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School Leader

NJSBA’s quarterly magazine focuses on trends and issues of interest to boards of education and their top administrators.

School Leader • Winter 2025

Vol. 56 No. 3
Head of the Class

Franklin Township’s Invention Competition Program

The Invention Competition fosters creativity and innovation among students, particularly from communities underrepresented in STEM fields.

Labor Lookout

Rethinking Confidentiality: A Comprehensive Guide to Communicating During School Board Negotiations

This article delves into the complexities of communication in school board negotiations and how to work toward a more transparent and engaging process.

Legally Speaking

Special Education Settlements: What Board Members Should Know

This article provides an overview of special education terms and concepts to serve as context for board members during executive session discussions about special education settlement agreements.

Policy Update

Student Representatives on School Boards: How Clear Policies Can Help Them Succeed

So, how do you craft a policy that’s clear and works? One that turns a student representative from having “a seat at the table” into a powerful advocate for peers? Let’s dive in and break it down.

Reader's Forum

Creating Equitable Environments for Students: How Data Is Driving the Way Forward

At Westfield Public Schools in central New Jersey where I serve as superintendent, administrators and educators alike understand the importance of a culturally responsive school climate in elevating student outcomes.

Reader's Forum

The Power of Storytelling in Providing Students With a Strong Foundation of Mental Wellness Support

Often, real-life stories are utilized to help students connect with their emotions and the larger human experience.

ELFNJ Spotlight

Winter Virtual County Association Meetings and Programs

This winter, the county school boards association meetings will be held virtually due to possible inclement weather.

Executive Word

Ready or Not, AI Is Here

While artificial intelligence has been developing for decades, public interest skyrocketed with the release of ChatGPT in November 2022. It is no exaggeration to say that AI has the potential to revolutionize education.

President's Message

The Importance of Helping New Board Members

If you’re a veteran board member, think about all the questions you had when you first entered public service to advance the education of children – and consider making it a priority to lend a helping hand as newcomers learn what it means to be an effective school board member.