Bill Hills has served two three-year terms on the nine-member board.
By John Tredrea
Monday night marked the last regularly scheduled school board meeting over which Bill Hills would preside as board president.
Mr. Hills, who has served two three-year terms on the nine-member Hopewell Valley Regional Board of Education, opted not to seek a third term in Tuesday’s election.
"We’ve come through a lot together. Visiting the schools, going to graduation . . . that’s where the reward for being a board member comes in. It’s special thing. This district is an absolute jewel in New Jersey," Mr. Hills said, after accepting a commemorative plaque from Vice President Kim Newport.
Mr. Hills, who ran as a slate with Ed Gainsborg and Carl Swanson six years ago, said "work pressures make it impossible for me to continue" on the school board. He was board president for two years and vice president for two years.
"You’ve been running us a long time," quipped Ms. Newport. She said Mr. Hills has "an ability to listen to all points of view, then create clarity and a space for compromise."
Mr. Swanson cited the outgoing board president’s "caring for kids. It’s been good for us to be able to be with him. He brings wise counsel to us as we deliberate on important matters."
Mr. Gainsborg added, "I’m sorry the board will be losing Bill’s many talents and skills. I personally have gained a good friendship" as a result of getting to know him by serving on the board.
Bernadette Schetler, president of the Hopewell Valley Education Association, said Mr. Hills’ departure is "a tremendous loss." She said that, even during the most arduous phases of contract negotiations, "Bill always had a kind word and a sense of fairness."

