.st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By Reed Becker | NJ Advance Media for NJ.comJayden Walton’s four RBIs led Union in its 18-1 win over Roselle Park in Roselle Park Union (4-11) will host Johnson on Saturday while Roselle Park (0-13) will host Keyport on Monday Reed Becker can be reached at rbecker@njadvancemedia.com The N.J. High School Sports newsletter is now appearing in mailboxes 5 days a week. Sign up now! Follow us on social: Facebook | Instagram | X (formerly Twitter) Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, (updated 8/1/2024) and acknowledgement of our Privacy Policy, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (updated 1/1/2025) © 2025 Advance Local Media LLC. All rights reserved (About Us) The material on this site may not be reproduced except with the prior written permission of Advance Local Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site YouTube's privacy policy is available here and YouTube's terms of service is available here Ad Choices NY CONNECTS TO UC NJ: EAST COAST GREENWAY BIKEWAY Cranford Recreation and Parks Department2nd Floor A/V Room220 Walnut Avenue Union County will be hosting a public meeting presenting the East Coast Greenway Project Contact Us Organizational Chart 2025In a heartfelt demonstration of environmental commitment and community unity the Roselle Park District hosted a large-scale tree planting initiative on Saturday themed “Love Our Mother Earth,” was jointly organized by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago and the Chicago Indo-US Lions Club including enthusiastic participation from local high school students from Lake Park Schools Their early-morning energy set the tone for a day centered around sustainability and environmental stewardship transforming the park into an active green space while also engaging in a living lesson on the importance of nature and community engagement Planning and logistics were handled with care and efficiency and volunteers were guided to planting spots throughout the day Community leaders and members of both organizations played hands-on roles in the day’s success and encouragement to the large volunteer turnout Organizers described the event not just as a planting drive but as a collective commitment to climate resilience and ecological harmony Tree planting was promoted as a means to improve air quality Passersby from the local community were moved by the enthusiasm on display and many joined in spontaneously adding to the day’s strong sense of shared purpose The collaboration brought together volunteers and leaders from multiple sectors Participants emphasized the importance of building connections—not only among organizations but also across generations and between people and nature The tree planting drive concluded with a renewed sense of community purpose Attendees left with the understanding that environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility and the day stood as a testament to what can be achieved through coordinated local action Parikh Worldwide Media is the largest Indian-American publishing group in the United States The group publishes five periodicals – “News India Times,” a national weekly newspaper; “Desi Talk in New York,” a weekly newspaper serving the New York-New Jersey-Connecticut region; and “Desi Talk in Chicago,” a weekly newspaper serving the Greater Chicago area and the Midwestern states; and “The Indian American,” a national online quarterly feature magazine The combined circulation and readership of these publications make the media group the most influential in the ethnic Indian market Two slates will compete for borough council seats in Democratic primary The seemingly irremediable Democratic warette in Roselle will continue into the 2025 primary election with fights over two borough council seats that pit a seemingly popular incumbent with support from the mayor against candidates backed by party leaders At-Large Councilwoman Denise Wilkerson will face 3rd Ward Councilwoman Cynthia Johnson Wilkerson and Thomas have the backing of Mayor Donald Shaw and three of their council colleagues: Isabel Sousa  Johnson and Dupont are supported by Assemblyman Reginald Atkins Shaw said that Wilkerson and Thomas “have been instrumental in driving Roselle’s progress.” “Their dedication and proven leadership are invaluable assets to our community’s growth and stability,” he said Shaw defeated Holley in the Democratic primary two years ago by 76 votes; Atkins backed Shaw The aftermath resulted in a split within Shaw’s camp when Councilwoman Denise Wilkerson challenged Atkins for municipal chair who backed him for re-election and wound up getting the number two slot in the local party leadership in the process Several close races and some ties resulted in the Holley faction winning 18 of the 38 county committee seats Atkins held on to the chairmanship narrowly and only after a judge ordered a do-over election Atkins and Holley said endorsements for Johnson and Dupont were approved by the county committee by a wide margin “Marie Dupont and Cynthia Johnson embody the best of Roselle—leaders who listen and deliver for our community,” said Atkins who is not seeking re-election to the Assembly this year partly because of the split among Roselle Democrats Holley said that Dupont is “ready to step up for the 4th Ward with a bold community-first approach” and that Johnson “has consistently demonstrated what it means to serve with heart and integrity “The borough of Roselle is currently in peril grappling with a leadership vacuum and operational disarray,” stated Holley “The absence of a business administrator—currently filled by the fire chief as acting administrator—and an assistant business administrator combined with a chief financial officer working only one day a week and the recent resignation of the construction code official Wilkerson and Thomas touted their accomplishments including a new library and football field “We are on the brink of fully realizing Roselle’s potential,” Wilkerson said “Keeping our team intact is essential to maintaining the steady progress we’ve achieved and we’re committed to getting the job done.” .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By Greg Patuto | For NJ Advance MediaThe next wave of talent in N.J The freshman class is attempting to make some noise to begin what could be very successful careers In the first of a four-part series, the NJ.com boys volleyball staff highlights the top athletes and asks you to vote for which competitors you think are the best Head down below to see the list of nominees and cast your vote We ask that you operate by these guidelines Organized voting campaigns consisting of friends the poll will view rapid-fire voting from any individual IP as an attack and will put that IP in a time out technical enhancements or other unnatural tactics designed to skew results may result in voiding of votes NOTE: Some mobile apps, including the X (formerly Twitter) app, may not show the poll below. To open in your mobile device click this link or copy it and paste into your mobile web browser Greg Patuto can be reached at gpatuto@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X at @GregPatuto. The N.J. High School Sports newsletter now appears in mailboxes 5 days a week. Sign up now! This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page the Non-Public B basketball state championship had the makings of a coronation for the team in royal purple Rose boys allowed the crown to slip out of their grasp The Purple Roses had 11 second half turnovers and none were more costly than the two they had in the final minute of their 55-51 loss to Roselle Catholic that ended St Rose's quest for the rare history of back-to-back state championships More: Manasquan basketball turns tables on Camden with late Linstra shot: 'Ready for the moment' Rose led 51-50 with 43.1 seconds remaining but made the first of two costly errors on a nonchalant pass promptly tipped for an eventual steal that ended with a miraculous three-point play by the Roselle Catholic star junior Trevon Lewis That clutch score