Dover Community Remembers Mr. Schoonmaker for His Contributions and Legacy

The Dover Public Schools Board of Education meeting held on July 15, 2025, began with a heartfelt tribute to Mr. Schoonmaker, a respected member of the Dover community who recently passed away. Board members shared personal memories, highlighting his contributions, including his decorated birdhouses and his role in promoting local history through his work with students and the Historical Society.

Following the tribute, the meeting transitioned to the public comment section, emphasizing the board's commitment to allowing community members to express their views on educational matters. The board outlined the guidelines for public comments, which are limited to three minutes per speaker and are not structured as question-and-answer sessions. The board also noted that comments could be made both in person and remotely, with a Google form available for online submissions.

Despite the invitation for public participation, no attendees stepped forward to speak during the in-person portion, leading to a prompt closure of that segment. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, although a board member requested to address an additional matter under new business before finalizing the meeting.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's dedication to community engagement and the importance of honoring local figures who have made significant contributions to the educational landscape.