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2013 – 2014 Stafford Township Board of Education Goals – Action Plan Board Goal #1: Communication – Establish effective communication amongst all stakeholders that fosters respect and trust. Aligned with NJQSAC Governance District Performance Review Indicators:

• (DPR#1) At least annually, and more frequently if required by changes in law or statute, the district board of education or advisory board reviews, updated and, by resolution, adopts policies, procedures and by-laws reflective of current statutory authority (NJSA 18A:11-1)

• (DPR#3) The district's budgeting process and its allocation of resources are aligned with instructional priorities and student needs to provide for a thorough and efficient (T&E) education (N.J.A.C. 6A:16-8.1).

• (DPR#5) The board has annually approved, by resolution, the district Statement of Assurance document as reflected in the minutes. o (SOA#1) Establishes policies and procedures for the provision of educational programs and services to all students (N.J.A.C. 6A:7 et. seq). o (SOA#3) Follows all requirements for the annual organization meeting (N.J.S.A. 18A:10-3 et seq. and 15-1 et seq.). o (SOA#4) Drafts minutes of all meetings, including executive sessions, that reflect all board actions and makes the minutes publicly available

within two weeks or by the next board meeting (N.J.S.A. 18A:17-7). When appropriate, the board obtains public input and provides information to district staff as it relates to community expectations. The board also implements the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) pursuant to N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq.).

o (SOA#10) Conducts a public hearing on the proposed budget and formally adopts the budget at a public meeting (N.J.A.C. 18A:22-7 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 23A:8-1).

Major Activities Board/Staff Resources Constraints Timelines Indicator of Success

Revise procedures to

increase its own Board communications

Board President

Policy Committee Superintendent Board Attorney

None

Open Public

Meetings Act requirements

Immediate

Board Self-Evaluation

results

Board Training

Board Attorney

None

None

April 2014

Training conducted with

all Board members

Create procedure for

retraining upon violation

Board President

Policy Committee Board Attorney Superintendent

None

None

June 2014

Procedures with plan for retraining upon violation adopted

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2013 – 2014 Stafford Township Board of Education Goals – Action Plan

Board Goal #2: STAC – Establish a vision for the STAC that is effective and efficient in developing opportunities for students and the community while generating revenue. Aligned with NJQSAC Governance District Performance Review Indicators:

• (DPR#3) The district's budgeting process and its allocation of resources are aligned with instructional priorities and student needs to provide for a thorough and efficient (T&E) education (N.J.A.C. 6A:16-8.1)

• (DPR#5) The board has annually approved, by resolution, the district Statement of Assurance document as reflected in the minutes. o (SOA#1) Establishes policies and procedures for the provision of educational programs and services to all students (N.J.A.C. 6A:7 et. seq).

Major Activities Board/Staff Resources Constraints Timelines Indicator of Success

Review

policy/procedures/forms

Policy Committee Superintendent

Business Administrator/Board Secretary Board Attorney

None

Legal

requirements

May 2014

Policy/Procedures/Forms

revised and approved

Conduct evaluation of

current status

Ad Hoc Committee

Superintendent Business Administrator/Board Secretary

None

None

January 2014

Analysis presented to

committee

Ad Hoc Committee to

discuss direction/ plan for STAC

Ad Hoc Committee Superintendent

Business Administrator/Board Secretary

None

Legal

requirements

February –

March 2014

Committee discussion;

Plan developed and approved

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2013 – 2014 Stafford Township Board of Education Goals – Action Plan Board Goal #3: Negotiations – To negotiate cost effective contracts with STEA and STAA. Aligned with NJQSAC Governance District Performance Review Indicators:

• (DPR#5) The board has annually approved, by resolution, the district Statement of Assurance document as reflected in the minutes. o (SOA#1) Establishes policies and procedures for the provision of educational programs and services to all students (N.J.A.C. 6A:7 et. seq). o (SOA#8) Approves appointments and transfers, and removes or renews certificated and non-certificated officers and employees only by a roll call

majority vote of the full membership of the board upon the recommendation of the Chief School Administrator and acts within 60 days of the CSA’s recommendation (N.J.S.A.18A:27-4.1, N.J.A.C.6A:32-4.1 and 4.7).

o (SOA#10) Conducts a public hearing on the proposed budget and formally adopts the budget at a public meeting (N.J.A.C. 18A:22-7 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 23A:8-1).

Major Activities Board/Staff Resources Constraints Timelines Indicator of Success

Hire professional

negotiator

STEA Negotiations Committee

Financial

Legal

requirements

October 2013

Hiring/appointment

Settle contracts with

STEA and STAA

STEA & STAA Negotiations Committees

Financial

Financial

Spring 2014

Contract ratification

Stafford Township School District Manahawkin, NJ

2014 - 2015 Budget Calendar

September: Staff to prepare budget request forms and submit to their

supervisor for review. Completion date: October 11, 2013

October: Administrators to prepare department/school budgets and

submit to Superintendent and Business Administrator. Submission date: October 31, 2013

November: Superintendent and Business Administrator to meet with

administrators to review budgets. Review dates: Weeks of November 11th and November 18th, 2013

January: Superintendent, Business Administrator and district

administrators to meet with Board of Education Committees to review tentative department/school budgets and special requests.

Review dates: Weeks of January 20th and 27th, 2014 February: After state aid is released from the governor’s office the

tentative budget will be submitted to the Board of Education for approval. At a special budget meeting the Superintendent will present the tentative budget to the Board of Education. Administrators will be asked to attend this meeting.

Tentative date: February 27, 2014 March: After the County Superintendent of Schools approves the

tentative budget, a special budget meeting will be established. At this meeting the tentative budget will be presented to the general public. Administrators may be asked to attend this meeting.

