Assistant Superintendent Joseph Miceli resigned earlier this month. And at the last Board meeting, Calabro recommended that the Board not renew the contract of Jennifer Viti, the assistant principal of Fort Lee High School despite the fact Calabro had agreed to renew Viti’s contract April 28.

"Why aren’t these decisions left to the new superintendent," asked Nina Levinson, president of United Homeowners of Fort Lee at a recent Board meeting.

Board attorney Robert Tessaro explained, "As a non-tenured administrator, Viti was subject to notification by May 15, according to statute," Tessaro said.

But many in the attendance didn’t understand why the Board could not override the superintendent’s decision.

"The Board only votes on people the superintendent recommends for employment," said Tessaro.

But there is one exception. According to the New Jersey School Boards Association, when a staff member receives a non-renewal notice, he or she can request a statement of reasons for non-renewal that the superintendent must provide within 30 days. Then the staff member can request a Donaldson Hearing, which is an informal appearance before the Board to discuss employment issues. Only then can the Board override the superintendent’s decision.

"I’m not aware if Viti has requested a Donaldson Hearing," said Tessaro.

In other news, the Board is interested in holding classes in the Jewish Community Center.

"The pre-school program at the JCC is discontinuing," said Cheryl Balletto, business administrator and board secretary. "The district was invited to use the space to bring children back to the district."

Jean North, director of special services, was recommended by Calabro to oversee the operation. But parents at the meeting disagreed.

"What are her qualifications," asked Paula Colbath. Colbath ran for a Board seat this year.

The Board and Calabro could not name North’s exact qualifications except to say that by virtue of her position she would be the right person for the job.

Other parents voiced their disapproval of North’s performance in the special education program.

"Well, if you don’t like the way things are in Fort Lee, you can move," said Charlie Luppino, Board president.

But it was clear the Board was not completely sold on North taking the position.

"We haven’t made a decision yet," said Board member Michelle Stux-Ramirez.

But Calabro interrupted by saying adamantly, "Yes, we have made a decision."

The Board later agreed that North’s qualifications should be reviewed further and pulled her appointment.