NEWSLETTER New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association An Affiliate of NASSP and NAESP Summer 2004 www.njpsa.org Legislature Washington Principals of the Adopts $28 Billion Mutual & NJPSA Year Honored Washington Mutual Supports State Budget Principals of the Year Program Schools Receive Increased State Aid Coupled with Strict Spending and Administrative Caps by Debra Bradley, Esq. After months of legislative wrangling, the New Jersey State Legislature adopted a $28 billion state budget, representing the highest spending increase in a state budget in 13 years (16.7%). The budget was passed essentially along party lines with three Democrats failing to support the proposed budget. The budget is funded on the revenue side by $1.8 billion in new taxes including the so-called (L-R) Gail Cropper, Dr. Joseph Ramos, and Barbara Millionaire’s Tax, which is expected to generate $830 Tedesco proudly display their Principal of the Year million in FY ’05. Other revenue sources include 17 plaques at a ceremony honoring their achievements additional taxes and fees. For example, the budget David Wicki, Jr., Assistant Vice President for held at the NJDOE in June. contains new and/or increased fees on billboards, Washington Mutual, presents NJPSA Executive On June 2, the State Board of Education and the cigarettes, cosmetic surgeries, HMO insurance pre- Director JoAnn Bartoletti with a check for $15,000 New Jersey Department of Education recognized miums, gas/electric surcharges, realty transfer fees as part of their commitment to school leadership three public school principals who were selected for on certain homes, tires (including spares!), phone programs in New Jersey. honor in this year’s New Jersey Principals of the service, certain actions in Municipal Court, and man- Year Program. They are: datory car registration fees for the first four years of As part of Washington Mutual’s continued com- •Ms. Gail Cropper, Principal, Washington El- car ownership at the time of purchase. mitment to education, the financial foundation re- ementary School, Trenton School District: In addition, the budget relies on the controversial cently gave NJPSA a $15,000 check toward the Prin- •Dr. Joseph Ramos, Principal, Dr. Michael practice of borrowing $1.9 billion through the sale of cipals of the Year: Rewarding Visionary Leadership Conti Elementary School #5, Jersey City School bonds through the Economic Development Author- Awards program. The prestigious awards program District; and ity. Although the practice of such bonding has been is funded by Washington Mutual and NJPSA in col- •Ms. Barbara Tedesco, Principal, Harrison Av- utilized in state budgets since the Whitman Admin- laboration with the New Jersey Department of Edu- enue Elementary School, Roselle School District. istration, this budget borrows funds to pay for the cation. “This year’s three New Jersey Principals of the operating expenses of state government, a practice Washington Mutual has specialized school pro- Year are outstanding school leaders who have proven dubbed “credit card budgeting” by the Republicans grams for student savings and caters to educators for their accomplishments by ensuring the quality of in the Legislature. The Republicans have already home mortgages. One of their signature programs, their school’s educational programs and climates,” ® taken steps to bring their challenge concerning the School Savings , was etablished in 1923 to teach said JoAnn D. Bartoletti, executive director of the constitutionality of this practice to court. Superior students how to handle money responsibly. Wash- New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association. Court Judge Linda Feinberg has already ruled that ington Mutual’s education giving in 2003 totaled The principals will each receive $5,000 to be uti- she will hear the Republicans’ case for an injunction $15.7 million in cash grants. Included in this to- lized in their schools from NJPSA through their af- to stop the sale of the bonds once the Governor tal are funds raised through their popular WaMoola filiation with Washington Mutual and $1000 for per- ® signs the budget bill. The Governor signed the bud- for Schools program. sonal use. In return, the principals will share their get into law on June 30th. With a history dating back to 1889, Washington expertise with others during activities planned by A critical theme espoused by the Democrats in Mutual is a retailer of financial services that pro- NJPSA. ψ crafting and debating this budget proposal has been vides a diversified line of products and services to the theme of property tax relief in the short and consumers and commercial clients. ψ See page 3 for more information long-term. The validity of their approach remains about the Principals of the Year to be seen. Membership 2 Student Scholarships 2 continued on p. 7 Principals of the Year 3 Golden Lamp Winners 4 Critical Issues Committee 5 Convention Registration 6 Register for the NJEXCEl 7 Thank You, Members 8-9 FEA/NJPSA/NJASCD Mort Reinhart Column 13 Retirement Column 14 Fall Convention INSIDE: Prof. Development 19 Upcoming Events 20 LEGAL CENTERFOLD: on page 6. YOUR EFFECTIVE RESIGNATION DATE IS YOUR DECISION www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 Student Leadership Scholarships MEMBERSHIP Awarded at May Ceremony Welcome, New Members! Bergen County Jenna Bornstein Ronald Bligh Wayne Dennis Danielle DaGiau Tracy Rowe Holly Falcone Bernadette Trapp Dennis Montone Tina Yurcho Daniel Novak Middlesex County Kathryn Padovano Maribeth Edmunds Karen Poretzky Andrea McLaughlin Ellen Swihart Linda Penney Paula Valenti Martin Piccinich Burlington County Carlos Ramirez Keith Ellerbe Beth Sela Camden County Sharon Suskin Gilbert Hardnett Gail Utnick Nina Sackett Monmouth County Rosalyn Webb Michele Battista Cape May County Student Leadership Schoalrship winners pose for a photo at the May 27th Awards Alice Curry Sheret Marguerite Delape Ceremony and Luncheon. Gregory Duffy Cumberland County Brian Farrell Ten high school seniors have been selected as the 2004 Student Leadership Schoalrship Award winners. Nora Zielinski Ron Kornegay The scholarships are given by PLATO LEARNING, Inc. formerly known as Lightspan, Inc. and the New Essex County Mary Walker Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association in their Student Leadership Scholarship Awards, a state Deniese Cooper Morris County recognition program. New Jersey’s top honorees each received a $2,000 scholarship and gift during a May Hudson County JoAnn Lynch 27, 2004 ceremony at the Holiday Inn in Monroe Township. Todd Bolsius Heather Wetzel All secondary school principals in New Jersey were invited to submit the name of a high school senior Eve Cabbell Ocean County who demonstrated leadership by participation in co-curricular activities other than athletics. A one page Aleaxandria Conti Katherine Dragonetti essay about the Importance of Student Involvement in School Activities, as well as a resume and letters of Mary Ellen Cox Jason King recommendation, were also among the criteria for the award. Timothy Crabbe Passaic County The 2004 Student Leadership Scholarship Award Winners Stephen Lipski Barbara Chichele •Christopher Brooks, New Egypt High School (Gerald North, Principal) Linda Natale Patricia DeLotto •Jonathan Feldman, Warren Hills Regional High School (Thomas O’Brien, Principal) John Rodgers Cynthia Randina •Jessica Ferrara, Freehold Township High School (Anthony Procopio, Principal) Mirtha Serrett-Cordero Salem County Jason Wanko •Robert Kraemer, Jr., Delran High School (John Fricke, Principal) Rita Bennett Hunterdon County •Kenneth Kroog, Kearny High School (Frank Digesere, Principal) Somerset County Shane Berry •Allison Lukacsy, Clearview Regional High School (Robert Bennette, Principal) Judith Impell Lisa Fallon •Dipal Patel, Arthur L. Johnson High School (Robert Taylor, Principal) Union County •Erika Sensbach, Northern Burlington Regional High School (Eric Barnett, Principal) Mercer County Dorothy Banyas Bonnie Banks •Jay Teitelbaum, Middlesex High School (Gregory Freeman, Principal) Jennifer Ferraioli •Darla Bunting, Bridgeton High School (Irving Marshall, Principal) ψ Harriette Bass Michael LoRicco ψ JoAnn Berkley New members who joined NJPSA between May 4 and June 29, 2004. We’re all about student success! Essential Skills for Reading Success Income Tax Info. E Strategies for Reading Comprehension & Test Taking IRS regulations permit you to deduct a portion •We have identified the 14 key reading comprehension of your professional dues. That portion of your skills necessary for good reading dues that is used for activities such as lobbying •We teach the 14 skills one-by-one in the first section of must be excluded when taking such a deduction. Essential Skills and then combine them in the second Currently, the NJPSA spends approximately 8% section. of your dues money on such activity. This should •Aligned to NJ Standards •Aligned to the NJ ASK and NJ GEPA. not be considered tax advice. NJPSA cautions all level E its members who deduct a portion of their dues •Perfect for classroom learning and reading classes. •Excellent for Summer School programs. that they should first speak with their accountant to determine the amount that can be deducted. ψ Focus on Reading Summer Program A Diagnostic NJ Instructional Program •Components include all materials for a complete summer Visit www.njpsa.org instructional program We’re all about student success! for current news and •FREE Digital Camera Call for information and samples. 888.99.RALLY information. fax 516.671.7900 Ask us for FREE samples. www.njpsa.org Page 2 Summer 2004 Meet the 2004 New Jersey Principals of the Year GAIL CROPPER JOSEPH RAMOS, ED.D. BARBARA TEDESCO Principal Principal Principal Washington Elementary School Dr. Michael Conti Elementary School Harrison Avenue Elementary School Trenton #5, Jersey City Roselle “As the educational leader of “When I became the principal “My passion is fairness for stu- Washington Elementary School of Dr. Michael Conti School, it dents,” says Barbara Tedesco, prin- since 1994, I have been commit- was known as a good school,” cipal of Harrison Avenue Elemen- ted to having a school where teach- said Dr. Ramos. “I was deter- tary School in Roselle. “As many ers teach and happy students mined to set even higher standards as twenty-one different languages come to school every day to learn,” and expectations. In fact, my vi- have been represented by families says Gail Cropper, principal. sion for the school at that time at our school. Integrating this di- “I’m obligated to provide students was to make it the best school in verse population takes creativity.” with a safe environment in which learning can take the district.” Dr. Michael Conti Elementary School Tedesco has been very active with the NJ Teachers place.” Washington Elementary School is a Trenton (P.S. #5) is a bilingual magnet school. The school is of English to Speakers of Other Languages and Bi- neighborhood school with over 300 students in grades a project based learning school that fosters the use lingual Educators. For the past twelve years, she pre-kindergarten through six. Last year, the Tren- of technology. Dr. Ramos met with staff and devel- and a colleague have been trainers in Bilingual Spe- ton Times described Washington Elementary as a oped initiatives and strategies for improvement: cial Education. In 2002, they were invited by repre- “gold star in education.” Earning a Governor’s School guided reading was implemented; looping was imple- sentatives from the Office of Special Education and of Excellence Award, Washington Elementary is a mented in grades 1 & 2 and 3 & 4; a math extension the Office of English Language Acquisition to present place where the diverse student population, moti- teacher was assigned to the fourth grade to support at a Conference for Educators of Newcomer stu- vated parents, hard working staff and a supportive teachers and provide assistance to students; and a dents in Washington, D.C. In 1996, she was pre- business community join forces to create an aca- Dual Language Program was implemented to com- sented with the Honorary Equity Award, New Jer- demically achieving urban school. ply with the World Language mandate and meet the sey Equity Hall of Fame from the NJ Career Equity High achievement levels on the ESPA, NJ ASK4 needs of limited English proficient students. Because Assistance Center. and Terra Nova tests are especially notable because of the achievement of their students, Conti School Tedesco instructs her staff in the application of 29% of the students at Washington do not speak was selected by Co-nect as one of ten Co-nect Na- the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards English as their first language. Discipline and inno- tional Demonstration Schools. and their link to the Cross Content Workplace Readi- vation are imperatives which drive Washington Dr. Ramos and his staff have reached out to par- ness Standards by reviewing lesson plans, conduct- School’s success. ents and made their involvement in school a priority. ing formal and informal teacher observations, align- In 2000-2001, Washington Elementary School won Conti is the only school in the district with a Parent ing assemblies and field trips with the standards and the New Jersey Education Commissioner’s Parent Literacy program and an active Parent Council. reviewing and analyzing test data. Her thirty one Participation Award for a comprehensive Parent Dr. Michael Conti School is a Professional Devel- years in the district and her ability to speak fluent Outreach Program. Funds received from this award opment School affiliated with Fairleigh Dickinson Spanish and converse in French/Creole and Polish enabled Cropper to establish a Parents’ Resource University. have established a welcoming atmosphere for En- Room/Library which offers parents and relatives Dr. Ramos earned his bachelor’s degree from glish language learners and their families. written, audio, and visual materials to help their chil- Montclair State University, master’s degree from She installed a telephone directory system for par- dren further develop their literacy skills at home. Teachers’ College, Columbia University and received ents, offers rewards to students who have shown The Trenton business community has been actively his certification as Principal and Supervisor from academic achievement and was instrumental in the involved with students at Washington Elementary New Jersey City University. He earned a second institution of school uniforms to reduce conflicts by providing incentives for academic excellence, do- master’s degree and a doctorate from Teachers’ Col- and keep students focused on learning. “Harrison nating new books and initiating Career Day pro- lege, Columbia University. He began his career as an School is all about teamwork,” said Tedesco. “We grams. ESL teacher in 1976. He was the ESL Teacher/Coor- are here to create the best learning environment for Cropper earned her associate’s degree from Mer- dinator at Dickinson High School and was an ad- our students.” cer County Community College and went on to earn junct professor at New Jersey City University. He Tedesco earned her bachelor’s degree from Jersey her undergraduate, master’s degree and administra- also worked as a Supervisor of Elementary Educa- City State College, master’s degree from Fairleigh tive and supervisory certificates from Trenton State tion, Language Arts and Bilingual/ESL in the Central Dickinson University and principal’s certificate from College. She has served as a teacher, guidance coun- Office before accepting the position as Principal of Kean University. She was a teacher of Spanish and selor, Youth Corps Program Advisor, Teacher Spe- Dr. Michael Conti School #5 in 1999. ESL and was the Department Chair for Bilingual/ cialist for Career Development, Director of a private Dr. Ramos is a member of the International Read- ESL, K-12 and World Language. In 1990, she served nursery school, assistant principal and principal. She ing Association, ASCD, NJPSA, ASA, NAESP, New as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction before is a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Jersey Teachers of English to Speakers of Other accepting the principalship at Harrison Elementary Trenton Chapter and the Mercer County Chamber Languages/New Jersey Bilingual Education in 1997. She holds professional memberships in of Commerce. The NJPSA member is also a member (NJTESOL-BE), National Association for Bilingual NJPSA, NAESP, ASCD, NABE (National Associa- of NEA. Education and National Teachers of English to Speak- tion for Bilingual Education), NJTESOL/NJBE (NJ “Mrs. Cropper is extraordinarily determined and ers of Other Languages Association (TESOL). Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages/ her determination has much to do with the school’s “In his few short years as principal of the Conti NJ Bilingual Educators) and FLENJ (Foreign Lan- improvement, said Superintendent James Lytle, School, Dr. Joseph Ramos has taken a school that guage Educators of NJ). Ed.D. “The key to her success is simple. In her was functioning as mediocre, at best, to one that is “Barbara Tedesco is a dedicated and committed own words, “Failure is not acceptable.” Whether the showplace of the school district,” said Dr. professional who continuously strives to provide she is speaking of a struggling student or a struggling Charles Epps, Jr., Superintendent of Schools. students, staff and parents with the educational tools new teacher, Mrs. Cropper moves to communicate “His proven ability to plan and implement programs needed for success,” said Superintendent of high expectations for that individual and surround resulting in high student achievement brings him the Schools Darlene Roberto. “She is a valuable mem- the individual with every sort of support. “ ψ respect of his staff, students and parents.” ψ ber of the Roselle administrative team and an asset to our diverse community.” ψ Page 3 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 NJPSA Announces Golden Fall Convention to Feature Lamp Award Winners Child Safety Program Join Tom Patire on Thursday, November 4 at the FEA/NJPSA/NJASCD Fall Convention at the Child Safety - First and Foremost Workshop. Realiz- ing the most evil element of society exploits children, Patire’s program trains children on how and when to “run to safety.” This unique program teaches kids specific safe running patterns while teaching them to listen to their environment. Built into this course is an audible hearing drill that will allow children to con- Dr. Gerry Dr. Ann Powell Beverly Hutton centrate on getting away while listening to their sur- Archuleta roundings. One Bergen County and two Burlington County vice/as- Thomas J. Patire has a diversified tactical and martial arts background that sistant principals have been selected as the recipients of the includes a Seventh Degree Black Belt in the martial art of Hom-Do. He was the prestigious 2004 Golden Lamp Awards for Excellence in Edu- first person in the New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania tri-state area ever cational Leadership. They are Dr. Gerry Archuleta of to be ranked and certified as an instructor in this elite combat art. Patire heads Shawnee High School in Medford; Beverly Hutton of the one of the largest tactical training teams in the world and is currently teaching Burlington County Institute of Technology, Westampton Cam- and certifying instructors in the CDT System. He is the founder of the CDT pus; and Dr. Ann Powell of Tenafly Middle School, Tenafly. International Tactical Training Center currently located in Elmwood Park, New The three Golden Lamp winners will be honored at a special Awards ceremony Jersey. Mr. Patire is also the Executive Director of his family-owned interna- at the FEA/NJPSA/NJASCD Fall Convention in November. tional security business, State of the Art Security Agency, where he heads a -Dr. Gerry Archuleta- team of close-quarter specialists who provide elite protection for dignitaries, Dr. Gerry Archuleta, the Assistant Principal/Supervisor at Shawnee High celebrities and sports personalities throughout the world. Mr. Patire’s certifi- School since 1994, is responsible for all of the Humanities programs in the cations include municipal, state and federal law enforcement as well as special- school. This includes English, Social Studies, Art, Music, World Languages, ized response groups and elite military units. Patire has been featured in ar- ψ Media and Nurses. She also is responsible for observations and daily opera- ticles and magazines. tions of all the programs. Dr. Archulaeta oversees the National Honor Society, Teacher of the Year, Employee and Student of the Month and Freshmen orien- tation programs. She is the school’s Middle States Chairperson and the school’s Affirmative Action officer. “I find Dr. Archuleta to be an accomplished administrator who provides both excellent service to her students, teachers and parents.,” said Principal Charles Fleischman. “We are an excellent high school due to the work ethic and accom- plishments of Dr. Archuleta and an incredible teaching staff.” Dr. Archuleta earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Utah, her master’s degree from Georgian Court College and her doctorate from Nova Southeastern University. She began her career as a teacher in Wyoming in 1971. She served as a teacher and assistant principal/supervisor at Pemberton High Does One - Size Fit All? School before coming to Shawnee in 1994. She is a member of the NJPSA Deciding on college and a career is never an easy choice for your students. Convention and Professional Development committees as well as a state Council Some of them feel uninspired by college as the solution to their personal representative. She is the President of the Burlington County Secondary Prin- needs and goals. Many take out large student loans only to drop out of cipals and Supervisors Association and holds professional memberships in college within two years. NASSP, ASCD and FLENJ. Dr. Archulate also works with the Lumberton And many students are rarely aware of another path to a Historical Society and was actively involved with the Girl Scouts for over ten well-paying, personally fulfilling career. The Construction Industry years. Advancement Program (CIAP) is designed to help these students by -Beverly Hutton- providing them with the preparation they need to become apprentices in the growing field of construction. In these programs they develop both Beverly Hutton began her career in education as a teacher at Burlington City physical skills, technical knowledge and a strong sense of self while High School. In 1990, she was named the vice principal of Eastern Regional earning good pay. After three years, apprentices can qualify for secure High School and was there for four years before accepting a principal position jobs here and throughout the United States and Canada, earning up to at Pemberton Township High School. Ms. Hutton also worked for the $80,000 per year with great benefits! Houghton-Mifflin Publishing Company as an educational consultant. In Students can only develop their unique potential when they know 2000, she accepted the assistant principal’s position at BCIT. the options available. By educating your students about what the Hutton is a graduate of the NJ ELITE program and has shared her growth in construction trades offer in apprenticeship programs, you can help them achieve their dreams. technology with her staff and students. She also attends monthly staff meet- ings not only to address specific concerns of teachers, but also to provide For information, call Lee Pisauro, Educational Representative, professional development relevant to the needs and issues raised at these meet- at (732) 738-8636. ings. The Construction Industry As part of an active Parent Advisory Committee, Hutton devised monthly course offerings such as child care, pet grooming, tutoring and culinary arts that Advancement Program of N.J. could be offered by the school to parents. This initiative has created a positive Representing the Apprenticeship Programs of: partnership for the school and the community. Construction Laborers, The Ironworkers and Operating Engineers

