Edison Public Schools To Appoint New Business Administrator

EDISON, NJ — The Edison Township Public Schools has begun the process of appointing a new business administrator for the school district.

Based on Superintendent Bernard F. Bragen’s recommendation, the district approved hiring Melissa Simmons as the new School Business Administrator/Board Secretary. Simmons currently works in the same capacity at Teaneck Public Schools. The decision was made the Board of Education meeting held on June 29.

Simmons’ appointment is “pending negotiation of salary.” If approved, Simmons will replace Dan Michaud who retired last year after almost 35 years of service.

In a tense exchange during the roll call and vote, Board Member Shivi Madhukar said she was giving a "resounding no" to the appointment. "We just interviewed two people and the board rejected the most qualified candidate," she said.

Madhukar was then asked by Board President Jerry Shi not to comment on "personnel matter" during a public meeting.

Thank you for reading. Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com

Get breaking news alerts on your phone with our app. Download here. Sign up to get Patch emails so you don't miss out on local and statewide news.