Sparta Board of Education starts '07 on positive note

With an honest look back and a hopeful look forward, board members welcome a new beginning , By Fran Hardy Sparta - There was a definite feeling of warmth in the air as the Sparta Board of Ed kicked off its first meeting of 2007 last Monday night at Mohawk Avenue School. Perhaps it was global warming, or perhaps the earth has wobbled on its axis a bit, but, instead of animosity, there was appreciation, instead of arguments, there were smiles and laughter, and instead of strife, there was a spirit of teamwork. There were even cookies. A proclamation by Governor John Corzine, designating January 2007 as “School Board Recognition Month,” was read to the public, and the Sparta Parent-Teacher Organization Council presented certificates of appreciation to school board members. The proclamation celebrated New Jersey board members who receive no pay for their services and spend countless hours devoted to the betterment of public schools in their communities. With more than 4,800 men and women serving on New Jersey’s school boards, it is the largest group of public officials in the state. “School Board Recognition Month” was created as a way to thank current and former school board members for their work. More than 30 young men representing the Sparta Ice Hockey organization attended with their families to show support for a presentation made by the organization’s treasurer, Carmen Meseo, to request district funding for the high school hockey program. The program is new but has grown steadily in student interest and participation and in parent support, but receives no district funding. Youth and travel hockey teams are growing feeder programs that insure the high school will see a continued influx of hockey players, Meseo explained. He requested $60,000 to cover busing, league fees, coaching, and insurance costs. The cost of uniforms and equipment will be borne by the parents of the players. Schiavoni said that the matter would be discussed during the budget planning sessions. Schiavoni highlighted last year’s board accomplishments and disappointments, and outlined major challenges and goals. The most important accomplishment was the successful high school referendum. “This was a major investment by Sparta citizens in our district and a major responsibility for the BOE to carry forward.” Among the disappointments for 2006 was the failure of the second referendum to upgrade the high school’s athletic fields. He said this is an issue that will continue to be discussed. It is possible, however, that funds for this project (approximately $2 million) can be raised privately, such as through the newly formed Sparta Education Foundation. Another disappointment mentioned by Schiavoni was, he said, “board-superintendent mis-communications.” He admitted there have been difficulties and discord. The major problems seem to have been power struggles regarding board and administration duties and responsibilities and confusions regarding board member job descriptions and jurisdictions. “We’ve had to sort out who does what and I believe we’ve begun the new year in a much better position.” If member Dr. Michael Schill’s comment is any indication, the tide may have turned. He said, “The past two months have been a pleasure working with the people on this the board.” Major challenges and goals for 2007 listed by Schiavoni include: effective project management of the renovation project, fair Teacher Association agreements, passing a cost-effective budget, promoting enhanced BOE and administration relationships, and attaining operational excellence. Paul Johnson, chair of the Construction Oversight Committee, explained that the district Web site will be updated with pre-construction and construction timelines as information becomes available. He said that the most immediate decision to be made is about to the portable classrooms. There is no word yet on whether the board will choose to buy or lease the units. Johnson also said that the preliminary elevations of the new school, will be submitted by the architects in early February. Schiavoni announced important dates for the public. On Thursday, Feb. 8, an open house will be held at Mohawk Avenue School for the public to meet with the high school architects and designers. Professionals representing various aspects of the project will hold a question and answer session, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The first BOE town meeting take place Saturday, Feb. 24 from 10 a.m. to noon at Mohawk Avenue School, to give those who cannot make the evening meetings the opportunity to ask questions and interact with board members. Citizens are requested to submit questions or concerns to the board via e-mail prior to the meeting so the board can properly respond.