On Monday night, the Pascack Valley Regional High School District Board of Education (BOE) discussed board and district resignations, student accomplishments, financial examinations, and post-high school options for students.
BOE President Gini Varghese began the meeting in acknowledgment of Board Member Pat Luisi whose term began, as a Hillsdale representative, in 2022 and ends at the end of this year, 2024. His accomplishments were recognized such as his work as a committee member for the district’s Facilities, Finance, and Negotiations Committees, active participation at the Executive and Public meetings, and overall positive impact on the board and community.
Superintendent Sarah Bilotti elaborated on Luisi’s commitment to the district, especially his community engagement, and she wished him a future of continued success.
“Mr. Luisi served our community with dedication and enthusiasm during his time on the board…his commitment to our staff, students, and community has been evident in his unwavering support and his drive to move our district always forward. He consistently advocated for transparency and open communication believing that the board should actively listen to and engage all members of the community. This was particularly apparent in his efforts to ensure all voices were heard during the mascot discussions and he has always promoted community input on curriculum changes,” she said.
It was announced that Hills students Joshua Lee, Gowri Nair, Ayan Swain, and Maya Zislin were accepted into the 2024-2025 Bergen County Choi. As for the First Team All Bergen County, Sydney Flanz was recognized for Gymnastics Uneven Bars.
Board member Stephanie Huang gave her monthly report on the World Language Honor Society and Seal of Biliteracy Induction Ceremony, organized by supervisor Argine Safari, that occurred on Dec. 4. She also discussed the beneficial teen drug prevention event, “Hidden in Plain Sight.”
Student BOE representative Andrew Varian reported on school events such as entrepreneurship and marketing classes’ Sports Business Day at MetLife Stadium, English and History classes’ visit to the Tenement Museum, AP World History’ in-class Columbian Exchange debate, and Politics Club pharmaceutical marketing lunch debate.
Additionally, Varian discussed the upcoming National Honor Society clothing drive, student government spirit week, penny wars to raise money for Hills families, the winter pep rally, the bowling team’s opening match wins, and the world language celebration ceremony.
Teacher of the Year Dr. Aarti Mallya and Educational Services Professional of the Year Mrs. Megan Pettigano were congratulated by the board on behalf of the Hills and district community.
Auditor Brian Gibbons from Nisivoccia LLP gave the Annual Audit Report. Gibbons recognized district positives along with compliance and acknowledged recommendations for financial organization. The report ended much like it started, with positive recognition.
“I only have good news to deliver tonight,” Gibbons began.
President Varghese expressed appreciation for Dr. Barry Bachenheimer and Yas Usami, as both proud district members will resign this upcoming summer, thus the board all spread words of gratitude and well wishes as they approved their future leaves.
The meeting ended with a board discussion about different paths after high school and how to approach college-centered activities. To promote inclusiveness, they brainstormed ways to eliminate the stigma surrounding types of colleges, the military, the workforce, and post-high school indecision.
For a full viewing of the BOE meeting, click the link below.
