Board hears special‑education partnership with South Bergen Jointure; parents press for clarity on services and $800,000 in contractors

Darius Pemberton, director of special services, told the board the district is entering a partnership with the South Bergen Jointure Commission (SBJC) to expand capacity for special‑education programs and related services, calling the jointure "not a vendor" but a partner that can staff specialized programs, transportation and ESY services.

"The South Bergen joint is not a vendor. They're our partner," Pemberton said, and he added that the district will sit on SBJC boards to collaborate on services. He emphasized that the partnership does not alter IEP minutes or parental rights and that class sizes and ratios in self‑contained programs remain compliant with state code.

Parents at the meeting challenged the district to explain the relationship between SBJC and recently posted agenda items that would pay outside agencies. One online commenter, a speech‑language pathologist identified as Lauren Alberta, asked why agenda items c18 and c33 seek approval for two outside agencies at a combined cost of $800,000 if SBJC "was capable of meeting the district service needs." Alberta also asked what due diligence was performed before appointing the district ADA officer amid pending litigation alleging denial of accommodations.

Board members and administrators acknowledged the questions and said they would follow up with parents. Officials said SBJC will provide many services but that the district was recommending additional contracts in some areas to ensure coverage during the transition period; the agenda listed related services contracts that were discussed during the personnel and finance presentations.