The Manchester Township Board of Education, at their June 20, 2007 meeting, honored outgoing PTA President Janice Hardell. "I remember when Janice first started, she was very nervous, and to see the progress she has made over her two terms – somewhere in the middle I realized she would accomplish a great deal and she did," said Superintendent of Schools, Dr. William E. DeFeo.
Board of Education President Mary Walter presented Hardell with flowers and a gift, telling Hardell, "Over your four years of leadership you have accomplished a great deal for the education and welfare of our students."
Mrs. Walter also introduced incoming PTA President, Sheryl Claus, and said she looks forward to continuing the excellent relationship between the PTA and the Board of Education.
Also at the meeting, Dr. DeFeo commented on the successful graduation ceremonies for the middle and high schools. "To see special events like this, it makes you very proud of our school system," he said.
Mrs. Walter introduced the board’s new Lakehurst representative, April Chillemi, who she said is fully trained and certified to take on her duties as a board member.
High School Principal David Walling introduced the new football coach, Gerald O’Donnell, who replaces departing coach Rob Paneque. Walling noted that in addition to his coaching experience, O’Donnell is also a valuable addition as a teacher in the math department.
Dr. DeFeo commented on a recent hire at the high school, English teacher Jennifer Ansbach, who he said is among only about 135 teachers in the state to be nationally board certified in her field. "We are very fortunate to have her come to Manchester," he said.
In other business the board approved a resolution for sharing recycling services with the township; an application for $135,000 in Target At-Risk Aid from the state; the first reading of a new policy on harassment, intimidation and bullying; and a resolution in support of an assembly property tax relief plan that proposes to channel cost savings from unnecessary spending to property tax relief and additional school aid.