Raritan Center Plaza II, Fieldcrest Ave., P.O. Box 6553, Edison, N.J. 08818-6553 Continued on page 5 Page 4 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 Golden Lamp Winners Critical Issues Committee (continued from page 4) Meets with DYFS Staff Hutton was part of the school team that initiated discussion groups to exam- ine instructional strategies that could be used to increase HSPT scores. Spe- cific HSPT writing, reading and comprehension strategies using examples that were relevant to students were devised. The effort was so successful with reading scores, that the math department decided to concentrate its efforts on the next administration of the test. A graduate of Douglas College, Ms. Hutton earned her master’s degree from Rutgers University. She also earned a bachelor’s degree from Vision Interna- tional University. Hutton volunteers on three NJPSA Committees and is an active member of the Burlington County Principals and Supervisors Associa- tion. She also belongs to ASCD and NASSP. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Hutton is on the Board of Directors for Reality Sports Group. Donna Younkin (r)and Candace The Critical Issues Committee, co- She served on the Strategic Vision Council of the Burlington County Family Y Mueller of the Division of Youth and chaired by Bert Ammerman and Maria and worked with the Living Faith Christian Center and the Mt. Moriah Baptist Family Services prepare to give a Corso, met with DYFS officials at FEA/ Church. presentation to the NJPSA Critical NJPSA Headquarters. “During her tenure as an administrator in our district, she has distinguished Issues Committee. herself among her peers as an outstanding and dynamic leader,” said Principal Daniel Money. “Her commitment to the profession of educating our next In order to get the message out about the new DYFS reform plan, develop generation for tomorrow’s challenges is solidified in the manner in which she professional development opportunities in the area of children’s safety and approaches her responsibilities on a daily basis.” participate in future DYFS regulatory and legislative reforms, the NJPSA Criti- -Dr. Ann Powell- cal Issues Committee met with Donna Younkin, Assistant Director of the Dr. Ann Powell is the vice principal at Tenafly Middle School. She has been Division of Youth and Family Services and Candace Mueller, Special Assistant in the Tenafly district since 1971, having first served as a teacher, counselor and in the Office of Children’s Services. coordinator of guidance. She became the vice principal of the Middle School in Because school leaders “man the front lines” in efforts to educate and safe- 1996. guard children, the committee developed some initial recommendations to share “My role as a middle school administrator enables me to share responsibility with the DYFS officials. for creating a community of learners where respect and responsibility are the 1. Communication - It is critical to “get the word out” to the field on the norm,” said Powell. She chaired the middle school Differentiation Committee reorganization of DYFS and related agencies, its new protocols and the and implemented differentiated instruction into the curriculum with the help of new tools for school leaders such as the new hotline information. the gifted and talented coordinator, special education facilitator and the facilita- 2. Professional Development – Our members will need assistance in tors of language arts and social studies. She also chairs the Futures Committee, learning and understanding the new law and especially the protocols for which is charged with examining the needs of the middle school because of an working with DYFS. DYFS staff, especially new hires, will need to under- expanding student population. As the vice principal, Powell is responsible for stand school law and procedures. maintaining a safe, calm environment for the students and staff, working on the 3. Regulations and protocols – NJPSA is interested in providing input on Intervention and Referral Service Committee, administering the Peer to Peer the development of the regulations implementing the plan. Program, and supervising all aspects of student services. She utilizes a team approach and seeks input from teachers, parents and outside agencies. -Members of the Critical Issues Committee- Powell earned her bachelor’s degree from Westminster College, and her master’s •Co-Chairperson: Herbert Ammerman, Principal, Northern Valley Re- and doctorate from Teachers College, Columbia University. She belongs to gional High School, Demarest NAESP and NASSP as well as NJPSA, ASCD, New England League of Middle •Co-Chairperson: Maria Corso, Principal, Lyncrest Elementary School, Schools, the Bergen County Elementary and Secondary Administrators Asso- Fair Lawn ciation and the Tenafly Administrators and Supervisors. She is a founding •Vito D’Alconzo, Principal, Boonton High School member of the Tenafly/Alpine Community Chemical Awareness Program and •Dr. Virginia Gittelman, Assistant Superintendent, Hillsborough Board served as a coach and a volunteer at the Dumont Mental Health Center. of Education “In all that she does, Dr. Ann Powell is the consummate professional,” said •Deborah Harvest, Principal, Cochran Academy, East Orange Principal William Belluzzi. “For over 30 years, she has worked with students, •Kathleen McDonnell, Principal, Memorial Elementary School, Laurence both younger, older, and now those in between, always with a sense of dedica- Harbor tion, wonder and excitement.” ψ •Edward Murphy, Director, Northern Burlington County Regional High School, Columbus •Richard Smith, Assistant Principal, Burlington County Institute of Tech- Honor State & National Award nology, Westampton Winning Members at the FEA/ •Dolores Szymanski, Assistant Superintendent, Burlington County In- stitute of Technology, Westampton NJPSA/NJASCD Fall Convention •Dr. Pamela Vaughan, Principal, Ocean City Intermediate School •Ruth Hernandez-Vega, Assistant Principal, Elementary School #3, Jer- Wednesday, November 3 sey City 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. •Joanne Walls, Principal, Ocean City High School •Dr. Michael A. Wanko, Principal, Piscataway High School •Leslie Woodward, Assistant Principal, Lindenwold High School ψ Guest Speaker: New Jersey Commissioner of Education Dr. William L. Librera