Tentative date: March 27, 2014

km/12-20-2013

STAFFORD TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Stafford Township School District, a partnership of schools, parents, and community, shall provide a secure, nurturing environment that fosters a positive self-image through educational achievement and promotes mastery of the Common Core State Standards while encouraging students to become life-long learners in a global society. Adopted: July 24, 2013

STAFFORD TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION RESOLUTION

TRAVEL EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT – DISTRICT MAXIMUM

WHEREAS, Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:11-12, in each pre-budget year, the Stafford

Township Board of Education is required to establish a maximum travel

expenditure amount for the budget year which may not be exceeded;

and WHEREAS, The board of education has determined that the maximum travel

expenditure amount includes all travel that is supported by State and

local funds; and

WHEREAS, The board of education has determined that that total amount of travel

expenditures from the 2012-2013 school year was approximately

$50,000.

WHEREAS, The board has determined that the total amount of travel expenditures

supported by local and federal funds from the 2012-2013 school

year, was $42,579.88; and

WHEREAS, The board has determined that the total amount of travel expenditures

supported by federal funds for the 2012-2013 school year, is

$65,000; and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Stafford Township Board of Education

hereby establishes the maximum travel expenditure amount for the 2013-

2014 school year as $50,000. Adopted at the reorganization meeting of the STAFFORD TOWNSHIP BOARD OF

EDUCATION on January 6, 2014.

Board President

Margaret Hom

Business Administrator/Board Secretary

Dated:

STAFFORD TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION RESOLUTION

TRAVEL EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT – MAXIMUM PER EMPLOYEE

WHEREAS, the Stafford Township Board of Education recognizes school staff and Board

members will incur travel expenses related to and within the scope of their

current responsibilities for travel that promotes the delivery of

instruction or furthers the efficient operation of the school district and is

educationally necessary and fiscally prudent; and

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 18A:11-12, requires Board members to receive prior

approval of these expenses by a majority of the full voting membership of the

Board and staff members to receive prior approval of these expenses by the Superintendent and a majority of the full voting membership of the Board;

and

WHEREAS, a Board of Education may establish, for regular business travel as described

in N.J.S.A. 18A:11-12, a threshold amount below which Board approval is not

required for staff members; and

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Stafford Township Board of Education, that the

Board hereby establishes, for regular district business travel only, an annual

school year threshold of $1,500 (or otherwise defined by individual contract)

per staff member, where prior Board approval shall not be required unless

this annual threshold for a staff member is exceeded in a given school year

(July 1 through June 30); and

Adopted at the reorganization meeting of the STAFFORD TOWNSHIP BOARD OF

EDUCATION on January 6, 2014.

Board President

ATTEST:

Margaret Hom

Business Administrator/Board Secretary

Dated:

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STAFFORD TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION INTERNAL OPERATING PROCEDURES AND

COMMITTEE STRUCTURE

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Role of President and Vice President

A. President 1. Bring information to board at board meetings. If information needs to be

shared outside of a board meeting, the president will bring the information to the superintendent who will distribute to the board.

2. Call special meetings (via the board secretary), emergency meetings (via the board secretary), committee meetings including ad hoc committees (via the committee chairperson), retreat meetings (via board secretary) and work with superintendent and board secretary to set annual public board meeting schedule (one meeting per month). Specific scheduling procedures are as set forth below.

3. Appoint members to committees, including committee chairpersons, and serve as ex officio on each committee.

4. Bring board requests, questions, and concerns to the superintendent, board secretary and board attorney (as appropriate).

i. Superintendent will direct appropriate administrators to contact board auditor and board physician.

5. Discuss relevant and appropriate issues with the superintendent. i. The superintendent and board president will regularly communicate via

email and telephone. However, because of the volume of emails, if the superintendent emails the board president and the board president does not respond within 24 hours, the superintendent can presume that no further revisions, alterations, modifications to the superintendent’s proposed action is necessary. In addition, as necessary and appropriate, if the superintendent does not receive a response within 24 hours from the board president, but needs direction to take action, the superintendent may consult the board vice president.

6. Preside at all meetings of the board. 7. Sign checks. 8. Certify payrolls. 9. Sign legal documents that call for the signature of the board President. 10. Initiate superintendent evaluation (with the Personnel Committee) and board

evaluation (see below). B. Vice President

1. Assume responsibilities of the president in his/her absence, disability or disqualification.

C. Executive Committee with Superintendent 1. President and vice president will meet with superintendent, board

secretary/school business administrator, and board attorney monthly (and more frequently as necessary) to discuss board matters and specifically the board agenda for the next board meeting

Board Meetings

A. Attendance at Board Meetings 1. Monthly public board meetings are set by board approved calendar (for the

entire year) at the reorganization meeting or the first full board meeting thereafter. Additional meetings are scheduled throughout the year as necessary and in accordance with applicable law. Such meetings are

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scheduled by the board president (via the board secretary) with consultation from the superintendent and board secretary/school business administrator. Retreat meetings are generally conducted at least two times per year and are scheduled by the board president (via the board Secretary) with consultation from the superintendent and board secretary/school business administrator.

2. For all regular monthly board meetings, specially called board meetings, and retreat meetings, the board secretary/school business administrator’s administrative assistant shall send a calendar invitation to the board members. When the board member receives the calendar invitation to the meeting, he/she must open the email and click “accept,” “decline,” or “tentative” as appropriate. This step is necessary to ensure the meeting is added to the board member’s calendar and to ensure the board member’s receipt of the invitation.

B. Preparation for Board Meeting 1. Board members will be given the agenda and attachments the Friday prior to

the board meeting. In addition, handouts and information that will be provided to the public will first be provided to the board with the draft agenda. Any changes or updates will be provided to the board via email or at committee meetings in advance of the board meeting.

2. Read agenda, attachments and related information in advance of meeting. 3. If information should be added to the agenda or if questions, contact board

president, superintendent or board secretary. 4. Check email regularly. 5. Missing a public board meeting – board members who need to miss a

meeting, must contact the board president in advance of the meeting. However, in the event of an emergency, if prior notice is not possible, the board member is expected to provide written notice to the board of education president within one week following the missed meeting. What constitutes reasonable advance notice will be based upon the individual situation.

i. The following is a list of absence reasons that the board believes may constitute “good cause”. However, this is not intended to be an all inclusive list.

