New President Appointed, 3 Members Sworn In To Warren School Board

WARREN, NJ — There were some concerns raised about politics bleeding over into the Warren Township Board of Education at the reorganization meeting on Tuesday night.

Scott Otto, incumbent Patricia Zohn, and Natalie Feuchtbaum were sworn in to serve in the three, three-year term seats on the board. They won the election in November over Stephen Toor, Eric Winch, Ned Bolcar, and Mark Bisci.

The night also included the appointment of Zohn as Vice President of the Board, replacing Laura Keller, and the appointment of Daniel Croson as President, replacing David Brezee.

Croson was appointed with six yes votes and three board members abstaining including Keller who made a remark.

"Historically this vote is unanimous and should be focused on the merits of the candidate that is chosen. The vote this year is a bit different, as I am sure people can sense. My impression this year is it is more about politics and I don't believe it is right. So I will abstain," said Keller.

A couple of other residents including Levia Spingarn and Steve Bumgarner disagreed with Croson's appointment.

Bumgarner, in particular, made accusations that Croson has intentions of running for the township committee this year since he claimed there had been a banner stating "Lazo Croson For Warren Township" was posted on Croson's website.

Croson's website danielcroson.com has since been locked and requires a password to enter.

"A Board of Education President is one that communicates effectively and with all. One whose sole goal is for the betterment of the district and providing the best education for all. One that is transparent. One that is committed to the longevity of the term and one that is engaged respectfully," said Spingarn.

When Patch reached out to Croson on Wednesday about the accusations, he said he was "focused on being board president."

"As I said last night there will be times when colleagues and members of the public disagree with one another. But it will ultimately lead to a better outcome for the board," said Croson.

Croson also referred to comments he made during the reorganization meeting.

"After the debate has ended, let's remember that we are first and foremost neighbors. Let's not resort to social media to vent our frustrations or speak ill of one another. Let's not misuse systems that are designed to provide checks and balances to settle scores. But let's instead continue to be an example of what healthy dialogue looks like and ensure that Warren Puiblic Schools remains one of the best in the district," said Croson.

Two other residents spoke during the public comment including Heather Silver who called other commenters "disrespectful" in making accusations about how someone will serve their position.

Nancy Andrews, President of the Warren Township Education Association, said she looks forward to having a "continued positive environment with our Board of Education as we are working together for the common good of the children of Warren."

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