Page 5 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 -2004 FEA/NJPSA/NJASCD Fall Convention Registration- Professional Development: The Building Blocks of Change

NOVEMBER 3, 4, 5, 2004, Bally’s Park Place, Atlantic City, NJ

PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT ALL INFORMATION REQUESTED DATE______Room confirmation will be forwarded directly by the hotel to the address you provide. PLEASE CHECK ONE: NJASCD member NJPSA Member NJASCD & NJPSA member Nonmember

CONVENTION REGISTRATION - $50 ADDITIONAL FEE FOR ON-SITE REGISTRATION

Includes all professional development sessions & $ 150 – INDIVIDUAL REGISTRATION educational exhibits $ 65 – SPOUSE REGISTRATION TOTAL $ ______

First Name/M.I./Last Name Spouse’s Name

School

School Address (street/city/state/zip)

School Phone Ext. Home Phone FAX

E-MAIL Position/Title

County School District

Home Address (street/city/state/zip)

HOTEL PACKAGE PLANS * Does not include registration fee

TWO NIGHT HOTEL: WED., NOV. 3 & THURS., NOV. 4: Includes hotel, all $ 475 - SINGLE $ 650 - DOUBLE TOTAL $ ______meals, convention gift & recreational facilities

ONE NIGHT HOTEL - WED., NOV. 3: Includes hotel, all $ 325 - SINGLE $ 550 - DOUBLE TOTAL $ ______meals & recreational facilities

ONE NIGHT HOTEL - THURS., NOV. 4: Includes hotel, $ 325 - SINGLE $ 550 - DOUBLE TOTAL $ ______all meals & recreational facilities * NO ON-SITE REGISTRATION AVAILABLE FOR HOTEL PACKAGE PLANS DAY PACKAGE MEALS: (NO hotel accommodations) Does not include registration fee

WED., NOV. 3: Includes President’s Reception & $ 60 RECEPTION & DINNER per person TOTAL $ ______awards dinner

THURS., NOV. 4: Continental breakfast available $ 50 - KEYNOTE LUNCH per person TOTAL $ ______

URBAN BREAKFAST: 7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m. FREE - URBAN BREAKFAST: # OF PEOPLE: ______(You MUST reserve a seat) (RESERVATION REQUIRED FOR SEATING)

FRI., NOV. 5: Includes Buffet Breakfast $ 30 – BUFFET BREAKFAST per person TOTAL $ ______

Meal tickets and name badges will be issued upon registration check-in. TOTAL COSTS $ ______

PAYMENT: Make all checks payable to FEA (The Foundation For Educational Administration)

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FULL PAYMENT, whether by check or purchase order, MUST accompany reservation TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $______form or reservation is not guaranteed. Please return completed form with appropriate payment to: FEA, 12 Centre Drive, Monroe Township, NJ 08831-1564 Phone: 609-860-1200 Fax: 609-860-6677 E-Mail: [email protected] Web: www.njpsa.org

Certificates for Professional Development will be available at the end of each session.

