School districts in New Jersey operate within a complex legal framework that governs everything from student safety to employee relations. With these responsibilities come the potential for significant liability. Whether it’s navigating New Jersey’s specific statutes, complying with federal education laws, or handling disputes, school districts must be proactive to avoid costly litigation and penalties. […]

School boards in New Jersey play a vital role in shaping the policies, direction, and overall success of public schools. As the governing bodies for local school districts, they have a wide range of legal responsibilities, from policy creation to budget approvals, all of which impact the day-to-day operations of schools and the educational experience […]

As the school year comes to an end, it’s a perfect time for school districts and boards of education to review and update their policies and procedures. This annual review isn’t just a routine task—it’s essential to ensure that schools run smoothly, districts stay compliant with laws, and serve students, staff, and community effectively. Why […]

In the complex landscape of modern education, the call for ethical leadership has never been more urgent. This principle extends beyond administrative responsibilities—it’s about nurturing an environment that positively impacts students, educators, and the broader community. As we delve into this topic, let’s unpack what it means to be an ethical leader and the tangible […]

Basketball games and other sporting events are usually decided on the courts and fields. However, this past week, one team went to a court of law and beyond attempting to challenge the results of a high school basketball game. On Tuesday, March 5th, Manasquan High School played Camden in New Jersey’s Group 2 semifinal playoff […]

Florio Perrucci attorney, Rob Devaney, recently spoke at the New Jersey School Boards Association Board Leadership Conference. Rob’s program, Personnel Issues for School Board Members, addressed the critical roles that leaders of local boards of education have in their district’s personnel matters, including staff hiring, renewal/nonrenewal of staff, Donaldson Hearings, collective bargaining, and tenure. The […]

S-1350/A-5430, which establishes procedures and standards regarding public services privatization contracts, has been released from committees. The Legislation would limit local government’s ability to privatize public services. The New Jersey State League of Municipalities, the New Jersey Association of Counties and  the New Jersey School Board Association all oppose  the proposed Legislation. The Legislation applies to […]

A bill sponsored by Senator Paul Sarlo (Bill S2620), Deputy Majority Leader of the New Jersey Senate, would more than double limits on the size of contracts that local and county governments can issue without soliciting bids, raising it from $17,500 to $50,000 for municipalities without a qualified purchasing agent. The $50,000 limit would also […]

In early October, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) stopped work on the construction of an elementary school in Dunellen and a high school in Belleville.  These recent shutdowns follow similar stop work orders that were issued by the NJDOL back in August on an elementary school project in Edison and […]

A recent Appellate Division decision, Hudson County Transportation, Inc. v. Hoboken Board of Education, decided on May 23, 2022, is likely to provide significant protection to school boards that have been struggling with issues stemming from bidding for and contracting with student transportation vendors. School Boards have faced difficult challenges made by student transportation providers […]