BERNARDS TOWNSHIP, NJ — The Bernards Township Board of Education recognized retiring Superintendent Nick Markarian, who has served 25 years in the district, including 14 years as superintendent.
"It is truly an incredible achievement," said Board President Jennifer White at the meeting.
She noted that it's not simply the length of time, but rather it's the impact.
"You've led with integrity, heart, and unwavering dedication and enduring commitment to doing what is best for our students. Your leadership has been defined not only by your knowledge and vision, but by your strong ethical foundation, tireless work ethic, and genuine care for every member of our school community," said White.
Markarian has shared he will be retiring to Montana to chase his dreams of living in the mountains.
"While Montana is gaining a wonderful neighbor, Bernards Township is saying goodbye to a leader who has become. On the part of the fabric of this community, you will be deeply missed-not just for your knowledge and leadership, but for your kindness, your calm presence, and the relationships you built along the way," said White.
Several remarks focused on Markarian's role during difficult periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Through one of the most difficult periods in the history of public education, you led with courage, compassion, and untiring grace," said White, who added that Markarian's leadership helped the district emerge stronger.
Board members also described Markarian as a listener who worked closely with the board, staff, parents and students.
"Nick, if you ask the people who have worked with you over these past 25 years what they will remember most about your leadership, I don't think their first response will be the policy decisions or the strategic plans, as important as those have been. What they'll remember is something rarer and longer lasting: the gift of truly listening in a world that often rewards the loudest voice in the room," said Board member Janice Corrado.
Board member Keith Molinari said Markarian "earned my trust" and said the district had been "better off for your presence and your leadership."
Newer board member Adam Lefkowitz, who joined in January, said Markarian treated him "with courtesy and respect" and made him feel welcome.
"You have consistently exhibited open-mindedness, willingness to listen to questions and to respond to them, and as someone who's new in this position, I thank you greatly for making me feel welcome, for showing me the ropes on what it means to be a board of education member and a community leader, and I will miss your leadership," said Lefkowitz.
Board member Brett Omelianuk said that at county and state school board functions, he repeatedly heard praise for Bernards Township's superintendent and how "lucky we were to have you as our superintendent."
Markarian responded by thanking the board and emphasizing teamwork across the district.
"I certainly appreciate the kind words, but at the end of the day, I really can't take any credit," he said. "It's a hard job, and we all chip in."
He also said, "It's that teamwork, that hard work, that caring for the kids, and being there to support the staff with all their needs," that makes Bernards Township special.
Markarian also said he wanted to leave when the district was in a strong position.
He said the district was "well positioned financially," that the facilities team and administrative team were strong, and that "Kristen's going to be amazing, stepping up into the next role."
Markarian announced his retirement in February and in April the Board of Education selected current Assistant Superintendent Kristin Fox to move up to serve as Superintendent of Schools.
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