Young Politico Steps Down From Millburn School Board: Here's Why

MILLBURN, NJ — Jamie Serruto, who won a spot on the Millburn Board of Education as a teenager in 2019, stepped down last month, and the board is looking to fill his seat.

The board will accept applications for the one-year term until this coming Thursday (more details are below).

Meanwhile, Serruto, who is finishing his education at Fordham University, elaborated on why he stepped down.

Serruto has been one of youngest elected officials in New Jersey when he took the seat shortly after turning 18.

Serruto said that he hopes to continue a career in public service in New Jersey someday, but he's going to spend some time abroad.

"I will be spending the near term in Rome, Italy studying and pursuing new opportunities for my development and career," Serruto said last week. "I am excited to travel Europe and explore cultures and governments. I would like to pursue a career in local government continuing public service to help other people. I want to continue working for others and making our NJ communities better."

As a former board member and also a graduate of Millburn High School, he had some observations on growing up and getting educated in town.

"It is important that we give students room to define their futures and pave their own paths," he said. "My parents allowed me to do what I enjoyed and that’s what enabled me to be successful in my community engagement and service on the Board of Education. I am a proud Eagle Scout, I attribute my launch into public service to the Scouting community teaching me important survival skills, citizenship, and to help other people at all times regardless of background or status."

He cited the board's accomplishments during his term, from facilities upgrades to starting the school day later.

"Having gone through the district K-12 with nearly 25 Millburn High School graduates in my family, I am proud of the progression this district has gone through with the hard work and commitment of stakeholders," he said.

He noted, "Millburn continues to be the top school district in New Jersey and it is not an accident. The students are extraordinarily talented with supportive parents and top notch educators. The community must balance the demands of the economy and the use of technology combined with emphasis discourse and sufficient physical activity. Students must have good ethics and morals to contribute to the world."

Filling The Vacancy

The school board noted in an announcement last month:

"The board, within the powers delegated to it by law, is the policy-making legislative branch of the Millburn School District. The individual selected will serve as a member of the Board of Education from the date of appointment (anticipated Jan. 23, 2023) through Dec. 31, 2023."

Applicants must be:

• A citizen of the United States of America
• At least 18 years of age
• Able to read and write
• A resident of Millburn Township for at least (1) year preceding the date of
• appointment
• Not directly/indirectly interested in a contract with, or a claim against, the Board
• Registered to vote in the District
• Not disqualified as a voter pursuant to NJSA 19:4-1

The successful candidate will need to undergo a criminal history background check upon appointment.

Applications will be accepted until 4 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 5. Candidates will get to make a 3-minute public statement at the Jan. 9 school board meeting.

Submit a letter of interest and resume to:
Ms. Cheryl Schneider
Business Administrator/Board Secretary
Millburn Board of Education
434 Millburn Avenue
Millburn, NJ 07041
cheryl.schneider@millburn.org