For most districts in New Jersey, this has been “back to school” week with all the excitement and anticipation that greets the new academic year. It is a time of fresh starts and great hope.
As we embark on this new academic year, I want to express my gratitude for the dedication and service each of you brings to your school community. Your leadership and commitment to our students, staff, and families are crucial, especially during times of challenge and uncertainty.
The tragic school shooting in Georgia on Wednesday, Sept. 4, which claimed the lives of two students and two teachers, has undoubtedly shaken us all. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and everyone affected by this senseless violence. This event serves as a stark reminder of our shared responsibility to protect and nurture our students.
Despite the heaviness of this moment, I remain hopeful and optimistic about the year ahead. I believe in the resilience of our communities and our collective ability to overcome adversity.
As your district faces its own challenges this year, remember that the New Jersey School Boards Association is here to support you. Our experts in legal, policy, and labor relations are available to provide the information and resources you may need. Your district’s field service representative is only a phone call away, and we offer a range of content, connection, and advocacy resources to assist you in your important work.
Our mission is to support all students, uniting us in our shared goals. I am proud to serve as your executive director/CEO and to be part of this nonpartisan federation of local boards of education.
As you work through the complexities and challenges at the board table, I hope you find satisfaction in knowing that your efforts are making a significant difference in your schools, your communities, and the lives of our children. Like the teachers in our classrooms, board of education members are shaping the future.