The New Jersey State Board of Education held its first meeting of 2025 on Wednesday, January 8th, at the Department of Education building in Trenton. The meeting, conducted in person and simulcast on the Department’s YouTube channel, included a presentation by the Student Representative about AI, the approval of the appointment of NJPSA member Natalie Dougherty to head the Office of Learning Equity and Academic Recovery, and celebrated the 23rd Annual New Jersey School Board Recognition Month.
As they do every year in January, the State Board held an “open topic” public testimony session following the meeting. The New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association (NJPSA) presented testimony, highlighting the importance of the supervisor’s role in education and advocated for mentorship opportunities for educators in supervisory positions.
Anna Paszkiewicz, the Permanent Student Representative from Palmyra High School, addressed the Board on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. She emphasized AI’s potential as a powerful study tool when used appropriately. However, concerns about its misuse for cheating were also raised. Paszkiewicz highlighted the importance of educating students on the ethical use of AI from an early age and using websites and tools designed to detect AI-generated work and promote academic integrity.
The Career and Technical Education Committee, chaired by Boardmember Mary Beth Berry, provided updates on various Career and Technical Education programs across the state. A notable highlight was a supermarket program tailored to support students with special challenges, demonstrating New Jersey’s commitment to serving diverse student needs.
Board member Mary Bennett presented a Resolution honoring the 23rd Annual New Jersey School Board Recognition Month. Dr. Karen Cortellino, President of the New Jersey School Boards Association,accepted the resolution on behalf of over 5,000 local school board members and charter school trustees.
The Board unanimously approved the appointments of NJPSA member Natalie Dougherty as Director of the Office of Learning Equity and Academic Recovery and Ronni Singh as Director of the Office of Recruitment, Preparation, and Certification, and School District Certifications.
The Department of Education Division of Field Support and Services presented to the State Board, at second discussion, the proposed amendments to N.J.A.C. 6A:32, aligning the Code with Public Law 2023, c. 274. The amendments would allow one excused absence per year for civic events, provided the school receives five days’ notice.
The next meeting of the State Board of Education will not include public testimony as there are no educational topics scheduled for discussion in February. For more details, visit the Department of Education’s website, or contact your NJPSA Government Relations team at any time! .
Please stay tuned to our weekly GR E-blast for further updates on educational developments in New Jersey.