Board of Education members also serve on one or more committees. The Board President determines the makeup of these committees based on member interest and expertise and ensures that all members have an opportunity to serve on all committees during their tenure. Committee reports are given on a monthly basis at the board's public meetings.
The Education Committee, chaired by Melanie Cohn, assists in setting educational policies and in guiding district curriculum and programs. Its members review significant curriculum changes, new textbook adoptions, and student achievement, and acts as liaison with community organizations involved with educational concerns and issues. This committee focuses on all of the district's focus areas, with a lens on ensuring achievement for all students. Its members work with the district's assistant superintendent.
Finance and facilities are the major concerns of the Operations Committee, chaired by Michael Colón. Its members work with the district's business administrator in developing the annual budget. The committee also reviews the maintenance and repair of the district's buildings, equipment, and grounds.
The Negotiations Committee, chaired by Board President Yon Cho, works with the Superintendent, Director of Human Resources, Business Administrator, and the school district's attorneys to reach equitable contracts with the two labor unions represented in the district.
The Communications Committee, chaired by Kelly Stanton, provides advice to the administration and Board of Education on messages, delivery vehicles, and focus to ensure clarity, accuracy, and transparency of all district communications to all stakeholders.
The Policy Committee, chaired by Board Vice President Walidah Justice, ensures that district policies and regulations comply with all state and federal mandates. The committee works with cabinet members and school administrators to align the policies with the negotiated contracts and unique circumstances of the district.
Besides these committees, Board members also serve as liaisons to community organizations, such as SEF, S4A, SpeakUp Summit, Mayor's Diversity Forum, Garden State Coalition, UCESC, and on task forces set up by the administration to address district challenges.