gave the Lions their first lead of the game with 20.3 seconds remaining the Roses ran a set play for Jayden Hodge that was telegraphed and narrowly tipped loose for another steal By the time of the Roses' final possession the game was already out of reach at 55-51 as the clock ran out on the team's hopes of repeating as champions I think guys (left everything out) on the floor." Hodge demonstrated once again why he's one of the best high school players in the country with a game-high 23 points while adding 12 rebounds for a double-double Senior Evan Romano put in a gritty performance in his final high school game with 16 points he really stepped up at the end of his senior year," Lynch said Evan shined a little bit with his ability to create offense and get other guys going And then he's always scrappy on the defensive side of the boards It's a sour ending to another impressive season for the Shore's powerhouse The Roses overcame the loss of two All-Shore standouts who paved the way for last year's dominant run to a state championship before moving on to play Division I college basketball Jayden Hodge came into his own as a star performer while seniors Romano and Bryan Ebeling stepped into bigger roles and thrived along with freshman Izayah Cooper reflected the team's commitment to four-year player development in a high school basketball landscape often dominated by mercenary mindset The collective brand of basketball was rooted in a tremendous effort and superb execution "I can't be disappointed in our guys," Lynch said "I'm really happy that they showed up the last month every single day with a great attitude The Roses are familiar with the challenge after losing to the Lions in the 2023 state championship and could be headed towards a rematch next year as Roselle Catholic is set up to return its top four leading-scorers Rose balanced the considerations of local pride with a national profile Facing a New Jersey powerhouse program in Roselle Catholic that won its sixth state title in the last 12 years "It's an honor and privilege to be here and compete for a state championship And it's hard to feel like a you're a failure when you lose this game You get this far and you get so close — and it's amazing how in the game of basketball the margin for error is so small," Lynch said it seemed everything was going to plan for St The Roses won the opening tip and promptly found Hodge in the post as he muscled his way to the rim for the first of his 11 points in the opening quarter but lagging behind as Lewis was mostly contained in the first eight minutes But in what proved to be a pivotal stretch to end the first Rose squandered their final two possessions instead of dealing an early blow Roselle Catholic regrouped to start the 2nd as Lewis found his rhythm offensively Rose answered with a rare 8-1 run in the back-and-forth affair to go up 31-21 with less than two minutes until halftime the Roses couldn't piece together a strong finish to the quarter Rose turned the ball over on their first chance at a final possession of the half and couldn't muster a quality look on their second chance Rose continued to be haunted by an inability to maximize dominant stretches they remained a step ahead in the third quarter and were strong on the glass thanks to the efforts of Hodge Rose again produced a momentary scoring outburst but couldn't sustain it After opening with five straight points to go up by six Roselle Catholic answered with a three-pointer to again make it a one-possession game The Roses went up by two possessions multiple times throughout the first quarter but never closed the door on Roselle Catholic The final instance came when Romano scored to put St Rose up 51-47 and force a Lions timeout with 1:53 left in the game the Lions' offensive action was executed to perfection off the inbounds as Lewis drilled a clutch three-pointer to cut the St Rose became perilous as multiple turnovers doomed them The first of two turnovers in the final minute turned into a mad scrap for the ball and Roselle Catholic pushed it forward into a crowd in the paint the rebound was up for grabs but the Roses simply couldn't grab it it was Lewis who picked the ball off the floor went up strong for the score and foul to cement his team's state championship the junior turned in a star performance to rival Hodge's with 21 points and six rebounds Junior Jalen Grant finished the victory with two clutch free throws and was the other Lion in double figures with 12 Rose already shaping up to be Shore's premier power next yearThere was always a feeling that as good as the Purple Roses were this winter next year's team had a chance to be even better but return standout centerpiece Jayden Hodge for his final high school season He'll be complimented by classmate Tyler Cameron The exciting variables are Avery Lynch and Izayah Cooper who flashed the ability to dominate various times this winter Lynch already emerged as an ideal frontcourt compliment to Hodge and another year of development could make that duo unstoppable on the interior Cooper closed big games this winter as a freshman and possesses high-level shot creation even as a first-year player But this year's group was special because of the fact it had mastered the dual identities of being a proud local Shore team and a program with a national presence When the Roses won back-to-back Shore Conference championships this winter the elation in the post-game celebration made it clear St Rose will always be the former more than the latter A long-term family ownership group has sold a 75-unit garden apartment portfolio in Union County for $12 million in a newly announced deal by The Kislak Co the brokerage team said the transaction includes the 48-unit Townley Garden Apartments at 1407 Morris Ave Kislak Managing Director Jeff Squires arranged the deals on the seller’s behalf and procured the buyer  Jared Sobel of Walker & Dunlop arranged Freddie Mac financing for both properties “Legacy apartment complexes with long-term family ownership are among the most desirable assets for many of our investor clients,” Squires said the seller engaged Kislak to liquidate all of their New Jersey multifamily properties within a 90-day window Townley Gardens and Knights Manor are spectacular assets with tremendous potential.” brick complex built in 1943 and occupying two acres just minutes from Kean University The property consists of 32 one-bedroom units and 16 two-bedroom units with semiprivate entrances and detached parking garages less than a 10-minute drive from Newark Liberty International Airport and close to other major highways and transit hubs 16 one-bedroom units and six two-bedroom apartments with on-site private parking The property is in the city center of Roselle Park which the firm said is popular as a home base for New York area commuters and employees at the Merck & Co has been covering New Jersey commercial real estate for 13 years Many industry leaders view him as the go-to real estate reporter in the state a role he is eager to continue as the editor of Real Estate NJ He is a lifelong New Jersey resident who has spent a decade covering the great Garden State Restaurant chain Bojangles has opened along a major commercial corridor in Piscataway as part of a previously announced deal brokered by The Goldstein Group All RIGHTS RESERVED Copyright 2023 Real Estate NJ 101 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland Our site uses cookies. Learn more about our use of cookies: cookie policy Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight State teacher of the year Kim Tate addresses a schoolwide assembly at International Prep Academy here's how Roselle Bhosale responded to all 18 questions in our four-month 'Your Questions “Honesty is one of the most fundamental pillars of a community something I deeply value based on my own experiences I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that families from different socioeconomic "I arrived here as a teenager with nothing but broken English and the memories of my home I was fortunate enough to have advocates who helped me navigate this new