• Charles Muller, business administrator in residence at NJSBA, shares insights with new board members.

Even in inclement weather, the dedication of New Jersey’s school board members shined through recently, with almost 100 board members attending New Board Member Orientation Weekend at the Crowne Plaza Princeton Conference Center from Friday, Jan. 19 through Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024

During the training session, the New Jersey School Boards Association provided support in the form of resources, training and advocacy to help board members tackle their role efficiently and effectively.

Board members learned how to effectively fulfill their responsibilities while attending large and small group sessions on topics including school law, policy, the School Ethics Act, ways to improve student achievement, school finance, labor relations, the board-superintendent relationship and advocacy.

Pursuant to the School Ethics Act, every newly elected school board member is required to participate in an orientation course within their first 90 days of service.

Best of all, this program was free. Costs, including all meals, materials and hotel stay, were underwritten by a grant from the Educational Leadership Foundation of New Jersey.

There will be another New Board Member Orientation weekend from Friday, Feb. 23 to Sunday, Feb. 25, also at the Crowne Plaza Princeton Conference Center. While the program is full, you can register and be put on a wait list in case a spot opens up. Learn more.