On January 22, Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin announced the appointment of Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D-15) as the new chair of the Assembly Education Committee. Her appointment follows the departure of former chair Pamela Lampitt, who concluded her tenure in the New Jersey Legislature at the end of 2024. This transition marks a significant change in leadership within one of the Assembly’s key committees, which plays a crucial role in shaping New Jersey’s educational policies.
Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson is a seasoned legislator, currently serving her fourth term representing the 15th Legislative District. Her extensive experience includes serving as the co-chair of the Joint Committee on Public Schools, and she holds multiple leadership roles, such as vice-chair of the Assembly Appropriations Committee and co-vice-chair of the Select Committee on Ballot Design. Furthermore, she is an active member of the Assembly Budget Committee, the Assembly Children, Families, and Food Security Committee, and the Joint Committee on Economic Justice and Equal Employment Opportunity. Her diverse involvement in these committees underscores her commitment to addressing various issues that affect New Jersey residents.
Before her election to the Assembly, Reynolds-Jackson was a member of the Trenton City Council from 2010 to 2018, where she served four years as vice president. This local governance experience has undoubtedly contributed to her understanding of the challenges faced by urban communities within the state, particularly in terms of educational access and equity.
In response to her appointment, Dr. Timothy Purnell, executive director and CEO of the New Jersey School Boards Association, extended his congratulations, highlighting the importance of Reynolds-Jackson’s experience in her new role. He expressed optimism about her leadership, stating, “With her experience serving on the Joint Committee on Public Schools and with her being a lifelong Trentonian, we look forward to working together to support the children of the Garden State.”
Reynolds-Jackson’s appointment as chair of the Assembly Education Committee comes at a pivotal moment for New Jersey’s education system, as the state continues to navigate complex issues such as funding equity, curriculum development, and the integration of technology in classrooms. Her leadership will be critical in addressing these challenges and advocating for policies that enhance educational opportunities for all students across the state. As she steps into this prominent role, the educational landscape of New Jersey may be poised for significant transformation under her guidance.