environment has the same opportunities and support that I received I will prioritize listening to families from diverse backgrounds I recognize that some families may not have access to technology or the ability to read emails so I would like to host monthly meetings in accessible public spaces like the Champaign Public Library These meetings will provide a platform for feedback with translators and interpreters available to ensure that language barriers don’t prevent anyone from speaking up "By being transparent in decision-making and explaining the rationale behind every decision I will help foster a sense of trust within the community I believe it's crucial to include students in the conversation By gathering feedback directly from students we can better understand their needs and experiences and trust the insights of teachers who are closest to them the goal is to acknowledge community issues and demonstrate a commitment to resolving them ensuring that every child’s voice is valued and heard.” “To attract and retain high-quality talent it’s crucial to listen to the voices of our teachers and staff as they have firsthand experience with students’ needs Their insights help shape policies that are practical and meaningful ensuring a supportive environment for both educators and students “Educators at different grade levels — elementary middle school and high school — face distinct challenges Elementary teachers often juggle a wide range of developmental needs while middle school teachers deal with unique social and emotional shifts of adolescents High school teachers must prepare students for the transition to adulthood and higher education ”Understanding these differences is critical to addressing the specific needs and struggles at each level the board must create a space for productive discussions to address concerns and develop solutions Teachers and administrative staff who feel valued and supported are more likely to stay “Our district’s leaders are key in attracting and retaining quality staff our role is to set a vision and ensure it meets community needs We must select leaders who promote a positive environment and support staff development our responsibility is to ensure the district has effective leadership in place to create the right environment for teachers By encouraging strong leadership and understanding the distinct needs at all levels we can build a district that attracts and retains talented individuals committed to student success.” we never stop fearing for our children’s futures at all stages of their lives I share concerns about the new potential policies that may be implemented with the incoming presidential administration especially the ones regarding potential federal changes in education we cannot let fear dictate our actions in uncertain times none of us know exactly what the future holds “We’ve heard threats about reducing diversity initiatives rolling back protections for LGBTQIA+ students and even weakening the Department of Education’s role an LGBTQIA+ community member or a special needs learner “The possibility of these changes may feel overwhelming and I believe in our ability to address these challenges should we have to I will be committed to advocating for the best interests of every student and teacher in our district I will collaborate with fellow board members to ensure our schools remain safe I will prioritize protecting the rights of all students and educators and ensure that our district stays focused on providing a quality education for all students.” children from all backgrounds would come together to learn the reality of achieving this under the current Schools of Choice system is questionable I can confidently say that the system we have in place is not working as intended It’s time for us to come together and seek practical solutions “The current system requires families to rank all schools often leaving families with few or no top choices especially for families assigned to schools far from home the only reliable transportation is the school bus which can be an extreme inconvenience if missed or not available especially for those from low-income households exhausting bus rides that impact students’ overall well-being “The intention behind the Schools of Choice system was to promote diversity districtwide but it is failing to provide equitable access If implemented with greater sensitivity to logistical challenges like limiting the number of schools a family must rank or ensuring convenient transportation options like ‘Y on the Fly’ or the Champaign Park District ensuring that all children have an equal opportunity to succeed without undue burdens hindering their education.” I have spent the last two decades teaching in public charter and private schools across all grade levels from early education all the way to high school in four states I know the importance of three fundamental keys: being heard These values are essential for a healthy working environment collaborative relationship with union leadership of the CFT and CESP I am committed to learning and understanding both union guidelines and legal regulations in order to ensure informed decision-making Building strong partnerships between administrators related service providers and support staff is crucial to creating a space where all students can thrive many educators feel unheard and disrespected Since students spend the majority of their time in the classroom with teachers the well-being of our educators directly affects the learning environment always keeping the needs of our students as our primary priority we must build a supportive and thriving educational community that benefits our students related service providers and support staff.” requiring district reports and information from ongoing study sessions that don’t seem to be readily available to the public The latest report I was able to access for Unit 4 middle schools is the facilities committee final report from 2016 up-to-date information is essential in making informed decisions that impact our community “Do we need to evaluate and upgrade the current buildings that we have or do we need a fourth building after the addition of IPA and Garden Hills I would first focus on current data from recent study sessions I would like to review the capacity at each school and then evaluate if we are using these facilities to the best of our ability with the programming needs of our middle school students “I would also like to see information compiled from teachers and the community regarding capacity and programming Once we can understand the district’s current needs and projected needs we can then begin taking steps to expand current facilities or build a fourth our priority must be ensuring the best educational environment for our children the faster we can work together as a community to develop and implement a solution.” “The results of this audit cannot come soon enough who possesses extensive experience in the field After reviewing the schedule of completed work and the tasks remaining I am confident the audit will yield several actionable recommendations that will need to be implemented the Unit 4 website lists 24 vacancies for licensed special education teachers This does not include positions for support staff or related service providers yet our special education programs are already operating at full capacity it’s evident that we are facing significant challenges in meeting the needs of our special education students “Special education encompasses a broad spectrum of needs ranging from students requiring minimal support to those needing comprehensive During board meetings and public comment sessions I frequently hear concerns and dissatisfaction from parents and community members I hear from teachers and related service providers who are working tirelessly and doing their utmost to support students to the best of their abilities I am committed to ensuring leadership accountability in providing appropriate programming equitable facilities across all campuses and comprehensive training for our special education staff and related service providers “Teachers and providers help special education students daily while navigating the concerns of frustrated parents advocates on their behalf and equips them with the necessary resources to effectively teach and care for every child with special needs.” my primary responsibility is to encourage the well-being of every child in Unit 4 and related service providers are the ones who interact with students daily Building trust between the board and our employees is vital especially since recent challenges have strained that trust Rebuilding it must be a priority for the board “Our faculty and staff juggle numerous roles — educating counseling and managing multiple challenging situations simultaneously they need the support and respect of the board My role would be to hold regular check-ins with staff to understand their perspectives and to convey to them that we have their backs Open communication is key; faculty and staff should feel comfortable sharing successes and challenges with the board without any fear of criticism or disapproval It is crucial that we create a safe space where both positive and negative feedback can be shared honestly “A board that is transparent and approachable is more likely to ensure that the faculty and staff are heard and valued so I will promote an environment where communication can flow freely to create a positive and supportive relationship between the board and the individuals who empower our schools to succeed.” “Our problems can’t be resolved by the proposed scenarios They don’t effectively balance student SES nor do they relieve the transportation stress “The federally mandated consent decree was intended to address inequities it’s clear that the district’s controlled-choice system has failed to deliver meaningful benefits for students it has driven financially capable families away from public schools and placed a transportation burden on those who remain “Unit 4 exists in our segregated community impacted by historical housing discrimination Any bussing plan that attempts to mitigate that fact is bound to fall short “Research shows that neighborhood schools support students while boosting achievement According to the Learning Policy Institute ‘Evidence shows that when community schools are implemented well they can lead to improvements in student outcomes and reduced racial and economic achievement gaps.’ “It is time for a dramatic shift in Unit 4 These can be created by shifting transportation resources towards critical needs: hiring and retaining teachers particularly teachers of color; funding district-paid professional development; increasing support for SPED programs; and investing in community-building initiatives in low-SES neighborhoods “The money being spent on transportation in Unit 4 could be doing so much more to benefit the education of all children in our community especially those who have the greatest challenges." “The board must convey strong leadership by conducting ourselves in a professional manner I expect nothing less of myself and any other member functioning board that shows respect to all members is the first step to take towards efficacy and transparency “Humility is also an integral trait in leadership including all members of the board; we must be able to acknowledge our limitations admit our mistakes and listen to input from the team leading to mutual respect and understanding within a body that is more than the sum of its parts It is clear there is a great need for these qualities to be reestablished is able to make the best decisions with an informed and realistic understanding of the issues District employees play an integral role in understanding the efficacy of superintendent and board decisions and have important perspectives I suggest frequent check-ins or targeted surveys to gain feedback I often heard similar and repeated concerns brought up by parents district staff and other community members and it was not always clear whether any action was taken The district should share updates about decisions and initiatives including the reasoning behind such decisions using platforms like newsletters and online forums such as the school board web page professionalism and transparency will reinforce trust with our community.” “It is heartbreaking to see what happened at Booker T reduced achievement/opportunity gaps and large growth improvement on IAR test scores led by a principal and assistant principal who were admired and respected “The lack of reasonable justification surrounding the decision to remove BTW leadership caused significant disruption in the community lack of official forum for public comment and unaddressed grief I will work to ensure that all voices are heard and that decisions made by the superintendent and school board are backed by sound and communicated reasoning especially when such decisions have immeasurable impacts on students The board must utilize its power regarding checks and balances to prevent similar issues from escalating in addition to putting strain on our already-distressed district should have been held accountable for her actions and if I am elected as a board member Teachers deserve support for their work and acknowledgement of their expertise and experience I will prioritize these values to ensure we act on our strengths as a district and take action in opposition to the administration if needed." “We are fortunate to live in a community with one of the top universities in the nation With such a prestigious institution nearby we have an incredible opportunity to collaborate and enhance the educational experience for our K-12 students local and public entities must collaborate symbiotically to fulfill each other’s needs especially as state and federal support may not be guaranteed “University students in education; psychology and social work can design and run after-school programs that provide homework help music and STEM; and social-emotional learning support This would alleviate some of the burden on our teachers “Education majors from the university in return will learn so much from experienced teachers when they observe how lesson plans are developed and a classroom is managed No book can teach classroom management skills better than hands-on experience Mentoring happens both ways — from our teachers to the university students and from the university students to our K-12 students “Mentorship programs led by university students can guide high schoolers through the stressful college application process offering workshops and one-on-one support to assist our already busy counselors our upperclassmen could benefit from taking college-level classes at the university similar to the opportunities already available at Parkland further motivating them to pursue higher education “A strong partnership with the university would benefit everyone: our students gain resources and mentorship and university students gain valuable hands-on experience We should build a bridge between Unit 4 and the University of Illinois and unlock new opportunities for all parties involved.” “Many of the challenges experienced within the board and between the board and superintendent stem from the broader cultural norms we’ve inherited which often prioritize control over collaboration we have all absorbed ways of interacting that can be harmful to each other and the system we serve “While I believe that our superintendent does face increased scrutiny and criticism due to being a Black woman I also feel that her most controversial decision — that of removing the principal and vice principal from Booker T Washington STEM Academy — and her inability to voice any acknowledgement of the harm that decision has caused “I also feel that her focus on reminding everyone that it’s a ‘great day at Unit 4’ when teachers and staff are feeling overwhelmed and disempowered shows a lack of humility and effective leadership “We need a superintendent who can acknowledge the reality of Unit 4 — the good and the bad — and who will roll up her sleeves and work alongside board members staff and other stakeholders to make our district the best it can be “Three key