize Leon gave her final report, stating there were 71 awards given to seniors and the senior prom was this past Saturday. She also stated 277 students received the New Jersey Seal of Biliteracy. Leon concluded her report, “Although I am moving to the next chapter of my life, I will always be a panther.”
Public Portion (in-person first):
Parent Maria Peralta spoke first. She spoke in Spanish. Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Vivian Rodriguez translated for her. “My daughter was hit on Friday in her school.” Dr. Rodriguez continued translating, “There were 5 other students who jumped on her daughter.”
There was a brief discussion with Board Attorney Isabel Machado who recommended that Ms. Peralta speak about this in private. Peralta stated she wanted to speak about this publicly at the Board Meeting. Board Attorney Machado stated that Peralta had a right to do so by waiving her daughter’s right to privacy, but she could not state anyone’s name publicly.”
Peralta continued, “The school had my daughter sent to the hospital. They put spray in her eyes. They did electric shock. I am here to ask the Board of Education and Administration that it is time to protect students in school with all the violence that is happening. My daughter could have been dead today. I am asking you and all Administrators and the Board of Education that our children need metal detectors in schools. The administration should have more communication with police so children will be better protected when walking home (from school). The school district has a lot of money that can be utilized to protect our children. We need to put the safety and security for the children of Perth Amboy. I think the Board of Education uses money to pay for ethics charges – the security of children is more important than the security of adults. What happened in Texas would happen here. What happened to my child should not happen to any child. Work with the Board of Education and the Administration to have metal detectors. To the Superintendent – you make more than $200,000. Do a better job. We need during the summer break to prepare for fall and get metal detectors. When that happened to my daughter, no one called and told me how my daughter was doing. The case of my daughter is in the hands of my attorneys. Are we going to work together or separated to solve this matter?”
Another parent spoke in person next. She spoke about a program that her son was participating in, but every year there is some sort of problem. Superintendent Dr. David Roman stated that the program was on the bill list and the Business Administrator Michael LoBrace would see if her name was on that list.
Resident Sharon Hubberman spoke next on Zoom, “I am very concerned regarding safety and security of schools and what is the transparency of school fights and bullying? Despite a $280 million budget, we can do a lot more for the safety of our children: 1.) Resolve for the administration: What actually is the process when a child is bullied or in a fight? 2.) Some sort of administrator to show the location of everyone in a fight. 3.) Mental support of security of our schools – the time is now to have an open discussion on school shooting security.”
District Representative for the Perth Amboy Federation Lynn Audet spoke next. She stated that discipline referral should be seen and ordered upon by an administrator. She also stated that there was a large number of staff members either resigning or retiring. “There are major changes with administrators. The number of resignations is staggering. There is concern for staff members each year. There is a vicious cycle with more staff. How will we retain staff?” She wished everyone to have a safe and relaxing summer.
Board Member Junior Iglesia asked the Board to have another public portion because of the number of issues raised. The Board voted to add a public portion at the end of this evening’s meeting.
There were 4 presentations. The first presentation was on the HIB Self-Assessment as required by the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights and School Safety Data System for the 2020-2021 School Year. The presentation was given by Dr. Vivian Rodriguez, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction and Dr. Damian Medina, Director of Curriculum and Instruction. It was noted that the district total score was a 70 out of 78 which met or exceeded expectations.
Board Member Junior Iglesia said, “Any type of school violence has no place in our school. This is not acceptable. My heart goes out to Uvalde’s Parents. No parent should put a 9-year-old in school and not come out. It was reported that the shooter was bullied. Make it a point to have bullying, harassment and intimidation the responsibility in all of us – students, parents, and staff. Everyone plays a role. We can make a safe environment for anyone. When there is an active shooter in school, we have to be prepared.”
The next presentation was on Picture Exchange Communication System and Special Education Data which was given by Dr. Jessica Neu. “Ordinary students with general education setting along with their peers do better. Perth Amboy Public Schools increased our inclusive role. The first time we exceeded the state average going back to 2014. Thank you for your support.”
The next presentation was on Security Updates which was given by Mr. Tibor Kacso and Mr. Heildelberg, Director of Curriculum and Instruction. “This altercation occurred off school grounds after school. There are adults there. The Vice-Principal accompanied the child to the hospital. That child has been attending school remotely since then. Parents got involved.”
Superintendent Dr. David Roman stated, “Anyone touching a student – we will press charges. We are looking at alternatives. Look at schools at what happens. We have put into place a lot of things.”