Page 6 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 NJEXCEL Selected as Case Study for Budget (cont. from p. 1) Best Practices Guide A key component of the property tax relief aspect The NJEXCEL Program has been selected as a •Long Term Sustainability of the budget is the enhancement of the Homestead case study for the best practices guide on school A nonprofit research, development, and service Rebate Program. As passed, seniors, age 65 and leadership being developed by WestEd for the U.S. agency, WestEd strives to enhance and increase edu- over ,will receive increased property tax rebates rang- Department of Education’s Office of Improvement cation and human development within schools, fami- ing from $500 to $1200 depending upon their in- and Innovation. NJEXCEL has been identified as lies, and communities. come (up to $200,000). Others eligible for a rebate one of six case study sites out of a pool of almost 50 Located in 17 offices throughout the country, the (property tax payers with incomes of $200,000 or leadership initiatives nationally. It was selected be- WestEd staff includes some of the preeminent lead- less) will receive rebates ranging from $500 to $800. cause of its promising practices in the areas set as ers in the field of education and human develop- In a last minute change, tenants will also see an in- criteria by the school leadership advisory panel, in- ment. Among its specialties are education assess- crease in their Homestead rebates. cluding: efforts to recruit non-traditional candidates ment and accountability; early childhood and youth Other aspects of the Democratic approach to prop- in non-traditional ways, comprehensive induction development; program evaluation; community build- erty relief include increased aid to local and munici- work, and innovative integration of theory and prac- ing; and policy analysis. pal governments including school districts, the en- tice. During the summer, a team of WestEd research- WestEd’s origins stretch back to 1966 when Con- actment of legislation establishing a Citizens’ Task ers will spend one to two days conducting inter- gress created a network of Regional Educational Labo- Force to recommend the structure, mission and com- views and collecting data from the program. The ratories (RELs) two of which joined in 1995 to be- position of a future Constitutional Convention on guide will be published in November of 2004 and come WestEd. WestEd continues to serve the states property tax relief, and strict spending caps on disseminated widely (50,000 copies) and free of of Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah as one of schools and municipalities. The Impact on Education charge to districts across the nation. The areas that the nation’s 10 regional laboratories. The quality of will frame the School Leadership Innovation Guide their assessment work has earned them designation The Appropriations Act (FY ‘05) does contain include: by the U.S. Department of Education as the nation’s some good news for public schools. The total edu- •Vision of High-Quality School Leadership leading REL in assessment. While WestEd’s regional cation budget, an investment of $8.9 billion, includ- •Innovative Strategies to Identify and Recruit work remains central, their work has extended more ing state aid payments to districts, grants-in-aid and Potential School Leaders widely across the United States and abroad. They aid for direct services increased a total of 9.5% over •Instructional Design and Practical Learning Ex- work with a wide array of clients and partners, from last year. (Visit www.njpsa.org in the Legislative periences individual schools to state agencies and national as- section for a detailed State Budget Summary.) •Evaluative Strategies Used to Determine Pro- sociations. ψ Additionally, the budget contains increases in cer- gram Effect tain key areas sought by NJPSA and other statewide education organizations. The adopted budget con- tains: Longo Associates, Inc. •An additional $12 million to provide aid to dis- 445 Godwin Ave. tricts experiencing rapid enrollment increases; Midland Park, NJ 07432 •An additional $17 million to assist the so-called “Abbott-rim” districts (low income districts adjacent to Abbott districts); Science Laboratory Systems •Funding for preschool education in both Abbott Life Study Skills & Art Rooms AND non-Abbott districts; Library Furniture •An appropriation of $2.5 million for teacher mentoring; Wood, Metal & Laminate •A $15 million investment in after school pro- Casework grams (NJ After 3); •A $10 million appropriation to NJ STARS (Stu- New Auditorium Seating dent Tuition Assistance Reward Scholarship) Auditorium Seating Restoration program; and •Increased funding for post-retirement medical Computer Labs benefits and pensions. ITV Labs Despite our lobbying efforts, the State Budget does not contain the increases sought to meet the extraor- Classroom Seating dinary costs of providing special education in this Cafeteria Furniture state. The budget maintains last year’s funding lev- els which are equivalent to a 26% reduction in light Mobile Folding Tables & Stages of current costs and needs. Office Furniture Budget and Administrative Caps Despite the positive aid increases to schools de- Call to Receive our New tailed above, the FY’05 budget will have a devastat- Complimentary Binder! ing impact on New Jersey school districts due to the restrictive spending caps and budgetary limitations imposed in accompanying legislation. Phone: 201-825-1500 800-635-6646 Fax: 201-825-4784 S-1701 (Lesniak, D20, Bryant, D5) and A-99 www.longoschools.com (Cryan, D20, formerly Roberts, D5) was passed by the Legislature on June 21 and June 24 with a vote of 29 to 6 with 5 members not voting in the Senate and 42 to 35 with 3 members not voting in the Assem- bly. continued on p. 16 Page 7 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 Joel Popler Susan Blank Editorial James S. Mills James Rizzolo LaGreta Brown Joanne Cooney Edward Murphy Arlene Rogo Dennis Burd Joseph Ciklamini John Rogers Kenneth Rota Charles Cappello Ed Goetzmann Susan Schirmer John Sarcone Jennifer Carlisle-Pe- Lorraine Lotowycz Carolann E. Skopak Barbara Sargent ters Maureen Madden Marianne Stricker Sharon Saunders Michael Caterina Walter Oberwanowicz Diane S. White Diane Steinmetz Paul Cohen Scott Oswald Legal Aid NJPSA thanks the Cabinet, Council, Committee Sylvia Stewart Patricia Corridon Marge Pavol Nicholas Salvia chairs, Committee members, volunteers and the JoAnn Susko Betty Cox Barbara Sargent Joseph Carruth hundreds of NJPSA members who made the 2003- Sandy Svenningsen Linda Crescione Diane Steinmetz Kimberly Clark- 2004 school year successful. Gary Swenson DyAnn DeClerico Edith Weinthal Hickson Names of Committee chairpersons are in bold type. David Tannenbaum Michael Derczo Elementary Michael Cohn Dominick Tarquinio Robert Dias Karen Leoncavallo Lynne Crawford Samuel Thorne William Donald Barbara Cordasco Georgia Baumann Raymond Dolton Assessors Roseann Traficante Mark Ebner Priscilla Dawson Paula Braxton Angelo Izzo Ronald Batistoni Anita Usmiani Peter Fedorchak Kay DellaBarca Myra Bugbee William Korson Dorian Dorsey Geta Vogel Albert Fico Louis DellaBarca Glenn Clark Joseph Kruczek Robert Gavin Michael A. Wanko Ernest Fisher Daniel Donnelly Mary Beth Clevenger John Lichtenberg Ann Kagdis Pam Woodington Janet Carlson Charles Earling Linda Coffey Gerald McKeon Robert Kramer Patricia Wright Giardina John Fargnoli Wilma Cubero Kathleen McDonnell Kenneth Noland Edward Yergalonis Deborah Grefe John Farinella Barbara D’Apuzzo Gerald North Arthur Ranges County William Hahn Kenneth Flood Randi De Brito Joel Popler Anne Rogers Marie Hartnett Mary Ann Fornal Presidents Diane Gerard Randy Pratt Barbara Sachs Marstiner Hayes David Gaffney Gerry Archuleta Barbara Gibbons Fred Rapp Harry Selover Beverly Hutton Anthony Gaita Anthony Arcordia Georgiann Gongora U. Samuel Vukcevich Frank Volpe Maria Ilarraza Judith Geddis William Belluzzi Susan Haynes Legislative Awards Janis Jensen Georgiann Gongora David Browne Joseph Jerabek Frank Palatucci Kenneth Bernabe Robert Johnson Carol Grossi Joseph Canataro Joseph Langowski James Baker Vito D’Alconzo Mark Jones Rebecca Guess Paul Christopher Barbara Levine Charles Bartley John W. Fricke Susan Keating Joseph Gurcsik John Dennis Nancy Lubarsky Elaine Bettencourt Alyce Hunter Elizabeth Keshish John Hahola Charles Earling Willie Maddox, Jr. James Brown James Kennedy Susana Matos-Kruck Deborah Harvest Daniel Gaffney Susan Mansfield John Burns Lorraine Lotowycz Mary LaBruna Bertha Henson Robert Garguilo Maureen Moynihan Priscilla Church Barbara McMorrow Carol Lentine David Heisey Georgiann Gongora William Mulcahy Jeremiah Clifford Amiot Michel Arleen Letki Ruth Hernandez-Vega Salvatore Goncalves Gary Murphy John Coleman Richard Smith Carol Levy Robert Higham Bertha Henson Deborah Peel Dennis Driber Michael A. Wanko Stephen Liddawi Eileen Hoehne Eileen Hoehne Jann Press Janie Edmonds Cabinet Patricia Lyne Patricia Hutchinson Robert Hopek Richard Schuck John Farinella Bert Ammerman Sondra Markman Patrick Impreveduto James McCarthy Carol Schwalje Rosemarie Farrow James Burke David Mason Rosetta Johnson Angelina Martino Debra Sensbach Albert Fico Maria Corso Joseph Miceli Joseph Jones Agostino Monti Thomas Sherman Paul Frasnelli Vito D’Alconzo Amiot Michel Susan Keating Joyce Palumbo Barbara Tedesco John Furgione Peter Fedorchak Margaret Morales Ed Keegan Joseph Pizza Robert Tholen Edward Hade Georgiann Gongora Eugene Nicolo James Kennedy Kenneth Popovich Nancy Ward Yvonne Hatchett Deborah Harvest Peter O’Hare Bert Kern Arlene Rogo Phyllis Weinberger Gregory Hiserodt Joseph Jones III David Pawlowski Joseph Kovacs Ernest Shuba Patricia Wright Robert Jack Daniel Money William Peppiatt Carol Ann Lentie Geta Vogel English James Karaba Timothy O’Halloran Teresa Peters Rodney Logan Adeline Wierzbicki Language Joseph Kruczek Mary Orr William Petrick Frank Lo Presti Critical Issues Michael Leonardo Elizabeth Panella Patrick Pezzicola Learners Jennifer MacIntosh Bert Ammerman John Lichtenberg Joseph Pizza Louis Raba Elizabeth Franks Nancy Mahoney Maria Corso Ana Mascenik Joseph Pompeo Katerina Richardson Elaine Bettencourt Angelina Martino Vito D’Alconzo Kriston Matthews JoAnn Susko Marie Roberts Kenneth Boardman Laurence Mask Virginia Gittelman Barbara McMorrow Gloria Tunstall Eileen Ryan Joan Bornheimer Peter Maski Deborah Harvest Donald Merce Elene Van Noy Debra Serafin Jeremiah Clifford Irving Marshall Kathleen McDonnell Shelly Meyers Michael A. Wanko John Shafranski Gloria Garcia James McCarthy Edward Murphy Robin Moore Council Debra Sheard Janis Jensen Kathleen McDonnell Richard Smith Timothy O’Halloran Bert Ammerman Tim Smithhart Janina Kusielewicz Anna Memelaar Dolores Szymanski Lee-Anne Oros Gerry Archuleta Richard Smutek Mary Mackenzie John Moncrief Pamela Vaughan Cheryl Ann Popielarski John Alphonse Sara Sorgeralli Clinia Miller Susan Montgomery Ruth Hernandez-Vega Susan Reintzel Charles Bartley Kathleen Taler Ana Mistral Marilyn Moore Joanne Walls Ronald Ruilova Valerie Barto Doris Thomas Alphie Paternostro Robin Moore Michael Wanko Daniel Simon William Belluzzi Christsopher Tienken Diana Sefchik Thomas Normile Leslie Woodward Sara Sorgeralli Joseph Bernero Patrick Tierney Pat Wendell Paul Odenwelder Curriculum & Leonard Stanziano Barbara Bittenbinder Marge Vaccarino Elizabeth Willaum Thomas Olsen Patrick Tierney David Browne Assessment Ken Wagstaff Beatrice Yetman Robert Onorato Laura Vetere James Burke Tina Gordon Nancy Ward Guidance and Mary Orr Max Wald Ross Capaccio John Alfieri Robert Watts Counseling Lee-Anne Oros Stephanie Lyons Emil Carafa Lori Alter Briggitte White Janet Giardina Deidre Ortiz West Marilyn Castellano John Amato Michael Wilson Bruce Arcurio Frank Palatucci Althea Williams Paul Christopher Steve Anderson Sandra L. Barker Joyce Palumbo Orvyl Wilson Middle Level Craig Coleman Janet Ankiel E. Delores Cowherd Deborah Peel L. Debra Wimbush Steve Charton John Coleman James Baker Bette J. Da Giau Nancy Pitcher Gail Wovna John Amato Karen Conant Walter Barrett Georgiann Gongora Page 8 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 Paul Amoroso Anita M. Codey Holly Seplocha Jeri-Lynn Gatto Student Vocational Stephan Baglivio Mike Cohen Robert Shamy Beverly Hutton Activities Peter Carey James Barnes Karen Conant Sharon Sherman Chris Jennings William Roesch Craig Coleman Dan Bland Joann Corvino James Shoop Dan Kortvelesy Martin Flynn John Crowley James Brunn Priscilla Dawson William M. Smith Theresa-Anne Lucas Santina Haldeman Jim Fiasconaro Chris Carlson Assemblyman Christine Smith James McCarthy Joseph Kovacs Robert Matthies Pat Civitello Patrick Diegnan Julia Sonnenshein Anthony Mongelluzzo Elaine McGrath Patrick Mauro Karen Conant Joseph Diskin Willa Spicer Robert Murphy Colleen Mullins Daniel Money Hillary Corburn Linda Dold Collins Assemblyman Craig Bruce Orsino Barbara Piparo-Walls Joseph Petrosino Leonard Cuppari Jay Doolan Stanley Ann Panagakos Mary Roma Robert Riccio Monty Dickerson Senator Joseph Doria Chuck Stein Susan Peters Jennifer Spieker Alfred Simone John Dougherty Trudy Doyle Denise Stone Vincent Przybilinski Supervisors Randy Stolze ψ Josh Falaise Stephanie Dunk Donna A. Strigari Jonathan Swack Joan Conway Nancy Gartenberg Dominic Festante Lawrence Tenzer Jeff Swanson Angela Belmont Kathryn Glutz Arthur Firestone Thalia Thompson Thomas Tramaglini Sheila Ceasar Get involved in Jeff Gorman John Fisher Kay Toliver Special Carole Clarke Joseph Gurcsik Seburn Fisher Meg Turner Education Nick DiGregory Association activities by James Hauenstein Eloise Forster Laura Vetere William Donald joining a committee. Use Leonard Herman Lynda Fote Therese B. Vitiello Tim Hamway James Baker Pamela Hagerty the Committee Volunteer Patricia Hutchinson Brian Friedlander Assemblywoman Mary LaBruna Form form on page 17 Raymond Kelly Michael Fullan Joan Voss Sharon Bartley Stuart Barudin Crystal Lovell to sign up. Patty Lantz James Gamble Joseph Walsh Thomas J. Maliszewski Nancy Mahoney Patrick George Michael Wanko Ronne Bassamn John Becker Robert McGarry Mark Majeski Assemblywoman WendyWebster- Robert Mele James Marcella Linda Greenstein O’Dell Jane Bilik Donald Bochicchio Marilyn Moore Steven Mayer Judith Hammond Robert Weiner Patricia Phillips Dennis McDonald Gloria Hancock Carole Weinstein Clement Bramley Marianne Chletsos John Roberts George Neville Denise Hecht Sally Weisman Dr. Michael Rossi Kathleen Olsen Mariann Helfant Schannen Samuel Citron Denise Cleveland Carol Senff Rob Ostrove Robert Hill Assemblyman David Emil Talarico Kenneth Popovich Rosemary Howell Wolfe Fran Collins John Consentino Dr. David Weintraub Bill Robbins Jennifer Hunsinger Tena Wright Urban Education Charles Ronkin Judy R. Jablon Vincent D’Elia Retirement Lynn Robinson Paul Semendinger Esther Jackson John DiGiovachino Virginia Gittelman Bessie Allen Florence Senyk Betty Jarusiewicz Carol Evans Ted Arnold Louis Alt JoAnn Susko Jack Jennings Richard Flamini Wilson Bethard Janice Anderson Edward Thompson Meredith Kane Louis Freda Joseph Biringer Sharon Bartley Thomas Tramaglini Beverly Kaplan Susan Galbraith Joseph Burne Rachel Beathea Michael Wasko Senator Bernard Judith Geddis John Cash Joseph Bernero Robert Watts Kenny Ronald Gironda Jo Ann Cowing Joan Bornheimer Richard Klockner Sheralyn Gottlieb Professional Pamela Fisk Mary Beth Clevenger Linda Lambert Susan Grossbard Development James Foley Wilma Crespo Senator Leonard Joseph Gurcsik James Baker James Galbraith, Jr. Frank Dincuff Lance Dave Hannigan Cindy Atkins Donald Huggett Jack Don Steven Levine Susanne Hiatt Emil Carafa, Jr. Patricia Iuele Janet Lynn Dudick William L. Librera Kathleen Hoeker Elizabeth Cresci Nate Jones, Sr. James Farrell David Lieberman Karen Jacob Thomas Howard, Jr. Ann Kagdis Louis Freda Viola Lordi, Esq. Loretta Kachmar Alyce Hunter Walter Kasman Carl Gallela Karen Lucy Linda Lewis Rocco J. Magliozzi Robert Kramer Brenda Grant Jim Lukach Brian Loughlin Rich McLaughlin Gerald McKeon Rebecca Guess Alan Markowitz Mary Margaret Lynn Robin L. Moore Vincent Moretta Neely Hackett David Matonis Sharon Mallikarjun Eugene Nicolo Bert Nussbaum Ernest Harper John Mazzei Dodi Maragulia Frank Perrotta Barbara Sachs Deborah Harvest Sharon McCarthy Judith Marino Johanna S. Ruberto Richard Schuck Yvonne Hatchett Raymond J. McNulty Shelly Meyers Robert G. Shamy Arthur Sheninger Bertha Henson Joanne Monroe Wendy Miller Verian Woods Mary Tamm Annie Jackson Assemblyman Robert John Moretti Debra Zamparelli Janet Zymroz Sharon Johnson Lewis Morgan Valerie Mosca Professional Secondary Thomasina Jones David Nash, Esq. Nancy Novack Development David M. Browne Louise Karwowski Tim O’Halloran Sharon Oleszkiewicz Ed Barry Linda Kronstadt Speakers Wayne