issues in our district that must remain a top priority are leading with empathy and integrity ensuring our human resources department is effectively able to recruit and fill critical vacancies and implementing a strategy to identify struggling students and provide targeted support “When a school board is consumed by conflicts and public disputes no one benefits — least of all our children I believe it is our duty to approach conflicts with kindness seek understanding and work collaboratively we model the values we aim to instill in our students: respect over 10,000 students in Unit 4 are affected by a critical shortage of teachers and staff “This burden doesn’t just fall on students — our dedicated educators and other staff are overworked as well No matter how exceptional our facilities are without enough qualified teachers and district-trained support staff “Early intervention in literacy and other learning differences combined with informed and targeted support can prevent challenges from escalating in middle and high school — ultimately boosting student confidence we must ensure they receive the resources and interventions necessary for success “The upcoming SPED audit results will require immediate attention from the new board Those elected must work together to make informed student-centered decisions that shape the future of education — including special education — across our district.” I don’t know all the reasons behind the board’s dysfunction my concerns began in February 2024 when I attended a board meeting to speak about a resource I felt was being introduced too late for Unit 4 students preparing for the PSAT “I never even had the chance to make my public comment because I was so shocked by how the board members were speaking to one another the majority of board interactions have been petty and personal with members voting as separate factions rather than working toward a shared vision which led to delays in making important decisions that directly impacted students “Beyond the dysfunction at the board level numerous educators and administrators have left Unit 4 because their needs — and the needs of their students — are not being prioritized This has only worsened the existing educator shortage at a time when we cannot afford to lose even one more professional “Despite Unit 4 offering higher salaries than neighboring districts I know that my passion for this work is fueled not just by a paycheck but by the support I receive and the trust that my administration has my back many teachers in our district are not experiencing that support I would push for all members to commit to a code of understanding potentially with mediation to help rebuild trust We need clear ground rules for behavior and communication and a commitment to holding each other accountable “Only by working together with professionalism and respect can we ensure that the board carries out its responsibilities effectively and efficiently." “I first attended a board meeting in February 2024 to voice my concern about resources for PSAT preparation which I felt were being introduced too late for students I had intended to speak about the need for such resources from the start of the school year but I was taken aback by the obvious division and lack of respect among board members but motivated me to attend future meetings after subsequent resignations and meetings failing to meet quorum I began to seriously consider applying for an open position “The district was in need of a functioning board; one that could work with humility I saw how deep the divide and distrust ran Trust and transparency were hard to come by We urgently needed a board that could work collaboratively to address pressing issues SPED audit results and potential cuts to federal funding “As a longtime educator with over two decades of experience as well as a parent with a child in her junior year I am deeply committed to supporting our community I believe we need a board that listens to the community acts with compassion and prioritizes the needs of all students I will work to restore trust and encourage unity to ensure that the best interests of every student are at the forefront of decision-making.” I could have never imagined how much the world would change since my college days in the '90s Traveling halfway across the world without the convenience of cell phones meant I could only afford a short weekly call to family at home at $2.50 a minute and technology has progressed in some incredible and exciting ways not just in supporting long-distance communication "AI in education has created opportunities for teachers and learners while also presenting some challenges One of the greatest benefits is personalized learning providing just-in-time individualized instruction and allowing students to focus on areas where they need the most improvement my daughter used an AI-powered ACT/SAT prep tool that identified her weaker areas and generated targeted questions allowing her to practice efficiently in just 15 minutes a day Instead of spending endless hours on practice tests she had time to explore other interests while still improving her skills "There are also schools around the country using AI to assist with teaching creative writing The AI builds on a student’s initial sentence encouraging them to expand their ideas in a fun and interactive way meeting students where they are while supporting young learners in developing their creativity We juggle so many responsibilities — teaching not to mention the time spent interacting with and guiding students generate student data and offer feedback allow us to focus more on meaningful teaching moments educators have more time to connect with students and create engaging learning experiences There are concerns that students might become overly dependent on AI rather than developing their own critical thinking skills Another important consideration is the social-emotional aspect — are students engaging less with each other as they interact more with technology At the heart of learning and growth are human qualities like empathy honesty and integrity — values that AI cannot replace but remain essential for a harmonious world I appreciate having a tool that helps me structure my sentences more effectively to most clearly convey my deeply held beliefs about education." I am very grateful to have been a candidate running in this election I have learned so much and this only further emphasizes that we are all blessed with the gift of learning One of the biggest assets we have as humans is the power of knowledge "I also feel grateful to have connected with many new people while running this campaign As crazy as the world may seem to be right now I feel hopeful seeing all the goodness that surrounds us too administrators and other candidates running in the race who continue to advocate for our children "Our biggest weakness right now is that we are a very divided community made of defensive sub groups I feel we all feel threatened that whichever group we belong to will be ignored some of us fighting against missed opportunities some of us fighting illness or disability and of course there are more "I ask that our community and all candidates approach this work from a place of understanding empathy and humility and vow to work together And if everyone plays a little part — whether it is to be a mentor a volunteer of any sort to help in any way — we are all one step closer to a stronger school district." In the kickoff of a new News-Gazette feature Unit 4 teacher and parent Melissa Shungu asks 10 candidates for Champaign school board seats how they'll build trust between the board and the community and how they'll ensure they hear voices and perspectives from all district families Unit 4 teacher Kim Tate asks 10 candidates for Champaign school board seats what steps they'd take to ensure an environment that attracts and retains high-quality talent Unit 4 parent Emily Neal asks 10 candidates for Champaign school board seats: How would you evaluate Schools of Choice and its effectiveness in meeting the needs of students and families Unit 4 teacher