After nearly a decade of serving on the township board of education, Mary Melvin will step down from her position.
Her departure – from a term that expires next year – means the board needs to find a replacement in about three months. Melvin announced her decision on Nov. 21.
“We have 65 days to fill the vacancy,” School Superintendent Dr. Brian Brotschul said. “The board has solicited inquiries from local residents that would like to contribute to the community in this way, and the board does have the discretion to appoint a community member that they believe would be a good fit for the remainder of the term.”
The school district website has recently posted alerts about the vacancy, with a link for interested residents who may want to apply. The position is open to anyone at least 18 years old or older who has been a resident of Delran for at least a year and is a registered voter within the district, among other qualifications.
Board members haven’t had issues filling previous vacancies, but if Melvin’s position isn’t filled within the 65-day period, a representative from the state Department of Education will make the appointment.
“What the board would like to have is balance amongst its members,” Brotschul explained. “There are a host of qualities that as a board, they like, predominantly, folks that have the time to contribute to serving on a board.
“Without exaggeration, being a board member is a very time-consuming commitment.”
Along with attendance at monthly board meetings, there are additional committees to which members are assigned, as well as additional work that needs to be done outside of the board’s sessions. Among attributes sought: some understanding of finance and an understanding of how the educational system works, among others.
Interested applicants should send resumes and letters of interest to board Secretary Cande Kristoff.
