Hudson County SBA Celebrates Decades of Service, Training Milestones, and Leadership Elections

The Hudson County School Boards Association (HCSBA) held its final meeting of the 2025–2026 school year on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at The Chandelier Restaurant in Bayonne. The evening served as a celebration of the technical mastery required in school board governance and a showcase of the dedication local trustees bring to their communities.

HCSBA President Jose Soares (Kearny) presided over the meeting, thanking the county’s board members for their tireless advocacy and service throughout the academic year.

Spotlight on Excellence

The centerpiece of the evening was the recognition of the 2025–2026 Hudson County Teacher of the Year, Chef John Palsi of County Prep High School. Jamie Velasquez, Assistant Principal at County Prep High School, introduced Chef Palsi, highlighting his distinguished 25-year career in education and his successful culinary program that helps students develop deep confidence and real-world skills.

Chef Palsi delivered an inspiring message on the importance of creating supportive, trusted learning environments where students can safely take risks and learn through hands-on experiences, emphasizing the incredible value of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.

State Leadership and Strategic Updates

The meeting provided members with a comprehensive update on the legislative and organizational landscape of New Jersey education:

• Advocacy Update: Harrison Silver, NJSBA legislative advocate, briefed the membership on the latest state-level policy shifts and advocacy priorities.
• State Leadership: Michael A. Jacobs, NJSBA president, shared the vision of the 2025–2027 officer team, highlighting the importance of professionalized leadership.
• Field Services: Jeanne Cleary, NJSBA field service representative, discussed upcoming professional development modules and governance resources specifically geared toward Hudson County districts.

Milestones in Governance

NJSBA County Activities Coordinator Robert Acerra oversaw the awards portion of the evening, recognizing board members who have reached significant milestones in training and longevity. By framing “time served” as a crucial strategic asset, Acerra highlighted the immense value of institutional memory in local governance.

Board Member Academy Certifications:

• New Board Member Boardsmanship: Tia Rezabala (Jersey City)
• Certified Board Member (CBM): Joseph Lewis (Secaucus) & Leslie Norwood (Hoboken)
• Master Board Member (MBM): Leslie Norwood (Hoboken)

Years of Service Milestones:

• 10 Years: Haissam Jaafar (North Bergen) & Gerald Lyons (Secaucus)
• 15 Years: Sebastian J. “Zibbie” Viscuso (Kearny)
• 20 Years: Kennedy Ng (Union City)
• 30 Years: Maria J. Vila (Harrison) & Kimberly Wood (Harrison)

Leadership Installation

During the reorganization portion of the meeting, the focus turned to ensuring a strong representative voice at the state level. Robert Acerra administered the Oath of Office, officially installing Lisa Burke (Bayonne) as the 2026–2029 NJSBA Board of Directors delegate and Elizabeth A. Burke (Kearny) as the alternate.

President Jose Soares concluded the meeting with closing remarks, wishing all members a successful conclusion to the school year and a productive summer.