Hudson board dedicates meeting to late trustee Damaris Lang and grants tenure to two teachers

The Hudson Board of Education opened its Nov. 18 meeting with a moment of silence and a series of tributes to board member Damaris Lang, who died suddenly this week. Trustees and staff recalled Lang’s longtime advocacy for equity, inclusion and student supports and dedicated the meeting to her memory.

After the tribute, the board considered two 10-year (tenure) recommendations. Amy (speaker 10), reading a written recommendation authored by Mary Angela Sanchez, described Kristen Carrasquillo as “an outstanding educator” with a background in special education who has served as a teacher leader and professional developer in the district. Amy cited Carrasquillo’s work with IEP teams, multi-sensory phonics instruction and leadership on Hillside’s PBIS team.

Drew Wendell (speaker 13) presented the recommendation for Victoria Kelter, summarizing Kelter’s long service to Hastings — from substitute and athletic trainer roles to a full-time physical education post at Hastings High School. Wendell said Kelter ``built many relationships and a strong rapport with her students, colleagues and community members.''

After brief remarks from both candidates and board members, a motion to approve the two tenure recommendations was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote. Chair (speaker 1) announced the motion passed; trustees said “aye.”

The board closed the personnel items portion of the meeting by acknowledging other personnel motions on the consent agenda and a forthcoming retirement. Trustee remarks honored Greg Stevens, the district math department chair, whose retirement was included on the personnel agenda.

The board said the next formal personnel and policy steps will be posted in the agenda for upcoming meetings.