GSCS believes this imposition of a municipal governing body over a school board and/or public vote is a first. The loss of checks and balance, as well as a new precedence where one governing body can overrule another requires a detailed analysis..." (This testimony was offered before the Senate State Governmnet, Wagering, Tourism and Historic Preservation Committee on December 15, 2011.)

Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee

December 15, 2011:   S3148 – Norcross  

Garden State Coalition of Schools/Lynne Strickland – GSCS Concerns

There is a basic issue with the new approval process for moving school board elections in S3148/A4394 to November general elections, where the municipal body - all on its own - can approve a November election for a school board, regardless of the board of education or public sentiment via petition.

GSCS believes this imposition of a municipal governing body over a school board and/or public vote is a first. The loss of checks and balance, as well as a new precedence where one governing body can overrule another requires a detailed vetting.

GSCS feels this major kind of change is radical, sets precedence and needs in depth conversation. We hope the Legislature does not rush this well-intended bill through the lame duck session.