Mr. Kacso said, “Right now there are 2 lockdown drills, 2 active shooter drills, 2 fire and evacuations drills. These drills are required by state statute. Our active shooter drills are coordinated with the Police Department.”
Dr. Roman said, “Assistant Superintendent Delvis Rodriguez goes through every incident. It takes everybody to get involved. Parents can’t show up and assault students. We have zero tolerance. If you attend to come through the district to cause harm, you will be dealt with.”
Board Member Michael George asked if security moves around the building during the school day.
Dr. Roman assured him that security is required to move around the building all day long.
Board Member Junior Iglesia asked if the Perth Amboy Police Department is a part of the active shooter drills.
Mr. Kacso stated that the district is required to have the police as a part of the drill.
Board President Ken Puccio stated that the training to do active shooter drills are in the building. “The Police Department is always training. Response time is on the money. They patrol the area.”
Board Vice-President Tashi Vazquez spoke via Zoom, “There was some mention of the Superintendent getting bonuses for not reporting incidents. That is not true. Merit Pay was removed from his contract and that was never a part of it. They had several meetings in school. It takes every single person – teachers out in the hall – everyone plays a part in keeping kids safe. What works is in one district may not work in another. There are no cookie cutter answers. This is an urban area. Keep that in mind when you make blanket statements.”
Board Member Junior Iglesia said, “I agree. The Perth Amboy Police Department plays an important role.”
Dr. Courtney Pepe gave the fourth presentation on Visual & Performing Arts Department. She thanked Brian Wilson for his hard work. She stated that students won several contests including to be on the cover of a coloring book. She spoke about a new theatrical tradition: The Spanish Dramatic Play.Students also won prizes at the Middlesex County Teen Arts Festival. The Gospel Choir and Show Choir won awards. The Flynn School put on a production of “The Wizard of Oz.” There was a short video presentation on how the students enjoyed putting on the play. It was noted that former Board Member Anthony Bermudez sponsored the play.
Assistant Superintendent Mr. Delvis Rodriguez stated that the students did well in the Game 24 Tournament which is a type of math tournament.
Dr. Roman added, “124 Seniors were awarded 71 scholarships which totaled $100,000. During graduation, students will get scholarships totaling $120,000. I want to thank Mr. Heidelberg and teachers and donors.” He noted that Senior Prom photos were on NJ.com.
There was a video presentation thanking Dr. Vivian Rodriguez for her work. After 20 years of service, she is retiring. She has worked in the district from 2003-2006 and 2008-2022.
Dr. Roman said, “Dr. Rodriguez has dedicated her life to this district.”
Dr. Vivian Rodriguez said, “Under Dr. Roman, this district continues to flourish. Teachings of my parents, as I reflect on the last days of Perth Amboy, my parents said work hard and do your best did not go unnoticed. I wish all my love to Dr. Medina who will be the new Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction as of July 1st and all personnel and professional endeavors. Thank you very much.”
Board Members Junior Iglesia, R.L. Anderson, Michael George, Doctor Danielle Brown, and Tashi Vazquez all congratulated Dr. Vivian Rodriguez on her retirement.
There was nothing on the agenda to be discussed in closed session so there was no closed session.
Ken Puccio gave the President’s Report. There was a moment of silence for the people of Texas and Buffalo in light of recent events. Puccio then spoke about Dr. Vivian Rodriguez, “You came back when we needed you. You put us in the right place moving us forward. Thank you.”
Dr. Roman gave the Superintendent’s Report, “Mr. George took a look at busses in the district.”
Board Secretary Michael LoBrace said, “Working with the Transportation Department and getting a grant of $375,000 per bus. There are six electric busses that fit the criteria and we get $12,000-$15,000 per bus which brings the cost down to $10,000. Installation charging stations for the busses – we have federal grants.” LoBrace then spoke about health benefits, “Health Coverage with Aetna and partnered with CVS is equal or better with our members. We have an updated website. Everyone gets new cards for Aetna which medical benefits and RX Benefits together. There are questions and answers on the website, three phone numbers and emails. Anyone who does not have a card can download the App on the spot.”
Board Vice President Tashi Vazquez said, “Regular grants are collaborative effort between the BOE and the city. The Department of Transportation forms a fund grant for the Emergency Traffic Lights, and warning signals at the Rose Lopez School.” She thanked the city for collaborating with them. “Thank you to the teachers who filled out surveys. It is a truly collaborative effort between the school and city.”
