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In recent weeks, there have been several proposed changes related to education at the Federal level...'
Mercer County Association of School Administrators
April 2025
To Our Mercer County Families, Staff and Community,
The Mercer County Association of School Administrators represents the public school superintendents in our county. Over the years, we have consistently supported and advocated for our communities and their needs. Some examples of this county collaboration have included support for mental health, crisis management, teen suicide prevention, and health and safety resources during the challenges associated with COVID-19. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to building and sustaining safe and supportive school communities. Collectively, we are focused on ensuring every student within each of our districts feels seen, respected, and heard, regardless of their background, ability/disability, or identity.
In recent weeks, there have been several proposed changes related to public education at the federal level that may have contributed to a sense of uncertainty and concern among many in our communities. We acknowledge these challenges and understand the potential questions they raise about the future of our educational environment. We want to be unequivocally clear that these changes have not deterred us from our dedication to providing an exceptional education for all of our students. We will always adhere to statutory requirements while preserving the rights of all learners.
We are steadfast in our belief that every child deserves a learning environment where they are not only educated, but also valued as integral members of our school community. Our commitment to acceptance, connection, and fairness serve as the cornerstones of our efforts to ensure that all students feel a deep sense of belonging and community. We continually strive to create spaces where every voice is heard and valued; where each student is empowered to reach their full potential.
As we move forward, we remain focused on collaborative efforts with our educators, staff, families, and community partners to continue fostering an environment of trust, respect, and excellence. We are dedicated to addressing challenges head-on, supporting our students, staff, and communities through any uncertainty, and ensuring that our schools remain beacons of opportunity and hope for all.
It is important to note that public education is a state right and responsibility and as such, all Mercer County school districts are required to provide equal access to education to all students regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, ability/disability, or immigration status. Schools must meet this fundamental obligation and avoid policies that prevent or dissuade students from obtaining a public education. In Mercer County we remain passionately committed to protecting the rights of every student within our schools.
Five fundamental legal principles remain unchanged for all New Jersey school districts:
1. Legal Protections for Student Education: The Supreme Court's landmark decision in Plyler v.
Doe firmly establishes that all children, regardless of immigration status, have the unequivocal right to public education. Our schools cannot and will not deny educational access based on a student's immigration status.
2. N.J.A.C. 6A:22-3.3: Pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:22-3.3 immigration/visa status shall not affect
eligibility to attend school.
3. Student Privacy and Confidentiality: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) provides robust protection for student education records. This law strictly limits the sharing of personally identifiable information (PII) without parental consent, including any data that could potentially reveal a student's immigration status.
4. The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination ("NJLAD"), N.J.S.A. 10:5-12(11)(f), generally
makes it unlawful for schools to subject individuals to differential treatment based on race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability or nationality. 5. Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights: School districts must comply with this New Jersey law that
prohibits harassment, intimidation, and bullying, and requires each district Board of Education to implement a policy prohibiting harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) at school, school-sponsored events, and school buses. In addition, schools must take action to end harassment and prevent it from occurring.
We are proud to be part of vibrant school districts that celebrate the strength found in the diverse backgrounds of our students, staff, and families. We are fortunate to live in a state that upholds the rights of all individuals to feel seen, connected, supported, and proud to be a part of their school community.
Thank you for your ongoing support and engagement. Together, we will continue to provide the exceptional education our students deserve, while cultivating communities where every student has opportunities to thrive.
Sincerely,
Mark Daniels, President
Mark Daniels
Superintendent
East Windsor Regional School District
David Gentile, Ed.D., Treasurer David Gentile
Superintendent
Ewing Public Schools
David Aderhold, Ed.D.
David M. Aderhold
Superintendent
West Windsor-Plainsboro
James Earle
James N. Earle
Superintendent
Trenton Public Schools
Kathleen Foster, Ed.D
Kathleen Foster, EdD Interim Superintendent Princeton Public Schools
Matthew C. Carey
Matthew C. Conery
Superintendent
Mercer County Technical Schools
Mercer County Special Services School District
Patrick Pizzo, Ed.D.
Patrick Pizzo Superintendent
Robbinsville Public Schools
Robyn A. Klim, Ed.D.
Ramakan
Superintendent
Lawrence Public Schools
Rosetta D. Treece, Ed.D.
Rosella D. Treece
Superintendent
Hopewell Valley Regional School District
Scott Rocco, Ed.D.
Scott Rocco
Superintendent
Hamilton Township School District