Oppito, Esq. Mordecai Podhoretz Karen Bingert Ana mascenik Bert Ammerman Jeffrey Osowski Bernard Polatscheck John Bowden Thomas McCann Erin Auletta Ruby Payne Marilyn Pruce Judith Brendel Harry McDowell Assemblyman Bill Irene Pearson Rose Mary Ranieri Nicholas P. Brown Jerry McKeon Baroni Mariann Peck Lisa Rizzo Robert V. Cancro Lyle Moseley Stuart Barudin Lora Perry Stacy Santo Steven Ciccariello Harriet Murray Bill Bond Joseph Pompeo Sara Sorgeralli Peter Clark Mary Ann Napolitan John Jay Bonstingl George Renwick Alan Squitieri Pat Denholm Teresa Peters Debra Bradley James Rhoads Donna Strigari Joseph DiPietro Albert Reinoso Joan Brady Pam Robbins Judy Ulchinsky Wayne Dilts Arlene Rogo Tom Caine Richard Roberto Geta Vogel Deborah Fadde Gene Simakowicz Janet Caldwell Laverne Rose Max Wald Esther Fausti Doris Spivey Staci Campion Paul Sandrock Linda Weber Brian Chinni Daniel Gallagher William Weiss Barbara Williams Barbara Sargeant J. Russell Garris Jeanne Clements Robert Schwartz, Esq. Donna Wozniak Page 9 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 employer.” As with the earlier Bloomfield decision, the Com- LEGAL While agreeing with the need for educational conti- missioner ordered that the teacher be paid her salary nuity, the Commissioner said that the board’s argu- for the month of December. MEMORANDUM ment would have been “more compelling” had they The net effect of both these cases is that a letter of not accepted the petitioner’s original retirement date. resignation, once accepted, stands as a contract not Instead, the Commissioner said that the Bloomfield subject to unilateral change by any party. Your Effective Board first accepted the notice of retirement and What if a board unilaterally changes the resigna- then, once it had found a replacement for the peti- tion date upon its initial acceptance of the letter of Resignation Date tioner, it “unilaterally” altered the agreement, with retirement or resignation? Even if the board does not “not even the slightest consideration of how the al- agree with the resignation date, it cannot change it is Your Decision teration would affect the petitioner.” The Commis- unilaterally. The employee’s obligation is to abide by Robert Schwartz, Esq. sioner saw “little to refute the argument that this by the required notice provision set by contract or After years of service, an employee decides that conduct… was patently unfair.” In the statute. The board’s obligation is to accept the resig- its time to leave and submits a letter of resignation. Commissioner’s view, to unilaterally move up a re- nation date or negotiate a different one. However, it The letter specifies the effective date of the resigna- tirement date falls into the category of “ludicrous.” can’t simply on its own choose a different resigna- tion. This seems simple enough. The board then In finding in favor of the petitioner, the Commis- tion or retirement date from that chosen by the em- receives it, considers it, and decides on its own, with- sioner held that by unilaterally altering the retire- ployee. To unilaterally shorten an employee’s em- out any discussion with the employee, to change the ment date on the pretext of preserving educational ployment career as was done in both of these cases date. Seem farfetched? It isn’t. continuity, the board had not only acted beyond its not only prematurely ends an employee’s compen- In the matter of Bloomfield Education Association authority, but it also deprived the petitioner of his sation, but it also constitutes a summary termina- v. Bloomfield Board of Education, the petitioner, a full salary for the month of September. Accordingly, tion, which for tenured employees is expressly pro- 40-year employee of the Bloomfield School Dis- the Commissioner ordered the board to pay the pe- hibited by the tenure law. ψ trict, gave notice on July 9, 2001 that he intended to titioner the difference between the pension payment retire on September 30, 2001. The board approved he received for the month of September and the full the resignation on July 17, 2001. Then, the board month’s salary he should have received. FEA/NJPSA/NJASCD met again on August 28, 2001. This time the board In another matter, also involving the Bloomfield unilaterally changed the petitioner’s resignation date Board of Education, entitled Victoria Carrelle v. Fall Convention from September 30 to September 1 to accommodate Bloomfield Board of Education, a non-tenured a replacement teacher it had hired who was available teacher submitted a resignation on November 1, 2002 Legal and Retirement on September 5. The petitioner challenged the deci- with an effective date of January 1, 2003. Initially, Workshops sion by filing a petition of appeal with the Commis- the board accepted the resignation. However, as in sioner of Education. Not wanting to be without any the earlier matter, subsequently the board unilater- Friday, November 5 income, the petitioner notified the Division of Pen- ally moved up the resignation to December 10, 2002. sions to move up his retirement date from October 1 Here, too, the petitioner contended that her obli- Have you registererd for to September 1. gation was to meet the sixty (60) day statutory no- The petitioner pointed out that his July 9, 2001 tice requirement. The Commissioner pointed out the Fall Convention? notice was in accordance with the 60 day notice that the statute imposed a “one-sided” obligation. requirement found in N.J.S.A.18A:28-8. The stat- “Because the school laws obligate a teacher to give Register NOW on page 6. ute requires that employees give boards of educa- at least sixty (60) days notice of an intended resigna- tion sixty (60) days written notice of their intention tion… it does not automatically follow that the to relinquish their position. school board has a mutual obligation… To the con- It provides for the following: trary, if the Legislature had wanted to impose a cor- Any teaching staff member, under tenure of ser- responding duty on school boards, it could easily complete vice, desiring to relinquish his position should give have done so. …the one sided nature of the statute the employing board of education at least sixty (60) indicates that the underlying legislative purpose is coverage days written notice of his intention unless the board to prevent disruption of the children’s education.” for your financial future shall approve of a release on shorter notice and if he In defending its action in this matter, the board Planning for your financial future means looking at your needs from every perspective. So let fails to give such notice, he shall be deemed guilty of contended that the collective bargaining agreement Financial Representative Thomas Gallina put unprofessional conduct and the Commissioner may did not have any procedures for ending employment the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network to work for you. Thomas brings exclusive suspend the certificate for not more than one year. relationships during the course of a school year. Not access to life insurance products from a Although there was no question that the petitioner having any language in the collective bargaining agree- company that has always received the highest possible financial ratings from had met the sixty (60) day statutory notice require- ment prohibiting it from changing a teacher’s retire- Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s, A.M. Best ment, the board contended that it was free to shorten ment or resignation date, the board said that it was and Fitch (formerly Duff & Phelps). Plus the technical know-how of a number of the notification period because of the need to main- free to act as it had. specialists, each with expertise in a specific tain continuity of classroom instruction. Stating its The Commissioner disagreed. The Commissioner aspect of financial services. Call today for a free, no-obligation consultation. position, the board argued that “…Continuity of said the rights and remedies of non-tenured teachers classroom instruction was a compelling educational are not only governed by a collective bargaining agree- Proud Sponsor of the NJPSA interest, and this was maintained by hiring a replace- ment, they are also governed by the annual contract Aspiring Principals Program ment for [petitioner] to begin at the commencement of employment. In this case, the individual employ- Thomas P. Gallina, CLU, ChFC, CSA Financial Representative of the school year, in September, rather than having ment contract contained a mutual sixty (60) day The Savino Financial Group 777 Alexander Road, Suite 101 [petitioner] teach the class for one month and then notice provision specifying that termination may be Princeton, NJ 08540 (609) 951-8700 to immediately replace him as of October 1 with a accomplished “by either party giving the other sixty [email protected] new teacher. The board’s goal of maintaining educa- (60) days notice in writing…” Moreover, referring tional continuity in the classroom was in the best to the earlier Bloomfield decision, the Commissioner interest of the children and was not an attempt to said that the board’s action was simply “equitably benefit the board in any way, in its capacity as an wrong” and “patently unfair.” Are you there yet?® 05-2056 ©2003 The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Co., Milwaukee, WI 3047-085 www.nmfn.com www.njpsa.org FEATURE: LEGAL MEMORANDUM Summer 2004 Page 11 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 Prudential Spirit Sharing The Wealth: Youth in of Community Philanthrophy Program Since its inception in 1994, AFP’s (Association of thropy through advocacy, research, education and Awards Fundraising Professionals, New Jersey Chapter) certification programs. It is the leading professional Prudential Financial and the National Association (AFP-NJ) Youth In Philanthropy program for chil- organization for executives who work for not-for- of Secondary School Principals recently honored the dren in grades K-8 has introduced more than 24,000 profit and philanthropic organizations. The New 2004 Spirit of Community State Honorees at a cer- New Jersey students and their teachers to the con- Jersey Chapter’s more than 500 members work to emony in Washington, D.C. The State Honorees cept and practice of philanthropy/volunteerism. The promote the advancement, growth and ethics of phi- each received $1,000 and a four day tour of the program is linked to the state Department of lanthropy and volunteerism. Capitol. Ten National Honorees were also chosen. Education’s Core Curriculum, thanks to a special In 1998, AFP, formerly the National Society of The awards program was established in 1995 to project challenge grant from FleetBoston Financial, Fund Raising Executives (NSFRE), bestowed its encourage youth volunteerism and identify and honor a supporter since the program’s inception. National Founders’ Award for Public Service to New young role models. The four day ceremony recog- ETHICON and Johnson & Johnson have provided Jersey’s Youth In Philanthropy program. nized top youth volunteers from each state, the Dis- important financial and in-kind support since 2000. For additional information on YIP in New Jersey, trict of Columbia and Puerto Rico for their outstand- YIP volunteers are AFP-NJ chapter members who contact Katherine Falk,Chairperson, 215-860-4453 ing acts of community service. train teachers and visit classrooms to speak to the or [email protected]. The YIP web address is Todd Stoner and Leah Wolsten are New Jersey’s students about philanthropy and its context in our www.yipweb.org. ψ top two State Honorees. Todd Stoner of Colts Neck world today. Volunteers help teachers engage the High School organized two summit meetings of high children in community service and/or fundraising school student leaders to discuss ways to combat projects for the common good. According to Top Honors to racism and violence. With the support of his adviser Katherine Falk, chair of the annual New Jersey pro- and school administration, Todd created an agenda, gram and AFP’s International YIP Task Force, “As Gateway Students drafted invitation letters, raised money to hire a young as these children are, they can make a differ- motivational speaker, persuaded his school’s drama ence. It’s important they know that.” Students Take Top Honors club to present an anti-violence play and trained The Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2004 Buffalo Bill Cody & volunteer facilitators. More than 100 students from (AFP) represents 26,000 members in 174 chapters the American West Contest 20 high schools participated in the first summit and throughout the world, working to advance philan- developed action plans for dealing with violence and The winners of the 2004 Buffalo Bill Cody Ameri- racism. can West Contest, a national competition for 6th Leah Wolsten of Churchill Junior High School in MAST Wins through 8th graders sponsored by the five museums East Brunswick, organizes birthday parties for chil- of the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, Wyo- dren living in homeless shelters. After forming the Regional National ming, have been chosen! The contest was held to Happy Birthday Foundation, Leah organized a se- stir interest in the American West. ries of car washes, bake sales and other events to Ocean Sciences Students from Gateway Regional High School took raise money to purchase gifts, cakes and supplies top prize. Their entry was chosen from among en- for her parties. She purchases supplies, trains vol- Bowl Competition tries from over 700 schools. Their entry, “Gators unteers and supervises each party. ψ Go West,” was a fictitious account of a trip taken Ten students from the Marine Academy of Sci- by the Barlow sisters to Yellowstone in 1872. The Top Ten Reasons for Attend- ence and Technology attended the 5th Annual Shore Gateway students were Elizabeth Hiddemen, ing the FEA/NJPSA/NJASCD Bowl at Rutgers University. There were 16 teams Katharyn Nicolle and Lauren Sheppard. Their advi- from New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. MAST sor is Mrs. Janet Coates and the principal is Dr. Ron Fall Convention Team B came in 4th place and Mast Team A won the Davis. The students, their families and teacher won 1. Attend over 15 professional development work- region to go on to compete at the National Ocean an expense-paid trip to Cody and Yellowstone. shops at which you can update your skills. Sciences Bowl in South Carolina. MAST has won Their team’s challenge was to: 2. Visit the expanded Exhibit Showcase. the state competition and moved to the nationals •Imagine themselves as writers or adventurers, 3. Join your colleagues in honoring our state and four out of five years. artists or scientists travelling through the Old national award winning members at our Awards The nation’s top high school science students at- West Ceremony on Wednesday, November 3. tended the National Ocean Sciences Bowl. Twenty •Research Buffalo Bill Cody, the American West 4. Special Spouse Program - Registereed spouses four teams of students were challenged with ques- and Yellowstone Park will receive free transportation to City Walk out- tions relating to ocean biology, chemistry, geology, •Work together as a team to solve problems and lets and a preferred customer discount card worth overcome obstacles along the trail to reach your over $150. physics, navigation, geography and related history, 5. Relax and network with colleagues and friends. literature and public policy. destination 6. Get fresh ideas to bring back to your district at Also, under the leadership of advisor David •Write weekly journal entries to share the story the Goldmine of Ideas. Alfonse, MAST experienced an extraordinary year of your encounters along the route 7. Take part in the special legislative session about for the school’s chapter of Skills USA-VICA. OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT issues that will impact upon you and your school. In a recent state competition, MAST won a total THE BUFFALO BILL CODY PRIZE 8. Sign up for the Urban Breakfast, our annual of 19 medals, the most of any school in New Jersey. “Unbroken Spirit” Logan Middle School event that features issues that are important to The competition had 1600 students competing from Logan Township, New Jersey urban educators. every vocational and technical district within the The Logan Middle School contestants were 9. Earn a chance to win valuable prizes. Visit our state. ψ Samantha Iamurri, Tim Lex, Jake Neary and Lacey Exhibitors and find out how you could be a winner! Smith. Their advisor is Mrs. Michelle McDonald 10. The FEA/NJPSA/NJASCD Fall Convention is and the Principal is Mr. Fred Cuddy. ψ the best professional development opportunity of Congratulations! the year. Register on page 6. ψ

