commissioner brendan w. gill issues statement on montclair schools returning to in-person learning

Essex County Commissioner At-Large – Brendan W. Gill

As a lifelong Montclair resident, a parent of two children in the Montclair Public School System, and the son of a veteran Montclair school teacher currently working in his 51st year in the district – I am pleased to see that our schools are on track to return to hybrid, in-person learning on April 12, 2021.

I have always believed our children need to be in school as fast as possible, provided conditions are safe for all in attendance. A key concern, which I have advocated for on behalf of our teachers and schools, is ensuring all teachers have access to the COVID-19 vaccine. As of March 15, 2021, all K-12 teachers and school support staff in New Jersey will be eligible for vaccination.

I am encouraged the Montclair Board of Education, the teachers and their representation at the Montclair Education Association (MEA) were able to work towards this agreement which will greatly benefit the children of our community.

Negotiations were contentious and unfortunately ripped at the fabric of our community. However, it is my hope the parties on all sides of this matter can come together, build off of this agreement, and continue working towards establishing a safe learning environment, while demonstrating Montclair’s well-earned distinction as a safe, inclusive, and progressive community.

Phone

(973) 621-4486

Fax

(973) 621-5695

Address

Board of County Commissioners,
County of Essex
465 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,
Room 558 Hall of Records,
Newark, New Jersey 07102