Board Member Junior Iglesia had some remarks, “The biggest project is our new high school which is getting closer and closer to completion. We have a responsibility to name the new high school. I understand in past procedures the school committee makes a recommendation to the Board”
Board President Puccio said, “We will have a bigger discussion when we reach that point and we will bring it to the Board for further discussion.”Junior Igesia stated, “I have one recommendation: Anton J. Massopust.”
Board Vice President Vazquez spoke via Zoom, “Our policy on Perth Amboy High School is to keep the name of the High School. It is the one school that does not take someone’s name. We need to take some look at it first.”
Board Member Michael George said, “I sat at the committee to name the Rose Lopez School. Perth Amboy High School – all the other schools can be renamed. I respect Mr. Massopust. I think he would agree it should stay Perth Amboy High School.”
Iglesia then said, “If it is the wish of the Board, we can always change the policy.”
Board Attorney Isabel Machado stated, “Policy 7250 – Perth Amboy High School must be named Perht Amboy High School. It would require a policy change.”
Board President Puccio stated, “We will have a further discussion on this.”
Iglesia changed the subject and began speaking about Covid. “I am looking at data on the school district. There is a 1.02% positive rate. We are responsible to continue to social distance. Covid relief from the federal government – how many test kits have we used?”
Dr. David Roman said, “The district totals have decreased.” He asked Assistant Superintendent Delvis Rodriguez to send him a report.
There was a discussion on whether the Machado Law Group should still be considered the firm for the Board. Vice President Vazquez stated that RFQ’s were put out for different firms. She noted that there will be new Board Members in January and it may be different.”
Dr. Roman said, “It is difficult to press the new Board Members. We should also have a conversation regarding this.”
Iglesia said, “I agree with Tashi Vazquez.”
Dr. Roman said, “My recommendation gives new board members more time. I am confident in our attorneys that saved us millions of dollars.”
There was a discussion addressing the turnover in the district.
Dr. Roman stated the reasons staff gave for leaving the district: “People we are hiring, no one reason, closer to home, out of state, more money. Other districts pay $10,000 more than we pay. We need to keep all variables in place.”
Board Member Junior Iglesia said, “We have 158 vacancies.”
Board Member R.L. Anderson said, “Over the last years, 43 administrators left the district. Most of them didn’t want to burn any bridges.”
Board Member Marisol Gonzalez said, “ The natural turnover of things really is a question of why the people are leaving are because they hate the place. Personnel does not need to be brought up at every Board Meeting. We have by school district a lot of staff. We do our best to have our people. It just doesn’t matter.”
Iglesia said, “We have a responsibility to know as elected officials. The lower the turnover rate – this should not be the norm.”
Dr. Roman stated, “I will not let those words define the district.”
R.L. Anderson insisted “158 total positions open?”
Board Member Dr. Danielle Brown said, “There is a statewide average to make certain. It is not unique to our district.”
Dr. Roman said, “Teachers do learn a lot here.”
Board Member Stephanie Márquez-Villafañe arrived in person. She was stuck at work.
Board Vice President Tashi Vazquez spoke of the 21 appointees to Supervisory positions. “How many were from the hiring committee to ask to gain experience to leadership roles?
Dr. Roman answered, “8 from this district.”
Mr. Delvis Rodriguez said, “The job fairs were very successful and we will continue doing them. Not only do you learn how to interview, but how to be interviewed.”
Tashi Vazquez said, “Congratulations. You chose to stay here and work here. Thank you to those from Perth Amboy and those not from Perth Amboy.”
Junior Iglesia stated, “This is the way to go.”
Dr. Danielle Brown added, “Welcome all administrators.” Brown then began commenting on the importance of hiring Black Teachers, “Black students who have at least one black teacher are more likely to go to college. I hope the district reflects more Black teachers.”
R.L. Anderson said, “Days of Author Leadership given in 1990’s – Lead the way you want people who will not work for you but with you. Think about that response. Mr. Massopust you were together. Your life taught we were always together. Never forget where you came from.”
At the end of the meeting, there was a second public portion. Resident Sharon Hubberman was the only speaker. She spoke on Zoom, “The presentation of the administration – the school safety and school security – They are looking at our school children in a stereotypical way. Children are children regardless of their background. They are human beings. Work with armed officers with our police to detect any object that can be used as a weapon. Maybe it works in another town but not here? Today I witnessed antisemitic writings on the sidewalks. This type of thing I would never expect to happen in the city we love. This is not a good situation. I see graffiti with such writing – it speaks loudly, we need not to give into the evils in this world. I’m speaking about civil unrest in this town. Congratulations to the new staff.”
The meeting adjourned at 8:36 p.m.