Page 12 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 It’s Only Money!!! A Detailed Explanation Of The Retirement System’s Financial Condition Article 1 of a 2 part series by Mort Reinhart

(Occasionally, to emphasize by the State, by counties and by municipalities, •Employer contributions are determined through a point, I write a column in police and fire personnel, prison guards, and judicial actuarial valuations of the systems each year. the first person that contains personnel, also have significant assets to provide for Undoubtedly, with the losses in value of the information that I have expe- their retirees..) No one, therefore, who is currently assets of the funds, employers (State for TPAF rienced during my over thirty retired need be concerned about receiving his or her and local school board for PERS) will be re- years of retirement consult- pension check quired to increase their contributions to the sys- ing. The current stock mar- Current educators should also feel tems. ket turmoil and its resulting secure about their future pensions. •Asset growth through investment depends upon impact on the financial con- The various statutes providing retirement benefits the movement of the financial markets. Cur- dition of the State’s retire- for public employees require public employers rently, these markets are moving sideways. They ment systems is a subject that requires an historical (State, county, agency or municipality) to make con- are up one day and down the next. No one perspective requiring first person recollections.) tributions annually to each retirement system cov- seems to be able to predict a trend in the short I have received a number of phone calls recently ering their employees. That contribution amount is term. There are, however, many reasons to be- from retirees inquiring about the solvency of the determined every year by the actuary of each sys- lieve that over the long term the markets will retirement systems and the safety of their retire- tem after an evaluation of the various components trend upward and the investments of the retire- ment checks and health benefits. Even a number of that make up a retirement system. Some of the ment systems will show growth. Studies show active educators who are preparing to retire this year components included in the evaluation are the value that for over 65 years the stock market has aver- or in the near future have called or contacted me of the system’s assets, the number of retirees, as- aged 8% to 10% annual growth. That does not about the safety of the systems. With today’s news- sumed growth of the assets, assumed salary growth mean the market will grow at that rate every paper headlines screaming about pension fund losses of active participants, the accrued pension credit of year. Some years the market has gone up at a in the last two years and darkly hinting at taxpayers the active participants, health benefit issues, cost- much greater rate; other years it has gone down being faced with large bills to shore up the public of-living data, and estimates of expected retirements. at a much greater rate. (Note that in the last two retirement systems, who can blame these callers for After reviewing all this information and breaking it years the market has dropped over 25%.) A their concern. down into monetary value, the actuary recommends pension fund bases its assumed average growth But, first, a little history is in order. From the late the amount of contribution that must be made by on a 40 to 50 year time horizon. With that long 1960’s through the mid1980’s, I was employed by the employer. (With the exception of certain military term approach, it seems virtually certain that the New Jersey Education Association as Associate veterans, the State of New Jersey is considered the the markets will trend upward and the retire- Director/ Field Representative in the area of em- employer of members of the TPAF for both pension ment systems assets will grow, providing a se- ployee benefits. One of my major responsibilities and Social Security purposes, and, therefore, is re- cure floor for all current and future retirees. was to be the “watchdog” of the pension systems. sponsible for making the employer’s contribution (Next month’s article will continue the discussion In that role, I often met with William Joseph, Direc- to the TPAF. The local school district is considered of the funding of the retirement systems and will tor of the Division of Pensions, to discuss the ben- the employer of those school personnel who are mem- provide a historical account of many of the actions efit structure of the retirement system and to sug- bers of the Public Employees Retirement System that preceded the current difficulties.) ψ gest changes (improvements) in the system that NJEA (PERS) and is responsible for the employer’s pen- was seeking. Bill would always listen to the sugges- sion and Social Security contributions to PERS.) tions and would point out that, for the most part, What is important in this brief funding explana- they were good ideas. The only thing lacking, he tion is that the State and the local school district will would point out, was the funding necessary to imple- continue to make contributions to the pension sys- ment the changes. He made it very plain that a tems in order to keep them solvent and able to pro- retirement system, regardless of the benefit struc- vide retirement benefits far into the future for all ture, was really nothing more than a huge pool of currently active and all currently retired employees money, and that to improve the system ....or keep it The financial markets will rebound solvent...required more money. His expression, “It’s and provide additional asset growth only money,” has become an indelible part of my for the retirement systems. view of all retirement systems, for without assets to New Jersey pension plan assets grow in three ways: back the promises of the retirement plan, there will (1) Employees contribute a portion of their salaries be no monthly pension checks. every pay day; (2) employers contribute annually, Now, let’s return to the current situation and try based on actuarial evaluations (More later on this to put things in perspective. point); (3) the assets of the fund grow through in- The first point to be made is that the vestment in stocks, bonds and other money instru- Editor’s Note: pensions of all retirees are safe and ments. secure!!! •Employees contribute 3% of salary this year, This article is a reprint of a September 2002 The retirement systems of the State have billions as a result of Chapter 133, P.L. 2001, which article explaining the financing of the TPAF and of dollars in assets. The Teachers’ Pension and An- improved the retirement formula to N/55, and a past actions of State government to use pension nuity Fund (TPAF), by itself, had total assets of second piece of legislation which provided vet- funds to balance budgets. It may be used along over $31.3 billion dollars at the close of the 2001 erans with enhanced benefits. Should the ex- with a copy of Mort Reinhart’s article from the fiscal year on June 30, 2001. The number of TPAF cess valuation assets of the system fall below a June 2004 NJPSA Newsletter entitled, “Press retirees and beneficiaries receiving annual pensions certain level, the rate of employee contributions Reports of Pension System Funding Sending in 2001 totaled 53,784. (The other State retirement could be raised, but not higher than 5% of salary. Wrong Message to Educators and Retirees. systems, which cover public employees employed Page 13 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 Reporting the Death of a TPAF T H E O N L Y B I N D E R Member by Richard Klockner Regardless of the time or circumstance of death, THAT DOES IT ALL! the loss of a loved one is trau- matic. The person responsible for handling the affairs of the Create professional-quality TAPE-BOUND DOCUMENTS, as decedent should be aware of well as HARD COVER and PAPERBACK BOOKS quickly and the required notifications that economically with the Fastback® 15xs binder. School must be made with the New Jersey Division of Pensions districts across the country are saving hundreds of dollars and Benefits. Certain survivor by creating their own yearbooks, classroom materials, benefits may be paid based curriculum guides, and reports. upon the pension fund’s eligi- bility factors, decedent’s membership status at the time of death (active or retired), service and insur- Call us today for a demonstration. ance benefits. Information from the Division of Pensions will detail the specific entitlements pay- able to the beneficiary. Upon the death of an enrolled member in the re- tirement system, the Division of Pensions must be EXECUTIVE BINDING SYSTEMS notified at 609-292-7524. A pension counselor will ask for the name, date of death, and Social Security 330 Franklin Turnpike or membership/retirement number of the deceased. Mahwah, NJ 07430 To ensure the proper delivery of the necessary 201-642-0011 forms, the Division of Pensions will request the cur- Model 15xs www.executivebinding.com rent address and a telephone contact number of the last named beneficiary on file or the person handling the affairs of the deceased. Your beneficiary should expect to receive claim forms within two weeks of notification. Any uncashed pension checks must be returned to be reissued in the name of the benefi- -Jack Mandel & Associates- ciary or estate. Once the Division of Pensions re- ceives all necessary forms and documentation, two Content Rich Staff Development to three weeks of processing time is required for the st issuance of any insurance, pension benefit, and/or for the 21 Century return of undistributed pension contributions to the beneficiary. The Division of Pensions recommends that you keep retirement system membership records, mem- Eight Seminars bership and/or retirement number, and a record of for Change . . . your date of birth with your important papers. Al- ways keep your beneficiary designations current and review this information each time your family •Teaching Parenting Skills changes through a birth, death, marriage or divorce, •A Discipline Plan that Works etc. The Designation of Beneficiary form is avail- •Raising Student Self-Esteem able on the Division’s website or by calling (609) 777-1931. •Character Education (Bullying) Please anticipate your Retired State Health Benefits Program coverage •Engaging All Students bookings well in advance. for eligible dependents ends the last day of the month •Self-Directed Learning Availability includes after the retiree dies. Information regarding paying for school and Saturdays. continued medical and prescription coverage under •Security: Recognizing Breach the SHBP will be outlined in the reenrollment pack- •Bus Driver Sensitivity Training age. Coverage will be retroactive 60 days. NJPSA can assist the surviving spouse or family by notifying the Division of Pensions of the death Need more program details? of a retiree or employee for the processing of any pension and insurance benefits. Keep a copy of this Go to www.consultman.homestead.com article with your final directives to assist your sur- viving spouse and/or beneficiaries. Phone: 732-549-1959 Fax: 732-549-3194 To learn more about this topic visit the Division’s E-Mail: [email protected] website (www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions) and select Fact Sheet #10- Reporting a Death. ψ

