Filing Deadline Nears For West Morris Regional High School Board

LONG VALLEY, NJ — The deadline for submitting nominating petitions to run for the West Morris Regional High School District school board in the November general election is July 25 at 4 p.m.

The local school board elections have heated up in recent years, becoming much more politicized last year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The school board makes important community decisions such as hiring administrators and handling property tax money. Until 2012, all school boards held elections in April, when a state law was passed allowing districts to switch to the November general election.

Those considering serving on the school board can take advantage of NJSBA's online briefings that provide details about the responsibilities of serving on a local board of education. NJSBA's online briefings include three videos that address leadership, legal issues and the role of a board member.

"The work of a school board has become increasingly complex, but rest assured, if you're elected or appointed to your school board, you won't 'go it alone. NJSBA is New Jersey's only service organization whose sole mission is to train, assist and represent the state's local boards of education," New Jersey School Boards Association President Irene M. LeFebvre said.

For the West Morris School District, there will be three open seats in November as Thomas Brooks, Michael Golabek and Lisa Woodring have terms ending in December of 2022.

Candidates can be from the following municipalities: Mendham Borough, Chester Township and Washington Township.

Requirements to run for school board:

• Be a citizen of the United States.
• Be at least 18 years of age to qualify for office.
• Be able to read and write.
• Must have been a resident of the municipality from which he/she is to be elected for at least one year preceding the date of the election.
• Not be disqualified as a voter.
• Not be disqualified from membership for the conviction of crimes.
• Be a registered voter in the district.

Anyone interested in running should contact the Morris County Clerk for information on the proper form to use for candidacy, according to the New Jersey School Boards Association.