1. The board member has a communicable disease or illness; 2. Observance of a religious holiday as identified by the New

Jersey Department of Education; 3. Death of a family member

a. “family member” is defined as: the board member’s spouse/civil union partner/domestic partner; or the board member or board member’s spouse’s/civil union partner’s/domestic partner’s parent, child, sibling, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, grandparent, grandchild, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, stepparent, step child, step brother, stepsister, half-brother or half-sister, whether the family member is related to the board member or board member’s spouse/civil union partner/domestic partner by blood, marriage or adoption;

4. Serious family member or personal emergency where failure to attend the meeting is unavoidable

a. “family member” defined as indicated in 3(a) above; 5. The board member has a documented medical disability which

physically prevents attendance at the meeting; 6. The board member is attending an education-related activity,

ceremony, event, etc. for his/her own child, grandchild, or

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other dependent child living in the board member’s household. This excuse is included herein because the Stafford Township Board of Education believes that board members serve as role models for the support of education and, as such, board members should be permitted to recognize the importance of these education-related events for children.

C. Actions at the Meeting 1. Follow Roberts Rules of Order. 2. Pay attention. 3. Do not send text messages during meetings. 4. Do not be afraid to ask questions. 5. After a board decision, board members should support the decision of the

collective board. 6. Think before speaking. 7. Do not respond to public comments that have to do with individual students,

personnel or litigation (board attorney will step in to respond where appropriate).

8. Committee chairs should be prepared to answer questions. D. Actions After the Meeting

1. Maintain confidentiality as appropriate – see below. 2. If a board member has an internal grievance (a grievance with a fellow board

member), follow procedures below. 3. Do not conduct “after meeting” or “outside meeting” meetings. 4. Check email regularly.

Internal Grievances The Stafford Township Board of Education believes in the importance of maintaining a productive and collaborative working relationship among the members of the board. The board recognizes that part of striving to achieve the most productive and collaborative relationship possible, is being able to work through issues as they arise. Therefore, the board member should follow the following procedures if he/she has a problem/grievance with a fellow board member.

A. Concerns Regarding Actions Taken by or Statements Made by Individual Board Members:

1. Step 1: Informally address the issue with the board member. Share concern as well as the manner in which the matter could be resolved.

2. Step 2: If the matter is unresolved, address the issue with the board president.

i. Contact the board president to schedule a meeting. ii. Meet to discuss the concern. Share ways the matter could be resolved.

Explain actions taken to resolve the matter informally. iii. Board president will investigate issue. iv. Board president will suggest resolution and assist parties in working

towards resolution. v. Note: In the event the matter involves the board president, and board

member has already attempted to resolve the matter informally with him/her in Step 1 to no avail, proceed to Step 3.

3. Step 3: If the matter is still unresolved, request that the board president present the matter to the superintendent to add to the agenda at a regularly

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scheduled board of education meeting (in open or closed session as appropriate).

B. Concerns Regarding an Incident that happens at a Committee Meeting or with Regard to Committee Business.

1. Step 1: Address the issue with the committee chairperson. Share concern as well as the manner in which the matter could be resolved.

2. Step 2: If the matter is unresolved, address the issue with the board president.

i. Contact the board president to schedule a meeting. ii. Meet to discuss the concern. Share how the matter could be resolved.

Explain actions taken to resolve the matter informally. iii. Board president will investigate issue. iv. Board president will suggest resolution and assist parties in working

towards resolution. 3. Step 3: If the matter is still unresolved, request that the board president

present the matter to the superintendent to add to the agenda at a regularly scheduled board of education meeting (in open or closed session as appropriate).

C. Concerns Regarding a General Board of Education Procedure or Business. 1. Step 1: Address the issue with the Board President.

i. Contact the board president to schedule a meeting. ii. Meet to discuss the concern. Share how the matter could be resolved.

Explain actions taken to resolve the matter informally. iii. Board president will investigate issue. iv. Board president will suggest resolution and assist parties in working

towards resolution. 2. Step 2: If the matter is still unresolved, request that the board president

present the matter to the superintendent to add to the agenda at a regularly scheduled board of education meeting (in open or closed session as appropriate).

Dealing with the Public

A. Answering Public Questions and Official Board Responses: The Stafford Township Board of Education believes in the importance of sharing information with the public. Accordingly, it has established policies for public relations/public information as well as communication with community agencies (i.e., the township and local law enforcement). However, the Stafford Township Board of Education also recognizes the need to address individual public questions and concerns. Of course, the board recognizes the legal requirement to not administer the schools, to recognize district chain of command and to maintain confidentiality under the Code of Ethics. However, just as important, the board recognizes the need for issues to be addressed utilizing the chain of command so that district personnel are given the opportunity to address the issues that are part of their job responsibilities and are given the opportunity to establish a working relationship with parents/guardians and community members. The following are the chain of command and confidentiality procedures for the Board to follow:

1. If a board member, receives a complaint/concern/question from a member of the public, board member should always consider two important issues BEFORE responding:

i. Is the individual asking you to share information that is confidential? See 3 below.

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ii. Has the individual brought their questions/concerns to the appropriate district personnel using the chain of command? See 2 below.

2. Chain of command. Board members should: i. Upon receiving the individual’s question, concern or complaint, board

member should confirm that the individual has first addressed the issue with the district personnel at the prior levels on the chain (teachers/coaches/supervisors; principals/supervisors; and superintendent).

ii. If not: 1. Direct the individual to the proper level; AND

a. Complaints about issues within the classroom should be directed to the teacher.

b. Complaints about school program or personnel should go to the building principal.

c. Complaints about instructional or resource materials should go to the director of human resources & instructional services or the director of special services.

d. Note: if not resolved at a particular level, then the individual should be directed to the next level supervisor…and on up to the superintendent and then the board.

2. if the complaint is at level one or two, in addition to directing the individual to the appropriate level, board member should also notify the superintendent of the issue and of the board member’s direction to the individual, as an informational item (not as a replacement for the superintendent as a separate level on the chain of command), so that the superintendent can follow up as appropriate.

iii. If so: 1. Listen to the information that the individual is providing. Then

remember that any official response from the board of education must come from the board president (or specified designee for a specific issue) or be in the form of a discussion of the whole board at a board meeting.

a. Board members can provide the response as set forth by the board president (see authorized sample response below) and/or explain to the individual that he/she will speak to the other individuals involved and take further action as appropriate.

b. Authorized sample response: “Thank you for expressing/sharing your concerns. Please know that I will present your concerns to the appropriate board members but that any official response from the board will come from the board president. Therefore, you can expect that the board president will be in contact with you in the near future to respond to your concerns on behalf of the board. Thank you.”

