At the Sept. 17 regular meeting, the Lenape Regional High School District Board of Education accepted the resignation of long-serving member, Borough of Medford Lakes representative John H. Heitmann, Jr.
Heitmann, who served for more than 17 years on the board, said, “During highs and lows we have performed like a board should and the product stands for itself… I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute. Together, we have contributed to a district worthy of national acclaim. These schools are in great communities and great things are done every day for our young people by this board and community members.”
In April of 1997, Heitmann was elected as the Medford Lakes representative to the LRHSD board. During his tenure, he served as board president and chairperson of the negotiations committee, which he had recent successful negotiations with the Lenape District Education Association and Lenape District Support Staff Association.
Heitmann also was a leader in organizing support and funding for the installation of the turf field at Shawnee High School and for several driving simulators at each of the district’s schools.
“The unfortunate loss of a Shawnee student brought community members together to solicit donations for simulators at each school,” Heitmann said. “I am most proud of the initiative to provide experience for our new drivers without risk of being on the road. This program has taken on statewide support and will forever help teens learning to drive.”
Board of Education President David Stow was effusive in his praise for his colleague. “John has always been an exemplary member of the Lenape Regional High School District Board of Education,” Stow said. “He has volunteered hundreds of personal hours to the students and parents of the district and his motivation has always been to do what is right for kids.”
“Innovative, creative, collaborative, and respected are just a few of the words one would use to describe John,” said Carol L. Birnbohm, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools.
Pursuant to state statute, the LRHSD will advertise the vacant seat on the board of education and post it on the district’s website.
