School improvements approved

MARLBORO - Improvement projects at several of Marlboro schools were approved by the Board of Education at its June 17 meeting.

One improvement calls for the replacement of the roof at the Marlboro Elementary School, School Road West. A contract in the amount of $200,360 was awarded to Remtek Services Inc., Deptford. Remtek Services was determined to be the lowest responsible bidder.

Four schools will have their gymnasium floors sanded and refinished. A contract was awarded to Jack Devine Gym Floor Restorations in the amount of $41,065, of which Marlboro's parentteacher associations will pay $3,100. The schools to receive the work are the Asher Holmes School, Menzel Lane; the Frank J. Dugan Elementary School, Topanemus Road; Marlboro Elementary School, School Road West; and the Robertsville Elementary School, Menzel Lane.

The contracts received unanimous approval in an 8-0 vote.

Board member Joel Golub was absent from the meeting.

During the meeting, board members were treated to a display from district students of the World Music Drumming program, an active hands-on approach to teaching an innovative curriculum that engaged the students in hand drumming traditions, singing, moving, playing other instruments and creating original music.

The program integrates music of Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, India, the Middle East and other drumming traditions throughout the world. The Marlboro Educational Foundation funded the program.

The Marlboro K-8 School District wrapped up the 2007-08 school year on June 19. Eighth grade students from the district's two middle schools took part in a commencement ceremony that was held at the Poland Springs Arena at the Ritacco Center, Toms River, on June 20.

- Rebecca Morton