On Wednesday, July 2, the New Jersey State Board of Education held its regular monthly meeting at 100 Riverview Plaza in Trenton. Key highlights from the meeting include the appointment of a new Acting Superintendent for the Camden State-Operated School District, the adoption of revised Praxis test scores, policy amendments related to civic engagement absences, board leadership elections, and the introduction of the new student representative.
Revised Praxis Test Scores Adopted
The Board adopted a Resolution approving certain revised Praxis tests and qualifying scores for the following certification areas:
- Technology and Engineering Education – new qualifying score: 157
- Family and Consumer Science – new qualifying score: 151
- Social Studies – new qualifying score: 153
These changes reflect recent updates from Educational Testing Service (ETS) and will go into effect September 1, 2025.
Policy Amendment: Excused Absence for Civic Event
The Board adopted amendments to N.J.A.C. 6A:32, School District Operations,aligning it with P.L. 2023, c. 274, which permits public school students in grades 6 through 12 to take one State-excused absence per school year to attend a civic event.
State Board of Education Leadership Re-Elected
- Kathy Goldenberg was re-elected as President of the State Board.
- Nedd James Johnson, Ed.D. was re-elected as Vice President.
New Student Representative Welcomed
The Board introduced and welcomed its 2025–2026 permanent student representative, Kailynn DuRose, a rising junior at East Brunswick High School.
New Acting Superintendent Appointed for Camden
The Board unanimously approved the appointment of Dr. Davida L. Coe-Brockington as the Acting State District Superintendent of the Camden State-Operated School District. Board members expressed admiration for Dr. Coe-Brockington’s passion, thoughtfulness, and readiness to take on the challenges still facing the Camden school district.
Special Recognition
Congratulations were extended to Claudine Keenan, Ed.D., State Board Member, for receiving the AAUW NJ 2025 Women as Agents of Change Award on June 21, 2025.
Public Testimony
Following the meeting, several Board members remained to hear Public Testimony on Chapter 27 – Student Transportation.There will be no public testimony in August, as there are no educational topics scheduled for discussion.
Next Meeting
The next regularly scheduled public meeting of the State Board of Education will be held on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the NJDOE offices at 100 Riverview Plaza, Trenton. The meeting will convene at 9:00 a.m. and adjourn immediately to executive session before resuming public business at approximately 10:00 a.m.
If you have questions about this meeting or any matters before the State Board, please feel free to contact your NJPSA Government Relations team at any time.