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Township of Ocean Board adopts resolution honoring longtime member Denise Parlamas
Summary
The Township of Ocean Board of Education adopted a resolution in tribute to Denise Parlamas, who is ceasing active service after more than two decades on the board. Colleagues and community members offered tributes at the Dec. 10 meeting.
The Township of Ocean Board of Education adopted a resolution Dec. 10 expressing “sincere gratitude” to Denise Parlamas for more than 20 years of service to the district.
The resolution, read aloud by board member John Weinstein, lists Parlamas’s years of service and committee roles, noting she served as board president multiple times and chaired several committees. Weinstein read the board’s formal language, saying Parlamas “has been a committed leader with high standards and has earned the respect of everyone associated with the Township of Ocean Board of Education.”
The board paused its agenda for a series of personal remarks from board members, district staff and community members. Board members described Parlamas as a steady, moderate presence who mentored newer members and prioritized the district’s welfare. “Your contributions to the students and staff of Ocean Township are immeasurable,” one board member said. Another described her tenure as “service for no accolades, but just out of doing the right thing for your fellow man and woman.”
Public commenters who addressed the board also praised Parlamas. Resident Joseph Hadd, speaking during the agenda public-comment period, recalled serving with Parlamas and thanked her for “your service” and friendship. Resident Rich Long likewise praised her long service and called it “an honor.” The Township of Ocean Education Association president, Chris Amato, spoke on behalf of union members and joined other speakers in thanking Parlamas.
Board members noted specifics from Parlamas’s record that were included in the resolution: multiple terms as president (including 2007–2008, 2011–2012, 2015, 2019 and 2024), service on committees including Operations and Maintenance, Personnel, Instruction and Student Activities, and long-term committee leadership dating to the early 2000s. Several speakers emphasized that Parlamas’s board service continued beyond meetings into community activities such as the Community Hope Fund and church work.
The tribute concluded with the board presenting flowers and a formal plaque and with Parlamas thanking colleagues, administrators and family. “It has been my honor and my privilege to serve you,” Parlamas said near the end of her remarks.
The board then resumed routine business and adjourned for the evening.
