NJSBA’s popular New Board Member Weekend Orientation returned this winter for the first time since early 2020. Two weekends — held Feb. 3-5 and March 10-12, provided training to nearly 200 new board members. 

The training covered a wide range of topics, including the School Ethics Act, board governance, student achievement, policy, school finance and the Open Public Meetings Act. 

The small group breakout sessions are one of the highlights of the weekend program. The small groups, led by volunteer veteran board members, provide the opportunity for board members to ask questions, share experiences and build a network of trusted colleagues. 

The program is provided at no cost to local boards and their members.

The program was held at the Crowne Plaza Princeton Conference Center.
The program was held at the Crowne Plaza Princeton Conference Center.
Veteran board members simulated various board of education meeting scenarios at the Mock Board program at the February weekend. Left to right: Sheli Dansky (standing with microphone); at table: Mike McClure, Bruce Young, Eileen Miller, Dan Sinclair, Sharon Schueler, Mike Bertram and Charles Caraballo.
Veteran board members simulated various board of education meeting scenarios at the Mock Board program at the February weekend. Left to right: Sheli Dansky (standing with microphone); at table: Mike McClure, Bruce Young, Eileen Miller, Dan Sinclair, Sharon Schueler, Mike Bertram and Charles Caraballo.
One of the small group breakout sessions, led by Sharon Schueler, a veteran board member from Middlesex Borough Board of Education.
One of the small group breakout sessions, led by Sharon Schueler, a veteran board member from Middlesex Borough Board of Education.
Kathleen Asher, NJSBA senior manager of legal and labor relations, presented a program on the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act.
Kathleen Asher, NJSBA senior manager of legal and labor relations, presented a program on the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act.