South Brunswick School Board Accepts Resignation of Longtime Member Lisa Rodgers

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ – The South Brunswick Board of Education accepted the resignation of veteran member Lisa Rodgers during Thursday's meeting, marking the end of her lengthy tenure serving the district.

Rodgers submitted her resignation letter on June 10, citing her family's planned relocation as the primary reason for stepping down. In her statement to the community, she reflected on her 26-year connection to South Brunswick and expressed hope for the district's future.

"With my children having completed their college journeys, my husband and I have decided to leave South Brunswick—a community we chose 26 years ago because of its values," Rodgers said. "These values are what I hope every student carries forward as they carve their own path."

Board members expressed their gratitude to Rodgers for her service to the school district, particularly in advocating for state aid.

While Rodgers' official statement focused on family reasons, board members and community members indicated her resignation stems from recent controversy surrounding fellow board member Deepa Karthik, who was removed from her committee assignments following community backlash over social media posts about Halal food certification.

BOE member Julie Ferrara said she was sad to see the “difficulties” between "both sides” over Karthik’s comments spill into the school district resulting in Rodgers’ resignation.

“She was a great public servant, and she went through a lot in the past few years with the funding and trips to Trenton. I'd like to say, ‘No, I don't accept your resignation,’ because sometimes in social media, we're so busy that we say things we don't really mean, and this is how this all got started. And if we could only show a little compassion to one another and a little respect, maybe we could solve this whole thing that took place in the past few weeks,” Ferrara said.

“But it saddens me that Ms. Rogers, who was a great public servant, a great board member, is collateral damage, and that she didn't have the opportunity or the chance to serve her term out till November.”

Board President Laura Hernandez called Rodgers resignation a bittersweet moment.

“Lisa and I don't always see eye to eye on things. And you know what? That's okay, because I respect her right to have her views, and she respects my right to have my views,” Hernandez said. “So, this is so bittersweet. I respect your decision. I will honor your decision on this.”

In a rare show of emotion, Superintendent Scott Feder called Rodgers’ resignation a “shame.” He raised concerns about the impact of her resignation on the district's advocacy and said he hoped the BOE could find someone to fill her shoes.

“This person came out day after day to advocate for this district. No personal gain whatsoever. I hope someone else is going to do it when the next thing hits, because it's going to hit,” Feder said.

He noted that Rodgers who was not supposed to be at the meeting was called in last minute as two BOE members were a no-show, which would have resulted in the meeting being altogether canceled.

Feder also pointed out that he received 30 emails from residents after Karthik was disciplined, and said it was done to “deflect from the real issue.”

“It's a bad night for South Brunswick. I have about 30 emails I want to read. I'm not going to, because, pardon my French it is a bunch of ‘BS,’ done to deflect from the real issue. I hope you're up here tonight to talk about that, because I'm ready as well. What a shame. Glad I'm leaving,” Feder said.

Feder resigned from the school district earlier this year.

During the public speaking portion, several community members thanked Rodgers for her advocacy, particularly in fighting a charter school, dealing with a prior superintendent, and addressing school funding.

“For countless hours, Lisa devoted her time and energy to ensuring that the children of South Brunswick and across New Jersey receive the quality education they deserve. Her dedication has not only shaped the lives of countless students, but has also set a standard for excellence for educational leadership,” resident Tina S. said.

Concerns were raised about the impact of her resignation on the potential effect on civic engagement.

One resident thanked the BOE for accepting Rodgers’ resignation for her “incendiary and reckless posts.”

"I applaud your willingness to uphold standards of accountability and ethical conduct and applying them consistently. That said, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what this moment means for our district and what lies ahead, we must recognize that the past several weeks have been extremely stressful and unproductive,” the resident said.

A student, Om B., thanked Rodgers for her work and highlighted the importance of her contributions to the district's budget and programs.

“One of my favorite clubs was definitely at risk of being axed, if it wasn't for all of the things that you did. You leaving is a bit of a huge issue for our district, especially because our state is in a bit of a fiscal time bomb right now when it comes to deficit spending on immense proportions,” the student said.

Here is Lisa Rodgers' statement in full:

What a wonderful celebration for our retirees – may you feel the love from us all.
Serving on the South Brunswick Board of Education for the past seven years—two of them as Board President—has been an honor and privilege. It has been a journey that requires passion, and conviction. Public service should not be about seeking acclaim—it is about embracing responsibility, navigating challenges, and standing firm in the pursuit of what is best for those you serve. Through every moment, I have held steadfast to my principles and an unyielding dedication to the students and families of South Brunswick.

I have never hesitated to speak up, believing that constructive disagreement fosters progress when mutual respect and understanding remain guiding principles. Democracy flourishes when voices are heard, when perspectives are challenged. As Edward R. Murrow so wisely stated, “We must not confuse dissent with disloyalty.” My advocacy has never been about self-interest—it has always been about ensuring that every decision reflects what is best for our students, our educators, and this district.

For over 15 years, through challenges—from standardized testing, and funding shortfalls to evolving enrollment needs, to PTO fundraising, my work has centered on ensuring quality education, and in broader efforts championing the rights of marginalized communities including minorities, immigrants, veterans, the elderly, and LGBTQ individuals.

Now, it’s time to step away. With my children having completed their college journeys, my husband and I have decided to leave South Brunswick—a community we chose 26 years ago because of its values, These values are what I hope every student carries forward as they carve their own path. May we all continue to respect and value our differences, build bridges and focus on what truly matters—educating and empowering the next generation.

To the South Brunswick community—our remarkable teachers, and retirees staff, and administrators—I offer my deepest gratitude. Your dedication, passion, and unrelenting commitment makes this district extraordinary. Every day, you give your best, and in doing so, you shape futures in ways that words cannot capture. I will truly miss you. As the kids sang tonight “Because I know you” I have been changed forever.

To the students, families, and community members who have stood alongside me, some here tonight, thank you—for your trust, your encouragement, and your unwavering belief in the mission of education. To the Class of 2025, I wish you much success as you close this chapter and start your next. Always remember, once a Viking always a Viking.

To past board members who have moved on, but took time to show me the ropes… Thank you for your patience and wisdom… I learned a lot and you were right… It’s not as easy as it looks.
To the current board members, I appreciate when we stood together on issues. And when we didn’t agree…I appreciate when you took time to help me understand your perspective and allowed me to share mine. Be kind to each other and to this town… It is your home.

To future board members – If you care about the ideals of education and are motivated to volunteer in service of your community… run for a board seat in an upcoming election with the support of people who trust you with their family’s well-being. Serve honestly, serve in the interest of the entire community and you won’t regret it, just remember… It's not as easy as it looks.

To Evelyn, Kim, Suzanne. It has been an honor to know you and work with you. Your work ethic is unmatched.

To Dave or “D” – I will miss you and your humor-yes folks, Dave does make me laugh, your patience in dealing with so many funding questions. Your friendship has made it so much easier!

To Scott – I have no words –how about that! I have no words! I hope you know how I feel about you. Your commitment to this district was unwavering. I wish you and Jenn and the girls only the best.

To my husband Bob and my two kids, Jessica and John. I know it’s been tough over the years, but your support has meant the world to me. Now, I can’t make any more excuses for not having dinner on Thursday nights!

Take care of each other South Brunswick.

With that, Superintendent Feder and Board President Hernandez, please accept this as my official resignation from the South Brunswick Board of Education.

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