By Lea Kahn, Staff Writer
Four newly elected school board members were sworn into office and new officers were elected when the Lawrence Township Board of Education held its annual reorganization meeting last week.
Jo Ann Groeger, Thomas Patrick and Kevin Van Hise were sworn into office for three-year terms and Michael Horan was sworn into office for a one-year, unexpired term at the April 25 meeting.
Laura Waters was elected to her eighth consecutive one-year term as school board president. Mr. Van Hise was elected to serve as the school board’s vice president a post that was held by school board member Leon Kaplan for five consecutive years. He still serves on the board.
Superintendent of Schools Crystal Lovell welcomed Mr. Horan to the board, and also welcomed the three returning board members.
Ms. Waters also acknowledged the service of former school board member Michael Brindle, who was defeated last month in his quest for his eighth term. He had served on the board for 21 years.
And Ms. Waters also noted that Mr. Kaplan had been certified as a master board member by the New Jersey School Boards Association one of about 260 in New Jersey. Attaining master board member certification requires first obtaining certification as a certified board member.
To become a certified board member requires earning at least 20 credits in core areas that range from policy to curriculum to school finance and school law through programs offered by the NJSBA. Master board member status is acquired by taking an additional 20 credits and passing an examination.
”It is a great tribute to Leon’s dedication,” Ms. Waters said.
