BRIDGEWATER, NJ – Tensions within the Bridgewater-Raritan Board of Education have erupted publicly after Jeremy Li, a former board member and current candidate, accused the board’s leadership of political retaliation and obstructing efforts to improve science education.
In a lengthy statement posted to social media on December 17, Li claimed the board has become “a rubber-stamp machine for a radical, ideologically driven super-majority,” alleging that board leaders stifled discussion and shut down debate at a recent public meeting. “They shut down the floor with their jeers the moment I stood up to speak, terrified that the truth was finally about to reach your ears,” Li wrote.
Li’s remarks centered on a proposal introduced by Dr. Lucy Li earlier this year to enhance STEM education in Bridgewater-Raritan schools, citing statewide data showing that science proficiency among New Jersey students has hovered around 27 percent. The resolution, which initially received broad support, was later rescinded before being presented to the New Jersey School Boards Association Delegate Assembly.
According to Li, board members Rebecca Hassouna and Barry Walker moved to withdraw the measure, with members AJ Joshi and Barry Walker also backing a motion to terminate debate entirely. He described the maneuver as “a cowardly display of political retaliation.”
Li accused board leaders Steve Singer and Emily Calistri of running the board with partisan motives and blocking transparency. “It wasn’t about education; it was about revenge politics fueled by resentment,” he wrote.
The Bridgewater-Raritan Board of Education has not yet publicly responded to Li’s claims.