Vernon school board earns state certification for governance excellence
Vernon. The Vernon Township Board of Education has earned board certification from the New Jersey School Boards Association after completing professional development and governance requirements aimed at strengthening leadership and student outcomes.
| 30 Mar 2026 | 12:49
The Vernon Township School District Board of Education, from left, Vice President John Kraus, Raymond Zimmerman, President Jennifer Pellet, Alice Nickalls, Stephanie Vecharello, Carolyn Ross, Charles Cimaglia and Sarah Petak. (
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The Vernon Township Board of Education has earned board certification from the New Jersey School Boards Association, a designation recognizing school boards that complete professional development and meet governance standards in ethics, finance, policy and student achievement.
The certification was awarded in March after all nine board members completed training through the NJSBA Board Member Academy, participated in retreats and workshops, conducted annual self-evaluations and met state governance requirements, according to district officials.
Superintendent Eveny de Mendez said the board pursued the certification intentionally because of its belief that strong governance improves student outcomes.
Board President Jennifer Pellet said the process reflected the board’s focus on continuous improvement and noted that a more committee-centered structure has expanded shared leadership among members.
District officials said the certification comes during a year in which the board also engaged in strategic planning focused on student achievement, public trust and district improvement. They cited gains on state assessments, including increases in English- Language Arts and mathematics proficiency at elementary and secondary grade levels.