Abby Heras asks 10 candidates for Champaign school board seats: In what ways will you support the development of a contract with the teachers union that best meets the needs of the teachers and the community Jan Carter Niccum asks 10 candidates for Champaign school board seats: Do you have a plan for adding capacity to the middle schools without placing portables on school grounds Would you be in favor of building a fourth middle school and Linda Tortorelli asks Champaign school board candidates: The district is undergoing a special education audit The results of the audit are expected to be released at the beginning of March What do you see is the school board's role in ensuring that the audit's recommendations are implemented in a sustainable manner Greg Stock asks Champaign school board candidates: How do you see your role as a board member in developing and maintaining positive relationships with faculty and staff throughout the district Unit 4 teacher Corinne Pennock asks 10 candidates for Champaign school board seats: How will you work to build transparency with the community and Unit 4 staff Shawna den Otter asks all 11 candidates for Unit 4 board seats: What should be the board's role in preventing problems like those at Booker T Washington STEM Academy from occurring in the first place or intervening when they are repeatedly brought to the board’s attention Pattsi Petri asks the 11 candidates vying for five seats on the Champaign school board: How would you actively engage the University of Illinois’ College of Education with Unit 4 to become the best statewide school district model The candidates answer a two-part question asked separately by two community members Joe McDaniel and Lori Rogers: After four years of leading the school district And yes or no: Will you vote for the extension of Dr Julie Duvall asks the Unit 4 board candidates: In order of your priority what are three main issues throughout the district you feel need to remain at the forefront And as a board member responsible for creating policies and procedures Asks former Unit 4 board member Kristine Chalifoux: The board has clearly not worked collaboratively in the interest of the students for some time What do you feel are the primary causes of this And how will you address these shortcomings Asks Unit 4 community outreach coordinator Lauren Smith: Why do you want to serve on the school board Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Please select what you would like included for printing: Copy the text below and then paste that into your favorite email application passed away at his residence on Sunday August 25 Harry’s youth was molded by his love of running his membership in church (Tenafly Presbyterian) and his family Harry graduated from Tenafly high school and went on to join the Okonite Cable Company (following in his grandfather Archie Stewart’s footsteps) and going to Montclair State University at night to earn his BS degree in Industrial Management He was promoted to the head office of Okonite in 1998 where he met his wife Susan I New Jersey and have been together for 25 years In 2001 Harry went on to work his boyhood dream job as a trainman on the River Line of CSX Freight Railroad In 2008 Harry fully committed his life to God and entered Alliance Theological Seminary School and received his Master of Divinity degree He interned at Community Presbyterian Church in Ringwood NJ and served as pulpit supply for the Presbyterian Church of Paterson In 2014 Harry was ordained and accepted his first call as pastor at Deer Creek Presbyterian Church in Deer Creek Harry will be remembered for his encyclopedic knowledge but especially for his kind pastoral heart which touched so many lives Harry is survived by his wife Susan Roselle Kristen (Matt) Schrapp and Anna; brother-in-law A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 pm Saturday August 31 at Deer Creek Presbyterian Church with Pastor Michael Munson officiating The family will receive guests from 11:00 am until time of services on Saturday at the church.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Deer Creek Presbyterian Church Jesus said: “Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God” John 11:40 “Death has been swallowed up in victory Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors Four Roselle residents were arrested on drug-related charges for fentanyl distribution following a two-month investigation 3 and charged with multiple counts of third-degree possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) and second-degree intent to distribute a CDS in a park zone A search warrant of their Roselle home found approximately 280 grams of cocaine and nearly 400 fentanyl pills that were imprinted to appear as Oxycodone More: NJ middle school wrestling coach charged with having child porn Fentanyl is responsible for 75% of all opioid deaths in New Jersey “Fentanyl has exacerbated the opioid epidemic and destroyed the lives of many of our family friends and loved ones,” said Linden Police Chief David Hart "The idea that this deadly drug is being disguised to appear like more widely-used prescription drugs is very concerning and I am incredibly proud of the work done to save lives and take these pills off our streets.” The investigation was credited to the Linden Police Department’s Narcotics Bureau If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, help is available. Union County Helping Hand 365 offers 24-hour-a-day assistance, 365 days a year. Visit remote.lpdnj.org for more information Alexander Lewis is an award-winning reporter and photojournalist whose work spans many topics. This coverage is only possible with support from our readers. Sign up today for a digital subscription Roselle Park during the Roselle Park at Summit high school girls softball game in Summit .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By Anthony Gabbianelli | NJ Advance Media for NJ.comBrooke Gallo tossed a two-hit shutout for Roselle Park striking out nine and walking a pair in a 12-0 win against Union Catholic in Roselle Park Gallo was 2-for-4 from the batter’s box with a double and an RBI Roselle Park (6-2) led 6-0 after a six-run bottom of the second inning before adding two runs in the bottom of the third and four runs in the bottom of the fourth to take a 12-0 lead Madison O’Connell had three doubles with four RBI and two runs scored for Roselle Park Hannah Buniak and Jenna Risley each had a hit for Union Catholic (3-7) Anthony Gabbianelli can be reached at agabbianellli@njadvancemedia.com The N.J. High School Sports newsletter is now appearing in mailboxes 5 days a week. Sign up now! Follow us on social: Facebook | Instagram | X (formerly Twitter) she was employed in the cafeteria of Highland Park High School in Topeka Rose was known for her engaging personality She always had a big smile when she saw you often savoring the delightful dishes prepared by her beloved Aunt Margie Rose’s artistic talent was evident in her hobbies; she loved to draw and create beautiful each piece reflecting her unique vision and sense of beauty Outings often led her to the serene rose garden at Gage Park where she found tranquility and inspiration among the blooms Rose was kind to everyone and had a beautiful smile Serena Howes; sons Christopher and Michael; “Sis” Ann Marie Dobson Each of these individuals carries a piece of her spirit and will forever hold her memory close to their hearts She was preceded in death by her loving parents and her undeniable joy in the company of loved ones Her memory will continue to inspire and bring smiles to those who were fortunate enough to know her A memorial service for Rose will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday memorial contributions may be made in care of Piper Funeral Home with the goal of finding truth and legal justice in Rose's passing Kate Roselle is the Development Director for the Appalachia + Mid-South Newsroom at Louisville Public Media where she works alongside partner stations in Kentucky (WKYU driving support for each station to have the resources to tell better more authentic stories