Contrary to popular beliefs, the Board of Education (BOE) does not run the Readington Township School District. Our role is to ensure that the District is well run through the creation and updating of policies.  These policies serve as a guide to the Superintendent and provide direction, a basis for decision- making, and an imperative for action. 

When hearing concerns on issues affecting the District as a whole, our board members function as policy makers. We place these concerns on a meeting agenda for discussion by the entire board or a board committee. The discussions can result in new or revised District policies.

As individuals, board members cannot make decisions for the board, take actions for the board, or speak for the board, unless the board has authorized them to do so. As board members, we are sworn to abide by the NJ School Board Member Code of Ethics, which define the parameters under which we function.

The BOE functions by committee to review recommendations of the Superintendent on the operation of the district, development of the budget, facilities maintenance, curriculum development, etc. The Readington Township BOE operates with five committees, Education/Technology, Personnel, Communications & Policy, Finance & Facilities, and Green Committee. The committees consist of four board members.   The Readington Township BOE generally has one meeting a month.  There are instances when the Board may meet twice a month, particularly when preparing the budget.  Action is taken at virtually all meetings.   

At times, community members contact individual board members about personal issues or questions. When that happens, board members will rightfully encourage the community member to follow the chain of command—beginning with the classroom teacher and progressing through the hierarchy.  Thinking that contacting a BOE member means "going right to the top" complicates rather than alleviates any problem or issue. Going around or over the school staff creates morale problems and puts board members outside their area of responsibility. When the chain of command is used properly by citizens and board members, it improves communication and leaves the Board of Education free to act as final arbiter on issues that have not been resolved at other steps in the chain. To determine who best should handle a matter or question, ask yourself, “Who is closest to the problem?” Most often the answer is a staff member. Bringing your concern to a teacher or principal will quickly get a response. If this is not the case, the next step is to seek out the Superintendent. As a final step in this process, concerns can be brought before the board. 

Board members are responsible for ensuring that the Readington Township School District provides its children the best education the community can afford. We have a responsibility not only to listen to all citizens, but also to make sure those with a special point of view understand the needs of the school system as a whole. Above all, board members are responsible for and to the students in our schools. 

~The Readington Township Board of Education

If you are interested in becoming a Board member, please refer to this link in addition to this pdf. The deadline to submit paperwork to the County Office to appear on the election ballot is typically the last Monday in July before 4:00 p.m. Questions? Feel free to contact the County Clerk, Mary Melfi, mhmelfi@co.hunterdon.nj.us, 908-788-1214.