As 'Challenges' Lay Ahead, New Wayne School Board Looks To The Future

WAYNE, NJ — The newest member of the Wayne Township Board of Education took his seat on the dais Thursday night, as members look ahead to the selection of a new superintendent.

Wilson Alequin, who was elected in November to replace outgoing trustee Evie Wentnik, stood with his wife and children as Township Business Administrator William Moffitt administered the oath of office.

Current members Harry Prassakos and Ryan Paul were re-elected in November — Ryan having also won his first election, since he was appointed to the board for a one-year term in February. Moffitt swore him in as well for a new three-year term.

Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh, who went to Wayne's DePaul Catholic High School, was in attendance to swear in Prassakos.

Once all members were seated, they cast their votes for who will be the board's president and vice-president. Donald Pavlak was re-elected to the president's chair as the only nominee, and Barbara Rigoglioso was chosen as vice-president by a vote of 7 to 2.

School board attorney John Geppert also provided a presentation on the board's code of ethics, with members scheduled to have a retreat some time in January.

Pavlak spoke briefly at the end of the meeting, thanking his fellow board members for the opportunity to serve as president again.

"We stand at the threshold of what will be, undoubtedly, a transformative and challenging year for our district," he said. "The work before us is complex, but is also an extraordinary opportunity to shape the future of our schools in a way that will profoundly impact generations of students."

He said that the selection of a new superintendent will be a "top priority" and will be a significant decision that "will shape the culture, direction, and aspirations of our schools for years to come."

Pavlak also pointed to the "pressing realities" facing the district as it continues to grow, "stretching the limits of our aging infrastructure."

He mentioned how important it is for the board to support both students and teachers in their decisions.

"These challenges demand a creative solution that not only meet the immediate needs of our schools but also prepares us for sustained growth in the years ahead," he said. "It will require us to think strategically and act decisively to modernize our facilities and create spaces for both teaching and learning can occur equally critical is our commitment to retaining and supporting our exceptional teachers and staff."

Pavlak also alluded to the division within the board that has boiled over recently, saying that he is confident members can overcome any challenge if they work together.

“Let us rise above division and focus on our shared mission: delivering the best possible education for every student in our care," he said.