Schools

Board of Education Members Say Goodbye to Slocum

The Fanwood board member attended her last meeting Thursday night.

Board of Education member Sacha Slocum wiped back tears Thursday night as she gave her final words before departing from her position.

Slocum announced her resignation at the group’s Aug. 27 meeting, saying at the time that the demands of a new job mean she needs to reserve her free time for her family. Slocum is now serving as a vice principal at Plainfield High School.

Slocum started her term as one of two Fanwood representatives on the board in 2005. In 2008, she was elected board vice president, a position she held until her resignation.

She also served on a number of committees during that time, including policy, community relations and curriculum. Her fellow board members cited her work with curriculum as one of her most impressive contributions.

"It's been so wonderful to see you grow as a board member and increase your contributions here," member Betty Anne Woerner said. "Slowly, but clearly, you've gotten your footing and made a substantial contribution."

While all said they were sad to see her go, her colleagues acknowledged that this was the right next step for Slocum.

"I am incredibly enthusiastic about you making this decision," board member Donald Parisi said. "It's been clear to me how much expertise you have. You know as we do that the best opportunity to contribute is to get into education administration. This is the first step in what will be an outstanding educational policy career."

Superintendent Dr. Margaret Hayes added that Slocum was an ideal board member because she has a doctorate degree in education.

"She kept us rooted in what was best for the kids," Hayes said.

The board will now be looking for a Fanwood resident to take over Slocum’s position through April, when it will be up for election.

President Trip Whitehouse said at the Aug. 27 meeting that the board has 60 days to post the position. After it has been advertised, interested candidates will be able to submit letters of interest to the board for consideration. From there, the board will meet with candidates for an interview, and then select someone to take over.


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