The Hammonton Gazette 07/19/23 Edition | Page 4

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SCHOOL , from Page 1 mation on these designated months within your classroom , Pride Month should be given the same consideration . We all know that our student population is very diverse and we want to maintain objectivity beneath their seating .”
Chieco also stated that the BOE is dedicated to providing a
Wednesday , July 19 , 2023 • The Hammonton Gazette • Page 3

Members of public give differing opinions on flag policy

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well-rounded education to students and that expectations are made to all through policy , making sure all students are wellrepresented and respected .
Chieco concluded by stating that HPS does promote diversity and inclusion by displays on the media centers , building entrances , common areas and classrooms . The schools recognize the various contributions made representative of the months of recognition as well as celebrating cultural diversity .
In other matters , Chieco said resolutions on the agenda for inschool therapeutic program services for grades Pre-K through 5 were approved . This will provide students intensive counseling , testing and therapy sessions that may need additional support , she said .
“ As we ’ ve noticed over the past few years , many of our younger students are experiencing difficulties adapting to classroom expectations and functioning within a school setting ,” Chieco said .
“ These clinicians will provide early check-ins as well as individualized counseling through a system of overcoming difficulties .
“ We are hopeful that with the additional interventions , these students will be successful in the classroom and will require best assistance as they mature .”
The meeting was then open for public comment . Many on both sides of the LGBTQ flag controversy addressed the board during the final public comment . Atlantic County Queer Alliance Director Mico Lucide addressed the board first , thanking Chieco for reading the clarification but felt he needed to make a statement at the meeting , given the concerns addressed to him .
Lucide acknowledged his understanding of the error and the intent to display the relevance of displaying flags and symbols for various months of recognition . Lucide then acknowledged a joint statement made by both the New Jersey Attorney General ’ s office and New Jersey Department of Education regarding any policies that could negatively impact protected classes , regardless of intent , and asked the board to reach out to outside organizations for decision-making in policies . Lucide also acknowledged the difficulties that the jobs of the BOE and administration have in enforcing these policies and decisions .
Christine Scola spoke in support of the board ’ s decision regarding the flag policy . Scola stated that the American flag embodies patriotism and represents all of the nation ’ s citizens .
Scola stated that the reason she only wants the American flag displayed has nothing to do with discrediting any other flag that others believe in and support , but to represent everyone , regardless of race , culture and gender .
“ It should be the goal of everyone to eliminate disruption for what our children are there for and that ’ s education . For the BOE members who have this goal , I commend you , I will continue to support you , please keep doing an outstanding job ,” Scola said .
Heather Warburton then spoke in support of LGBTQ people and that it is not a political opinion nor a regular opinion , stating that it ’ s a fact .
Warburton spoke of how diversity makes the community great and that “ honoring and celebrating the diversity is what makes us better .”
Resolutions 1-46 for finance , 47-80 for personnel and 81-91 for programs / students / miscellaneous were all approved by the board .
The meeting was then adjourned . The next meeting will be on August 24 at 7 p . m .

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