After 36 Years, Jimmy Farina Retires From School Board

Just to give you an idea how long James Farina has served on the Hoboken Board of Education: when he first got elected in 1974, Richard Nixon was President. 

"I didn't plan on staying as long as I did," said Farina, who is Hoboken's city clerk. Farina is not running for re-election in the April 20 Board of Education elections and Tuesday night was his last meeting. 

Serving on the school board is not always easy, he said, and there's no payment or benefits involved.  

"It's pure volunteerism and dedication to the children of Hoboken," Farina said. 

Board member Carmelo Garcia—who sits next to Farina during Board meetings—also presented Farina with a proclamation from Assemblyman Ruben Ramos and Senator Brian Stack to honor him for his "unparalleled service" and a "history of leadership."

Farina was his usual self, cracking jokes, but got serious when he thanked the board and briefly looked back on his 36-year tenure. He praised his colleagues on the board, saying: "Our children are in good hands."

"It's been an honor to serve with you," Garcia told Farina. "We'll miss your wit and humor."

Vice President of the School Board Carrie Gilliard also retired Tuesday night, after nine years on the Board. She thanked her colleagues and wished the future board success.

Gilliard recently split from the Kids First coalition after disagreeing with the majority of the Board on hiring Frank Romano as superintendent. (Romano then withdrew—the new Board will have to complete the search for superintendent.)

"I came to the Board with a commitment to serve the students," Gilliard said, "and that's the same commitment I hold today."