Would-be Principal Questioned 'Commitment,' 'Loyalty' of Franklin Lakes BOE

Christine Laquidara feared for her future with the Franklin Lakes School District when she withdrew her acceptance of the principal position at Woodside Avenue School last week, she said in an interview Monday.

“Based on the discussions and actions take by the Franklin Lakes Board of Education recently, I am not confident the commitment or loyalty would be reciprocated,” said Laquidara. “I can not take that risk.”

The Franklin Lakes School Board voted to cut ties with Director of Curriculum Cheryl Best and accpeted the resignation of Superintendent Frank Romano on Tuesday, April 30. 

Laquidara said that while she expects the board of education in any school district to hold their administration accountable, it should remain supportive.

“Education is not an exact science,” said Laquidara. “Sometimes you do take risks in trying something new and that doesn’t work for any number of reasons but you have to be supported in doing that. I didn’t see the current administration being supportive based on the decisions they’ve made.” 

Laquidara, however, didn't slam the door on the Franklin Lakes School District, just on its current leadership. 

“I told them I am not writing them off and I will remain interested in watching what develops in Franklin Lakes.”

Laquidara currently serves as the director of curriculum and instruction with the Hopewell Valley Regional School District.

In a letter addressed to Romano dated May 2, Laquidara said she felt welcomed by teachers and parents during the hiring process.

"I was excited when I thought about them and the job I would be honored to perform as their leader," she wrote. "Please express my regret that I am unable to accept this position. This decision is not a reflection of them, district administration or the school but solely because of my concerns with the stability of the position."