Pequannock residents press board for policy review after criminal probe involving high school music program

Pequannock Township Board of Education members heard sustained public concern about the district’s music program and an ongoing criminal investigation during the board’s Oct. 6 workshop meeting.

Speakers at the meeting repeatedly urged the board to commission an independent audit of district policies, to be transparent about what happened where allowed, and to ensure students who depend on the music program continue to have access to performances and instruction. “Transparency builds trust, but silence breaks it,” resident David Vasilenko told the board during the first public-comment period.

The subject surfaced early in the meeting when the board announced that “the current legal matter is an agenda item tonight,” and said the district was cooperating with law enforcement but could not comment further because of an active criminal investigation. Several parents and community members used the public-comment periods to press for concrete steps: an independent review of internal policy and procedures, clearer reporting channels for concerns, and interim supports to keep music classes and concerts running.

“Last week, when everything came forward . . . there are currently seven seniors within the three choir classes,” said parent Marissa Roberto, describing students who are rehearsing from materials left by the previous teacher and asking the board to confirm whether scheduled holiday and spring performances will proceed. “If in all honesty, you don't think that the choir will be able to perform for the Christmas concert . . . you owe that to the students to be forthcoming,” she said.

Other speakers sought to protect long‑standing program staff while supporting students. “Please keep in mind that he has nothing to do with this,” said Debbie Deandre, speaking in defense of band director Anthony Stryffer and describing his role in rebuilding the band program. The Association of Music Parents’ treasurer, April Gonzales, thanked the board for approving a 0.4 teaching position to add support to the program and commended administrators for staffing band events.

Superintendent Dr. Portis (identified in the meeting as “Dr. Portis”) acknowledged the community’s concern, said the district is reviewing its policies and noted the limits of what can be publicly disclosed while criminal proceedings are active. “Justice has to be served. It's more important than my reputation or anything of that sort,” he said, adding that the district is looking at whether changes are needed and that it would consider bringing in outside help. Portis said the district would aim both to provide an immediate instructional plan so students can continue performing and to pursue long‑term program stability.

Board President Mr. Seneck said the board had discussed bringing in a third party to audit policies and that the board was in the “beginning stages” of that process. The board moved to go into executive session later in the meeting to discuss personnel and attorney‑client matters; the motion was approved by roll call and board members returned to public session afterward and proceeded to vote on consent agenda items.

What the board will actually authorize — a formal contract for an outside audit, specific policy revisions, or other remedies — was not voted on at the Oct. 6 meeting. Several speakers asked for clearer, faster updates from the district while investigations proceed. “Communication builds trust,” one resident said; several others urged administrators to provide specific timelines and contact points for parents who have concerns.

The board and the superintendent committed to follow‑up steps: (1) review district policy and reporting processes; (2) consider whether a third‑party audit is warranted; (3) provide interim staffing and program support so holiday and spring musical activities can continue where feasible; and (4) keep open lines of communication with families, recognizing limits imposed by the criminal investigation.

Ending

Board and district officials did not announce specific policy changes or a vendor for any outside audit at the meeting. They said more detailed follow‑up will be provided when it does not conflict with the criminal investigation or ongoing personnel matters.