Phil murphy continues to stack state school board with progressives

TRENTON, NJ — Senator Parker Space recently expressed strong opposition on the Senate floor to the proposed removal of Andy Mulvihill, Vice President of the State Board of Education. He urged his colleagues to reject the nomination of Dr. Claudine Keenan as Mulvihill’s successor.

Mulvihill was appointed to the position in 2011 by former Governor Chris Christie and is a partner in the Crystal Springs Resort, according to his biography.

Keenan is Stockton University’s dean of the School of Education has been nominated to the New Jersey State Board of Education.

Senator Space criticized Governor Murphy’s attempt to remove Mulvihill, labeling it as part of a broader administration pattern targeting public servants who dissent or bring alternative perspectives to the forefront. He emphasized that such actions were particularly noticeable concerning those who champion parental rights within the board.

“I am proud to announce my nominations to the State Board of Education today as I am confident that Mary, Kwanghee, and Claudine will be integral assets to New Jersey’s students,” said Governor Murphy. “Each of the nominees brings unique insight that will be invaluable as we continue on our mission to maintain New Jersey’s place as the best state for public education in the nation. Not only do these nominees reflect the great diversity of our state, but their extensive experience and dedication to bettering the lives of students make them extremely qualified to serve on the Board.”

Highlighting Mulvihill’s contributions since his appointment in 2011, Space commended his advocacy for students and parents and his role in ensuring a balanced approach to state education policies.

He argued that replacing Mulvihill could risk turning the board into an “echo chamber of ideas” that do not represent the diverse views of New Jersey residents.

In his plea to the Senate, Space encouraged a vote against Dr. Keenan’s nomination to preserve independent voices on the board, which he sees as crucial for fair and effective governance. The ongoing debate underscores the tensions within state education policy and governance.

“I’m honored to be nominated, and I look forward to serving alongside fellow members who share my passion for continuous improvement in education,” Keenan said. “I’m grateful to Gov. Murphy for this opportunity to engage more broadly in our state’s outstanding educational system.”

Keenan received her bachelor’s degree in English and Secondary Education from Adelphi University, her master’s degree in Rhetoric and Composition from California State University, and her Doctorate in Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Massachusetts.

The State Board adopts the education administrative code, establishing regulations to implement state education law. These regulations cover the supervision and governance of the state’s 2,500 public schools, which serve nearly 1.4 million students. In addition, the State Board advises on educational policies proposed by the Commissioner and confirms Department of Education staff appointments made by the Commissioner.

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