Chatham School Board Member Resigns At Meeting

CHATHAM, NJ — After serving the district for nearly 10 years, Michelle Clark announced her resignation from the School District of the Chathams during the board of education meeting on Monday night.

Her resignation is effective Dec. 31, 2023, officials said.

"Tonight will be my last board of education meeting after nearly a decade of serving on the board. It's with mixed emotions that I'm stepping away a year earlier than my term would be to expire. However, I know well the commitment that this volunteer position entails and I'm unable to meet the demands at this time," Clark said.

Clark, who works as a teacher in a separate school district, said that she moved to Chatham 25 years ago and has since had three children go through the Chatham public school system.

"I will be forever grateful for the education my three children received here and it was my gratitude that prompted me to join the board. I can assure you that I never thought I would be here for 10 years of service later, but the main reason I'm still here is because of the tireless and dedicated leadership of Dr. LaSusa," Clark added. "His commitment to the excellence of our schools and the wellness of our students is unwavering, and it's during one of the most challenging times to work in the field of education. Chatham is extremely lucky to have his leadership."

No replacement has been named, but during the meeting, board member Lata Kenney was appointed to chair the steering committee charged with finding a replacement from Chatham Township.

"We thank you for your service and we thank you for your insight. Thank you for your service," Chatham Board of Education President Jill Critchley Weber said.