3. Maintaining Confidentiality. The Stafford Township Board of Education believes in the importance of maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive information to which board members have access due to their position on the board. Of course, the board recognizes the legal requirement for confidentiality under the Code of Ethics. However, just as important, the board recognizes the need for confidentiality based upon the negative

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ramifications that might occur if sensitive/confidential information is released. Therefore, the board recognizes the following confidentiality guidelines.

i. A board member must: hold confidential all matters pertaining to the schools which, if disclosed, would needlessly injure individuals or the schools.

ii. Topics discussed in closed session are confidential. 1. Those topics may become public but not until the board

specifically makes them public by discussing them at the appropriate time in an open meeting

iii. Information that is provided to the board member outside of closed session is confidential if:

1. It is noted to be “confidential;” or 2. Board member knows that if this information was being

provided at a board meeting, it would be provided only during closed session.

iv. In between board meetings, the superintendent will share relevant and important information about district happenings, incidents and events with the board via the SuperGRAM and in accordance with board policy. The board will maintain the confidentiality of this information as it would all information received at a board meeting in closed session.

Committees

A. Scheduling Committee Meetings: 1. The Committees of Personnel, Finance/Insurance/Transportation and

Curriculum/Instruction/Technology will meet at least once per month and more frequently as necessary and as required by the respective committee chairperson.

2. The Committees of Policy and Buildings/Grounds/Cafeteria will meet at least once every other month and more frequently as necessary and as required by the respective committee chairperson.

3. The Negotiations Committee will be held on an as-needed basis. B. Attendance at Committee Meetings:

1. Committee meetings are called and scheduled as set forth above by the committee chairperson. The committee chairperson notifies the administrative assistant to the superintendent who will send a calendar invitation to the meeting.

2. When the board member receives the calendar invitation to the committee meeting, he/she must open the email and click “accept,” “decline,” or “tentative” as appropriate. This step is necessary to ensure the meeting is added to the board member’s calendar and to ensure the chairperson is aware of the board member’s receipt of the invitation. It shall be the responsibility of the committee chairperson to check with the appropriate administrative assistant to see who has responded to the calendar invitation and to follow up by phone with any board members who have not responded to the invitation.

3. If it is anticipated that the board member will not be able to attend a committee meeting, then it is the responsibility of that board member to personally contact the alternate for that committee to sit in that board members place. If that board member is unable to contact the alternate, or learns that the alternate cannot attend, then it is the responsibility of that board member to either find another replacement other than the alternate. If

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no other alternate is able to be found, then that board member should contact the board president as a last resort. It is also recommended that absent board member contact superintendent’s office as a courtesy, in case materials need to be distributed prior to the meeting.

4. The superintendent is a member of every committee. However, since the committee meetings overlap, the superintendent may designate an administrator to serve in his/her place at the committee meetings he/she cannot attend.

C. Committee Agendas: Committee chairpersons will work with the superintendent and designated appropriate administrator to set the agenda for each committee meeting. Any committee member can suggest an agenda item, which should be provided to the committee chairperson and superintendent at least one week in advance of the meeting.

D. Committee Minutes/Reports: It is the committee chairperson’s responsibility to take notes/minutes at the committee meetings, submit them via email to the committee members (with a cc to superintendent, superintendent’s administrative assistant and other administrators present at the committee meeting) within 24 hours and ask for any corrections, omissions, or changes. If an individual committee Member has changes and there is a dispute as to accuracy of statements made at meetings, the chairperson will review the proposed statement/revision/etc. with the entire committee to discuss. The determination of the majority of the committee will be final. After a period of 48 hours to make changes, the superintendent’s administrative assistant will then send the final version of the minutes of that particular committee meeting to the full board for viewing and information purposes.

E. Items at board meeting presented by chairperson: The committee chairperson is also expected to initiate voting and to add any additional reporting to the board and public on the evening of the public business meeting.

F. All information should flow through a Committee: board members who wish to share information with the board should first bring the information to the appropriate committee chairperson, or in the alternative, the board president. The board president will direct to the appropriate committee or will present information to the full board, either at a meeting or via the superintendent, as appropriate.

G. Deference should be given to committee recommendations

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STAFFORD TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION COMMITTEES Purpose, Roles and Topics

NEGOTIATIONS Purpose: To conduct negotiations of the collective bargaining agreements with the Stafford Township Education Association (STEA) and the Stafford Township Administrator’s Association (STAA) and to present appropriate action items to the full board of education. Items/Topics to be Discussed (not an all-inclusive list): Under the direction of the committee chairperson, the committee

• Works with the New Jersey School Boards Association to review current negotiations trends, to gather background information for negotiations, and to generally prepare for the negotiations process.

• Responds to correspondence/communications to and from the STEA and the STAA with the assistance of the board secretary.

• Develops negotiations proposals to be provided to the STEA and the STAA. • Reviews, discusses, and considers proposals presented by the STEA and the STAA. • Requests information and guidance from the superintendent, school business

administrator and board attorney/in-house counsel as necessary and appropriate. • Negotiates at the bargaining table with the STEA and the STAA until memoranda of

agreements with salary guides are reached with each association. The committee then presents the memoranda of agreements to the full board.

• Once discussed with the full board, the committee incorporates each memorandum of agreement into a full contract with the respective association and presents same to the full board for formal ratification.

Members and Role: • Board Members: The STEA Negotiations Committee is a committee of the whole.

Accordingly, all board members who are not excluded from the negotiations process because of conflicts of interest participate on this committee. The STAA Negotiations Committee is not a committee of the whole and is composed of those board members who cannot participate in the STEA negotiations and other selected board members appointed by the president.

o Chairperson: One board member on this committee is selected by the board president as the chairperson. The chairperson is responsible for calling meetings, creating meeting agendas, creating proposals/meeting notes/minutes, and presenting action items to the full board at a board meeting.

