In this column, Moorestown Board of Education member Brandon Pugh provides an update on what went on in the school district and on the BOE this June.
By BRANDON PUGH, Moorestown Board of Education vice president
It is hard to believe that the 2016–2017 school year is now complete! June was a busy month for the Moorestown Board of Education, which included the Class of 2017’s graduation, the resignation of a board member, an update on referendum projects and student recognition.
I would like to first congratulate each individual who graduated Moorestown High School on June 22. This was truly an exceptional class, which broke athletic records, completed high levels of community service and excelled academically. I wish them the best as they enter the workforce, the military, and/or college, including Yale, Princeton, Georgetown, Rutgers and TCNJ.
At the June 20 monthly meeting, the board announced the resignation of Kathy Goldenberg. Kathy will be joining the New Jersey State Board of Education, which does not allow for local board service. Kathy served on the Moorestown Board of Education for ten years, including time as president, Vice President and the chair of numerous committees. Kathy will be missed, but I know she will bring her passion to the state to benefit students statewide. I am serving as acting president until the board holds a special meeting in July to elect a president through reorganization 2018.
Given the resignation, there is now a vacancy on the board. Individuals interested in filling the vacancy should submit a resume and letter of interest by 3:30 pm on July 7. This position will serve until the reorganization in January 2018. The successful candidate would need to run in November 2017 to continue serving beyond the reorganization. Similarly, there will be four open board positions on the ballot for the November election. Nominating petitions must be submitted to the appropriate county clerk by 4 p.m. on July 31.
The Board approved continued affiliation for affiliate groups following Board Policy # 9190, which are groups “which wholly support an activity in which District pupils participate.” These groups include Home & School, SpEAC, PACE, the Moorestown Education Foundation, MoorArts and Live Civilly. These organizations graciously provide donations, services and programs for District students and staff.
In addition, two overnight student trips were approved by the board. First, was a foreign language trip to Spain from March 28 to April 6. The Board heard a presentation at the previous month’s meeting on this trip from WorldStrides. Second, was the Senior Trip to Orlando, Florida from April 21 to April 26.
The next regular monthly meeting of the Board of Education will not be until August 2017. As such, there will not be column in July. I hope everyone has a relaxing and enjoyable summer. As always, do not hesitate to reach out to the Board or myself if you need anything in the meantime.
The views and content in this column do not necessarily represent those of the Moorestown Board of Education as a whole or any other individual member.