UPDATE: The proposed revision of a key policy regarding leadership eligibility for the Norristown Area School District has been abruptly withdrawn. This decision was confirmed at the regular board meeting on October 23, 2023, leaving many in the community questioning the motives behind the change.
The policy, initially slated for discussion, has now been removed from the agenda, as indicated in a note to board recommendations. Superintendent Christopher Dormer stated, “The board will not be proceeding with this revision now or later,” but offered no further comments on behalf of the elected officials.
Originally enacted in 2004, Policy 005 governs the reorganization of board leadership during a special December session. Proposed amendments aimed to limit eligibility for the positions of president and vice president to those who have served on the board for at least one full year from the date they were sworn in. This would effectively disqualify new members from leadership roles during their initial election cycle.
The urgency surrounding this issue stems from the upcoming 2025 general election, set for November 4, where five new candidates are competing for five vacant seats on the nine-member board. Candidates include Jordan Alexander, Terrell L. Dale, Cynthia Davenport, and Jeremiah Lemke, with William Caldwell running for a two-year term. This reshuffle follows the removal of current board President Christopher Jaramillo and board member Tessi Ruiz from the ballot due to failure to file necessary financial disclosures.
Community response has been intense. Local resident Joanne Hadrick questioned the timing of the proposed changes, stating, “Why at this time are we looking to make a change?” Another resident, Roseanne Milazzo, criticized the amendments as a “blatant political maneuver” intended to undermine newly elected members.
During the October 21 work session, board member Mao Howell expressed confusion over the proposed language, urging the board to leave the policy unchanged. Fellow board member Phil Daniels echoed this sentiment, warning that the changes could create hostility between outgoing and incoming members.
The board’s next meeting is scheduled for November 24 at 7 p.m. at the district administration building located at 401 N. Whitehall Road, West Norriton Township. As the election approaches, tensions continue to rise over the board’s direction and leadership structure.
With the community closely watching developments, it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold as the new election cycle approaches. For continuous updates, visit northeastpa.schooldistrict.org.