• Board Secretary/School Business Administrator: o Board Secretary: As board secretary, this individual opens the meeting, runs

the meeting only in the absence of the board president (who may or may not participate on this committee due to conflicts of interest), and conducts all routine board secretary duties (i.e., roll call, notes/minutes, etc.). This individual sits in on actual negotiations and proposal discussions in order to

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fulfill the board secretary responsibilities as negotiations are conducted at an official meeting.

o School Business Administrator: As school business administrator, this individual

Provides guidance and input (as requested by the committee) as to financial impact of negotiations proposals;

Provides guidance and input (as requested by the committee) as to the impact of negotiations proposals on certain sectors of the bargaining unit, specifically transportation, custodial, buildings and grounds, and any other non-certified unit employees as appropriate.

Gathers and provides appropriate financial information (as requested by the committee).

This individual does not sit in on actual negotiations as the school business administrator except at the request of the committee.

• Superintendent: This individual o Provides guidance and input (as requested by the committee) as to the

impact of negotiations proposals on personnel, curriculum/instruction, student achievement, and any other appropriate district-related matter.

o Provides guidance and input (as requested by the committee) as to the impact of negotiations proposals on certain sectors of the bargaining unit, specifically all certified unit employees.

o Gathers and provides appropriate information (as requested by the committee) on district-related matters, which could include but is not limited to past grievance issues/past-practice and instructional/student achievement issues. For personnel issues, this individual may utilize the assistance of the director of human resources (only as to STEA issues).

o This individual does not sit in on actual negotiations except upon the request of the committee.

• Board Attorney/In-House Counsel: o Provides guidance and input (as requested by the committee) as to the legal

impact and implications of negotiations proposals. o Drafts language (as requested by the committee). o This individual does not sit in on actual negotiations except upon the request

of the committee. The committee recognizes that doing so will likely affect the ability of the board attorney/in-house counsel to represent the board in future grievance issues for those items negotiated at the table while the board attorney/in-house counsel is present.

Notes:

• All meetings with five (5) or more board members must be duly advertised, although actual negotiations can be conducted in closed session.

• During non-negotiations years, this committee merges with the Personnel Committee.

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PERSONNEL Purpose: To discuss and consider issues related to the personnel and employment of all certified and non-certified employees, whether affiliated or non-affiliated and to present appropriate action items to the full board of education. Items/Topics to be Discussed (not an all-inclusive list):

• Grievance of either the STEA or the STAA. • Consideration of the superintendent’s personnel and employment related

recommendations, specifically including but not limited to new hires, non-tenured employees being recommended for renewal/tenure, renewal contracts for all employees, assignments, approval of leaves of absence, stipends/additional instruction and activities.

• Initial consideration of employees requesting a Donaldson Hearing upon non-renewal prior to a full board hearing.

• Employee discipline matters as recommended/presented by the superintendent, including but not limited to initial consideration of tenure charges prior to full board consideration.

• Discussion and consideration of the superintendent’s evaluation, prior to submission to the full board.

• Discussion and consideration of policies/procedures/job descriptions (in conjunction with the Policy Committee) relating to employment.

Members and Role: • No more than 4 board members as assigned by the board president.

o Chairperson: One board member on this committee is selected by the board president as the chairperson. The chairperson is responsible for calling meetings, creating meeting agendas, creating meeting notes/minutes, sending minutes to the Committee for approval, and presenting action items to the full board at a board meeting.

• Superintendent: The superintendent presents recommendations to the committee and provides guidance/information regarding the impact of employment related decisions.

o Alternate/Additional Administrators: Other administrators may attend the committee meeting either as the designee of the superintendent in his/her absence or at the request of the committee. Alternate administrators are there to provide information and should not be directed by board members (i.e., normal code of ethics rules apply regarding prohibition against administering to the district.)

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FINANCE/INSURANCE/TRANSPORTATION Purpose: To discuss and consider issues related to the finances of the district, insurance, and transportation related issues and to present appropriate action items to the full board of education. Items/Topics to be Discussed (not an all-inclusive list):

• Consideration of the bill list as presented by the board secretary. • Consideration of line item transfers presented by the board secretary. • Consideration of the treasurer’s and secretary’s reports. • Consideration of monetary donations given to the board. • Discussion and consideration of any and all issues that have a financial impact on the

district. • Discussion and consideration of district insurance and transportation contracts as

well as contracts that do not fall appropriately with another committee. • Discussion and consideration of policies/procedures/job descriptions (in conjunction

with the Policy Committee) relating to finance, insurance and transportation.

Members and Role: • No more than 4 board members as assigned by the board president.

o Chairperson: One board member on this committee is selected by the board president as the chairperson. The chairperson is responsible for calling meetings, creating meeting agendas, creating meeting notes/minutes, sending minutes to the committee for approval, and presenting action items to the full board at a board meeting.

• Superintendent: The superintendent provides guidance/information regarding the impact of financial related decisions.

o Alternate/Additional Administrators: Other administrators may attend the committee meeting either as the designee of the superintendent in his/her absence or at the request of the committee. Alternate administrators are there to provide information and should not be directed by board members (i.e., normal code of ethics rules apply regarding prohibition against administering to the district.)

• Board Secretary/School Business Administrator: In the role of the board secretary, the individual presents recommendations to the committee regarding finance related issues consistent with the board secretary responsibilities. In the role of the school business administrator, the individual provides guidance/information regarding the impact of finance, insurance and transportation decisions.

o Alternate/Additional Administrators: Other administrators may attend the committee meeting either as the designee of the board secretary/school business administrator in his/her absence or at the request of the committee. Alternate administrators are there to provide information and should not be directed by board members (i.e., normal code of ethics rules apply regarding prohibition against administering to the district.)

