Edison Schools Extend Superintendent’s Contract By A Year

EDISON, NJ — Edison School Board has extended the contract of school Superintendent Bernard F. Bragen Jr., by one year.

Bragen was hired last December on a three-year contract ending June 30, 2023. He asked the Board for an extension by two years.

The Board decided to go with a one-year extension instead.

At the Board meeting held last week, an overwhelming number of parents and guardians from the school district urged the Board to extend Bragen’s contract to full five years.

Esteban Galtes, who has two children in the school district, said that Bragen had to deal with the pandemic immediately after his appointment and yet he did a good job at handling the situation.

“I’ve seen Dr Bragen at high school games cheering on our children. And it makes me feel good... He really does care. Under the current circumstances Dr. Bragen deserves the extension,” said Galtes.

Former Edison student Yash Pandya said that ultimately the decision falls on Board members. “Under Dr.Bragen’s leadership we had a successful two-day reopening despite the pandemic. That’s big leap forward. We are also able to see such large savings… Millions of dollars' worth of savings,” Pandya told the Board.

“How did we not sign a five-year contract?” asked Patricia Bueno. “I love my community and I would like to see Dr. Bragen not just remain where he’s at, but given the fair five-year Superintendent contract, plus one for COVID,” she said.

On his part, Bragen said he was overwhelmed with all the community support he received.

“It’s humbling to hear people say nice things about you,” said Bragen, who was born and raised in Edison. He attended school in Edison and was also employed as a teacher in the school district.

“I had the opportunity to come back and lead the school and that’s all I wanted to do,” he said

Bragen said the reason he asked for an extension was to show the community that he is committed to Edison.

“The longest amount of commitment we are allowed to put forth is five years. I have no ulterior motives. I have no other things that I want to do except get up every day, come to work and do the best I can for the children of Edison,” he said.

The 55-year-old Superintendent saw his contract extended to four years total, much to the delight of parents and guardians present.

Bragen previously served as Superintendent of Hazlet Township Public Schools from November 2011 to December 2017, and as assistant superintendent from November 2007 to October 2011. He was also assistant professor/program director at Monmouth University.

He will now serve as Superintendent of Edison School District till June 30, 2024.

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