CLARK — At its final regular meeting of the 2023-2024 school year, the Clark Board of Education took time to honor the Arthur L. Johnson High School (ALJ) girls’ softball team and some high-achieving students.

The girls’ softball team was recently named as this year’s NJSIAA Central Jersey Group 2 Champions after beating out Delran High School in 4-to-3 game. The young women and their coaches were celebrated at the meeting.

“Success is never guaranteed, no matter how hard you work or how talented you are. So I hope that you are enjoying every second of these wonderful accomplishments of these young ladies,” Athletic Director Gus Kalikas said. “This team was a pleasure to watch throughout the year, not only because of their stellar accomplishments on the field, but because they acted appropriately in our school and in our community, and played the game the way it’s supposed to be played.”

The board also recognized Grace Wright as valedictorian and Taylor Normann as salutatorian of ALJ’s Class of 2024.

“Congratulations to our honorees that are here this evening; we are so proud,” ALJ Principal Tara Oliveira said.

Clark’s student board member for the 2023-2024 school year, Abigail Henkel, also was honored at the meeting. She was commended for never missing a school board meeting and for all of her efforts throughout the year.

Additionally, the board voted to approve a series of end-of-year items that included the approval of resignations and retirements, new appointments, staff budgets, conference budgets, evacuation drills, the yearly calendar, student psychiatric costs, out-of- district tuitions and placements, reimbursements, and more.

Superintendent Edward Grande bid farewell to Cheryl Fabrizzio, a teacher of 14 years, and Gene Zannetti, a teacher of nine years. Mr. Grande noted that although there are several staff members retiring or resigning, there are a number of new appointments for the 2024-2025 school year.

The Clark Board of Education will meet again on Monday, July 8.