Hartford School Board appoints Matthew Mignonelli as new superintendent after extensive search

The Board of Education held its regular meeting on May 6, 2025, coinciding with Youth Night, where discussions focused on the financial implications of the upcoming budget and community engagement initiatives.

The meeting began with a presentation on the 2025-2026 budget, initially introduced on April 19. The speaker emphasized the importance of financial management within New Jersey school districts, noting that they typically manage 67% of their budgets effectively, with Hartford managing 55%. The correlation between school quality and local property values was highlighted, reinforcing the need for well-managed educational operations.

Following this, Mackenzie Doyle reported no updates for the buildings and grounds or policy committees. Natalie Wood, serving as the council liaison, shared several community announcements, including the mayor's annual community walk for wellness scheduled for May 18 and a fundraiser for the Sibranza family at the Gonville Road Firehouse on the same day. She also reminded attendees about the tax deadline, which had passed on May 1, but noted a grace period until May 12.

The meeting continued with updates from the curriculum and instruction committee, led by Will Henderson. He reported that the committee had not met this month. Henderson also announced the conclusion of the superintendent search committee, which successfully appointed Matthew Mignonelli as the new superintendent. He expressed gratitude to committee members and Kelly Mitchell, the field representative from New Jersey School Boards, for their dedication and professionalism throughout the search process.

Savannah Barry then provided updates from the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA) and the New Jersey Council of School Board Associations (PCSBA). She announced the upcoming school election on November 4, 2025, and the deadline for candidates to submit their nominating petitions by July 28. Barry also mentioned a virtual spring conference on May 30, featuring over 20 training sessions on various topics, including school safety, mental health, and board governance.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to financial transparency, community involvement, and educational leadership as they prepare for the upcoming school year and engage with local stakeholders.