Cliffside Park board honors teacher who saved student; superintendent reports personnel actions and HIB findings

The Cliffside Park Board of Education on April 16 recognized James Leary, an English teacher and coach at Cliffside Park High School, for intervening to save a student in October and presented him with an award.

The superintendent reported 18 personnel resolutions on the April 16 consent agenda and said the district opened three harassment, intimidation or bullying (HIB) investigations during the period: two were alleged and one was confirmed. The superintendent said parental contact was made in all three investigations, counseling was provided, and disciplinary action was taken in the confirmed case.

"He's a fantastic English teacher. He's a fantastic football coach. He's a fantastic basketball coach," a speaker identified in the transcript said while introducing the award, praising Leary's quick actions. Leary responded, "Thank you," when the board presented the recognition.

Assistant Superintendent Mrs. Calabrese told the board the district provided its first full day of professional development on March 31, with workshops focused on Renaissance Star reporting and breakout sessions aimed at NJSLA (state assessment) work across ELA, math and science. "We look forward to more of those days next year because they were definitely worth it," Calabrese said.

Board members did not debate policy changes in the superintendent's report; the items described were informational and part of the consent agenda the board later approved by roll call.

The meeting record shows the board adjourned following the consent vote and brief closing remarks.