the staff of the Ridgewood blog
HACKENSACK, NJ — The Hackensack Board of Education is investigating the use of Hackensack High School for a controversial December 18, 2024, school board meeting in which then-President Scott James-Vickery delivered a nearly hour-long farewell speech before resigning from his post.
In June, the school board approved a legal services contract to determine whether any state laws, policies, or district regulations were violated. The investigation will cost taxpayers $250 per hour for partners or special counsel, $150 per hour for associates, and $155 per hour for paralegal services, according to the approved resolution.
A Meeting Without a Quorum Sparks Questions
The December 18 meeting was scheduled as the last board session of the year, traditionally featuring student performances before the holidays. However, several trustees sent emails in advance stating they would not attend, citing insufficient notice and deeming it an illegal meeting.
James-Vickery, determined not to cancel the event, proceeded with the gathering despite the lack of quorum. Four trustees attended:
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Scott James-Vickery
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Lancelot Powell (who lost reelection in November)
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Marlene Somerville (also lost reelection)
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Lissette Cordero-Outen (who later resigned in May)
Though they couldn’t hold an official board meeting, children still performed, food was served for 150 families, and James-Vickery delivered a PowerPoint “President’s Report.”
A Farewell Speech Full of Accusations
In his emotional address, James-Vickery detailed years of bullying and harassment directed at him and his family. His presentation included:
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Mocking social media posts
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Notes sent home with his children
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A 2021 flyer showing his face in gun crosshairs with the words: “You will be taken out by vote or by force.”
James-Vickery also raised concerns about shifting power dynamics on the school board, saying meetings often felt like teachers’ union gatherings. He directly called out several district employees by name.
Was It Political Retribution?
James-Vickery maintains that the high school was used appropriately since it was the site of the regularly scheduled monthly meeting. He insists the investigation is political retribution, saying:
“The wording of it is trying to make it sound like something was shady. This is just political retribution. It’s been six or seven months since I’ve been there, and I’ve not bothered anybody.”
He further criticized the board for spending taxpayer money on what he calls a “waste of time and money.”
“Everything I ever did was to serve the children and staff of that district, so investigate away,” James-Vickery said.
What Happens Next?
Board attorney Jason Nunnermacker declined to comment on the “possible ongoing investigation.”
By law, the board must at least convene for a scheduled meeting to perform a roll call, even if not enough trustees are present to conduct official business. James-Vickery says he hasn’t been contacted by investigators.
Key Details
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Who is under investigation? Former Board President Scott James-Vickery
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Why? Possible improper use of Hackensack High School for a December 18 meeting
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Cost of investigation: $250/hour for counsel, plus additional fees for associates and paralegals
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What’s at stake? Potential violations of state law, district policies, or internal regulations
What’s Your Take?
Was this an unnecessary political move wasting taxpayer dollars? Or does the investigation serve a valid purpose in maintaining transparency and accountability?
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The past and current school boards should be more focused on the terrible test scores.
Another town south of the Route 4 forbidden zone.
Momma always told me never to trust a man with a bow-tie or 2 last names.