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CURRICULUM/INSTRUCTION/TECHNOLOGY Purpose: To discuss and consider issues related to curriculum, instruction, programs, and student achievement and to present appropriate action items to the full board of education. Items/Topics to be Discussed (not an all-inclusive list):

• Consideration and discussion of new programs/initiatives. • Consideration and discussion of professional development programs and plans. • Consideration and discussion of any issues impacting curriculum/instruction. • Consideration and discussion of textbooks and textbook purchasing timelines. • Consideration of issues resulting from the Instructional Council, DPAC, or similar

meetings. • Consideration of issues impacting technology. • Consideration of technology purchases in conjunction with the Finance Committee.

Members and Role:

• No more than 4 board members as assigned by the board president. o Chairperson: One board member on this committee is selected by the board

president as the chairperson. The chairperson is responsible for calling meetings, creating meeting agendas, creating meeting notes/minutes, sending minutes to the committee for approval, and presenting action items to the full board at a board meeting.

• Superintendent: The superintendent presents recommendations to the committee and provides guidance/information regarding the impact of curriculum/instruction and technology related decisions.

o Alternate/Additional Administrators: Other administrators may attend the committee meeting either as the designee of the superintendent in his/her absence or at the request of the committee. Alternate administrators are there to provide information and should not be directed by board members (i.e., normal code of ethics rules apply regarding prohibition against administering to the district.)

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BUILDINGS/GROUNDS/CAFETERIA Purpose: To discuss and consider issues related to the maintenance, buildings and grounds, and food services and to present appropriate action items to the full board of education. Items/Topics to be Discussed (not an all-inclusive list):

• Consideration and discussion of bidding/contracting for all services related to buildings and grounds and food services.

• Consideration and discussion of energy programs/initiatives. • Consideration and discussion of maintenance and facilities plans and services, both

short-term and long-range planning. • Consideration and discussion of financial and budget issues affecting facilities,

buildings and grounds, maintenance and food services, in conjunction with the Finance Committee.

• Consideration and discussion of all aspects of construction projects.

Members and Role: • No more than 4 board members as assigned by the board president.

o Chairperson: One board member on this committee is selected by the board president as the chairperson. The chairperson is responsible for calling meetings, creating meeting agendas, creating meeting notes/minutes, sending minutes to the committee for approval, and presenting action items to the full board at a board meeting.

• Superintendent and/or School Business Administrator: Superintendent presents recommendations to the committee and provides guidance/information regarding the impact of buildings and grounds and food service related decisions. Customarily the superintendent will ask the school business administrator to attend in his/her place or in addition to his/her attendance.

o Additional Administrators: Other administrators may attend the committee meeting either at the request of the superintendent and school business administrator or at the request of the committee. Alternate administrators are there to provide information and should not be directed by board members (i.e., normal code of ethics rules apply regarding prohibition against administering to the district.)

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POLICY/LEGISLATIVE Purpose: To discuss and consider issues related to policy and governance issues and to present appropriate action items to the full board of education. Items/Topics to be Discussed (not an all-inclusive list):

• Consideration and discussion of all Strauss Esmay policy alerts. • Consideration and discussion of recommendations regarding the adoption of new

bylaws/policies/regulations and the revision of existing bylaws/policies/regulations to comply with legal requirements based upon the recommendation of the board attorney/in-house counsel and the superintendent.

• Consideration and discussion of recommendations regarding the adoption of new bylaws/policies/regulations and the revision of existing bylaws/policies/regulations to conform to district practice based upon the recommendation of the board attorney/in-house counsel and the superintendent.

• Discussion and consideration of job descriptions (in conjunction with the Policy Committee) and upon the recommendation of the superintendent.

Members and Role: • No more than 4 Board Members as assigned by the board president.

o Chairperson: One board member on this committee is selected by the board president as the chairperson. The chairperson is responsible for calling meetings, creating meeting agendas, creating meeting notes/minutes, sending minutes to the committee for approval, and presenting action items to the full board at a board meeting.

• Superintendent: The superintendent provides guidance/information regarding the impact of policy and governance related decisions.

o Alternate/Additional Administrators: Other administrators may attend the committee meeting either as the designee of the superintendent in his/her absence or at the request of the committee. Alternate administrators are there to provide information and should not be directed by board members (i.e., normal code of ethics rules apply regarding prohibition against administering to the district.)

• Board Attorney/In-House Counsel: The board attorney/in-house counsel provides legal advice/information and recommendations regarding the impact of policy and governance related decisions. The superintendent provides guidance/information regarding the impact of policy and governance related decisions.

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SPECIAL PROGRAMS (AD HOC COMMITTEE) Purpose: To discuss and consider issues related to special programs offered by the District and/or related groups and to present appropriate action items to the full board of education. Items/Topics to be Discussed (not an all-inclusive list):

• Consideration and discussion of new special programs programs/initiatives, whether offered by the district or by related groups with a potential impact on district programs.

o Including but not limited to STAC programs, Extended Day, Tuition Preschool, School Choice, Enrichment and Academy programs.

• Consideration of finance related issues, including a monthly reporting of participation, attendance, expenses and related costs for each profit-making program, including but not limited to STAC programs, Extended Day, Tuition Preschool, and Academy programs.

• Consideration and discussion of any issues surrounding these programs, in conjunction with other committees, as appropriate.

• Consideration of policy related issues for each of these special programs/initiatives, in conjunction with the Policy Committee.

Members and Role: • No more than 4 board members as assigned by the board president.

o Chairperson: One board member on this committee is selected by the board president as the chairperson. The chairperson is responsible for calling meetings, creating meeting agendas, creating meeting notes/minutes, sending minutes to the committee for approval, and presenting action items to the full board at a board meeting.

• Superintendent and/or Board Secretary/School Business Administrator: Superintendent presents recommendations to the committee and provides guidance/information regarding the impact of special programs. Customarily the superintendent will ask the board secretary/school business administrator to attend in his/her place or in addition to his/her attendance. Specifically, the board secretary/school business administrator will provide the monthly reporting for each profit-making program.

o Additional Administrators: Other administrators may attend the committee meeting either at the request of the superintendent and board secretary/school business administrator or at the request of the committee. Alternate administrators are there to provide information and should not be directed by board members (i.e., normal code of ethics rules apply regarding prohibition against administering to the district.)

