Long-Serving Hoboken Board of Education Member Steps Down

Lifelong Hoboken resident Irene Korman Sobolov made an emotional announcement earlier today, telling us that she has stepped down from her position as a member of the Hoboken Board of Education.

Irene Korman Sobolov (via facebook)

“Unfortunately, I have increased family and personal commitments that now require my full attention,” said Sobolov, in a letter submitted to BOE President Thomas Kluepfel. (See full text below…)

“In my nine year tenure on the Board, I have always strived to commit 100% focus to my Board service and unfortunately, that is no longer possible. Although I regret having to vacate my position, I believe it is what is best for my family and the Hoboken BOE to make room for someone with more time to devote to the position.”

According to the school’s website, the Hoboken Board of Education’s, “primary task is formulation and evaluation of all policies necessary for the operation of the school district.” Three Board Members are elected each November for three year terms.

Sobolov was appointed as a Board Member in 2009, and won her re-election three times. She was also a founding member of the Hoboken Family Alliance and was the 2010 recipient of the Hoboken Elks’ Citizen of the Year Award.

Her resignation is effective immediately. No word as of yet on how her replacement will be selected.

“I will miss the many people I have had the pleasure to meet and collaborate with during my time on the Board,” said Sobolov.

“It’s been an incredible honor to serve the district and I wish [Superintendent] Dr. [Christine] Johnson and the Hoboken schools all the best in the future.”

Irene Korman Sobolov’s Full Resignation Letter:

Dear Mr. Kluepfel,

I am submitting this correspondence to serve as my resignation from the Hoboken Board of Education effective immediately. Unfortunately, I have increased family and personal commitments that now require my full attention. In my nine year tenure on the Board, I have always strived to commit 100% focus to my Board service and unfortunately, that is no longer possible. Although I regret having to vacate my position, I believe it is what is best for my family and the Hoboken BOE to make room for someone with more time to devote to the position.

It has truly been an honor and a privilege to serve the Hoboken Public School District. I am overwhelmed at the accomplishments achieved as of today in comparison to when I began almost 9 years ago. I am forever grateful to have had the opportunity to play a role in bringing these changes to the District.

My initial motivation for seeking a Board seat in 2009 was to work for accountability and transparency in the District, equity among all the District schools and increased opportunities for all the District students. Over the years, the District was successful in cleaning up the “back office” (contracts, hiring practices, review process). This allowed all that time, energy and money to be spent on what is really important…the students. I think what I am most proud of is ensuring that all the District elementary schools are treated equally and having expanded amazing new academic, enrichment and travel opportunities to all students. I am so honored to have been part of the team to move the District ever forward.

I will certainly miss the many people I have had the pleasure to meet and collaborate with during my time on the Board. Having been initially appointed to the Board and then successfully elected three times, I will always be grateful for the support of the District parents and many members of the community who entrusted me with this solemn duty. I have made many wonder relationships over the years and I hope they will understand my change of situation. I look forward to remaining involved in my beloved Hoboken.

As you may also know, a passion of mine was promoting the district and supporting student success. Although I can no longer commit time to the Board, I will remain involved and hope I will see my former Board colleagues at District events. There is much to celebrate!

I will certainly miss working with the inspirational and tireless Dr. Johnson. I have no doubt she will continue to take the District to greater and greater heights. I wish the Board and the District continued success into the future.

Irene Korman Sobolov