Editor’s note: The message below from Dr. Timothy Purnell, Executive Director and CEO of the NJSBA, was originally emailed to members on Tuesday, Sept. 9.
Board Members,
As summer winds down and a new school year begins, I’m reminded of the unique energy this season brings. There’s something special about the first day of school… the anticipation, the fresh start, and the opportunities waiting ahead. Even the sunlight feels different this time of year, softer and warmer, a quiet reminder that change can be both beautiful and full of promise. In education, that sense of renewal is everywhere: new students, new goals, and new chances to make a lasting impact—and to shape a brighter tomorrow.
To help you make the most of the year ahead and support you when unexpected challenges arise, NJSBA remains committed to walking alongside you. Our association is here to ensure you have the tools, resources, and community needed to succeed in your role as board members and strengthen the districts you serve.
We recognize that the challenges you face often reflect the larger debates happening across our state and nation. It’s easy to get caught up in the noise, but your mission remains clear: serving students. As a nonpartisan organization, NJSBA’s focus is clear: to provide training and resources (Content), foster relationships and camaraderie (Connection), and advocate tirelessly on your behalf (Advocacy). Just as important, we want to celebrate the successes you achieve for your students and communities.
And there’s plenty to celebrate. With New Jersey’s public education system consistently ranked among the top in the nation, we want to highlight those successes even more. If your district has a story that showcases innovation, nonpartisanship, or achievement, I’d love to hear it. This winter, I am preparing a panel and podcast that is focused on nonpartisanship. Please contact me if you are interested in sharing a story.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to roll out several new initiatives this year:
- Executive Coaching for Board Members
- Crisis Communication/Management
- HR Support
The executive coaching program will launch first, led by former Commissioner of Education, Dr. Kimberley Markus, a certified ICF coach. We are looking for Certified Board Leaders to serve as mentors in this effort. If you’re interested, please contact Gwen Thornton (gthornton@njsba.org) or Dr. Markus (kharrington@njsba.org) directly.
Finally, the NJSBA Nominations Committee is accepting applications for the vacant Vice President of Legislation/Resolutions position. The application notice can be found here. Applications must be sent by certified mail, or hand delivered to headquarters, by Friday, September 12, 2025, at 5 p.m. Serving on the Executive Committee is an opportunity to help shape NJSBA’s future and strengthen boards statewide. As President Smith has also noted, there are many ways to get involved, including serving on our standing committees. You can find the volunteer application here.
Whether your summer was spent recharging, hiring a superintendent, or preparing for a fall referendum, I hope you feel ready to step into this school year with confidence and energy. I believe in you, and I am confident that your discussions at the board table will bring a better tomorrow for the children that you serve.
Your greatness will, like the sunlight that comes with the dawn of a new school year, shine brightly on our students.
I look forward to seeing many of you at Workshop. Until then, my very best wishes for a smooth start to the school year.
Warm regards,
Timothy Purnell, Ed.D.
Executive Director/CEO
New Jersey School Boards Association