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Miscellaneous

A. Board member must follow Code of Ethics and all relevant laws B. Evaluations – Board and superintendent

1. Board member must complete evaluations fairly, honestly, with the intent to improve and in accordance with applicable law

2. Timelines for completion shall be as set by board policy and applicable law. C. Board members should always share relevant information that may impact board

business (e.g., relatives in district) D. Board members should complete all required trainings and should be encouraged to

participate in additional continuing education and training Adopted: January 21, 2011 Readopted: May 5, 2011 Revised: August 16, 2012 Revised: June 20, 2013

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

Code of Ethics for School Board Members

Please sign this acknowledgement of receipt to confirm that you have received a copy of the Code of Ethics for School Board Members contained within this recent amendment to the School Ethics Act, C.178, P.L. 2001. Each school board member and charter school trustee is responsible to read and become familiar with the Code of Ethics for School Board Members. Questions about the policy should be directed to your Business Administrator/Board Secretary. If unable to answer the question, the BA/BS may direct you to the School Ethics Commission from whom you may request an advisory opinion. The Code of Ethics became part of the School Ethics Act on July 26, 2001 so it is effective immediately. Failure to sign this acknowledgment will not relieve a board member of the responsibility to understand and adhere to the Code of Ethics. ____________ BOARD MEMBER’S NAME (PLEASE PRINT) ____________________________________________ ________________ BOARD MEMBER’S SIGNATURE DATE Please sign and return this sheet to the Business Administrator/Board Secretary or Lead Person of a Charter School.

January 2014 1

STAFFORD TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT AND REVIEW

OF EXISTING AND FINAL NEGOTIATED CONTRACTS BOARD MEMBER ACKNOWLEDGMENT: I hereby acknowledge that I have read and am familiar with the terms of all negotiated contracts between a Stafford Township Board of Education employee and the Stafford Township Board of Education. This includes but is not limited to the Agreement Between the Stafford Township Education Association and the Stafford Township Board of Education (existing as of this date – the 2010-2013 agreement); the Agreement Between the Stafford Township Administrators Association and the Stafford Township Board of Education (existing as of this date – the 2013-2016 agreement); the Agreement Between George J. Chidiac, Superintendent, and the Stafford Township Board of Education; the Agreement Between Margaret Hom, Board Secretary/School Business Administrator, and the Stafford Township Board of Education; and the Agreement Between Tracey L. Schneider, Esq., Board Attorney/In-House Counsel, and the Stafford Township Board of Education. I further recognize that these documents are on file with the Board Attorney should I want to review them in further detail. NAME: SIGNATURE: DATE: _______________________ _______________________ ___________ _______________________ _______________________ ___________ _______________________ _______________________ ___________ _______________________ _______________________ ___________ _______________________ _______________________ ___________ _______________________ _______________________ ___________ _______________________ _______________________ ___________ _______________________ _______________________ ___________ _______________________ _______________________ ___________

SHARED SERVICES AGREEMENT (“AGREEMENT”) FOR CERTIFIED SCHOOL NURSING SERVICES

BETWEEN

THE STAFFORD TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION

AND

THE BEACH HAVEN BOARD OF EDUCATION

This Agreement is made by and between the Stafford Township Board of Education, an educational entity of the State of New Jersey, having its principal offices located at 250 North Main Street, Manahawkin, New Jersey 08050 (“Stafford”) and the Beach Haven Board of Education, and educational entity of the State of New Jersey, having its principal offices located at 700 North Beach Avenue, Beach Haven, New Jersey 08008 (“Beach Haven”). WHEREAS, pursuant to the Uniform Shared Services and Consolidation Act, N.J.S.A. 40A:65-1 et seq., a board of education, as a local unit of the State of New Jersey, has the authority to enter into a contract with any other board of education or local unit for the provision of services jointly within the jurisdictions of both boards of education, to the extent that either board of education is empowered to provide or receive the service within its own jurisdiction; and WHEREAS, Beach Haven has requested of Stafford to provide the services of a Certified School Nurse as needed for the period of January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014, upon mutually agreeable terms and conditions as set forth herein below. TERMS AND CONDITIONS THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual terms, conditions and covenants contained in this Agreement, the parties hereby agree as follows: SERVICES. Stafford will provide the following services to Beach Haven:

1. Services of a Certified School Nurse in an amount not to exceed two (2) hours per week in accordance with Stafford’s school calendar and 10-month staff calendar. Said services may be provided at Stafford or on-site at Beach Haven as needed.

2. The Certified School Nurse shall provide general oversight and assistance with activities and responsibilities which are that of a Certified School Nurse as set forth by applicable law. This includes but is not limited to assistance in the preparation of State reports, guidance in the maintenance of student files in accordance with applicable law, assistance in the creation/development of a Nursing Services Plan (if one is not already in place), and general oversight on the implementation of Beach Haven health policies and student health needs/concerns.

3. The parties understand and agree that at all times the Certified School Nurse shall be an employee of Stafford.

4. The parties understand and agree that at all times the applicable policies, regulations,

guidance, etc, to be applied for implementation of Certified School Nurse services in Beach Haven shall be the policies, procedures, guidance and standing orders of Beach Haven and its school physician. While the Stafford Certified School Nurse can provide general guidance, assistance and oversight, Beach Haven is responsible for the accuracy of the underlying information (e.g., student information) and the Stafford Certified School Nurse shall not be held responsible/liable for the accuracy of any underlying information used to generate reports, etc.

PAYMENT. In return for the Certified School Nurse services set forth herein above, Beach Haven will make payment to Stafford in the amount of $47.00 per hour. In recognition of the fact that Beach Haven may not necessarily utilize the services of the Certified School Nurse for two (2) hours each week, Beach Haven shall only be responsible for payment for services actually rendered. Specifically, Beach Haven shall request Certified School Nurse services as set forth below (Paragraph regarding Cooperation) and, upon agreement, Stafford will provide the requested Certified School Nurse Services. Thereafter, Stafford shall provide an invoice to Beach Haven for the services rendered. Payment shall be due within thirty (30) days of receipt of the invoice.