of our region through collaboration Their career spans 20+ years of experience in fundraising Kate was the Executive Director at Local Theater Company in Boulder she served as the Director of Strategic Initiatives at Fund for the Arts and General Manager at StageOne Family They are a member of the Actors Theatre of Louisville board of directors Kate graduated summa cum laude from Washington University in St Louis with a BA in theater and from time to time you can still find her behind the scenes as a theater director Email Kate at kroselle@lpm.org 2025 at 9:55 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}At the Feb the Roselle Board of Education(BOE) accepted a 2023/2024 audit from the firm Lerch NJ — The Roselle School District is working on a plan to pay back taxes owed to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) "Our audit indicated that the District has been assessed interest and penalties from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a result of a failure to make a proper federal tax deposit failure to file the required quarterly tax form 941 and failure to pay amounts due resulting from such," according to the district's Corrective Action Plan for 2023/2024 school year advises that "the District consider engaging a tax consultant to resolve tax matter regarding outstanding balances due to the IRS for failure to remit taxes timely and related penalty and interest charges." "The district is actively engaged in discussions with the IRS to negotiate a resolution for the outstanding tax obligations This includes paying taxes owed and seeking penalty and interest abatement where applicable," according to the plan The plan also suggests the district's Business Administrator should be responsible for the implementation of the plan It is unclear how much money is owed to the IRS Fisher and School Business Administrator/Board Secretary Irene Gray did not return Patch's request for comment Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. High-speed intersection crash, Dodge Charger wrapped around a large metal traffic signal pole at Roselle Road and State Parkway in Schaumburg (CARDINAL NEWS). YouTube Tips ⓘ died about one month after a high-speed crash at the intersection of Roselle Road and State Parkway in Schaumburg According to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office Cruz died of complications of multiple injuries caused by a motor vehicle collision followed by impact against a fixed object The impact with the fixed object was severe and caused the trunk of the car to split off and land in a pond at the northeast corner of intersection The speeding Dodge Charger driven by Jose A Cruz collided with a car in the intersection and then slid sideways into a large metal traffic signal pole with a violent impact and paramedics from Schaumburg responded about 8:24 p.m 2025 to a report of a crash with injuries at Roselle Road and State Parkway in Schaumburg after a police officer apparently discovered the crash The police officer first on the scene requested that paramedics expedite to the scene for a male victim with life-threatening injuries The first fire crew on arrival reported a car wrapped around a pole with serious damage Police and firefighters discovered a black Dodge Charger wrapped around a pole at the northeast corner of the intersection The Dodge Chargers was reported to be split in half The other vehicle involved in the crash was located in the middle of the intersection with front-end damage A male patient was trapped in the Dodge Charger with the vehicle’s metal wrapped around a large traffic signal standard (metal pole) The driver was inside the Dodge Charger with life-threatening injuries for about 35 minutes while firefighters were operating on a difficult extrication The driver of the other vehicle told paramedics she was “OK” The driver of the Dodge Charger was extricated by 9:04 p.m. and transported with life-threatening injuries to Level 1 Trauma Center Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge The Village of Schaumburg posted a road closure alert for the area near the crash at 8:38 p.m but never posted an updated notification when the intersection was cleared Neither the Village of Schaumburg nor the Schaumburg Police Department provided a press releasing regarding this serious high-speed crash involving life-threatening injuries and prolonged road closures on a Friday night Days later there was still no information released from the Village of Schaumburg that informed the public about the crash involving a motorist with grave injuries Roselle Road was closed between Remington Circle and Kristen Drive Valley Lake Drive was closed at the intersection with Roselle Road State Parkway was initially closed at the intersection with Roselle Road but was later closed further east at Wilkening Road Hanover Township Emergency Services assisted the Village of Schaumburg Police Department with traffic control The Major Cases Assistance Team – Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction (MCAT-STAR) unit assisted the Schaumburg Police Department with the crash investigation Roadway Closure Alert:Northbound and southbound Roselle Road at State Parkway is closed due to a vehicle accident.Emergency vehicles are on the scene.Please use caution and seek alternate routes — Village of Schaumburg (@SchaumburgIL) February 1, 2025 LIVE TRAFFIC MAP … The information in this article is an early report published before any summary information was confirmed or released by police or fire local authorities Awareness matters in the Village of Schaumburg just like any other municipality Most quality municipalities or county jurisdictions provide some details about serious crashes of this nature in a timely manner 2025 (more than 12 hours after this serious crash) the Village of Schaumburg and the Schaumburg Police Department under the leadership of Police Chief Bill Wolf provided no information about this serious crash The incident caused considerable concern for citizens of Schaumburg or visitors in Schaumburg Identity Released for Victim of Duplex Home Fatal Fire on Huntington Drive in Mundelein Buffalo Grove Police Department Launches New Transparency Web Section with Crime Blotter “Someday soon we’ll stop to ponder what on earth’s this spell we’re under.” so don’t waste it living someone else’s life Don’t be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people’s thinking is not worth the humble reasoning of a single individual.” At Kean University 17th annual Research Days 2025Contact: info@MeetTheMomentDems.comRodriguez & .. Roselle Democrats Committee Announces Endorsements of Marie Dupont for 4th Ward Council and Councilwoman Cynthia Johnson for Council-at-Large led by Assemblyman and Municipal Chairman Reginald Atkins and Vice Chairman Jamel Holley has announced its strong endorsement and overwhelming support for two exceptional candidates: Marie Dupont for 4th Ward Council and Councilwoman Cynthia Johnson for Council-at-Large This dual endorsement reflects the Committee’s dedication to fostering robust community-focused leadership for the borough Both candidates secured an overwhelming majority of votes from the 38-member committee affirming their broad support within the party a passionate advocate & educator for the 4th Ward brings a fresh perspective and a deep commitment to addressing her constituents’ needs Her candidacy has sparked widespread enthusiasm for her vision of progress and unity in the ward a seasoned leader first elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2020 remains a steadfast voice for all Roselle residents Johnson’s proven track record and unwavering dedication to the borough’s well-being have cemented her status as a unifying force in local government Chairman of the Roselle Democratic Committee expressed his confidence in the candidates and deliver for our community,” Atkins said “Marie’s energy and vision for the 4th Ward combined with Cynthia’s experience and commitment to all of Roselle make them the ideal choices to lead us forward The Committee stands united in our enthusiastic support for their