BOE speaks to community about superintendent’s contract

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The Board of Education released the following letter to the community on Feb. 20:

Dear School District Community,

There have been a number of inquiries concerning the West Orange Board of Education’s consideration of the Superintendent’s contract. The Board is legally precluded from publicly discussing personnel matters, but assures the public that it carefully considers any and all personnel matters. Over the past several months, the Board has scheduled a number of special meetings, and has not taken any action at its regularly scheduled meetings, in order to carefully deliberate.

The West Orange Board of Education appreciates the public’s patience during this process, as we carefully review and consider the matter. We are listening to all stakeholders’ comments, and we greatly appreciate your input.

Members of the public have inquired as to the legal requirements concerning superintendent contracts. A superintendent’s employment contract must be approved by a majority roll-call vote of the full membership of the Board pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:17-15. In order to non-renew a superintendent’s contract, the Board needs a majority vote of the quorum of the Board. Failure to have a majority vote of the quorum of the Board to non-renew a superintendent’s contract will result in the superintendent’s current contract automatically renewing under the same terms in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:17-20.1.

Regards, The West Orange Board of Education

  Jeffrey Rutzky, West Orange Board of Education