COOPERATION. As this is a new relationship/shared services agreement and the parties are still exploring its parameters, all requests for service, including a detailed description of the service needed and the timeframe for same, shall be made by Dr. Patricia Daggy, Beach Haven’s Superintendent, through Dawn Reo, Stafford’s Director of Technology, Professional Development and Grants, in advance of the performance of any service. In addition, the parties hereby agree to cooperate fully, to work in good faith, and to mutually assist each other in the performance of this agreement. In connection therewith, the parties shall from time to time meet upon reasonable request of either party at a mutually agreed time and location to confer in good faith and amicably in a business-like manner work out disputes arising from the implementation of this agreement. TERM. The term of this agreement shall be from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014. If the parties mutually agree, they may extend the terms of this agreement by executing a written renewal. However, if the parties do not mutually agree to renew the terms of this agreement, the agreement shall terminate on December 31, 2014. The term of each renewal shall not exceed one year. TERMINATION. Either party has the authority to terminate this Agreement, for any reason not otherwise prohibited by law, through formal action taken by either Board at a duly advertised public meeting of the Board of Education, and upon sixty (60) days written notice thereafter to the other party. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This document embodies the entire agreement between the parties. Any such modifications or amendments shall be in writing, signed by both parties, attached hereto, and shall become part of this Agreement.

SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid or unenforceable for any reason, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect in accordance with its terms, disregarding such unenforceable or invalid provisions

AUTHORIZATIONS AND SIGNATURES

AUTHORIZING RESOLUTIONS. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:65-5, Stafford and Beach Haven shall each adopt a resolution authorizing this Agreement. The resolutions adopted by Stafford and by Beach Haven shall authorize the execution of this form of Agreement by the respective Presidents and Board Secretaries of the Beach Haven and Stafford Board of Education. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have authorized their duly established officers to set their hands and seals below to confirm the agreement of the respective parties to the terms of this Shared Services Agreement. ATTEST/WITNESS STAFFORD TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION ___________________________ _________________________________________ Margaret Hom, Board Secretary Board President ATTTEST/WITNESS BEACH HAVEN BOARD OF EDUCATION ____________________________ _________________________________________ , Board Secretary Board President

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH REFERRAL AGENCY

DELTA-T GROUP NORTH JERSEY, INC.

ONE WOODBRIDGE CENTER � SUITE 225 � WOODBRIDGE, NJ 07095 � 800/426-0932 � FAX: 732/283-8804 � www.delta-tgroup.com

Stafford Board of Education December 9, 2013 775 E. Bay Avenue Manahawkin, NJ 08050 This Letter Agreement outlines the terms under which Delta-T Group North Jersey Inc. (“Delta-T”) will

refer interim professionals to Stafford Board of Education ("Client"). This Agreement shall commence on the date first stated above and continue for an initial term of one (1) year or such shorter period in the event that the parties execute a more comprehensive agreement. This Agreement may be terminated without cause by either party upon thirty (30) days written notice to the other party. The professionals referred to Client through Delta-T are Independent Contractors (“Contractor(s)”) and shall not be considered employees of the Client. Delta-T requires, as part of our arrangement with the Contractors, that each Contractor sign an operating agreement with Delta-T before they are contracted out to a facility such as yours. All Contractors referred to Client have Accident Insurance which provides coverage for the Contractor in the event they are injured while performing services at Client location. You must immediately notify Delta-T of any and all job offers made to Contractors that were referred to you by Delta-T. Delta-T’s Temp to Perm Policy is that from the time Client notifies Delta-T of its intention to hire or contract directly with a Contractor, the Contractor must work seven hundred and fifty (750) hours through Delta-T at a Client facility before the Contractor may accept a position with Client. Client may hire or contract with Contractor without meeting this 750-hour requirement by making payment to Delta-T the sum of $7,500.00 or a sum equal to 1/3 of the total compensation package (including bonuses and fringe benefits) offered to Contractor, whichever sum is greater. This 750-hour requirement remains in effect for a period of six (6) months after the last date of a Contractor’s assignment with Client. All invoices for services are due net sixty (30) days and will be forwarded to your attention. Client shall notify Delta-T of any disputed amounts within ten (10) business days of Client's receipt of invoice. Invoices or amounts not disputed within this time period shall be deemed accepted by Client. Client shall not withhold payment of any undisputed amounts. All outstanding balances are subject to statutory interest and a late charge. If payment is not made in accordance with these terms, Delta-T will cease referring Contractors to Client and Contractors will not be released for referral until payment is received in full. Delta-T shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys fees in the event legal action is necessary to enforce the terms of this Letter Agreement.

Thank you for choosing Delta-T. We look forward to continuing our business relationship. If these terms are acceptable, please sign and return this to our office as soon as possible. Respectfully, Scott R. McAndrews

Scott R. McAndrews, EVP By: _______________________________ __________________ Signature of Client Representative Date _______________________________ Print Name and Title

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETINGS

2014

The Business Meetings of the Stafford Township Board of Education will be held in the Stafford Room of the Oxycocus Elementary School at 250 North Main Street, Manahawkin, NJ 08050 unless otherwise noted.

BUSINESS MEETINGS – 7:30pm LOCATION

January 16, 2014 Oxycocus School

January 30, 2014 – Special Retreat Meeting – 6:00pm Oxycocus School

February 20, 2014 Oxycocus School

March 20, 2014 Oxycocus School

April 24, 2014 Oxycocus School

May 15, 2014 Oxycocus School

June 19, 2014 Oxycocus School

July 17, 2014 Oxycocus School

August 21, 2014 Oxycocus School

September 18, 2014 Oxycocus School

October 16, 2014 Oxycocus School

November 20, 2014 Oxycocus School

December 18, 2014 Oxycocus School

Additional meetings will be scheduled as deemed necessary.

“THE BOARD OF EDUCATION RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE ANY NECESSARY FORMAL ACTION AT ANY OR ALL PUBLIC MEETINGS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION. THE BOARD ALSO

RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ENTER INTO CLOSED SESSION IF NECESSARY”. “BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION” _____________________________________________ Margaret Hom School Business Administrator/Board Secretary MH/km/12-18-2013

Please note that we anticipate a need for a special meeting at the end of February for Budget Adoption and then again at the end of March for the Public Hearing.