School System Policies and Governance
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The Elmwood Park CUSD 401 is governed by a seven-member Board of Education. The Board of Education is responsible for establishing policies and providing support for quality educational opportunities for all students. The current (2001-2002) members of the Board are:

  • Mr. Joseph Viverito, President
  • Mr. David Preston, Vice-President
  • Mr. Michael Marzullo, Secretary
  • Ms. Judy Dean
  • Ms. Linda Sassone
  • Mr. Jeff Sargent
  • Ms Susan Capraro

An analysis of the Elmwood Park CUSD 401 Board of Education Policy Manual and related documents indicates that several policies associated with effective schools have already been adopted in the following important categories:

  • Instructional Objectives
  • Homework
  • Care of School Equipment
  • Staff Development
  • Personnel Evaluation
  • Periodic Reporting of Student Performance Data
  • Public Involvement in School Affairs
  • Parent Involvement in School Governance
  • Separation of Policy Making and Administration/Methodology
  • Curriculum and Content Equity
  • Monitoring of Student Performance
  • Public Reporting of Student Performance
  • Recognition of Outstanding Performance of Staff
  • School Volunteers
  • Equal Opportunity Employment

The site visit team notes that several policies related to effective schooling are not present or need to be strengthened. While some of the following topics may be addressed in other policies or within administrative procedure guidelines, or are practiced informally within the district, distinct policies in these areas are not apparent. The site visit team suggests that the Board of Education give attention to the development, strengthening, and/or expansion of effective policy in these areas. Model policy statements in each of the following areas (as well as other areas related to effectiveness, noted above) are included in Appendix E of this report for Board of Education review and consideration:

  • Superintendent Authority Over School Personnel
  • School-Site Management
  • School Rules and Regulations
  • School Unit Accountability
  • Superintendent/Principal Leadership
  • High Expectations of Staff and Students
  • Recognition of Outstanding Performance of Students
  • Community Partnerships
  • School Climate
  • School Standards
  • Data-Based Decision Making
  • Access to Computers and Other Technology for All Students

Creating an on-line (read-only) Board of Education Policy Manual is of particular importance as the Elmwood Park CUSD 401 make continued effort to reach all constituents with important district information. As the Elmwood Park Board of Education Policy Manual is revised and improved, efforts should be pursued to keep an on-line manual current and available to all school district personnel as well as to community constituents.

 

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