The Warren County School Boards Association (WCSBA) concluded its 2025-2026 meeting cycle on May 4 at the Hawk Pointe Golf Club. The hybrid session brought together board members, administrators, and state educational leaders to celebrate a year of progress and honor the dedication of local school officials.

WCSBA President Lisa Marshall, of the Warren Hills Regional Board of Education, opened the meeting by welcoming attendees and reflecting on the county’s collective accomplishments over the past school year.

Spotlight on Excellence

A highlight of the evening was a presentation by Laura Wojick, the 2025-2026 Warren County Teacher of the Year. Wojick, who teaches computer science and information technology in the Phillipsburg School District, was introduced by her superintendent, Gregory A. Troxell.

Members of the Phillipsburg Board of Education and Superintendent Gregory A. Troxell gather to support their own Warren County Teacher of the Year, Laura Wojick. (Pictured from left to right): Elizabeth Kane; Danielle Finken; Ernest Gallant; Rosemarie Person, president; Keith Zwicker II; Walter “Mickey” Pierson; Laura Wojick; Gregory A. Troxell; Vickie Mendes-Branch, vice president; Bernard Brotzman; James Shelly; Nancy Nelson; and Paul Rummerfield.

During her remarks, Wojick shared insights into the modern classroom, discussing the cognitive processes of educators and the profound impact technology continues to have on student learning.

Updates from NJSBA and State Leadership

The meeting provided members with a comprehensive briefing on the current state of New Jersey education:

  • NJSBA Greetings: Michael A. Jacobs, NJSBA president, shared updates on behalf of the 2025-2027 NJSBA officers.
  • Executive County Update: Dr. Rosalie Lamonte, executive county superintendent for Warren County, discussed recent Department of Education initiatives impacting local districts.
  • Advocacy and Governance: Jonathan Pushman, NJSBA senior director of advocacy, and Kelly Mitchell, NJSBA field services representative, reported on legislative trends in Trenton and governance best practices.
  • Board of Directors Report: Jaclyn Rowbotham provided updates on key decisions and strategic goals from the most recent NJSBA Board of Directors meeting.

 

Honoring Milestones in Service

Robert Acerra, NJSBA county activities coordinator, presided over the presentation of the milestone awards, recognizing the significant time and commitment Warren County board members have dedicated to their communities. This year, the association celebrated a combined 45 years of service from four veteran members.

The following individuals were recognized for their commitment to professional development and service:

Individual Certifications

  • New Board Member Boardsmanship: Danielle Finken (Phillipsburg) and Jasmine Francisco (Washington Township).
  • Certified Board Member: Molly Fraumeni (Warren Hills Regional), Julia Jones-Jasper (Lopatcong Township), Paula Merrill (Warren Hills Regional), and Jaclyn Rowbotham (Harmony Township).
  • Master Board Member: Pamela Thomas (Lopatcong Township).
  • Certified Board Leader: Vickie Mendes-Branch (Phillipsburg).

 

Years of Service Milestones

  • 10 Years of Dedicated Service: Linda Chamberlain (Hope Township), Amy Cochran (Hackettstown), and Lowell Forbes (Frelinghuysen Township).
  • 15 Years of Dedicated Service: Kristine Griesmeyer (Pohatcong Township).

President Lisa Marshall concluded the meeting by thanking the membership for their unwavering advocacy throughout the year and wishing all districts a successful conclusion to the 2025-2026 school year.

  • Certified Board Leader: Vickie Mendes-Branch (Phillipsburg) pictured with NJSBA President Michael A. Jacobs.