The New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA) held its Annual Delegate Assembly on May 10, 2025, at The Conference Center at Mercer in West Windsor. Delegates from across the state convened for a morning dedicated to shaping the Association’s future through policy discussions, leadership reports, and the election and installation of new officers.

The meeting was called to order by President Karen Cortellino, M.D., who warmly welcomed the attendees, emphasizing the vital role of the Delegate Assembly in the NJSBA’s governance. She underscored the opportunity for collective wisdom to guide the Association’s policies and bylaws, stressing the importance of each member’s voice.

In her report, President Cortellino highlighted the NJSBA’s commitment to timely and relevant member programming. She celebrated the success of the 2nd Annual Women’s Leadership Conference and shared plans for a joint conference with NJASA in 2026. President Cortellino emphasized amplifying member voices through participation, noted the extension of Dr. Purnell’s contract, and expressed gratitude for the talented staff and the collective support of the membership, acknowledging their crucial role in the Association’s progress. She also recognized the well-received inaugural Equity Expo conference, the first-ever panel led by the Board Members of the Year during Workshop 2024, and the updated Final Report of the NJSBA Committee on Educational Opportunities for the Career-Focused Learner, released in February 2025.

In his Executive Director/CEO report, Dr. Timothy J. Purnell outlined the NJSBA’s strategic focus on three key pillars: Content, Connection, and Advocacy, all aimed at bolstering member support and engagement. He highlighted the upcoming annual survey to evaluate all programs and services, ensuring they remain relevant and valuable to members, alongside the ongoing revision of interactive training modules. Dr. Purnell emphasized initiatives to engage former board members and plans to offer executive coaching for current board members, which will foster a stronger network and leadership capacity. He pointed to the continued support offered through PAA-HR and public relations/crisis management resources, empowering districts to navigate challenges effectively. Furthermore, he highlighted the advocacy successes of the past year, which included the elimination of the mandated budget vote in the April school board elections, advancements in student literacy and Type S buses. Dr. Purnell concluded by inviting open dialogue and emphasizing the strength derived from member voices.

The Association received six resolutions. Two resolutions were not consistent with NJSBA formatting requirements, and one resolution was voluntarily withdrawn by the sponsoring district. The Resolution Subcommittee put forth three resolutions which were all reviewed and approved by the delegates.

  • The Woodbury Board of Education (Gloucester) proposed a resolution encouraging the promotion of student participation in interscholastic esports and the awarding of varsity letters by local boards. The Resolutions Subcommittee recommended approval with substitute language affirming the NJSBA’s belief that local boards should use their existing authority to support esports as a valuable competition and award varsity letters as they see fit.
  • The Franklin Township (Somerset) Board of Education proposed a resolution advocating for the state to modify the school nurse endorsement criteria by eliminating the bachelor’s degree and specific NJDOE curriculum requirements, suggesting school-specific classes instead. The Resolutions Subcommittee recommended approval with substitute language stating the NJSBA’s belief that all necessary steps should be taken to address the school nurse shortage and increase the number of eligible candidates for the NJDOE endorsement.
  • The Kittatinny (Sussex) Board of Education proposed a resolution supporting the inclusion of excused absences for students taking necessary steps to enter skilled trades. The Resolutions Subcommittee recommended approval with substitute language stating the NJSBA’s belief that students should be permitted a limited number of excused absences for skilled trade-related activities as they prepare for careers after high school graduation.
Irene LeFebvre (right), chair of the Nominating Committee, administers the oath of office to (from left to right) Immediate Past President Karen Cortellino, M.D., Vice President for Legislation/Resolutions Chanta L. Jackson, Vice President for Finance Dr. Tom Connors, Vice President for County Activities Barry Walker, and President Tammeisha Smith.

Following the review and approval of the resolutions, Irene LeFebvre, chair of the Nominating Committee, presented the committee’s report, which was followed by the Election of Officers. Subsequently, LeFebvre conducted the installation of officers, formally recognizing the new leadership for the 2025-2027 term:

  • President: Tammeisha Smith (Knowlton Township)
  • Vice President for County Activities: Barry Walker (Bridgewater-Raritan)
  • Vice President for Finance: Dr. Tom Connors (Piscataway)
  • Vice President for Legislation/Resolutions: Chanta L. Jackson (Neptune Township)
  • Immediate Past President: Karen Cortellino, M.D. (Montville)
Dr. Timothy Purnell posing with Incoming President Tammeisha Smith outside
Newly elected NJSBA President Tammeisha Smith and NJSBA Executive/CEO Dr. Timothy J. Purnell.

Incoming President Tammeisha Smith expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, emphasizing her dedication to ensuring that the voices of all members are heard and valued as the Association moves forward. She conveyed a commitment to collaborative leadership and a focus on the diverse needs and aspirations of all member districts within the NJSBA.

The Annual Delegate Assembly was adjourned jointly by outgoing President Karen Cortellino, M.D., and incoming President Tammeisha Smith.