Page 14 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 NJDOE Honors 2003-2004 Star Schools and Best

Practices Winners Educational Technology Social Studies Morris County Hudson County The Department of Education honored the 2003- •Secaucus High School 2004 Best Practices/Star Schools at a recognition •Pequannock Valley School Monmouth County Monmouth County ceremony/luncheon in early June at The Ramada Inn •Marine Academy of Science and Technology Conference Center in East Windsor, NJ. •Cedar Drive Middle School Gifted and Talented Programs Union County The Best Practices/Star Schools program highlights •Cranford High School outstanding classroom practices and model schools Monmouth County •Swimming River School Special Education of excellence throughout New Jersey. Hudson County The ceremony honored seven Star Schools and 54 Ocean County •Stafford Intermediate School •Bayonne High School Best Practices selected from a field of approximately •Washington Community School 700 applications. Guidance and Counseling Programs Burlington County Morris County Star Schools •Montville Township Public School Camden County •Cherokee High School •Lenape High School •Valley View School •Clara Barton Elementary School Student Support Services Harriet Beckerman, Principal •Seneca High School •Shawnee High School Middlesex County Middlesex County •Edward J. Patten School •Frost Elementary Health and Physical Education Gloucester County Technical Education Patricia Wright, Principal Bergen County Monmouth County •Delsea Regional High School Hudson County •Fair Lawn High School •Pine Brook Elementary School Mercer County Thomas Sherman, Principal •Bayonne High School Middlesex County •Yardville Heights Elementary School Passaic County Sussex County •Haskell Elementary School •Campbell Elementary School Morris County •High Point Regional High School Georgiann Gongora, Principal Vocational-Technical Education •Roberto Clemente Elementary School •Jefferson Township High School Language Arts Literacy •Arthur R. Sypek Center Lourdes Rodriguez, Principal World Languages Union County Bergen County •Woodcliff Middle School Mercer County •Early Childhood Center – Hamilton •Princeton Charter School ψ Terry Elementary School Gloucester County Mary Kay McMillin, Principal •Mary F. Janvier Elementary School •Union County Magnet High School Hudson County Jim Stefankiewicz, Principal •Mary J. Donohoe School Best Practices Hunterdon County Arts Visual and Performing •Hunterdon Central Regional High School Atlantic County Somerset County •Brigantine Elementary School •Pine Gove Manor School Sussex County Announcing a •Ventnor Middle School new partnership between Monmouth County •Kittatinny Regional High School •H.W. Mountz School Union County NJPSA SkyLight Bilingual Education •Cranford High School & New discounts exclusive to Salem County Mathematics NJPSA members! •Lafayette-Pershing School Mercer County Citizenship/Character Education •Perry L. Drew School Atlantic County Professional Development Save $75 •Brigantine Elementary School Camden County •Joyce Kilmer Elementary School on distance learning Mercer County graduate courses •Yardville Elementary School Public Engagement Monmouth County Burlington County •Keyport Central School •Clara Barton School Save $25 Somerset County Union County on each Teacher Tune-Up Harrison School •Cranford High School Stony Brook School Safe Learning Environment Mercer County Save 10% Union County on books and videos in SkyLight’s •Cranford High School •Antheil Elementary School online bookstore 24 hours •Fisher Middle School Diversity and Equity Programs a day, 7 days a week! Ocean County Burlington County •Memorial Middle School •Lumberton Middle School Log on to www.skylightedu.com/njpsa/1y Science Morris County or call 800.384.4474 Middlesex County •Borough School •Colonia Middle School Early Childhood Education Programs LESSONLAB Monmouth County ™ Bergen County •Taylor Mills School SKYLIGHT •Reynolds School

Page 15 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 Legislature Adopts $28 Billion Budget (continued from p. 7) OR The vote was generally along party lines although (2) the prior year per pupil administrative cost a fiscally dangerous 2% or $100,000, whichever nine Republican Senators and one Assemblyman sup- limits for the districts’ region inflated by the is greater. County vocational schools are per- ported the bill and four Democratic Senators and six cost of living or 2.5% whichever is greater; mitted a surplus of 6% or $100,000, whichever Democratic Assemblypersons failed to support the •Enhances the authority of the County Superin- is greater; measure. (See how your legislator voted by visiting tendent over administrative spending including (Note: Our lobbying efforts increased the al- www.njpsa.org in the Legislative section.) NJPSA the ability to reject the entire budget and to dis- lowable surplus from the designated percent- and a coalition of education organizations strongly allow second questions on the ballot to the vot- ages or $75,000 to the $100,000 amount.) AND opposed this legislation! We urge you to contact ers if the administrative spending limits are not •Limits the ability of school districts to transfer your legislator now to voice your views of his/her in compliance; surplus and funds between budget accounts with- vote on this critical legislation. We also ask that you •Limits a district’s ability to present a “second out Commissioner approval. Transfers from any keep us informed of the impact of this legislation on question” on the ballot to voters in school bud- appropriation account that, on a cumulative ba- you and your district as the legislation goes into get elections. Specifically, districts will no longer sis, exceed 10% of the budget as certified for effect by emailing or contacting the NJPSA Govern- be allowed to include any programs and services taxes require the approval of the commissioner. ment Relations Department. that were contained in its prior year budget un- Transfers of surplus or other unbudgeted or The Bill Provisions less the Commissioner approves this proposal. underbudgeted revenue to line items and pro- As amended, S-1701/A-99: In addition, districts will not be able to place on grams require Commissioner approval and can •Reduces the current budget cap of 3% or the second question any proposed expenditures only be approved between April 1 and June 30. cost of living (Consumer Price Index, CPI) which- needed to meet the Core Curriculum Content Future Action ever is greater to 2.5% or the cost of living Standards; NJPSA will continue its review of this legislation whichever is greater; •Mandates that any reductions in spending and its efforts to change the legislation. As noted (Note: NJPSA lobbying efforts helped change needed to meet the new budget caps must be above, the Commissioner of Education has been au- proposed language to make the caps, both bud- made in the area of “excessive administrative thorized to enact “emergency” regulations to imple- get and administrative spending, from 2.5% or spending” or “inefficient programs”; ment the law. This means that there will be no pub- the CPI “whichever is less” to the original lan- •Reduces by 50%, beginning with the 2004-5 lic hearing process or formal process for input into guage “whichever is greater); budget year, the amount a school district may the regulations. Nevertheless, NJPSA will seek to •Eliminates the current cap exemptions or spend- “bank” and use to increase its budget cap in the meet with the Commissioner and DOE representa- ing growth limitation adjustment (SGLA) for the succeeding two school years. Further, the bill tives concerning the regulatory process. You can receipt of early childhood program aid and de- limits the school district’s ability to use this assist us by providing any information on the po- monstrably effective program aid; “banked” cap if its administrative costs are not tential impact of this legislation on your district to (Note: our lobbying efforts restored the cap ex- in line; [email protected]. You can also help by signing emption for the opening of a new school facility •Reduces the amount of allowable surplus that up as a member of the NJPSA Legislative Network. which had been eliminated in the original bill.) may be maintained by a school district, other In this role, you would help us contact lawmakers •Limits the current cap exemption available to than a county vocational school district. Start- on issues of concern to you and your profession. To districts for courtesy busing to an amount rep- ing in 2004-5, surplus in excess of 3% or sign up, you can email us indicating your willingness resenting the increase between the prebudget and $100,000, whichever is greater, must be appro- to serve on the Network to [email protected]. ψ budget years in the cost of providing those ser- priated. In 2005-6, the surplus amount drops to vices; •Establishes a more onerous and long-range plan to cut administrative spending; For school year 2005-6, administrative spend- NEW TAXES ing is restricted to the lower of: Cigarettes 35 cents/pack (1) the district’s per pupil administrative costs New Tires $1.50/tire for the 2004-5 school year inflated by the CPI Vehicle Registration Fees Four (4) years up front ($224) or 2.5% whichever is greater; Cosmetic Surgery 6% tax OR HMO Premiums 1% tax (2) the per pupil administrative costs for the Millionaire’s Tax Income over $500,000 taxed at 8.97% district’s region as determined by the commis- (up from 6.7%) sioner based on audited expenditures for the Phones 90 cent surcharge on all bills, cell phones 2003-4 school year; and land lines For school year 2006-7 and the future, ad- REBATES ministrative spending is limited to the lower of: Homeowners Rebates up to $800 (for households with incomes under (1) the district’s prior year per pupil adminis- $200,000) trative costs; Homeowners – Senior Citizens Rebates up to $1,200 (Note: No cost of living adjustment is allowed BUDGET here, but the bill does allow the district to ap- Total State Budget FY ’05 - $28.427 billion peal to the commissioner in this case if it is ex- FY ’04 - $24.257 billion periencing increases in enrollment, administra- Education Budget (State Aid) FY ’05 - $8.969 billion tive positions necessary due to mandated pro- FY ’04 - $8.190 billion grams, administrative vacancies, and Abbott Pre-School Expansion Aid $40 million nondiscretionary fixed costs. The Abbott RIM Districts $17 million Commissioner’s ability to adjust administrative Non-Abbott Additional Formula Aid $90 million spending in this circumstance is limited to 2.5% After School Programs (NJ After 3) $15 million or the CPI whichever is greater,)

