"Thank You for the Opportunity to Serve!"

Colleagues:

Can you believe it – we can turn the page on this interminable year!

Having crossed the finish line –I think we should all take some time to reflect on what we have accomplished. Whatever next year brings, it will be better and easier than this year. 

And, for those of us who have led our districts and educated our students despite all the challenges, the following passage from Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Rings comes to mind:

“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo.

“So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time given us.”

I think we have done well with the challenges that were given to us. And I hope you are all proud of your work this year. 

We listened to our families and teachers, we followed the everchanging regulations, and we did our best to safeguard the health and safety of our school communities in every circumstance.

During the pandemic, we provided leadership and dedication to the students of New Jersey. We also provided support to each other. Sometimes that came in the form of sharing proposed plans or schedules. Other times we were there to listen and provide an opportunity to laugh at the absurdity of it all.

I am honored to have served as your President. To my fellow officers: President-Elect Dr. Janet L. Fike; Secretary Tony Trongone; Treasurer Dr. Michael LaSusa; Immediate Past-President Dr. Scott Rocco; and our Executive Director Dr. Richard Bozza "Thank You." NJASA is a major force in New Jersey’s educational community because of your commitment and determination.

I also appreciate my Board of Education. Their support of my presidency reinforces their dedication to advancing education in New Jersey.

To the many NJASA members who served as representatives to the Association’s Executive Committee; as County Affiliate Presidents; as Chairs of the numerous NJASA Committees; and as members of the respective NJASA Committees, "Thank You" for making the time to serve during this challenging year. The Committees, separately and collectively, researched and analyzed the issues and articulated NJASA’s positions. Your time and effort are commendable!

And, where would we be without the NJASA staff? Under the tutelage of our Executive Director Dr. Richard Bozza, the staff continually delivers membership services that are first-class.

Lastly, a very special "Thank You" to my husband and family.

Looking ahead to the 2021-2022 school year, I would like to offer my best wishes and endorsement of the Association’s leadership team: President Dr. Janet L. Fike; President-Elect Tony Trongone; Secretary Dr. Michael LaSusa; Treasurer Nelyda Perez; Executive Director Dr. Richard Bozza; and myself as the Immediate Past-President. I know these school leaders will continue to build upon the accomplishments we achieved last year.

"Thank You" again to everyone for a job well-done.

All the Best, 

Dr. Margaret Dolan

2020-2021 NJASA President