candidacies.” praised the candidates’ dedication while highlighting the borough’s urgent challenges “Marie Dupont is ready to step up for the 4th Ward with a bold and Cynthia Johnson has consistently demonstrated what it means to serve with heart and integrity,” Holley said." grappling with a leadership vacuum and operational disarray The absence of a business administrator—currently filled by the fire chief as acting administrator—and an assistant business administrator and the recent resignation of the Construction Code Official These deficiencies have left our community vulnerable committed leaders to restore faith and bring stability to local government,” Holley continued Councilwoman Cynthia Johnson echoed this sentiment “This endorsement reflects the trust we’ve built together in Roselle I’m excited to continue serving and delivering for our entire community alongside Marie.” a former Mayor of Roselle and a long-time advocate for progressive leadership "Marie Dupont and Cynthia Johnson are exactly the kind of leaders Roselle needs right now—bold Marie brings fresh ideas and a passion for the 4th Ward that will revitalize our community while Cynthia’s experience and proven leadership make her an essential force in moving Roselle forward coupled with their ability to find real solutions will help restore trust and stability in our local government The Roselle Democratic Committee is proud to stand behind them as we work together to build a stronger The Roselle Democratic Committee’s endorsements of Dupont and Johnson signal a united front and a clear vision for Roselle’s future showcasing the strength and diversity of leadership within the party Both candidates are well-positioned to make a lasting impact as they campaign to represent their constituencies I would like to receive emails from Insider NJ 22 of Johnson during the Central Jersey Group 2 sectional softball final between Delran and Johnson in Clark Johnson won.Ed Murray| For NJ Advance Media .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By Jack McKenna | For NJ Advance MediaCassie Conforti made her mark for Johnson as both a hitter and a pitcher to lead it to an 11-1 victory in five innings over Roselle Park in Clark Conforti drove in four runs while hitting a single and a double in a 2-for-3 showing at the plate while scattering four hits and one run while striking out eight Roselle Park batters and walking none from the pitcher’s circle Annabella DeMartinis also went 2-for-3 with a single and double plating two runs and coming around to score twice for Johnson (8-1) Madelyn Hemenway recorded an RBI single in a 1-for-2 day for Roselle Park (5-1) Jack McKenna can be reached at hssports@njadvancemedia.com The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the upcoming Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of the Roselle Memorial Library celebrating the completion of its extensive renovation and expansion project We invite all community members to join us for this momentous occasion “The Roselle Public Library has been a vital institution for almost 90 years and with the increased demand for library services it was time for this renovation and expansion,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded let us remember that a library is a place where children can discover new worlds where students can find the resources they need to succeed and where people of all ages can gather to share ideas and experiences I encourage all residents to visit the new facility and take advantage of its amenities.” The ceremony will feature remarks from distinguished guests and speakers “Investing in the Roselle Memorial Library is not just about updating a building; it’s about enhancing our community’s access to resources and creating lifelong learning for all residents,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados who serves as Liaison to the Union County Improvement Authority “This renovation will create a welcoming space that meets the evolving needs of our community empowering individuals with the tools and knowledge necessary for personal and professional success I extend my sincere gratitude to the Union County Improvement Authority and the Borough of Roselle for their collaborative efforts which have made this vital project a reality.” The Roselle Public Library’s renovation and expansion project includes a 15,400 square foot addition and the modernization of the existing building The project was funded by a $5.5 million State Library Grant $6.5 million from the Borough of Roselle Bond funds and $4 million from the State Legislative Funds “Libraries are not just about providing books; they are about access to information and opportunities for personal and professional growth,” said Chris Kolibas,  Chairman of the Union County Improvement Authority “The Roselle Library stands as a testament to our collective dedication to education This was a significant investment in Roselle’s future and I appreciate the commitment of our government leaders who continuously work together for the benefit of the community.” The updated library features traditional services combined with modern technology It includes a new Youth Services section with teen and children’s zones and flexible meeting and multipurpose rooms The design elements aim to meet LEED certifications and create a sustainable user-friendly environment that supports more efficient energy use The Roselle Library is located at 104 West 4th Avenue in Roselle please call the Union County Improvement Authority at 908-527-4250 and you might picture some spurts of water a place for kiddos to cool off on an especially hot summer day Then there is what Roselle Park District leaders have in mind for Kemmerling Park and Pool “It’s going to look totally different in a year which will be so nice for Roselle,” Park District Executive Director Lynn McAteer said the district is adding a splash pad near the pool Renderings show a tropical scene that could cheer up someone in a February funk: water spraying out of a palm tree and an anchor that there’s not going to be a splash pad in the area close to us that’s going to be quite as large,” McAteer said The district hopes to start its construction in August which would allow for the opening of the new spray park around pool season in 2026 The Kemmerling project budget — the park also is getting a face-lift — is roughly $5 million deriving from a combination of referendum dollars Voters in March 2024 approved a funding request to issue $7 million in bonds for upgrades throughout the district The Kemmerling Park and Pool site is 10 acres Tennis courts will be resurfaced to accommodate pickleball The district is installing new playground equipment outdoor fitness equipment and family game areas The district also will make infrastructure improvements to the pool itself but it doesn't have a lot of the bells and whistles that some of the folks in the surrounding area have,” McAteer said Residents who are grandparents loved the idea of a splash pad because there isn’t a lot of standing water and they can keep their eyes on their little ones as they run through it The park district also recently announced that it has been selected to receive a $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant from the state to put into Kemmerling The district is investing that state grant into the site to “make sure that the amenities are really adding that “although our residents are going to be thrilled we're hoping that this maybe can become more of a little bit of a destination splash pad for some of our neighbors as well.” “The Roselle Park District would like to thank Governor Pritzker and the IDNR for selecting the Kemmerling project for an OSLAD grant,” McAteer said in a news release The “revitalization of this park will create a more inclusive and vibrant public space for social interactions the playground will include a sensory wall depicting an underwater scene The project also will incorporate native plantings “It’s just going to be beautiful out there,” McAteer said Construction on the park portion is expected to begin in May View Box Score