Page 16 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association 2004-2005 NJPSA Committee Volunteer Form Current Committee Members Please Note: Committee membership does not automatically continue from year to year. If you wish to serve on a committee you served on this past year, you MUST indicate your interest by completing the Committee Volunteer Form. Committees usually meet FOUR times per year. Ad Hoc committees will be convened at the discretion of the Cabinet. Please indicate those committees on which you would like to serve and NUMBER THEM in order of preference. Generally, we only request your services on one committee. _____Awards _____Membership To be responsible for screening the nominations of candidates for NJPSA and To provide input to membership campaign and recruitment strategies. To national awards. Committee weighs achievements of each candidate and help identify potential members. makes recommendations to the Cabinet. _____Middle Level Education _____Constitution Review (Ad Hoc Committee) To determine specific services needed by middle school administrators and To identify, review and update areas of the NJPSA Constitution that need supervisors. To suggest programs for professional development for middle revision and present these changes to the Cabinet and Council for approval. school personnel which would be provided by the Association. _____Critical Issues (Ad Hoc Committee) _____Retirement To review, explore and analyze emerging issues impacting the profession of To proactively explore all issues and services related to retirement. These are school leaders and public education in general, and to develop NJPSA’s strate- to include but not be limited to: financial planning, insurance, the protection gic response to these critical issues. of benefits, transitions to second careers and other critical and emerging _____Curriculum and Assessment issues. To develop specific programs for the general membership in the broad To monitor implementation of the Core Curriculum Content Standards and areas of preparation for retirement and provide volunteer services for the the development of new and modified state tests related to the standards. Association. _____Secondary Level Education To develop strategies to assist members in meeting the new standards. To discuss issues and concerns of secondary school administrators and super- _____Editorial visors. To suggest programs for professional development for secondary To plan issues of Educational Viewpoints, decide on topics and select articles. school personnel which would be provided by the Association. Plan publication format, purposes and goals in conjunction with Association _____Sensitivity Issues (Ad Hoc Committee) policy. To provide an avenue which would assist membership in dealing with the _____Elementary Level Education improving upon issues regarding sensitivity toward student image concerns. To discuss issues and concerns of elementary school administrators and super- _____Special Education visors. To suggest programs for professional development for elementary To be responsive to the developments in the area of special education. The school personnel which would be provided by the Association. committee will consider proposed special education code revisions and recom- _____English Language Learners mend positions to be taken by the Association. To review current and emerging issues related to the instruction of students _____Student Activities who are English language learners. To recommend statewide policies and To explore the development of an NJPSA student activities program in affili- NJPSA activities that will maintain and/or enhance the quality of instruction ation with other appropriate organizations at the state and national levels. for English language learners. _____Supervisors _____Fall Convention Program To determine specific services for supervisors. To suggest programs for pro- To recommend convention program, speakers and format. Has on-site re- fessional development for supervisory personnel which would be provided by sponsibilities and conducts follow-up analysis of evaluations. Selects theme the Association. for next year. _____Technology _____Guidance and Counseling To increase the knowledge and use of technology among K-12 school leaders. To provide leadership and support for the implementation of the goals and To implement association sponsored technology programs and materials. objectives of N.J.A.C 6A:-3.2, “No Child Left Behind” and the Family In- volvement Act in order to meet the academic, personal/social and career _____Urban Education developmental needs of all students. To respond to the Supreme Court decision in Abbott v. Burke. To address the _____Legal Aid special needs of urban school administrators. To develop policy recommendations with respect to all legal issues involving _____Vocational Education the Association. Review cases being handled by Association counsels(s). De- To determine specific services needed by vocational education administrators cide upon financial assistance in the event that member(s) seek private coun- and supervisors. To suggest programs for professional development which sel. would be provided by the Association. _____Legislative To develop recommendations for association policy on pending legislative issues. Examine and analyze legislation and code proposals. Recommend positions to be taken by the Association.

Name ______Position______School______Address______Street City State Zip County______Phone______Fax______Email______

Please mail completed volunteer form to NJPSA, 12 Centre Drive, Monroe Township, NJ 08831-1564. Phone: 609-860-1200 Fax: 609-860-2999 Email: [email protected]

Page 17 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 SetonSeton HallHall UniversityUniversity OffersOffers aa FastFast TrackTrack toto aa TraditionalTraditional Ed.D.Ed.D.

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Page 18 www.njpsa.org Summer 2004 FEA Professional Development Fall Preview

September 2004 09/27 Communicating Important Ideas in the World Languages Student Activities Workshops Classroom Through Content-Based Instruction: Part I (Register 10/01 The Principal and Student Activities at www.state.nj.us/njded/aps/cccs/wl) 10/12 Legal Issues and Liability for the Advisor 09/29 Overcome Achievement Gaps: Powerful Strategies That Will 12/14 National Honor Society Improve Student Performance on State Tests 01/12 Student Publications 09/30 Workshop Series for Special Education Directors and Supervisors TBA Student Leadership Conference of Special Services Session I: Preparing and Transmitting Mandated Federal and State Reports for Special Education Preparing Your Students for the NJASK, October 2004 GEPA & HSPA Workshop Series 10/04 School Law Series - Legal or Not Legal: That is the Question (All workshops are scheduled for 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) Session I: Student Discipline Issues 10/05 Preparing Your Students for the New SAT I Location: FEA/NJPSA Headquarters 10/07 Once Upon a Time: Building Student Literacy Through Storytelling 10/06 NJ ASK Language Arts Literacy (FEA/NJPSA Headquarters) 10/14 NJ ASK Mathematics 10/07 New Administrators Workshop Session I: What Matters Most in 10/26 Open-Ended Mathematics Schools 11/17 HSPA Mathematics 10/08 Facilities Planning From Soup to Nuts 11/19 GEPA Language Arts Literacy 10/13 Beyond Basic Skills: Promoting and Measuring Higher Order NJ 12/01 NJ ASK Science Standards 12/08 HSPA Language Arts Literacy 10/14 New Administrators Workshop Session II: Supporting Teacher 01/11 GEPA Science Growth Through the Observation Process 01/13 HSPA Science 10/19 Confronting Hatred in Our Schools and Communities: 01/19 GEPA Mathematics A Conference for Teachers, Administrators and Supervisors (Busch Campus, Rutgers University) Location: Gloucester County Office of Education, 10/20 Supervision Series: Making a Difference ThroughSupervision Sewell Session I: Look Sharp, Feel Sharp, Be Sharp: Sharpening your 10/08 NJ ASK Language Arts Literacy Observation 10/21 Open-Ended Mathematics 10/21 New Administrators Workshop Session III: The Nuts and 11/09 HSPA Mathematics Bolts of Understanding and Administering Your District’s 11/22 NJ ASK Mathematics Professional Collective Bargaining Agreements 12/03 GEPA Mathematics 10/21 Workshop Series for Special Education Directors and Supervisors 12/15 GEPA Language Arts Literacy of Special Services Session II: Budget Development and Grants 01/07 HSPA Language Arts Literacy Management 10/22 Observing World Languages Teachers: Expectations for the Call NJASCD at 609-860-8991 to register for any of the Standards-Based Classroom NJASK, GEPA and HSPA workshops. (Register at www.state.nj.us/njded/aps/cccs/wl.) 10/27 Bullying: Not in My School! REGISTRATION FEES: 10/28 Breaking Ranks IIT Strategies for Leading High School Reform NJASCD & NJPSA Member Discounted Fee: $ 90 November 2004 Nonmember Fee: $140 11/03, 04, 05 FEA/NJPSA/NJASCD Fall Convention (includes one year complimentary membership in 11/12 Supervision Series: Making a Difference ThroughSupervision Session II: Different Strokes for Different Folks: Differentiating Supervision Questions? 11/16 Teacher Leadership Capacity to Support Teaching and Learning Call the Professional Development Department at 609-860-1200, 11/18 School Law Series - Legal or Not Legal: That is the Question Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Session II: Special Education

December 2004 12/01 Once Upon a Time: Building Student Literacy Through Storytelling New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association is a (NJEA Headquarters) registered provider by the New Jersey Department of 12/02 Supervision Series: Making a Difference ThroughSupervision Education for the 100 hour professional development Session III: Improving Teachers and Teaching Practice Through requirements. Upon request, a Certificate of Attendance will Coaching be provided for you to present to your local Professional 12/10 Communicating Important Ideas in the World Languages Development Committee if you choose to use any of these Classroom through Content-Based Instruction: Part II seminars for your Continuing Education Plan. (Register at www.state.nj.us/njded/aps/cccs/wl.) 12/13 Workshop Series for Special Education Directors and Supervisors of Special Services Session III Monitoring and Evaluating Staff Performance www.njpsa.org Page 19 Summer 2004 UPCOMING New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association PRESORTED 12 Centre Drive FIRST CLASS MAIL Monroe Township, NJ 08831-1564 EVENTS US POSTAGE PAID Cabinet/Council Meetings Trenton, NJ 2004 Permit No. 53 All Cabinet/Council meetings are held at FEA/ NJPSA Headquarters unless otherwise stated. Re- treats will be scheduled as needed. Cabinet Council September 23

Professional Development President: September 2004 Daniel Money 09/27 Communicating Important Ideas in the Executive Director: World Languages Classroom Through Content- JoAnn D. Bartoletti Based Instruction: Part I (Register at Editor: www.state.nj.us/njded/aps/cccs/wl) Mary Timlen 09/29 Overcome Achievement Gaps: Powerful Strategies That Will Improve Student Performance on State Tests 09/30 Workshop Series for Special Education Directors and Supervisors of Special Services Phone: 609-860-1200 Session I: Preparing and Transmitting Fax: 609-860-2999 Mandated Federal and State Reports for E-mail: [email protected] Special Education Web: www.njpsa.org October 2004 10/04 School Law Series - Legal or Not NJPSA Vision Statement Legal: That is the Question Session I: Student The New Jersey Principals and Supervisors NJPSA Leadership Discipline Issues Association recognizes that strong leadership President • Daniel Money 10/05 Preparing Your Students for the New is essential to educational excellence in New President Elect • Gloria Tunstall SAT I Jersey. NJPSA is dedicated to assisting school Vice President • Timothy O’Halloran 10/07 Once Upon a Time: Building Student leaders promote effective teaching and student Treasurer • Joseph Pompeo, Ed.D. Literacy Through Storytelling (FEA/NJPSA learning. NJPSA asserts itself on the local, Recording Secretary • Elene Van Noy Headquarters) county, state and national levels to address Past President • Joseph Pizza 10/07 New Administrators Workshop school quality and the professional leadership NAESP Representative • JoAnn Susko, Ed.D. Session I: What Matters Most in Schools needs of school administrators and supervisors. NASSP State Coordinator • Michael A. Wanko, Ph.D. 10/08 Facilities Planning From Soup to Nuts Council Representatives to the Cabinet 10/13 Beyond Basic Skills: Promoting and 2000-2005 Goals Measuring Higher Order NJ Standards •Bert Ammerman I. To maintain and enhance the recognition 10/14 New Administrators Workshop Session •James Burke II: Supporting Teacher Growth Through the of NJPSA throughout the state as the pre- •Maria Corso Observation Process eminent organization for elementary, •Vito D’Alconzo 10/19 Confronting Hatred in Our Schools and middle, secondary and district level admin- •Peter Fedorchak Communities: A Conference for Teachers, Ad- istrators. •Georgiann Gongora ministrators and Supervisors (Busch Campus, II. To increase membership and active par- •Deborah Harvest Rutgers University) ticipation by expanding and improving •Joseph Jones, III 10/20 Supervision Series: Making a Differ- Mary Orr, Ed.D. ence Through Supervision Session I: Look Sharp, group and individual services. Feel Sharp, Be Sharp: Sharpening your Obser- III. To be proactive in addressing critical vations and emerging issues relevant to the profes- -In Case of Inclement Weather- 10/21 New Administrators Workshop Session sion. In the event we need to cancel any NJPSA/ III: The Nuts and Bolts of Understanding and IV. To provide comprehensive professional FEA program, Council or Cabinet meeting, please Administering Your District’s Professional Col- development programs. tune to the following radio stations for informa- lective Bargaining Agreements V. To maintain and establish mutually ben- tion: 10/21 Workshop Series for Special Education WCBS Newsradio 88 (880 on your AM dial) Directors and Supervisors of Special Services eficial relationships with business, higher every 30 minutes. Session II: Budget Development and Grants education and financial communities. NJ 101.5 Radio, 97.3 FM in South Jersey Management Approved unanimously by the NJPSA Cabinet and WBUD 1260 AM June 27, 2000 KYW AM 1060 MARK YOUR CALENDAR Answering Machine: Information regarding Visit www.njpsa.org for the cancellation of meetings will be available on NJPSA Council Meeting and the answering machine after 7:00 a.m. Installation of Officers current news and September 23, 2004 information. www.njpsa.org Summer 2004