About the Morris County School Board Association

The Morris County School Boards Association (MCSBA) is dedicated to empowering local school board members across Morris County. We provide a collaborative platform for sharing valuable information and innovative ideas, acting as a catalyst for meaningful change and action in our schools.

Our meetings offer essential opportunities for professional development, keeping board members informed on the latest education initiatives, legislative changes, and public school regulations. By fostering strong connections and collaborative efforts, we aim to enhance the success of all public school students in New Jersey.

Join us in making a lasting impact on our community’s education. We look forward to welcoming you at a future meeting!


Irene M. LeFebvre Excellence in Boardsmanship Award

About the Award

The Irene M. LeFebvre Excellence in Boardsmanship Award, established in 2022, recognizes a current school board member in Morris County who demonstrates exceptional leadership, a strong commitment to responsible and effective school governance, and dedicated service to the children of their community.

This award is named in tribute to Irene M. LeFebvre, former president of both the Morris County School Boards Association (MCSBA)  and the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA). It reflects the values she championed throughout her distinguished career: integrity, lifelong learning, leadership, and a steadfast focus on student success.

Past Award Recipients

2022– Dr. Karen Cortellino (Montville Township)

2023- Michael Bertram (Morris Hills Regional)

2024- Leo Coakley (Roxbury Township)

2025- Kathleen Bartnick (Mine Hill Township)

2026 Irene M. LeFebvre Excellence in Boardsmanship Award Information

Deadline

The deadline for the 2026 Irene M. LeFebvre Excellence in Boardsmanship Award nominations is Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

2026 Nomination Criteria ***Updated for 2026

  • To be eligible for consideration, nominees must satisfy the following criteria:
    • Be a current member of a board of education in Morris County.
    • Have at least six years of service as a school board member.
    • Be recognized by the NJSBA as a Certified Board Member.
      • (CLICK HERE to see listing of all Morris County Certified Board Members)
    • Demonstrate a sustained commitment to personal and professional development.
    • Consistently champion student achievement in board decision-making.
    • Be nominated via a formal resolution from their local Board of Education. Note: Previous nominees do not need to submit a new resolution

Nomination and Selection Process

Each Morris County Board of Education may nominate one board member for the 2026 award.

An independent review committee—composed of school board members from outside the county—will evaluate all nominees and select the individual who best reflects Irene’s enduring legacy of leadership and service.

Recognition and Announcement

All 2026 nominees will be recognized, and the 2026 award winner will be announced at the Morris County School Boards Association Spring County Meeting on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

Key Information and Contact


Morris County SBA Executive Committee


NJSBA Staff Working with Morris County